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Best Retail Business Ideas in India: Low-Investment, High Returns

The retail industry in India is rapidly growing due to the emergence of new retailers. In fact, it accounts for 10% of the country’s GDP and 8% of its employment. India is also among the top 5 global retail markets in terms of economic value and is considered one of the fastest-growing retail markets in the world.

As people require commodities on a daily basis, there is a constant need for retail stores, making it one of the most profitable businesses in India with low to moderate investments. Small or medium-sized retail stores have a high profit margin, making them an ideal choice for entrepreneurs with limited capital.

In this blog, we will explore some of the best retail business ideas that can be implemented in India. Whether you are looking for low-investment business or high-investment business ideas, this blog will provide you with valuable insights that will help you make informed decisions about your business.

So, if you are ready to explore the ideas for the best retail business in India, let’s get started!

What is Retail Business?
Types of Top Retail Business in India
How to Start Retail Business?
Low-Investment Retail Businesses in India
Medium-Investment Retail Businesses in India
High-Investment Retail Businesses in India

What is Retail Business?

A retail business is when a business sells a product or a service to the consumer for his/her use. A retailer sells the product higher price than the wholesaler. Retail businesses can be considered as grocery convenience stores. Service-related businesses such as beauty salons and rental places are also considered retail businesses.

Types of Top Retail Business in India

The retail business is one of the most profitable industries in India, with a vast range of opportunities for entrepreneurs. Here are the types of retail businesses in India:

1. Low Investment Business: Low investment businesses typically require a smaller amount of capital to start and run, with costs of a few thousand. Examples of low-investment businesses include selling tea, opening a small grocery or fruit store, or starting a stationery or book store.

2. Medium Investment Business: Medium investment businesses require a moderate amount of capital to start and run, with costs ranging from thousands to a few lakhs (Indian currency). Examples of medium investment businesses include opening a medical store, starting a beauty salon or spa, or opening a cake shop.

3. High Investment Business: High investment businesses require a significant amount of capital to start and run, with costs in lakhs. Examples of high-investment businesses include starting an ice cream parlor, opening a vehicle showroom, or starting a large chain of restaurants or supermarkets.

How to Start Retail Business?

Step-by-Step Guide to Start a Retail Business

Choose Your Niche: Decide what kind of retail business you want to start. Think about what you enjoy, what you’re good at, and what people need in your area.
Do Market Research: Learn about your customers, what they like, who your competitors are, and what’s trending. Find out what’s missing in the market and how you can offer something better or different.
Make a Business Plan: Write down your business goals, who you will sell to, how you will advertise, how much money you need, and how your shop will run.
Arrange Money: Figure out how much money you need to start. Use your savings or look for help from banks, family, or investors.
Get Licenses and Permits: Check the rules for running a business in your area and apply for the required licenses and permissions.
Choose a Good Location (if needed): Pick a place that’s easy for customers to reach and has lots of people walking by.
Buy Products or Set Up Services: Find trusted suppliers who offer good prices. Make sure your products are always available and of good quality.
Set Up Your Shop or Website: Design your shop in a way that looks nice and is easy to move around. If selling online, make your website easy to use.
Promote Your Business: Use social media, local ads, and online platforms to tell people about your business and attract customers.
Give Great Customer Service: Treat customers well, help them when needed, and try to make them happy so they come back and tell others about your shop.

Top Profitable Retail Business Ideas in India

Low Investment Businesses	Medium Investment Businesses	High Investment Businesses
Kirana Stores	Medical Store	Coffee Shop
Stationery and Books Store	Saree Shop	Ice Cream Parlour
Fruits Store	Gift Shop	Fast Food Restaurant
Flower Shop	Cosmetics Store	Car Wash
Altering Shop	Cake Shop	Two-Wheeler Showroom
Tea Stall	Perfume Shop	Beauty Salon
Seed Store	Sweets and Snack Store	Restaurant
Xerox and Printing Shop	Sports Equipment Store	Photo Studio

Low-Investment Retail Businesses in India

Best retail business ideas — Top Profitable Retail Business Ideas

S. No.	Business Idea	Investment Level	Target Customers
1	Kirana Stores	Low	Local families, daily shoppers
2	Stationery and Books Store	Low	Students, office workers
3	Fruits Store	Low	Health-conscious buyers
4	Flower Shop	Low	Event planners, locals
5	Altering Shop	Very Low	Individuals, tailors
6	Tea Stall	Very Low	Commuters, daily workers
7	Seed Store	Low	Gardeners, farmers
8	Xerox and Printing Shop	Low	Students, small businesses

1. Kirana Stores

Business Name	Kirana Store
Business Type	Low Investment Retail Business
Investment Cost	INR 100,000
Profit Margin	60%

India’s vast population necessitates a grocery store in every locality. Basic household supplies, such as soaps, spices, and food items, are essential for every household, and the grocery store is the go-to place for these items. As a result, starting a Kirana Store is a low-investment, highly profitable retail business idea in India.

Total Business Ideas — Total Retail Sales Worldwide

It is important to get the items you want to sell in bulk from the wholesaler at a lower price. This will help you price the product at a competitive price.

2. Stationery and Books Store

Business Name	Stationery and Books Store
Business Type	Low Investment Retail Business
Investment Cost	INR 100,000
Profit Margin	20% to 55% (depending on different product)

Stationery and Books Store - Best Retail Business in India — Stationery and Books Store – Best Retail Business Ideas in India

Opening stationery and bookstores is a lucrative and accessible retail business idea that requires minimal specialized knowledge. The store can offer a range of products, including storybooks, DVDs, school books, and stationery items, making it a one-stop shop for all students’ educational needs.

To differentiate your store from competitors, consider offering unique and educational gadgets or toys that are not commonly found in other stores. This will increase the store’s appeal to both children and parents, leading to increased foot traffic and sales.

Overall, opening a stationery and bookstore is one of the excellent retail and top business ideas in India that can make a significant contribution to the educational development of students in the community.

