TICE Dispatch: Today’s India business & startup round‑up

As India steps deeper into the final quarter of 2025, the day brought several key developments across governance, startups, economy, and global relations. From new AI regulations and venture capital inflows to trade negotiations and regional growth stories, here’s a comprehensive look at the top headlines shaping India’s business and startup ecosystem today.

Top Startup News

India Proposes New Rules to Label AI and Deepfake Content

The Indian government has unveiled a draft proposal to regulate artificial intelligence-generated content, marking one of the most significant steps yet to tackle misinformation and deepfakes. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology has proposed mandatory labelling for all AI-generated visuals, videos, and audio, requiring platforms and users to clearly indicate such content. The draft, open for public feedback until November 6, aims to ensure accountability in the fast-growing AI space. Once implemented, the rules are expected to impact both digital creators and startups operating in generative AI and content moderation sectors.

AI Startups Dominate Global Venture Funding in 2025

Artificial intelligence startups continue to be the top choice for global investors, capturing over 50% of total venture capital funding this year, according to a new report. The surge reflects the global appetite for AI-driven innovation and its expanding use across industries. Indian startups, too, are seeing strong traction in AI-led sectors, from enterprise automation to generative content. Investors believe this momentum will further accelerate as India rolls out frameworks to encourage responsible and scalable AI adoption.

India Quotient Raises $129 Million for New Fund

In a boost to India’s early-stage investment landscape, venture capital firm India Quotient has raised $129 million for its fifth fund — its largest corpus to date. The firm plans to deploy the new capital in technology, consumer, and fintech startups, focusing on innovation-led businesses that address large-scale Indian challenges. With this fund, India Quotient joins a growing list of domestic VCs doubling down on early-stage opportunities amid a renewed wave of startup creation post-pandemic.

Government and WEF Launch AI Playbooks for SMEs and Agriculture

The World Economic Forum, in collaboration with the Government of India, has launched two new “AI Playbooks” aimed at helping small and medium enterprises and the agriculture sector adopt artificial intelligence. The initiative seeks to provide practical frameworks and tools for businesses to improve productivity and sustainability through AI integration. Officials said the playbooks will support local industries and farming communities in using technology to boost efficiency and reduce operational risks. This move aligns with India’s broader ambition to democratize AI adoption across non-tech sectors.

Government Tightens Compliance Norms for Edible Oil Industry

The government has introduced stricter reporting and registration norms for companies in the edible oil industry. Under the new guidelines, all producers, refiners, and traders will be required to register on the National Single Window System and report production and stock details every month. The move aims to bring greater transparency to the edible oil supply chain, curb hoarding, and stabilize prices. Officials said that these measures will help streamline data collection and ensure fair practices in one of India’s most vital food sectors.

India and U.S. Close to Finalising Trade Deal

India and the United States are reportedly nearing the conclusion of a long-anticipated trade agreement that could significantly lower tariffs on Indian exports. Sources indicate that U.S. tariffs on Indian goods could drop from around 50 percent to 15–16 percent under the new pact, which covers energy, agriculture, and manufacturing sectors. The deal is expected to provide a major boost to Indian exporters and diversify India’s trade partnerships amid evolving global supply chain dynamics. Talks are said to be in their final stages, with both sides optimistic about an early announcement.

Hyderabad Emerging as Hub for Deep-Tech and Space Innovation

Telangana’s Deputy Chief Minister has announced new initiatives aimed at positioning Hyderabad as a global hub for science, deep technology, and the space economy. The city is already home to a growing number of deep-tech startups, research institutions, and innovation centers. The government’s focus on infrastructure, talent, and international partnerships is expected to further strengthen Hyderabad’s reputation as one of India’s leading innovation clusters, rivaling Bengaluru in emerging tech sectors.

India’s Creative Economy Set for Digital Expansion

A new analysis has highlighted the rapid growth of India’s creative economy, driven by digital transformation across design, media, content creation, and entertainment sectors. The report points out that creative startups are emerging from tier-2 and tier-3 cities, tapping into global demand for digital-first content. With improved internet access and new-age creator tools, India’s creative industries are poised to become a significant contributor to exports and job creation in the coming years.

‘Viksit Bharat’ Vision Hinges on Domestic Capital Mobilisation

Experts are emphasizing the need for stronger domestic capital mobilisation to achieve India’s “Viksit Bharat 2047” vision. A recent analysis suggests that India’s long-term growth and innovation will depend on deepening its financial markets and encouraging institutional investors to support startups and growth-stage ventures. Building a self-reliant capital ecosystem, the report notes, will be crucial for sustaining the country’s innovation and development goals.

Tejashwi Yadav Promises Permanent Jobs for Jeevika Didis

In Bihar, political momentum picked up today as RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav announced a major promise ahead of state elections — permanent government employment for women associated with the Jeevika self-help group initiative. Under his proposal, Jeevika Didis would receive a fixed monthly salary of ₹30,000. The announcement has sparked significant public discussion about women’s empowerment, rural employment, and the integration of self-help groups into formal economic systems.

India Gifts 81 School Buses to Nepal

As part of its ongoing development partnership, India has donated 81 school buses to Nepal to improve access to education across 48 districts. The initiative underscores India’s commitment to supporting its neighbours through developmental assistance and educational collaboration. The move also strengthens India’s regional ties and soft power presence in South Asia, highlighting the country’s role as a key partner in the region’s growth.

From AI regulation and startup funding to trade negotiations and regional growth, today’s developments highlight how India’s economy is evolving on multiple fronts. The day underscored a balance between innovation and governance — as policy reforms, global partnerships, and capital investments converge to shape the future of Indian business and entrepreneurship.