Can India become a global innovation powerhouse?As AI reshapes geopolitics, economic competitiveness, and national security, one question matters more than ever:What must be true for India to create breakthrough technologies—not just consume them?In this episode of Chai & Chips, I sit down with Dr. Shivkumar Kalyanaraman, CEO of the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), to discuss how India can build a world-class innovation ecosystem.We explore:<ul><li>Why innovation is a long-term game built on institutions, talent and patient capital</li><li>The role of ANRF in accelerating India's research ecosystem</li><li>Why India must become the world's R&D partner</li><li>How industry, startups, universities and government can collaborate better</li><li>Why research should be measured by impact—not just publications</li><li>The importance of bold science and taking bigger research bets</li><li>Why private sector investment in R&D must increase</li><li>How GCCs can become engines for India's innovation economy</li><li>What founders, researchers and students can do to engage with ANRF</li><li>Dr. Shiv's vision for making India a global leader in AI and deep tech</li></ul>If you're a founder, researcher, policymaker, investor, student, or simply curious about India's future in AI and deep tech, this conversation is for you.️ Guest: Dr. Shivkumar Kalyanaraman, CEO, Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) Subscribe to Chai & Chips for conversations on AI, Semiconductors and India's technology future.Chapters:0:00 Introduction: can India create, not just consume, technology?2:55 Where innovation really happens: turning humans into human capital5:08 Why innovation drives competitiveness, sovereignty & the AI era9:04 The talent-vs-frontier gap: efficiency over chasing the frontier15:15 Speed vs. patient systems: AI for Science & collaboration17:57 Private-sector R&D, GCCs & India as the world's R&D hub26:31 Technology diffusion: not every Einstein becomes an Elon Musk32:16 Building institutions for the long term (Bell Labs, DARPA)34:46 Lightning Round38:06 AI as an enabler & what must be true for India42:27 Measuring impact & how to work with ANRF50:41 India's vision for the next 10–15 yearsResources:Find Dr Shiv on LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/shivkumar-kalyanaraman-1942451/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://www.linkedin.com/in/shivkumar-kalyanaraman-1942451/</a>Find Prakash on LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/prakash-mallya/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://www.linkedin.com/in/prakash-mallya/</a>  Find Dr Shiv on X: <a href="https://x.com/shivkuma_k" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://x.com/shivkuma_k</a>Find Prakash on X: <a href="https://x.com/PrakashMallya" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://x.com/PrakashMallya</a>Find Prakash on Substack: <a href="https://www.prakashmallya.com/s/chai-and-chips-podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://www.prakashmallya.com/s/chai-and-chips-podcast</a>Find Prakash on Medium: <a href="https://medium.com/@pmallya2411" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://medium.com/@pmallya2411</a>

Can India become a global innovation powerhouse?As AI reshapes geopolitics, economic competitiveness, and national security, one question matters more than ever:What must be true for India to create breakthrough technologies—not just consume them?In this episode of Chai & Chips, I sit down with Dr. Shivkumar Kalyanaraman, CEO of the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), to discuss how India can build a world-class innovation ecosystem.We explore:Why innovation is a long-term game built on institutions, talent and patient capitalThe role of ANRF in accelerating India's research ecosystemWhy India must become the world's R&D partnerHow industry, startups, universities and government can collaborate betterWhy research should be measured by impact—not just publicationsThe importance of bold science and taking bigger research betsWhy private sector investment in R&D must increaseHow GCCs can become engines for India's innovation economyWhat founders, researchers and students can do to engage with ANRFDr. Shiv's vision for making India a global leader in AI and deep techIf you're a founder, researcher, policymaker, investor, student, or simply curious about India's future in AI and deep tech, this conversation is for you.️ Guest: Dr. Shivkumar Kalyanaraman, CEO, Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) Subscribe to Chai & Chips for conversations on AI, Semiconductors and India's technology future.Chapters:0:00 Introduction: can India create, not just consume, technology?2:55 Where innovation really happens: turning humans into human capital5:08 Why innovation drives competitiveness, sovereignty & the AI era9:04 The talent-vs-frontier gap: efficiency over chasing the frontier15:15 Speed vs. patient systems: AI for Science & collaboration17:57 Private-sector R&D, GCCs & India as the world's R&D hub26:31 Technology diffusion: not every Einstein becomes an Elon Musk32:16 Building institutions for the long term (Bell Labs, DARPA)34:46 Lightning Round38:06 AI as an enabler & what must be true for India42:27 Measuring impact & how to work with ANRF50:41 India's vision for the next 10–15 yearsResources:Find Dr Shiv on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shivkumar-kalyanaraman-1942451/Find Prakash on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prakash-mallya/  Find Dr Shiv on X: https://x.com/shivkuma_kFind Prakash on X: https://x.com/PrakashMallyaFind Prakash on Substack: https://www.prakashmallya.com/s/chai-and-chips-podcastFind Prakash on Medium: https://medium.com/@pmallya2411