3. Fruits Store

Business Name	Fruit Store
Business Type	Low Investment Retail Business
Investment Cost	INR 35,000
Profit Margin	40%

Opening a fruit store is a profitable and viable retail business idea in India. With an increasing focus on healthy eating and the rise of wellness trends, the demand for fresh fruits has been steadily increasing in the country. A fruit store can cater to this demand by offering a wide variety of fresh and high-quality fruits to customers.

The advantage of this business is that you do not require any specialized knowledge. India has the largest agricultural market in India and fruits are a primary product. If you decide to sell fruits, then you need to shortlist the category of fruits based on supplies.

4. Flower Shop

Business Name	Flower Store
Business Type	Low Investment Retail Business
Investment Cost	INR 50,000
Profit Margin	60 – 90%

Flower Shop - Best Retail Business in India — Flower Shop – Best Shop Ideas in India

A flower shop is an incredibly profitable and best business idea when established well. Establishing partnerships with hotels and offices is a lucrative opportunity since these businesses require daily floral arrangements. By partnering with them, profit margins can increase to 80%. Additionally, offering artificial flowers and gifts can provide additional revenue streams, making it the most profitable business in India.

By selling bouquets with unique styles or taking orders for party decor and weddings, a flower shop can expand its offerings and attract more customers. Offering personalized services such as flower delivery or subscription services can also increase customer loyalty and profitability.

5. Altering Shop

Business Name	Altering Shop
Business Type	Low Investment Retail Business
Investment Cost	INR 35,000
Profit Margin	40%

If you have a talent for tailoring and creating perfectly fitting outfits, starting a tailoring business can be a great opportunity for you. The business can be set up from home, making it a low-capital investment option. Offering a range of services such as alterations, repairs, and custom-made clothing can attract a diverse customer base. With the right skills, customer service, and innovation, the business can thrive and grow in the competitive market.

6. Tea Stall

Business Name	Tea Stall
Business Type	Low Investment Retail Business
Investment Cost	INR 15,000
Profit Margin	30%

A tea stall is a low-investment business idea that can yield high profits. As tea is a beloved beverage in India, setting up a stall outside colleges or offices can attract a steady stream of customers. To increase profits, consider partnering with offices to provide daily tea deliveries. This can be a reliable source of income and establish long-term partnerships with businesses, making it the best business in India.

With the right location, menu, and atmosphere, the tea business can thrive and grow in the competitive market.

7. Seed Store

Business Name	Seed Store
Business Type	Low Investment Retail Business
Investment Cost	INR 10,000 – 30,000
Profit Margin	40%

Agriculture is a crucial sector in the Indian economy, and there is a growing demand for high-quality seeds among farmers. By focusing on offering quality seeds, a seed-selling business can attract a loyal customer base.

If you live in or near an agricultural area or village, this presents an excellent opportunity to start a seed-selling business. Establishing partnerships with local farmers and agricultural organizations can increase visibility and lead to more sales.

8. Xerox and Printing Shop

Business Name	Xerox and Printing Shop
Business Type	Low Investment Retail Business
Investment Cost	INR 50,000 – 80,000
Profit Margin	40-80%

Xerox and printing shops are always popular. Even if there are many in an area, they still get steady customers. Adding services like binding and lamination can help grow the business.

The investment is low. You just need a good printer, Xerox machine, and other basic equipment. Promoting your shop’s location is important to attract customers.

You also don’t need a big space, which keeps the setup cost low. If you want a small business in India with low investment, this is one of the best business ideas.

Medium-Investment Retail Businesses in India

S. No.	Business Idea	Investment Level	Target Customers
1	Medical Store	Medium	Patients, general public
2	Saree Shop	Medium	Women, wedding shoppers
3	Gift Shop	Medium	Teenagers, tourists, event-goers
4	Cosmetics Store	Medium	Women, makeup lovers, salons
5	Cake Shop	Medium	Families, event planners
6	Perfume Shop	Medium	Women, gift buyers
7	Sweets and Snacks Store	Medium	Local residents, festival shoppers
8	Sports Equipment Store	Medium	Athletes, sports enthusiasts

1. Medical Store

Business Name	Medical Store
Business Type	Medium Investment Retail Business
Investment Cost	INR 3-4 Lacs
Profit Margin	20-25%

Medical Store - Best Retail Business in India — Medical Shop – Best Shop Ideas in India

There’s no doubt that the medicine store is the best shop for business and the most profitable retail business. People often require medicines during an emergency or illness. A medical store owner can earn a profit of up to 60,000-80,000 by investing 3-4 lacs in medicines. If managed properly, medical stores can earn huge profits right away.

However, it also depends on the kind of drugs sold by the medical store on how much profit it can earn. On average, the pharmacy shop owner earns up to 20-25% on daily sales.

2. Saree Shop

Business Name	Saree Shop
Business Type	Medium Investment Retail Business
Investment Cost	INR 20,000
Profit Margin	40%

Sarees are a popular retail business in India and are worn by people from all segments of society. If you are interested in starting a saree business, it is essential to research the market and understand the latest trends. Visiting local shops and observing the demand for different types of sarees can provide valuable insights.

One of the best business ideas in India is to venture into the saree market, capitalizing on the popularity of Banarasi sarees and other sought-after varieties. However, it’s crucial to decide on the type of sarees you want to sell based on your target audience and the local market demand. Having a Saree business is one of the most successful small business ideas in India.

By providing quality products and exceptional customer service, the business can establish a loyal customer base and grow in the competitive market.

Business Name	Gift Shop
Business Type	Medium Investment Retail Business
Investment Cost	INR 5 to 10 lakh
Profit Margin	25%

Opening a gift shop in India can be a lucrative business opportunity, but it requires careful planning and execution. The profit margin in running a gift shop is relatively thin, so there is little room for error. Therefore, it is crucial to conduct thorough research and plan out the business model before investing in the best shop business ideas in India.

