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Time of India
9 hours ago
- Business
- Time of India
Thore Network doubles down on multilingual AI with major investment in India tech infrastructure
As India strides confidently into the era of digital inclusion, one company has been quietly building the pipes for an AI-powered, multilingual future. Thore Network Pvt. Ltd., an 8-year-old pioneer in blockchain and digital assets, is now turning its attention toward Indic language AI infrastructure, investing in platforms that bridge India's rich linguistic diversity with modern technology. With over 1.4 billion citizens and hundreds of dialects, India presents a unique challenge—and opportunity—for artificial intelligence. While global players dominate English-centric models, India's next tech leap lies in what experts call ' Sovereign AI ': solutions trained on local data, dialects, and cultural context. Thore Network has announced three flagship initiatives that aim to contribute to this vision: Insights AI: A multilingual search and discovery platform designed for context-aware results in Indian A dialect-first language translation and communication app, built for daily vernacular ChatBot: A native-language chatbot assistant tailored to Indian service sectors and regional queries. While not explicitly a government project, these initiatives align closely with the Bhashini framework under India's digital language inclusion efforts. 'For us, Mailjol isn't just a product. It's a philosophy of interconnectedness — making sure no language is left behind in the digital age,' said Alok Kumar, Founder & CEO of Thore Network. Organizational Restructuring & Funding Commitment Thore Network recently underwent a significant organizational overhaul, restructuring as an equity-holding company with plans to open its cap table to private placement in Q1 2025. The firm has committed an initial $500,000 to its AI language verticals, and is reportedly in active discussions for grant support and private venture capital to further scale its initiatives. 'We believe this investment is not just strategic—it's cultural. There's a responsibility to build for Bharat, and we're taking that seriously,' added Kumar. In parallel, Thore Network is preparing for a pilot rollout of an AI-based road safety and emergency response system, starting with select states. The mobile platform will integrate real-time toll tracking, driver alerts, and voice-based assistance, especially for non-English users—marking another step in their vision for citizen-first AI. Vice Chairman and Whole-Time Director Prashant Kolhe, known for his role in over 100 successful IPOs, commented on the company's roadmap: 'Our balance sheet is clean, our tech is maturing, and we've shown product-market fit in crypto and now AI. If everything aligns, 2027 could be our listing year,' Kolhe noted. 'We didn't pivot — we evolved. AI is the next logical extension of our blockchain base. Language is infrastructure,' Alok Kumar, Founder & CEO – Thore Network said. 'Execution. Building the trust layer. And reaching the next 500 million users — not in English, but in Bhojpuri, Tamil, and Konkani. We're bootstrapped, profitable, and now opening up for like-minded investors who understand Bharat's tech future. Thore Network continues to build at the intersection of decentralized infrastructure and human-centric AI, staking its claim in India's next tech decade, " He added.
India Gazette
3 days ago
- Business
- India Gazette
Uttar Pradesh Small Industries Corporation & India SME Forum launched the transformative Uttar Pradesh Niryaat Vriddhi Abhiyaan on May 30, 2025
HT Syndication Moradabad (Uttar Pradesh) [India], May 31: The Uttar Pradesh Small Industries Corporation (UPSIC), in collaboration with the India SME Forum, proudly announces the launch of the Uttar Pradesh Niryaat Vriddhi Abhiyaan (UPNVA) under the Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) scheme. This landmark initiative is poised to empower the first cohort of 500 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across the state, with a special focus on the handicrafts, and handloom sectors, home decor enabling them to become first-time exporters. The UPNVA is a comprehensive capacity-building programme designed to unlock the export potential of MSMEs in Uttar Pradesh. Going beyond conventional training, the initiative offers a structured three-phase approach that includes: - Hands-on learning and personalized mentorship - Expert guidance on product development, packaging, and branding - Support for joining international marketplaces and accessing buyer data - Assistance in leveraging e-commerce platforms and participating in global exhibitions - Navigation of government schemes tailored for first-time exporters By fostering innovation, sustainability, and global market readiness, UPNVA aims to build a thriving ecosystem of export-ready enterprises. The programme will equip MSMEs with critical knowledge of international trade, while also facilitating the creation of a robust buyer-seller network, ultimately driving economic growth and job creation throughout Uttar Pradesh. This initiative marks a significant step in realizing the state's vision of making Uttar Pradesh a hub for globally competitive MSMEs. Shri Alok Kumar, IAS, Principal Secretary of the Department of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), Government of Uttar Pradesh, highlighted the unprecedented emphasis being placed on the SME sector by both the Central and State Governments. Speaking at a recent industry event, Shri Kumar remarked, 'In my 30 years of public service, I have never witnessed such a strong and sustained focus on small and medium enterprises. This level of priority is truly remarkable and reflects a strategic shift in our economic development agenda.' He emphasized that the renewed attention to SMEs is aligned with global patterns of rapid economic advancement. 