Chai & Chips Podcast

Ep 017 - Can India Become a Global Innovation Leader? | Dr. Shivkumar Kalyanaraman

AI can generate answers.But can it help us build judgment?In this episode of Chai & Chips, I sit down with Ramya Sampath Sharma, CHRO of Saint-Gobain India, to explore how AI is reshaping work, careers, leadership, and learning.We discuss a question that doesn't get enough attention:As AI automates more entry-level and repetitive work, how will the next generation develop the depth, expertise, and judgment that traditionally came from doing that work?We also explore:• The skills that will become more valuable in an AI-first world• Why depth and subject-matter expertise still matter• The future of careers and leadership• AI's impact on inequality and inclusive growth• What organizations can do to build trust during periods of disruptionOne idea stayed with me long after the conversation: AI may generate answers, but judgment is still earned.I hope you enjoy the conversation.Chapters:00:00 Introduction — AI and the Future of Work02:44 Building High-Performance Teams and Talent Systems08:58 Why Culture Matters More Than Individual Brilliance17:51 How AI Is Changing the Nature of Work23:44 The Skills That Will Matter Most in the AI Era28:49 Can Young Professionals Still Build Judgment?33:58 AI in the Enterprise: Adoption, Challenges and Opportunities38:10 Rapid Fire40:30 Will AI Increase Inequality in India?47:14 Leadership, Trust and Human Judgment in the Age of AI57:46 The Vision of IndiaResources:Find Ramya on LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/ramyasampathsharma/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://www.linkedin.com/in/ramyasampathsharma/</a>Find Prakash on LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/prakash-mallya/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://www.linkedin.com/in/prakash-mallya/</a>  Find Ramya on X: <a href="https://x.com/ramyassharma" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://x.com/ramyassharma</a>Find Prakash on X: <a href="https://x.com/PrakashMallya" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://x.com/PrakashMallya</a>Find Prakash on Substack: <a href="https://www.prakashmallya.com/s/chai-and-chips-podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://www.prakashmallya.com/s/chai-and-chips-podcast</a>Find Prakash on Medium: <a href="https://medium.com/@pmallya2411" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://medium.com/@pmallya2411</a>