A gift shop typically sells a variety of personal and corporate gift items. You can differentiate your shop by offering unique and personalized gift items that are not easily found in other stores. Additionally, offering gift cards can be an effective way to increase sales and attract more customers. It can be one of the most profitable small shop business ideas.

To succeed in the gift shop business, it is essential to understand your target audience and their preferences. This can be achieved by conducting market research and analyzing the demand for various gift items in your locality.

4. Cosmetics Store

Business Name	Cosmetics Store
Business Type	Medium Investment Retail Business
Investment Cost	INR 1 to 5 lakh
Profit Margin	40 to 60%

Cosmetics store - Best Business Ideas in India — Cosmetics store – Best Retail Business in India

The cosmetic industry in India is rapidly growing, and there is an increasing demand for beauty and personal care products, not just among women but also among men. If you have a passion for cosmetics and an understanding of market trends, starting a cosmetic business can be a profitable venture and a high margin retail business with the right approach, research, and execution.

By offering high-quality products, understanding the market demand, utilizing online marketing strategies, and providing excellent customer service, you can establish a successful cosmetic business in India.

5. Cake Shop

Business Name	Cake Shop
Business Type	Medium Investment Retail Business
Investment Cost	INR 5 to 15 lakh
Profit Margin	30%

The cake shop industry in India is rapidly growing and becoming a high-margin business. With the rise in demand for cakes and baked goods, many entrepreneurs are starting their own manufacturing units to cater to the domestic market.

Apart from providing high-quality cakes, proper packaging and marketing are crucial to boost sales. It can be one of the best shop business ideas. It is also important to maintain high standards of hygiene and quality control to ensure customer satisfaction and establish credibility in the industry.

6. Perfume Shop

Business Name	Perfume Shop
Business Type	Medium Investment Retail Business
Investment Cost	INR 30,000 to 50,000
Profit Margin	40%

The perfume industry is constantly evolving, and many people use it as a way to express their individuality. Starting a perfume business requires a moderate capital investment, but it can also be one of the best startup ideas in India, as it can be done from home with minimal investment. To succeed in this business, it is important to research and stock a variety of popular and unique fragrances that cater to different preferences and occasions. Effective marketing and packaging can also help boost your sales and establish your brand in the market. Opening a perfume store can be one of the most profitable shop business ideas in India.

7. Sweets and Snack Store

Business Name	Sweets and Snack Store
Business Type	Medium Investment Retail Business
Investment Cost	INR 5 lakh to 10 lakh
Profit Margin	60%

A sweets and snacks shop is one of the most profitable shop business in India that can be started with a relatively low investment. Sweets can be produced in bulk quantities, allowing you to price them reasonably, as there is no fixed rate for these products. Additionally, you can also sell snacks and other related items to increase your profit margins. To succeed in this business, it is important to maintain the quality and taste of your products, as well as to keep up with the latest trends and preferences of your target market.

8. Sports Equipment Store

Business Name	Sports Equipment Store
Business Type	Medium Investment Retail Business
Investment Cost	INR 4 lakh to 8 lakh
Profit Margin	20-40%

The demand for sports equipment is always there. Professionals, kids, local sports clubs, schools, and similar groups often need quality gear. Many also look for retailers who can handle bulk orders.

Starting a sports equipment store is easy if you know about different sports, the latest trends, and good brands, and can give useful advice.

This business needs moderate investment and can begin with a small shop. Expanding is simple if you also add an online store.

9. Travel Agency

Business Name	Travel Agency
Business Type	Medium Investment Retail Business
Investment Cost	INR 5 lakh to 10 lakhs
Profit Margin	10-20%

To start a travel agency or become a tour operator, you need key certifications and a well-located office. A successful travel agent ensures hassle-free travel for customers. Having good knowledge of itineraries, sightseeing, flight fares, and hotel rates is essential.

High-Investment Retail Businesses in India

S. No.	Business Idea	Investment Level	Target Customers
1	Coffee Shop	High	Students, office workers, coffee lovers
2	Ice Cream Parlour	High	Families, kids, couples
3	Fast Food Restaurant	High	Students, office goers, families
4	Car Wash	High	Car owners, local residents
5	Two-Wheeler Showroom	High	Young adults, daily commuters
6	Beauty Salon	High	Women, event-goers, professionals
7	Restaurant	High	Families, couples, tourists
8	Photo Studio	High	Families, event participants

1. Coffee Shop

Business Name	Coffee Shop
Business Type	High Investment Retail Business
Investment Cost	INR 10 to 20 lakhs
Profit Margin	20% to 80%

Coffee Shop - Best Shop Business in India — Coffee Shop – Best Shop Ideas in India

A coffee shop is one of the most popular and profitable retail businesses in India, but it requires a significant investment. Running a coffee shop can be challenging, as you need to maintain a positive cash flow and generate high sales to keep the business going. The success of your coffee shop also depends on the location you choose, as it should be easily accessible and in a high-traffic area. However, with the right strategy and execution, a coffee shop can yield high profits and establish a loyal customer base.

2. Ice Cream Parlour

Business Name	Ice Cream Parlour
Business Type	High Investment Retail Business
Investment Cost	INR 5 to 10 lakhs
Profit Margin	40%

Ice cream is a popular dessert loved by people of all ages, making it a profitable retail business in India. Starting your own brand can be challenging, but you can consider opening a franchise for established and reputable brands. It is a high-margin business, and you can earn good profits with the right location and marketing strategies. It falls under the top 10 retail business in India.

3. Fast Food Restaurant

Business Name	Fast Food Restaurant
Business Type	High Investment Retail Business
Investment Cost	INR 10 to 50 lakhs
Profit Margin	40%

The fast food industry in India is highly popular, and opening a fast food restaurant is one of the most profitable business ideas in the country. If you plan to open a fast food restaurant, it’s essential to conduct market research to understand the workings of different restaurants, their management, investments, and profit margins. You can also consider offering unique and innovative food items to stand out from the competition and attract more customers. A well-managed fast-food restaurant can yield high profits in India and is one of the big business ideas in India.