'If we examine any developed nation that has achieved significant progress within a span of 25 to 30 years, two key pillars stand out: a robust export ecosystem and a vibrant MSME sector. These two elements are deeply interconnected and mutually reinforcing,' he added. The Government of Uttar Pradesh continues to implement progressive policies and initiatives aimed at empowering MSMEs to compete at global level, become flag bearers of 'MADE IN INDIA', recognizing their critical role in job creation, innovation, and inclusive growth. Shri Raj Kamal, IAS, Managing Director of the Uttar Pradesh Small Industries Corporation Ltd, reaffirmed the state's commitment to empower Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) under the visionary leadership of Hon'ble Chief Minister Shri Yogi Adityanath and the guidance of Principal Secretary Shri Alok Kumar. 'We are dedicated to creating a robust and supportive ecosystem for MSMEs in Uttar Pradesh, enabling them to expand their businesses and compete in global markets,' said Shri Raj Kamal. 'Equipping our entrepreneurs with essential knowledge of processes, techniques, and regulatory frameworks is key to ensuring their success on the international stage.' In this context, he emphasized the launch of the Uttar Pradesh Niryat Vriddhi Abhiyan, as a transformative initiative aimed at enhancing the export capabilities of MSMEs, with a special emphasis on the home decor, handicrafts, and handloom sectors. He said that 'Our vision through this campaign is to create an ecosystem for exporters and the aspiring youth inspired by them- wherein ifthey need support in design , guidelines, international partnerships, government clearances, or face any kind of challenge, they can approach us without hesitation and we will provide solution' . He highlighted that the UP MSME 1-Connect Portal ( is first of its kind one stop portal for the needs of MSMEs right from expert handholding, sector specific consultation, facility of incentive calculator, availability of sectoral DPR along with a specialized call centre(155343) available to address all the needs that you have and urged all the units to register themselves and avail benefits and services Vinod Kumar, President of India SME Forum, emphasized the strategic role of MSMEs in India's economic narrative: 'Exports are the engine of India's economic growth, and Uttar Pradesh, with its vibrant MSME sector, is a testament to this power. Approximately 45% of the state's total exports are contributed by MSME units, underscoring their pivotal role in driving both regional and national prosperity. As D2C and e-commerce exports open new global avenues, MSMEs from Uttar Pradesh are uniquely positioned to showcase their craftsmanship and innovation to the world. At India SME Forum, we are committed to equipping these enterprises with the skills, knowledge, and digital tools they need to lead India's export story and transform local ambition into global achievement.' A Panel session was organised on 'Ecosystem for exporters to boost exports', which was moderated by Sushma Morthania, Director General, India SME Forum, and the panellists were experts from DGFT, EXIM Bank, India Post, Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts, and Ship Global provided useful insights to MSME units. Another session on 'Enabling Globally Competitive Exports' where entrepreneurs such as Mr. Sanchit Gupta from Swati Menthol & Allied Chemicals Ltd., Mr. Amit Kumar Agrawal from Kumar Exports, Mr. Awadesh Agrawal from Shree Sai De Art, Mr. Naveen Sharma from Designer India and Ms. Sandhya Sharma from Shopping Over shared their success stories. This launch event has provided MSME attendees valuable networking opportunities, interactions with mentors from the export industry and government officials, and dedicated handholding support. For more information about the programme, please visit (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by HT Syndication. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
Time of India
4 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
UP govt prioritises MSMEs with new export growth campaign
Lucknow: Principal secretary, MSME, Alok Kumar on Friday said that the UP govt has given unprecedented priority to the MSME sector. Speaking at the launch of the Uttar Pradesh Export Growth Campaign (UPNVA), jointly organised by the Uttar Pradesh Small Industries Corporation (UPSIC) and the India SME Forum in Moradabad, he said, "Any developed country that made rapid progress in 25–30 years had two main pillars—first, they made remarkable progress in exports, and second, their MSME sector was highly active and vibrant. These two are complementary to each other." UPSIC managing director Raj Kamal Yadav said that they are committed to creating a strong and supportive ecosystem so that entrepreneurs can compete in global markets. "The UP MSME 1-Connect portal ( serves as a one-stop solution. It offers expert guidance, sector-based advice, an incentive calculator, DPR, and the 155343 helpline." Speaking on the occasion, India SME Forum president Vinod Kumar said, "MSMEs contribute about 45% to the state's total exports. As new opportunities in D2C and e-commerce exports emerge, UP's MSMEs have the chance to showcase their creativity to the world." Officials concerned said that the UPNVA is being implemented under the RAMP (Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance) scheme. "The historic campaign aims to empower 500 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the state. The campaign is a comprehensive capacity-building programme that adopts a three-step structured approach to realise the export potential of MSMEs. It includes practical training and personalised mentorship, expert guidance on product development, packaging, and branding, access to international markets and buyer data, use of e-commerce platforms, participation in global exhibitions, and assistance in leveraging government schemes for first-time exporters.
