India Deep Tech Accelerator announced to help scale up IIT startups


(AI image/IANS)

New Delhi, (IANS) The India Deep Tech Alliance (IDTA) and the University of Chicago’s Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation on Tuesday announced the launch of the India Deep Tech Accelerator, a 10‑week programme designed to help IIT‑affiliated deep‑tech startups scale internationally.

The initiative, led by Polsky Center, is developed in collaboration with leading Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT) innovation networks and incubators, including SINE at IIT Bombay, FITT at IIT Delhi, and IIT Madras Research Park, a statement said.

The programme, aimed at supporting India’s emerging deep tech startup ecosystem, will run from April through June 2026 and will be structured for a cohort of up to 15 startups through targeted workshops, coaching, and strategic customer and investor connections.

The accelerator will also include "an India showcase and a Bay Area showcase for top-performing companies in June," the statement said.

The initiative builds a structured, repeatable pathway connecting startups from India’s premier technical institutions with the potential for fundraising and the Polsky Center’s deep experience in venture creation, startup acceleration, and international market access.

The accelerator will run from April through June 2026 and take a cohort of up to 15 startups through targeted workshops, coaching and investor and customer connections. Top performers will be showcased at an India event and a Bay Area showcase in June.

The India Deep Tech Accelerator aims to support globally ambitious, IIT-affiliated startups for near-term commercializsation and financing milestones in the United States and other global markets.

IDTA will provide strategic guidance and founder support, while Aroa Venture Partners has committed up to $2,00,000 per startup for select companies emerging from the accelerator. Several other venture capital firms have committed to contribute to workshops, office hours, selective mentoring, and may provide potential investment support to cohort startups.“India’s IITs produce world‑class engineering and research, but too many deep‑tech breakthroughs still struggle to cross the last mile into scalable commercialisation,” said Sriram Viswanathan, Founding Managing Partner, Celesta Capital, and Founding Executive Committee Member, IDTA. India Deep Tech Accelerator announced to help scale up IIT startups | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com
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North Africa’s 5G wave continues with Libya launch


Posted by Harry Baldock, The launch means all African nations on the Mediterranean have now launched 5G

This week, Libya’s second largest state-owned telco, Almadar Aljadid, has announced the launch of 5G in parts of the capital, Tripoli.

For now, the launch is limited to just central parts of the city, but citywide coverage – and, indeed, nationwide coverage – will take place in stages, according to the company.

The company said the launch represents a significant boost in service quality for customers, as well as noting the technology’s potential to support key industries like healthcare and education.2025 was a remarkable year for North Africa’s mobile markets, with Tunisia launching 5G in February, Egypt in June, Morocco in November, and Algeria in December. Now, with Libya’s launch, the entire region has formally entered the 5G era. North Africa’s 5G wave continues with Libya launch
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Mahindra and Mahindra launches new Thar 2025, price starts at Rs 9.99 lakh

IANS Photo

New Delhi, (IANS): Mahindra and Mahindra on Friday launched the new 'Thar 2025' starting at Rs 9.99 Lakh (ex-showroom), with new design elements, advanced comfort features and smart technology integration for better urban commute.

"This Iconic SUV is engineered to redefine urban commuting and elevate rugged weekend adventures," the automobile manufacturer said in a statement.

The ‘Thar’ brand has garnered a dedicated community of over 3 lakh passionate owners.

More than just an SUV, it represents a lifestyle statement, inspiring to embrace adventure and exploration with unmatched capability and a timeless design, the company said.

The new model is equipped with a 26.03 cm HD infotainment screen that supports both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, along with Type-c USB ports, providing seamless integration of your smartphone's functionalities.

The tyre direction monitoring system gives real-time information on tyre orientation, enhancing safety.

"For adventure enthusiasts, the adventure stats gen II feature offers valuable off-road data such as racing tab, altimeter, outside temperature and pressure, trip meter and steering direction, adding an extra dimension to your journey and ensuring a smart and connected driving experience," Mahindra and Mahindra said.

Additionally, the company offers a range of engine options to suit diverse driving preferences paired with multiple transmissions -- 6-speed manual transmission, 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission, in RWD as well as 4X4 configurations.

“Over the years, Thar has become more than just an SUV — it’s a symbol of freedom, adventure, and a lifestyle that resonates deeply with our customers. At Mahindra, we are committed to listening to our customers and evolving with their needs, which is why the New Thar reflects both their feedback and our dedication to provide the best to our customers," said Nalinikanth Gollagunta, Chief Executive Officer - Automotive Division, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd.

By blending new design elements, smart technology, enhanced comfort and convenience features, the New Thar offers an unparalleled driving experience that empowers our customers to explore limitless possibilities in both urban and off-road settings, he added.

The new model has features rear AC vents, ensuring passengers in the second row enjoy a comfortable drive, while the sliding armrest and dead pedal (AT) offer additional comfort for the driver.Door-mounted power windows and a rear-view camera provide ease of driving, and the internally operated fuel lid ensures hassle-free refuelling, the company said. Mahindra and Mahindra launches new Thar 2025, price starts at Rs 9.99 lakh | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com
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