4. Car Wash

Business Name	Car Wash
Business Type	High Investment Retail Business
Investment Cost	INR 25 lakhs
Profit Margin	40%

The automobile industry in India is growing rapidly, with an increase in the number of vehicles on the roads. Owning a car wash business can be a lucrative opportunity, but it requires proper planning and significant upfront investments. You need to identify the right location for your car wash, as well as purchase the necessary equipment and hire staff to provide quality services. With the right strategy and marketing, the car wash business can be a profitable retail business in India.

5. Two-Wheeler Showroom

Business Name	Two-Wheeler Showroom
Business Type	High Investment Retail Business
Investment Cost	INR 30 lakh to 50 lakhs
Profit Margin	30%

The motorcycle market in India is experiencing double-digit growth in sales, making it a promising industry for entrepreneurs. Setting up a two-wheeler dealership can be a lucrative business opportunity, but it requires careful planning and significant upfront investment. To succeed in this business, you need to have a solid understanding of the industry and the business model.

6. Beauty Salon

Business Name	Beauty Salon
Business Type	High Investment Retail Business
Investment Cost	INR 15 lakh to 30 lakhs
Profit Margin	10 to 20%

A salon business is a great retail business idea for women entrepreneurs who have the right skills and knowledge in the beauty industry. With the option to operate from home, starting a salon business requires less capital investment. However, it is important to ensure that you have the necessary equipment and tools to provide quality services to your clients. Research the market to understand the latest trends in beauty and grooming services to offer a unique experience to your customers.

7. Restaurant

Business Name	Restaurant
Business Type	High Investment Retail Business
Investment Cost	INR 15 lakh to 30 lakhs
Profit Margin	15 to 20%

The Food Restaurant - Best Retail Business in India — The Food Restaurant – Best Retail Business in India

Opening a food restaurant is one of the most profitable retail businesses in India, but it requires careful planning and a significant capital investment upfront. Before starting the business, it’s important to conduct a market survey to understand the competition and determine the best location for your restaurant. It’s also essential to develop a well-curated menu and pricing strategy to attract customers and maximize profits. With the right strategy and execution, a food restaurant can be a highly successful and one of the most profitable retail business in India.

8. Photo Studio

Business Name	Photo Studio
Business Type	High Investment Retail Business
Investment Cost	INR 5 lakh to 10 lakhs
Profit Margin	50%

Even though many people have DSLRs or digital cameras at home, professional photos still need special skills and equipment. Some shop ideas for starting a photo studio, offering services like school ID photos, passport photos for various forms, portfolios, events, and wedding photoshoots, and freelance photography for newspapers and journals. It is a trending business in India as the demand for various photoshoots is always in the market.

If you are good at photography and have a good camera, starting a photo studio can be a good retail business idea. This business can do well in many places, but competition is high, so picking the right location is key.

Conclusion

There are numerous profitable retail business opportunities in India for aspiring entrepreneurs. These range from traditional businesses such as saree shops and sweets stores to modern concepts like coffee shops and fast food restaurants. However, it is important to conduct thorough market research and planning before starting any business, as the success of a retail business largely depends on factors such as location, competition, and pricing. With the right knowledge, capital investment, and hard work, entrepreneurs in India can thrive in the retail industry and achieve financial success. There will be pitfalls in the business, but remember, great things take time.

FAQs

Is Retail Business Profitable?

Yes, retail business in India is profitable not only in metropolitan cities but also in small towns.

Which shop is best for business?

The “Shopify” platform offers comprehensive e-commerce solutions with customizable features and extensive customer support, making it an excellent choice for businesses looking to establish an online presence.

Which shop is most profitable in India?

It’s difficult to pinpoint a single “most profitable” shop in India as profitability varies widely across industries and businesses. However, businesses in the technology sector, particularly those involved in software development, e-commerce, or mobile applications, tend to have high-profit potential due to India’s growing digital economy and tech-savvy consumer base.

Which retail business is most profitable in India?

Some of the top retail businesses in India include Reliance Retail, Tata Group’s Trent, Future Group, Avenue Supermarts (DMart), Aditya Birla Retail, and Spencer’s Retail. These companies have established a strong presence across various sectors like grocery, fashion, electronics, and more.

What is considered as retail business?

Retail businesses can include grocery, drug, department, and convenience stores. Service-related businesses such as beauty salons and rental places are also considered retail businesses.

Are retailers in India covered under MSME?

No, wholesale and retail trade will not be categorized as MSME.

How to start a retail business in India?

Here are some easy steps to start a retail business in India:

Generate an idea and retail business plan
Choose a name for your retail business
Cover your legal basics
Find the right location for your retail business
Create a personalized experience
Build vendor relationships
Explore marketing opportunities for your retail business
Plan for a grand opening

Which is the best business to start?

Some of the best businesses to start are:

Consulting
E-commerce
Food delivery
Writing
Web designing and development
Digital Marketing
Online dating
Courier
Blogging
Youtube
Graphic Designing
Cooking
Handicraft

Which business is most profitable in India?

The most profitable businesses in India include pharmacy, cloud kitchen, real estate, mobile accessories, and digital marketing services, due to high demand and good margins.

May 22, 2025

Argentina and India Sign a Deal for the Discovery and Extraction of Lithium

In order to improve collaboration in the exploration and exploitation of vital minerals, especially lithium, Argentina and India have formally established a partnership. According to a press release from the ministry, the deal was signed on February 19, in front of Raúl Alejandro Jalil, the governor of Catamarca, Argentina, and Union Minister for Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy. The countries talked about increasing cooperation in the mining industry, with an emphasis on lithium exploration and investment prospects, according to the Ministry of Mines’ statement. The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Provincial Government of Catamarca, Argentina, and Mineral Exploration and Consultancy Limited (MECL), a PSU under the Ministry of Mines, was the main event of the meeting, according to the ministry’s statement. This will open the door to further cooperation in the exploration and resource development of critical minerals.