AI can generate answers.But can it help us build judgment?In this episode of Chai & Chips, I sit down with Ramya Sampath Sharma, CHRO of Saint-Gobain India, to explore how AI is reshaping work, careers, leadership, and learning.We discuss a question that doesn't get enough attention:As AI automates more entry-level and repetitive work, how will the next generation develop the depth, expertise, and judgment that traditionally came from doing that work?We also explore:• The skills that will become more valuable in an AI-first world• Why depth and subject-matter expertise still matter• The future of careers and leadership• AI's impact on inequality and inclusive growth• What organizations can do to build trust during periods of disruptionOne idea stayed with me long after the conversation: AI may generate answers, but judgment is still earned.I hope you enjoy the conversation.Chapters:00:00 Introduction — AI and the Future of Work02:44 Building High-Performance Teams and Talent Systems08:58 Why Culture Matters More Than Individual Brilliance17:51 How AI Is Changing the Nature of Work23:44 The Skills That Will Matter Most in the AI Era28:49 Can Young Professionals Still Build Judgment?33:58 AI in the Enterprise: Adoption, Challenges and Opportunities38:10 Rapid Fire40:30 Will AI Increase Inequality in India?47:14 Leadership, Trust and Human Judgment in the Age of AI57:46 The Vision of IndiaResources:Find Ramya on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ramyasampathsharma/Find Prakash on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prakash-mallya/  Find Ramya on X: https://x.com/ramyassharmaFind Prakash on X: https://x.com/PrakashMallyaFind Prakash on Substack: https://www.prakashmallya.com/s/chai-and-chips-podcastFind Prakash on Medium: https://medium.com/@pmallya2411

Ep 016 - The Human Edge | Ramya Sampath Sharma

Everyone is talking about AI.But a more important question is:Where will durable value actually be created?In this episode of Chai & Chips, I sit down with Narendra Bhandari, General Partner at Sea Fund, to discuss the future of AI, deep tech investing, and India's opportunity to build globally relevant technology companies.We explore why some AI companies will create lasting advantage while others may struggle to differentiate, what investors look for in deep-tech startups, and what must be true for India to build durable AI businesses.Some of the questions we tackle:• Is AI creating a platform shift comparable to the internet or mobile?• Where will defensible moats emerge in the AI ecosystem?• How should founders think about deep-tech versus application-layer opportunities?• What are the biggest challenges facing AI startups today?• Does India have a structural advantage in the AI era?• What separates enduring companies from short-lived hype cycles?One idea that stayed with me from this conversation:Technology waves create opportunities. Durable companies are built by those who create lasting differentiation. If you're a founder, investor, operator, or simply interested in the future of AI and deep tech, I think you'll enjoy this discussion.0:56 – Introduction: Why AI deep tech in India matters2:20 – Is this AI wave different? Why it's not just another hype cycle6:13 – The AI stack: Infrastructure, models, and where startups should play15:23 – Deep tech vs. software: How physics and chemistry change the investment timeline 24:10 – Where does value actually accrue — infrastructure, models, or applications?41:15 – Speed round: VC pitch pet peeves and founder philosophy47:15 – What must hold true for AI deep tech to succeed in India54:05 – India's constraints: Capital, compute, and data — are they real?58:04 – India's IT services industry: Disruption threat or massive AI opportunity?1:07:38 – What makes a great deep tech founder1:14:20 – Final Question: India's $100B+ sectors and the research culture gap1:22:18 – Closing thoughts: "It's a great time to build"You can find us on YouTube, Spotify and Apple Podcasts.If you enjoy conversations like this, please subscribe, share, and let me know your biggest takeaway in the comments.Resources:Find Narendra on LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/narendrabhandari/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://www.linkedin.com/in/narendrabhandari/</a>Find Prakash on LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/prakash-mallya/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://www.linkedin.com/in/prakash-mallya/</a>  Find Prakash on X: <a href="https://x.com/PrakashMallya" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://x.com/PrakashMallya</a>Find Prakash on Substack: <a href="https://www.prakashmallya.com/s/chai-and-chips-podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://www.prakashmallya.com/s/chai-and-chips-podcast</a>Find Prakash on Medium: <a href="https://medium.com/@pmallya2411" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://medium.com/@pmallya2411</a>All episode transcripts are available on Substack and Medium.