Time of India
4 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
Manufacturing sector driving UP's economy towards trn dollar goal
Lucknow: The secondary sector, at Rs 6.16 lakh crore, contributes 26.1% to the State Gross Value Added (SGVA), which measures the total value of goods and services produced within a state. According to the recent report on District Domestic Product by the economics and statistics division of UP govt's planning department, the manufacturing sub-sector, which is a significant component of the secondary sector, was identified as a significant contributor to the govt's goal of becoming a USD 1 trillion economy. Manufacturing contributes 10.2% to the state's GDP but recorded an increase of only 1.3% over the previous year, highlighting its immense potential for growth. According to DDP estimates for 2023-24, top five districts contributing most to the SGVA include Gautam Budh Nagar, Ghaziabad, Kanpur Nagar, Lucknow, and Agra. The top five districts which displayed the highest growth are Etah, Sitapur, Banda, Baghpat, and Barabanki. "From the results of the Annual Survey of Industries (ASI), GVA undertaken by the Govt of India plays a major role in the estimation of GVA of the manufacturing sector. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch vàng CFDs với sàn môi giới tin cậy IC Markets Tìm hiểu thêm Undo This survey covers units registered under the Factories Act. The total SGVA estimated from ASI was Rs 1.65 lakh crore, in which the top five districts with the highest contribution are Gautam Budh Nagar, Ghaziabad, Kanpur Nagar, Kanpur Dehat, and Lucknow," a govt spokesperson said. ASI also indicates growth in industrial sector. The total number of factories in 2023-24, according to ASI, was 22,303, which was 15.6% more as compared to 2022-23. This growth indicates a shift towards the formalisation of industrial sector. Top five districts with maximum number of factories are Gautam Budh Nagar, Ghaziabad, Kanpur Nagar, Agra, and Meerut. These districts also have higher number of factories employing more than 100 workers. Consumption of electricity is a crucial input for any industrial development. The share of top five districts in electricity consumption for industrial purposes are Gautam Budh Nagar, Ghaziabad, Kanpur Nagar, Muzaffarnagar, and Kanpur Dehat. Among other indicators proving growth in UP's manufacturing sector is an increase in workers in manufacturing-related MSME industries by 60.8% over the previous year. Top five districts contributing the most to employment opportunities created in the industrial sector, both in factories registered under the Factories Act and MSME, have been Gautam Budh Nagar, Ghaziabad, Agra, Kanpur Nagar, and Lucknow. Top five districts in GST collection from registered manufacturing establishments are Gautam Budh Nagar, Ghaziabad, Lucknow, Kanpur Nagar, and Muzaffarnagar. Principal secretary, planning, Alok Kumar said that the state was working towards holistic economic progress by developing the manufacturing sector. "This has also attracted investors towards UP. Sectoral policies like UP Food Processing Policy, UP Textile and Garments Policy, Electronics Manufacturing Policy, UP Green Hydrogen Policy, Semi-Conductor Policy, Incentive Policy for Foreign Direct Investment and Investment of Fortune Global-500 Companies, Investment and Employment Promotion Policy, and Export Policy have been important in creating a positive industrial ecosystem," he said.
Time of India
6 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
Agri contribution to UP's economy up from 13.7% to 16.8% in 2023-24: Report
Lucknow: The primary sector, especially agriculture, has played an important role in improving the state's gross domestic product (GDP), according to a recent report on Uttar Pradesh 's District Domestic Product for 2023-24. The report says that the primary sector accounted for Rs 6.35 lakh crore in UP's GDP of Rs 25.63 lakh crore, out of which, Rs 3.96 lakh crore was contributed just by the crop sector. Prepared by the economics and statistics division of UP govt's planning department, the report says that the contribution of crops to the state's economy was 16.8% in 2023-24, registering a growth of 13.74% over the previous year. The top five districts in terms of volume of crops included Lakhimpur Kheri, Sitapur, Barabanki, Bijnor, and Badaun. Similarly, the top five districts with highest growth in crops were Bhadohi, Jalaun, Kanpur Dehat, Rae Bareli, and Jhansi. The report highlighted that at least 37 districts registered a growth rate higher than the state average of 13.7%. Principal secretary, planning, Alok Kumar said that according to data, the crop sector's Gross State Value Added (GSVA) was largely driven by foodgrain, which contributed 40.68% to GSVA. The contribution of fruits and vegetables was 22.58% and sugarcane contributed 19.4% to GSVA. "UP consistently remained self-sufficient in foodgrain production and consistently maintained leading