Argentina the most Reliable Ally for India

According to the statement, Argentina has substantial lithium reserves and is regarded as India’s main ally in obtaining vital raw materials needed for batteries for electric vehicles and renewable energy storage. The continuing lithium exploration activities in the Catamarca region by Greenko and Khanij Bidesh India Ltd. (KABIL) were also discussed. The two parties discussed the possibility of more Indian involvement in Argentina’s mining industry, including joint ventures, long-term supply agreements, and possible investment.

In order to ensure a mutually beneficial cooperation, the senior officials discussed legislative frameworks, regulatory elements, and sustainable mining methods. The interaction also emphasised how crucial infrastructure development and information sharing are to enabling India’s participation in Argentina’s mining sector. This deal coincides with India’s larger initiatives to acquire vital minerals needed to meet its objectives for electric mobility and the clean energy revolution. In an effort to fortify its supply chains in the industry, the nation has been aggressively pursuing alliances with mineral-rich countries.

India’s EV Sector

The electric vehicle market in India is expanding quickly as local producers boost output. Businesses like Maruti Suzuki, Mahindra & Mahindra, and Tata Motors are actively growing their EV product lines. The e-Vitara was introduced at an auto exhibition in February by Maruti Suzuki, which had been a latecomer to the EV industry. New models were also displayed by other players, including VinFast from Vietnam.

Additionally, local manufacturers are solidifying their positions at the same time as Tesla’s recruiting announcement. A Tesla entry might cause market disruption and put pressure on domestic companies that have invested heavily in the industry. Mahindra & Mahindra and Tata Motors have resisted any decrease in import taxes, claiming that doing so will hurt their ability to compete.

February 24, 2025

Meta Plans to Expand in India and Hire Engineers and Artificial Intelligence Talent

In an attempt to increase its footprint in India, Meta is establishing a new office in Bengaluru and is currently searching for artificial intelligence product and engineering positions in the city. Major tech companies like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon have already begun establishing engineering and product teams in Bengaluru and throughout the nation, which comes following Meta’s statement. According to the company’s website, there are 41 job vacancies in Bengaluru, mostly for positions like hardware, software, and machine learning engineers.

15 Years of Meta in India

Meta has been a part of the Indian market for around 15 years. As of right now, it maintains offices in Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Mumbai, New Delhi, and Gurugram. According to estimates, it currently employs between 300 and 400 people in India. Sales, marketing, business development, operations, policy, legal, and finance, however, make up the majority of this workforce. This action appears to be consistent with the tech giant’s overarching plan to improve its engineering prowess, especially in the area of artificial intelligence.

A representative for Meta commented on the development, saying that in order to support its long-term investments, the company frequently updates its location strategies. The company is hiring for a few engineering jobs in Bengaluru as part of this. Last month, Mark Zuckerberg, the company’s CEO, declared that it would increase its spending on AI by double, potentially reaching “hundreds of billions of dollars” in the long run. Number-wise, Meta anticipates spending between $60 and $65 billion this year, primarily on AI data centres, as opposed to $39.23 billion in 2024. In order to put 1 GW of capacity online this year and finish 2025 with 1.3 million GPUs, the corporation is also constructing a 2 GW AI data centre.

CM Fadnavis Says Maharashtra is on Track to Become India’s AI capital

As part of a national initiative to boost the uptake of the rapidly evolving technology, Maharashtra hopes to become the artificial intelligence (AI) capital of India within the next four to five years, according to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Fadnavis stated at the Nascomm Technology and Leadership Forum on February 24 that the Maharashtra government is developing a new AI strategy in an effort to take the lead in the nation’s current AI revolution. According to CM, the committee, which is made up of business leaders, is working on creating a new AI strategy since the state government wants to spearhead this revolution.

In fact, India’s prime minister outlined the nation’s AI roadmap at the AI conference in France. Additionally, he believes that India aspires to be a leader in AI. This comes after Ashish Shelar, the IT minister for Maharashtra, stated that the state was preparing to draft an autonomous AI policy shortly. Fadnavis added that the Maharashtra government has partnered with Microsoft, a supporter of OpenAI, to train and upskill 10,000 women in artificial intelligence. He declared, “We want everyone in Maharashtra to benefit from the AI revolution.”

February 23, 2025

India-Qatar Commerce Expanding Beyond Energy to Include AI and Semiconductors, According to Piyush Goyal

On February 18, India’s Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal stated that the country wants to expand its commerce with Qatar beyond energy supplies to include semiconductors and artificial intelligence (AI). At the first meeting of the India-Qatar Business Forum on February 18, Goyal stated that while India welcomes energy products from Qatar, he believes that both countries are now looking to the future, with AI, the internet of things, semiconductors, and other technologies replacing energy as the mainstay of their trade.

Piyush Goyal went on to say that sustainability, technology and entrepreneurship, and energy will be the cornerstones of the future India-Qatar collaboration. The State of Qatar’s Minister of Commerce and Industry, Sheikh Faisal bin Thani bin Faisal Al Thani, was also in attendance at the Forum in New Delhi.

Signing of MoUs

The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and the Qatari Businessmen Association (QBA) have inked two Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs); Invest India and Invest Qatar have also signed one. Additionally, Minister Goyal declared that the Joint Working Group on Trade and Commerce would henceforth be at the ministerial level.

Petroleum goods, plastics, and aluminium products are among the main items that India imports from Qatar, while its exports to Doha include cereals, copper products, iron and steel items, fruits, and vegetables, among other things. As of April–November 2024, India has a $6.9 billion trade deficit with the other country.

Encouraging Companies from Qatar to Invest in India

Piyush Goyal also extended an invitation to Qatari businesses to participate in India’s expansion in smart city development, manufacturing, renewable energy, and infrastructure. Goyal went on to say that India’s Viksit Bharat 2047 and Qatar’s Vision 2030 will work together to create a far larger and more promising future for their respective populations. India offers an oasis of stability, predictability, and continuity, Goyal said, adding that the country’s industrial evolution is largely due to its dynamic economy, rich population, reforms, ease of doing business, and quality. Referencing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s remarks, the minister said that confidence in India is more than ever in both major countries and worldwide forums. He also exhorted corporate executives to continue this collaborative and self-assured attitude. He continued by saying that India has a young population, a thriving economy, ongoing reforms, and a strong emphasis on industrial growth and ease of doing business.