Everyone is talking about AI.But a more important question is:Where will durable value actually be created?In this episode of Chai & Chips, I sit down with Narendra Bhandari, General Partner at Sea Fund, to discuss the future of AI, deep tech investing, and India's opportunity to build globally relevant technology companies.We explore why some AI companies will create lasting advantage while others may struggle to differentiate, what investors look for in deep-tech startups, and what must be true for India to build durable AI businesses.Some of the questions we tackle:• Is AI creating a platform shift comparable to the internet or mobile?• Where will defensible moats emerge in the AI ecosystem?• How should founders think about deep-tech versus application-layer opportunities?• What are the biggest challenges facing AI startups today?• Does India have a structural advantage in the AI era?• What separates enduring companies from short-lived hype cycles?One idea that stayed with me from this conversation:Technology waves create opportunities. Durable companies are built by those who create lasting differentiation.If you're a founder, investor, operator, or simply interested in the future of AI and deep tech, I think you'll enjoy this discussion.0:56 – Introduction: Why AI deep tech in India matters2:20 – Is this AI wave different? Why it's not just another hype cycle6:13 – The AI stack: Infrastructure, models, and where startups should play15:23 – Deep tech vs. software: How physics and chemistry change the investment timeline 24:10 – Where does value actually accrue — infrastructure, models, or applications?41:15 – Speed round: VC pitch pet peeves and founder philosophy47:15 – What must hold true for AI deep tech to succeed in India54:05 – India's constraints: Capital, compute, and data — are they real?58:04 – India's IT services industry: Disruption threat or massive AI opportunity?1:07:38 – What makes a great deep tech founder1:14:20 – Final Question: India's $100B+ sectors and the research culture gap1:22:18 – Closing thoughts: "It's a great time to build"You can find us on YouTube, Spotify and Apple Podcasts.If you enjoy conversations like this, please subscribe, share, and let me know your biggest takeaway in the comments.Resources:Find Narendra on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/narendrabhandari/Find Prakash on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prakash-mallya/  Find Prakash on X: https://x.com/PrakashMallyaFind Prakash on Substack: https://www.prakashmallya.com/s/chai-and-chips-podcastFind Prakash on Medium: https://medium.com/@pmallya2411All episode transcripts are available on Substack and Medium.

Ep 015 - Can India Build Durable AI Deep-Tech Companies? | Narendra Bhandari

Can AI + India Stack become a global model for digital infrastructure?India has built something few countries have: digital rails at population scale. But what happens when AI is layered on top of Aadhaar, UPI and public digital infrastructure?In this episode of Chai & Chips, Om and I explore a bigger question:Could India have a unique advantage in the AI era because of its digital public infrastructure?We discuss:<ul><li>Why India Stack may matter even more in the age of AI</li><li>How AI could transform public infrastructure at massive scale</li><li>The opportunities and risks ahead</li><li>What must be true for India to lead in this next wave</li></ul>One idea from this conversation stayed with me: AI alone may not be the advantage. AI + infrastructure might be. If that interests you, I think you’ll enjoy this episode.Chapters:01:00 - Introduction — What Must Be True for AI in DPI?04:17 - Om’s Journey into India’s Digital Public Infrastructure08:44 - Why India Stack Is Different from the Rest of the World14:25 - The Core Building Blocks: Identity, Payments and Trust26:52 - Opportunities at Population Scale: Health, Services and Inclusion31:49 - Consent, Privacy and the Governance Challenge42:10 – Ayushman Bharat – Risks, Opportunities & Impact50:58 – Rapid Fire54:07 – Why our R&D is weak; Case for India as a Use Case Factory01:07:08 - Building AI Applications on Top of India Stack01:10:33 - How to Build for Trust at Population Scale01:21:53 – Final Question – Vision for IndiaYou can find us on YouTube, Spotify and Apple Podcasts.Subscribe to Chai & Chips for conversations with founders, operators, investors and thinkers building the future of India.Resources:Find Om on LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/omprakash-subbarao-5372564/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://www.linkedin.com/in/omprakash-subbarao-5372564/</a>Find Prakash on LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/prakash-mallya/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://www.linkedin.com/in/prakash-mallya/</a>  Find Prakash on X: <a href="https://x.com/PrakashMallya" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://x.com/PrakashMallya</a>Find Prakash on Substack: <a href="https://www.prakashmallya.com/s/chai-and-chips-podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://www.prakashmallya.com/s/chai-and-chips-podcast</a>Find Prakash on Medium: <a href="https://medium.com/@pmallya2411" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://medium.com/@pmallya2411</a>All episode transcripts are available on Substack and Medium.