position in wheat and sugarcane production at the national level. In 2023-24, the state produced 6.68 crore tonnes of foodgrain and 3.98 crore tons of wheat, contributing 18.14% and 31.19% to India's total foodgrain and wheat production, respectively," Kumar said. In 2023-24, UP produced 2,495 lakh tonnes of sugarcane. The report suggests that interventions by the state govt helped in the growth of the sector through timely payments and efficient crushing. The top five districts contributing the most to sugarcane production are Lakhimpur Kheri (3.22 crore tonnes), Bijnor (2.37 crore tonnes), Sitapur (1.9 crore tonnes), Muzaffarnagar (1.68 crore tonnes), and Meerut (1.46 crore tonnes). Districts with highest increase in sugarcane production were Azamgarh (53.5%), Mau (49.6%), Jaunpur (33.7%), Rae Bareli (24.7%), and Mathura (21%). The state also contributed 11.6% to India's total paddy production with a yield of 2.65 crore tonnes. The paddy sector benefitted from water conservation schemes, with areas like Bundelkhand and Purvanchal, reporting an increase in production by 2.09% and 7.89%, respectively. Initiatives like Khet Talab Yojana and Amrit Sarovar improved groundwater levels, which led to increased crop production. "Various agricultural products of UP are gaining global recognition with Geographical Indication (GI) tags. Kala Namak rice from Siddarthnagar, Pratapgarh's aamla, Malihabad's Dussehri mango, and Adamchini rice from Chandauli are a few examples. Mango exports touched 567.62 tonnes in 2023-24, an increase of 7.59% over the previous year. The top five districts contributing the most to mango production are Unnao, Lucknow, Saharanpur, Meerut, and Sitapur. Five districts with highest growth in mango production are Chitrakoot, Hamirpur, Jalaun, Banda, and Lalitpur," Kumar said. Lucknow: The primary sector, especially agriculture, has played an important role in improving the state's gross domestic product (GDP), according to a recent report on Uttar Pradesh's District Domestic Product for 2023-24. The report says that the primary sector accounted for Rs 6.35 lakh crore in UP's GDP of Rs 25.63 lakh crore, out of which, Rs 3.96 lakh crore was contributed just by the crop sector. Prepared by the economics and statistics division of UP govt's planning department, the report says that the contribution of crops to the state's economy was 16.8% in 2023-24, registering a growth of 13.74% over the previous year. The top five districts in terms of volume of crops included Lakhimpur Kheri, Sitapur, Barabanki, Bijnor, and Badaun. Similarly, the top five districts with highest growth in crops were Bhadohi, Jalaun, Kanpur Dehat, Rae Bareli, and Jhansi. The report highlighted that at least 37 districts registered a growth rate higher than the state average of 13.7%. Principal secretary, planning, Alok Kumar said that according to data, the crop sector's Gross State Value Added (GSVA) was largely driven by foodgrain, which contributed 40.68% to GSVA. The contribution of fruits and vegetables was 22.58% and sugarcane contributed 19.4% to GSVA. "UP consistently remained self-sufficient in foodgrain production and consistently maintained leading position in wheat and sugarcane production at the national level. In 2023-24, the state produced 6.68 crore tonnes of foodgrain and 3.98 crore tons of wheat, contributing 18.14% and 31.19% to India's total foodgrain and wheat production, respectively," Kumar said. In 2023-24, UP produced 2,495 lakh tonnes of sugarcane. The report suggests that interventions by the state govt helped in the growth of the sector through timely payments and efficient crushing. The top five districts contributing the most to sugarcane production are Lakhimpur Kheri (3.22 crore tonnes), Bijnor (2.37 crore tonnes), Sitapur (1.9 crore tonnes), Muzaffarnagar (1.68 crore tonnes), and Meerut (1.46 crore tonnes). Districts with highest increase in sugarcane production were Azamgarh (53.5%), Mau (49.6%), Jaunpur (33.7%), Rae Bareli (24.7%), and Mathura (21%). The state also contributed 11.6% to India's total paddy production with a yield of 2.65 crore tonnes. The paddy sector benefitted from water conservation schemes, with areas like Bundelkhand and Purvanchal, reporting an increase in production by 2.09% and 7.89%, respectively. Initiatives like Khet Talab Yojana and Amrit Sarovar improved groundwater levels, which led to increased crop production. "Various agricultural products of UP are gaining global recognition with Geographical Indication (GI) tags. Kala Namak rice from Siddarthnagar, Pratapgarh's aamla, Malihabad's Dussehri mango, and Adamchini rice from Chandauli are a few examples. Mango exports touched 567.62 tonnes in 2023-24, an increase of 7.59% over the previous year. The top five districts contributing the most to mango production are Unnao, Lucknow, Saharanpur, Meerut, and Sitapur. Five districts with highest growth in mango production are Chitrakoot, Hamirpur, Jalaun, Banda, and Lalitpur," Kumar said.