According to Dr. Ahmed Bin Mohammed Al Sayed, Qatar’s Minister of State for Foreign Trade Affairs, the country is eager to broaden its economic connections with India beyond the conventional oil and gas industry, concentrating on new ventures and investments. Dr. Al Sayed emphasised the significance of Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani, the Amir of Qatar, visiting India in an exclusive interview with an Indian media outlet. He underlined that the visit is a reflection of the two countries’ solid strategic collaboration in a number of areas.

February 17, 2025

India and the US Aim to Strengthen Partnerships in AI, Semiconductors, and Space

After Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump met at the White House, India and the US announced significant efforts aimed at promoting collaboration in emerging technologies, artificial intelligence, and civil space. The US-India TRUST program, an AI infrastructure roadmap, and the INDUS Innovation platform to promote collaborations in energy, space, and defence are among the major announcements. In the official statement, the leaders announced the launch of the U.S.-India TRUST (“Transforming the Relationship Utilising Strategic Technology”) initiative, which will encourage the use of verified technology vendors and ensure the protection of sensitive technologies while promoting government-to-government, academic, and private sector collaboration to promote the application of critical and emerging technologies in fields like defence, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, quantum computing, biotechnology, energy, and space. By the end of the year, the business sectors in both nations will present a US-India Roadmap on Accelerating AI Infrastructure as part of this endeavour. With milestones and next steps, this roadmap will outline the obstacles to funding, developing, supplying, and linking extensive AI infrastructure of American provenance in India.

Along with addressing the safeguards and controls required to protect these technologies and lower regulatory barriers, the two nations will also facilitate industry partnerships and investments in next-generation data centres, collaboration on the development and access to computing and processors for AI, innovations in AI models, and the creation of AI applications to address societal challenges.

Launching of LNDUS Innovation

To maintain India and US leadership in innovation and to meet 21st-century demands, the two leaders also announced the launch of INDUS Innovation, a new innovation bridge modelled after the successful INDUS-X platform. This bridge will promote investments in space, energy, and other emerging technologies and advance industry and academic partnerships. The leaders also welcomed the next summit in 2025 and reaffirmed their commitment to the INDUS-X project, which facilitates collaborations between Indian and American defence businesses, investors, and academic institutions to generate vital capabilities for our forces. According to the release, the leaders also pledged to create reliable and robust supply chains for sophisticated materials, semiconductors, vital minerals, and pharmaceuticals as part of the TRUST project. The leaders want to promote public and private investments to increase Indian manufacturing capacity for active pharmaceutical ingredients for essential medications, especially in the US, as part of this endeavour. These investments will lower the risk of shortages of life-saving medications in both India and the US, diversify essential supply chains, and generate excellent jobs.

Unearthing the Potentials of Minerals

India and the US will increase research and development cooperation and encourage investment throughout the critical mineral value chain, as well as through the Mineral Security Partnership, of which both countries are members, in recognition of the significance of critical minerals for cutting-edge manufacturing and emerging technologies. In addition to announcing the launch of the Strategic Mineral Recovery initiative, a new US-India program to recover and process critical minerals (such as lithium, cobalt, and rare earths) from heavy industries like aluminium, coal mining, and oil and gas, the leaders of the two nations pledged to step up efforts to deepen their understanding of various critical mineral technologies.

In order to ensure technology security, the leaders of both the nations have decided that their governments will step up efforts to improve high-tech trade, ease export regulations, and lower obstacles to technology transfer between the two nations. According to the statement, the leaders also decided to cooperate in order to combat the shared problem of unfair export control activities by third parties looking to take advantage of the overconcentration of vital supply chains.

February 17, 2025

OpenAI in Negotiations to Establish Data Centre in India

According to a media outlet, OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT, has started the process of establishing data centre operations in India. Data from users in India and a few of its smaller bordering nations is probably stored at the hub. According to sources cited in the story, OpenAI is now speaking with a few data centre operators, although these are only the very beginning stages of their strategy.

They could need some time to go over specifics like the venue and capacity. According to the report, the AI behemoth is eager to finish the procedure by 2025 but has not established a deadline. The majority of OpenAI’s servers are housed in data centres in the US state of Texas. The creator of the well-known chatbot serves consumers worldwide, including those in India, by utilising Microsoft’s Azure Cloud services.

India Second Biggest Market for OpenAI

CEO Sam Altman stated during his recent trip to India that the country is OpenAI’s second-largest market, with a threefold increase in users in the last 12 months. “I observe that folks in India are utilising AI in various aspects of the stack, including chips, models, and other amazing applications. Therefore, I believe that India ought to take the lead. During a fireside talk with IT minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on February 5, Altman stated, “I believe India should be among the leaders of the AI revolution.”

“That’s a reference to a comment I made here a few years ago about cost,” Altman said, attempting to elucidate a statement that caused controversy on his previous visit to India. That might have been taken out of context. At that particular moment, there was a scaling issue, and I still believe it is costly to remain on the cutting edge of pre-trained models,” he said.

He was questioned if a small team could produce a substantial AI model on a $10 million budget while he was in India in 2023. “It’s totally hopeless to compete with us on training foundation models,” he’d stated. It was long before the low-cost AI helper from Chinese company DeepSeek rocked the IT industry.

Tug of War Between Open AI and Chinese DeepSeek

Sam Altman’s tour takes place at a time when OpenAI is facing significant challenges due to the emergence of DeepSeek, a Chinese AI search engine platform that claims to have developed AI models that can compete with the best models from US firms like OpenAI, Meta, and Google at a far lower cost. India has one of the biggest populations and developer pools in the world.

OpenAI will be able to increase its earnings by establishing a physical base in the nation. The trip coincides with a wave of copyright infringement cases against the AI giant for allegedly exploiting local digital platforms’ and book publishers’ content to train its chatbot ChatGPT without permission.