Can AI + India Stack become a global model for digital infrastructure?India has built something few countries have: digital rails at population scale. But what happens when AI is layered on top of Aadhaar, UPI and public digital infrastructure?In this episode of Chai & Chips, Om and I explore a bigger question:Could India have a unique advantage in the AI era because of its digital public infrastructure?We discuss:Why India Stack may matter even more in the age of AIHow AI could transform public infrastructure at massive scaleThe opportunities and risks aheadWhat must be true for India to lead in this next waveOne idea from this conversation stayed with me: AI alone may not be the advantage. AI + infrastructure might be.If that interests you, I think you’ll enjoy this episode.Chapters:01:00 - Introduction — What Must Be True for AI in DPI?04:17 - Om’s Journey into India’s Digital Public Infrastructure08:44 - Why India Stack Is Different from the Rest of the World14:25 - The Core Building Blocks: Identity, Payments and Trust26:52 - Opportunities at Population Scale: Health, Services and Inclusion31:49 - Consent, Privacy and the Governance Challenge42:10 – Ayushman Bharat – Risks, Opportunities & Impact50:58 – Rapid Fire54:07 – Why our R&D is weak; Case for India as a Use Case Factory01:07:08 - Building AI Applications on Top of India Stack01:10:33 - How to Build for Trust at Population Scale01:21:53 – Final Question – Vision for IndiaYou can find us on YouTube, Spotify and Apple Podcasts.Subscribe to Chai & Chips for conversations with founders, operators, investors and thinkers building the future of India.Resources:Find Om on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/omprakash-subbarao-5372564/Find Prakash on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prakash-mallya/  Find Prakash on X: https://x.com/PrakashMallyaFind Prakash on Substack: https://www.prakashmallya.com/s/chai-and-chips-podcastFind Prakash on Medium: https://medium.com/@pmallya2411All episode transcripts are available on Substack and Medium.

Ep 014 - AI Meets India Stack: What It Means for the Future of Digital Public Infrastructure - Omprakash Subbarao

Can AI Actually Improve How Children Learn in India? AI is entering classrooms faster than ever — but does it actually help children learn, or does it just give them the answers? In this episode, host Prakash Mallya sits down with Vidya Jayaraman — chemical engineer turned math educator, founder of Math Adventures (acquired by Byju's in 2018), and now founder of StudyMatix — to ask the question that really matters:What must be true for AI to genuinely improve how children learn? In this episode:<ul><li>Why Vidya left a successful engineering career to teach math from her dining table in Bangalore</li><li>The core problem with Indian education: we equate marks with success and rote learning with knowledge</li><li>Why "process over answer" is the thread running through everything she has built</li><li>How technology can empower teachers — without replacing them</li><li>The real risks of AI in classrooms (hint: it's not just about the wrong answers)</li><li>What "equal access to high-quality education" means vs. just "access"</li><li>Her vision for India's learning outcomes in the next 10–15 years</li></ul> One quote to remember: "Every child, regardless of where they were born, what language they speak, or how much their family owns, is capable of genuine, joyful, meaningful learning. Our job is simply to build a world that makes it possible." — Vidya Jayaraman Chapters:00:00: Introduction — What Must Be True for AI to Improve Learning?01:58: Meet Vidya Jayaraman — From Chemical Engineer to Math Educator05:31: The Journey: Math Adventures, Byju's, and StudyMatix09:55: India's Education Crisis — The Stretched Teacher Problem17:50: Why Ed-Tech Has Failed to Deliver on Its Promise23:23: The Real Opportunity for AI in Education30:04: What Good AI-Powered Learning Actually Looks Like35:30: Rapid Fire40:48: Bridging Learning Gaps — AI With Pedagogy at Its Core54:33: Safety, Screen Time & What AI Should Never Replace56:10: Final Question - India's Vision for Learning Outcomes in 10–15 Years You can find us on YouTube, Spotify and Apple Podcasts.Subscribe, share, and leave us a review — it helps us grow this community and keep the conversations coming. Resources:Find Vidya on LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/vidya-jayaraman-69466247/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://www.linkedin.com/in/vidya-jayaraman-69466247/</a>Find Prakash on LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/prakash-mallya/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://www.linkedin.com/in/prakash-mallya/</a>  Find Prakash on X: <a href="https://x.com/PrakashMallya" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://x.com/PrakashMallya</a>Find Prakash on Substack: <a href="https://www.prakashmallya.com/s/chai-and-chips-podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://www.prakashmallya.com/s/chai-and-chips-podcast</a>Find Prakash on Medium: <a href="https://medium.com/@pmallya2411" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://medium.com/@pmallya2411</a>All episode transcripts are available on Substack and Medium.