Meanwhile, OpenAI has apparently started talking about data localisations in an effort to ward off any additional regulatory obstacles. The corporation wants to store its Indian consumers’ data in the nation itself as part of this. Since India is one of the company’s largest developer ecosystems, OpenAI is naturally seeking methods to increase its presence there.

In preparation for the Digital Personal Data Protection Act of 2023, it has already started talking about ways to localise the data of its Indian citizens in domestic data centres. A person with knowledge of the development told Livemint that the drive to localise data operations is probably going to start soon.

February 14, 2025

India Ranked Second in Terms of Digital Skills Required for Jobs of the Future

According to the QS World Future Skills Index, India came in second place for the digital skills needed for the employment of the future. With its headquarters in London, Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) offers advice and insights to students for institutions of higher learning. Nunzio Quacquarelli, the founder and CEO of QS, stated in a post on X that India is ranked fourth in terms of AI and green skills indices and second in terms of digital skills.

Reacting to this development, Giridhar LV, CEO and Co-founder, Nuvepro Technologies stated, “India’s ranking as second in digital skills demand underlines the transformative potential of our workforce. Yet, the gap between what academia delivers and what industries require remains a pressing challenge. At Nuvepro, we believe skills, not just credentials, define readiness and we champion a shift from degree-focused learning to skill-based empowerment. Our hands-on learning approach ensures individuals are not just academically prepared but truly project-ready, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to the future of work and the digital economy.”

PM Applauding the Development

“Our Government has worked on strengthening our youth over the last decade by equipping them with skills that enable them to become self-reliant and create wealth,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated in response to his post. Additionally, the Indian government has used technology to establish India as a centre for enterprise and innovation. As the nation progresses towards prosperity and youth empowerment, the prime minister went on to say that the QS World Future Skills Index’s observations are invaluable. Using four criteria—skill fit, future of work, academic preparedness, and economic transformation—the index evaluated over 190 nations. In terms of digital skills, which fall under the “future of work” criteria, India came in second.

Scaling High on Future of Work Indicator

In the “future of work” indicator, the nation received a score of 99.1 out of 100. The future of work score, according to QS, evaluated the abilities that are primarily stressed in international job postings. Digital, AI, and green competencies were among the competencies. According to QS’s report, this score was obtained by using its proprietary skills taxonomy to analyse more than 280 million job ads worldwide. According to the report, more than 9,500 emerging skills were found and compared to traditional skills, giving employers a clear picture of how highly they value future-orientated skills in the global labour market.

Overall Performance of the Country

India, however, came in at number 25 with an overall score of 76.6 out of 100, lagging behind nations like the US, UK, and Canada. It is important to remember that the Indian government is promoting upskilling through initiatives like Digital India, Skill India, and Skill India Digital (SID). SID is a platform that offers job opportunities, entrepreneurship support, and industry-relevant skill development courses. It was launched in 2023. In 2015, Digital India and Skill India were introduced. In order to make India a digital-first economy, the government has also introduced India Stack, a collection of digital technologies. Among other things, it contains DigiLocker, eKYC, the Account Aggregator Framework, and UPI.

India’s positioning in the QS World Future Skills Index demonstrates its increasing capacity to train a workforce that is prepared for the future. The country’s dynamic economy, strong educational system, and demographic advantage make it a strong competitor in the global labour market, despite ongoing issues in innovation and sustainability.

January 17, 2025

Clean Energy Partnership Between the United States and India

On 16 September, in Washington, District of Columbia, the Strategic Clean Energy Partnership (SCEP) Ministerial was held. It was organized by Jennifer Granholm, the Secretary of Energy for the United States of America, and Hardeep Singh Puri, the Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas for India. Under the SCEP, the parties discussed the activities that have been carried out across the several technical pillars.

These initiatives included Power and Energy Efficiency, Responsible Oil and Gas, Renewable Energy, Emerging Fuels and Technologies, and Sustainable Growth. The progress that has been made under the partnership to drive clean energy innovation, strengthen energy security, and accelerate clean energy transitions was welcomed by the ministers. This progress was made possible, among other things, through more focused efforts on manufacturing clean energy and building supply chains that are resilient, responsible, stable, secure, and diverse of their supply chains.

Not only did the parties acknowledge the necessity of working towards an orderly, and sustainable energy transition that emphasizes access to energy supplies that are dependable, affordable, and environmentally friendly, but they also expressed their appreciation for the significant role that energy commerce plays in supporting the national interests of both nations.

The ministers recognized the progress that both countries have made in promoting energy efficiency, accelerating the development and deployment of emerging clean energy technologies, advancing the deployment of renewable energy and reliable grid integration, promoting energy efficiency, and advancing the decarbonization of high-emitting sectors such as industry, buildings, and transportation.

Renewable Energy Technology Action Platform (RETAP)

With the goal of developing actionable roadmaps for hydrogen, long duration energy storage, offshore wind, and geothermal energy through research and development, pilots and demonstration, and incubation-investment-industry networks, the ministers expressed their satisfaction with the formal launch of the Renewable Energy Technology Action Platform (RETAP) in August 2023. Additionally, they expressed their contentment with the progress that is being achieved by both parties in accordance with the RETAP system.

The two nations expressed their enthusiasm for working together on the establishment of a new National Centre for Hydrogen Safety in India as well as a partnership on the 2nd International Conference on Green Hydrogen, which took place from 11 to 13 September 2024. The ministers noted the extended bilateral expert exchanges on clean hydrogen research and development, attempts to reduce costs, and the deployment of hydrogen hubs in both countries through RETAP, which is the public-private Hydrogen Task Force. The work that is being done to employ green hydrogen in buses, tractors, and other heavy equipment was also welcomed by the ministers.