Can AI Actually Improve How Children Learn in India? AI is entering classrooms faster than ever — but does it actually help children learn, or does it just give them the answers?In this episode, host Prakash Mallya sits down with Vidya Jayaraman — chemical engineer turned math educator, founder of Math Adventures (acquired by Byju's in 2018), and now founder of StudyMatix — to ask the question that really matters:What must be true for AI to genuinely improve how children learn?In this episode:Why Vidya left a successful engineering career to teach math from her dining table in BangaloreThe core problem with Indian education: we equate marks with success and rote learning with knowledgeWhy "process over answer" is the thread running through everything she has builtHow technology can empower teachers — without replacing themThe real risks of AI in classrooms (hint: it's not just about the wrong answers)What "equal access to high-quality education" means vs. just "access"Her vision for India's learning outcomes in the next 10–15 yearsOne quote to remember: "Every child, regardless of where they were born, what language they speak, or how much their family owns, is capable of genuine, joyful, meaningful learning. Our job is simply to build a world that makes it possible." — Vidya JayaramanChapters:00:00: Introduction — What Must Be True for AI to Improve Learning?01:58: Meet Vidya Jayaraman — From Chemical Engineer to Math Educator05:31: The Journey: Math Adventures, Byju's, and StudyMatix09:55: India's Education Crisis — The Stretched Teacher Problem17:50: Why Ed-Tech Has Failed to Deliver on Its Promise23:23: The Real Opportunity for AI in Education30:04: What Good AI-Powered Learning Actually Looks Like35:30: Rapid Fire40:48: Bridging Learning Gaps — AI With Pedagogy at Its Core54:33: Safety, Screen Time & What AI Should Never Replace56:10: Final Question - India's Vision for Learning Outcomes in 10–15 Years You can find us on YouTube, Spotify and Apple Podcasts.Subscribe, share, and leave us a review — it helps us grow this community and keep the conversations coming.Resources:Find Vidya on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vidya-jayaraman-69466247/Find Prakash on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prakash-mallya/  Find Prakash on X: https://x.com/PrakashMallyaFind Prakash on Substack: https://www.prakashmallya.com/s/chai-and-chips-podcastFind Prakash on Medium: https://medium.com/@pmallya2411All episode transcripts are available on Substack and Medium.