The ministers emphasised how important it is to promote the integration of renewable energy sources on a broad scale into the grid while also enabling grid operations that are flexible and reliable through the use of energy storage mechanisms. Regarding the formal launch of the public-private Energy Storage Task Force, which aims to address policy and regulatory frameworks, safety, manufacturing and supply chains, and innovative business models; focused RETAP efforts on long-term energy storage and alternative chemistries to Li-ion technologies.

Sustainable Aviation Fuel

These two nations came to an agreement to provide a boost to environmentally friendly aircraft fuel. An inaugural workshop on sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) was held to support training on research and development, tax incentives, supply chain capacity building, market development, financing opportunities, fuel certification, regional and international coalition building, and the facilitation of commercial partnerships. In this context, the parties expressed their appreciation for the new engagement on SAF. As part of the Biofuels Task Force, the ministers expressed their satisfaction with the preparation of two joint papers on the subject of SAF and biofuels.

Both nations reaffirmed their dedication to enhancing energy efficiency and expressed their enthusiasm for the possibility of working together on super-efficient appliances. The goal of this partnership is to raise efficiency requirements, increase the deployment and production of high-efficiency inexpensive cooling systems, and encourage supply chain diversification.

September 18, 2024

Apple Has Begun Preparing Its Employees to Manufacture iPhone Pro Models in India

Thousands of workers at Apple’s Tamil Nadu facility have reportedly begun training in order to manufacture the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max as near to the worldwide debut as feasible.

An esteemed media outlet revealed in July, citing sources, that Apple Inc. intends to employ its partner Foxconn Technology Group to manufacture the top-of-the-line Pro and Pro Max models of the forthcoming iPhone 16 series in India for the first time.

The ‘new product introduction’ (NPI) procedure for the pro variants of iPhone 16 will shortly begin at Foxconn’s site in Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu. Once officially announced, mass manufacturing will begin. Given its expertise and extensive integration into Apple’s supply chain, Foxconn usually receives priority on new production.

Pegatron’s India Unit and Tata Group Will Be Part of Manufacturing Process

‘Within weeks’ of the global launch, Foxconn will begin the process of assembling the premium gadgets. It is possible that Apple’s other partners in India, like as the Tata Group and the India unit of Pegatron, will also begin manufacturing the Pro models.

When the iPhone 16 goes on sale around the world, it is anticipated that Apple would make the made-in-India standard version of the device available to consumers. Apple has extended the manufacture of its flagship iPhone products in India by utilising Foxconn and Tata Electronics as additional manufacturing partners.

Manufacturing of iPads and AirPod to Be Included in Future

According to information obtained by a media report, Apple may also resume preparations to manufacture iPads in India through Foxconn.

It was also reported on July 8 that Apple is working towards raising the production of components for AirPod wireless charging cases through the contract manufacturer Jabil in Pune. Additionally, it is possible that Apple would also seek to increase production with Foxconn. Early in the next year, it is possible that production of Made in India AirPods will begin.

Apple Diversifying Beyond China

Apple is gradually expanding its operations beyond China in order to mitigate the risks associated with the tensions that exist between Beijing and Washington. Despite this, the great majority of iPhones are still manufactured in China.

As a result of this effort, Apple was able to manufacture $14 billion worth of iPhones in India for the fiscal year that ended in March 2024. This figure represents as much as 14% of the company’s total output worldwide. Similarly to the previous year, it is anticipated that Apple will make the ordinary iPhone 16 manufactured in India available on the same day that the most recent generation of the iPhone begins selling all over the world, according to the individuals.

August 21, 2024

India Launches the Earth Observation Satellite EOS-08

‘EOS-08,’ the newest Earth observation satellite from ISRO, was launched today from Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Shriharikota, using the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV)-D3.

Incorporating new technology needed for future operational satellites, designing and manufacturing a microsatellite, and creating payload instruments compatible with the microsatellite bus are the principal objectives of the EOS-08 mission.

The Satellite’s Advanced Capabilities Will Enhance the Monitoring System

Electro-Optical Infrared Payload (EOIR), Global Navigation Satellite System-Reflectometry (GNSS-R), and SiC UV Dosimeter are the three payloads that EOS-08, which is built on the Microsat/IMS-1 bus, carries.

Applications such as satellite-based surveillance, environmental monitoring, disaster monitoring, fire detection, volcanic activity observation, and industrial and power plant disaster monitoring are all possible with the EOIR payload’s ability to capture images in the Mid-Wave IR (MIR) and Long-Wave IR (LWIR) bands, day and night.

Applying GNSS-R-based remote sensing for applications including analysing ocean surface winds, assessing soil moisture, studying the cryosphere over the Himalayan region, and detecting floods, and inland waterbodies is made possible by the GNSS-R payload.

At the same time, the SiC UV Dosimeter acts as a high-dose alert sensor for gamma radiation and tracks UV irradiance through the viewport of the Crew Module during the Gaganyaan Mission.

During its one-year mission, the spacecraft will remain in a Circular Low Earth Orbit (LEO) at 475 km in height and 37.4° in inclination. The satellite can produce about 420 W of power and weighs about 175.5 kg. It is capable of communicating with the SSLV-D3 launch vehicle.

Integrated Avionics System

An Integrated Avionics system called the Communication, Baseband, Storage, and Positioning (CBSP) Package integrates various tasks into one efficient unit; EOS-08 is a major improvement in satellite mainframe systems like this.

Designed with cold redundant systems in mind, this system supports up to 400 GB of data storage and uses evaluation boards and commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) components.

To round out the onboard technological demonstration, the satellite contains a structural panel with PCBs incorporated in it, a battery that is embedded in the panel, a Micro-DGA (Dual Gimbal Antenna), an M-PAA (Phased Array Antenna), and a flexible solar panel.

The smaller design of the satellite’s antenna pointing mechanisms allows it to rotate at a pace of 6 degrees per second and keep a pointing precision of ±1 degree.

The miniature phased array antenna further enhances the communication capabilities, and the structural integrity and power generation are both improved by the flexible solar panel, which uses a foldable solar panel substrate, GFRP tube, and CFRP honeycomb rigid end panel.

August 16, 2024

Tag: india