Ep 013 - Can AI Improve How Children Learn in India? - Vidya Jayaraman

What must be true for AI to materially improve India’s cybersecurity outcomes? In this episode of Chai & Chips, I speak with Anil Valluri, a technology leader who has spent over four decades at the forefront of India’s technology and infrastructure evolution.As AI rapidly enters enterprise environments, cybersecurity leaders face new opportunities — and new risks. In this conversation, we explore what must actually change for AI to deliver meaningful improvements in cybersecurity outcomes. In this episode, we discuss: • The hidden risks of unsanctioned GenAI usage inside enterprises• Why AI success in cybersecurity will depend more on usage than models• The evolving role of cybersecurity leadership in the AI era• India’s opportunity in chips, infrastructure, and talent• Career lessons from 40+ years of leadership in technologyChai & Chips is a long-form conversation series with leaders shaping technology, business, and policy in India and globally.Chapters:02:22: Context – Why AI and Cybersecurity Matter Now03:05: Anil Valluri’s 40+ Year Journey in Technology10:12: How India’s Technology Landscape Has Evolved17:05: Threat Model and How AI changes that27:05: The Hidden Risks of Unsanctioned GenAI in Enterprises34:20: Rapid Fire41:00: State of India Readiness on AI + Cyber Defence54:10: What should not be automated in Cybersecurity55:40: Leadership Lessons from Four Decades in Technology1:08:53: Final questionIf you enjoyed the conversation, please subscribe to the channel for future episodes. Resources: Find Anil on LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/anil-valluri-5046b8/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/anil-valluri-5046b8/</a>Find Prakash on LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/prakash-mallya/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/prakash-mallya/</a>  Find Prakash on X: <a href="https://x.com/PrakashMallya" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://x.com/PrakashMallya</a>Find Prakash on Substack: <a href="https://www.prakashmallya.com/s/chai-and-chips-podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.prakashmallya.com/s/chai-and-chips-podcast</a>Find Prakash on Medium: <a href="https://medium.com/@pmallya2411" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://medium.com/@pmallya2411</a> All episode transcripts are available on Substack and Medium.

What must be true for AI to materially improve India’s cybersecurity outcomes?In this episode of Chai & Chips, I speak with Anil Valluri, a technology leader who has spent over four decades at the forefront of India’s technology and infrastructure evolution.As AI rapidly enters enterprise environments, cybersecurity leaders face new opportunities — and new risks. In this conversation, we explore what must actually change for AI to deliver meaningful improvements in cybersecurity outcomes.In this episode, we discuss:• The hidden risks of unsanctioned GenAI usage inside enterprises• Why AI success in cybersecurity will depend more on usage than models• The evolving role of cybersecurity leadership in the AI era• India’s opportunity in chips, infrastructure, and talent• Career lessons from 40+ years of leadership in technologyChai & Chips is a long-form conversation series with leaders shaping technology, business, and policy in India and globally.Chapters:02:22: Context – Why AI and Cybersecurity Matter Now03:05: Anil Valluri’s 40+ Year Journey in Technology10:12: How India’s Technology Landscape Has Evolved17:05: Threat Model and How AI changes that27:05: The Hidden Risks of Unsanctioned GenAI in Enterprises34:20: Rapid Fire41:00: State of India Readiness on AI + Cyber Defence54:10: What should not be automated in Cybersecurity55:40: Leadership Lessons from Four Decades in Technology1:08:53: Final questionIf you enjoyed the conversation, please subscribe to the channel for future episodes.Resources:Find Anil on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anil-valluri-5046b8/Find Prakash on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prakash-mallya/  Find Prakash on X: https://x.com/PrakashMallyaFind Prakash on Substack: https://www.prakashmallya.com/s/chai-and-chips-podcastFind Prakash on Medium: https://medium.com/@pmallya2411All episode transcripts are available on Substack and Medium.

Ep 012 - How Secure Are Your Habits? Defeating AI Scams - Anil Valluri

Welcome to the Season 2 premiere of Chai & Chips!Season 1 focused on Chips, the infrastructure powering the AI wave.Season 2 moves up the stack. We’re going beyond the hype to answer a harder question: What must hold true for AI to actually matter in India?We’ll explore this across industry segments, starting with Investing and Wealth Management. Our premiere episode features Sanjiv Singhal, Founder & COO of Scripbox. With 30+ years in financial services, Sanjiv brings a grounded view on how AI could reshape the way Indian households save, invest, and manage risk. In this episode, we discuss: <ul><li>The Savings Gap: Why India’s household savings rate has dropped and what it means for the economy.</li><li>The 3 Layers of Advice: How to distinguish between investment management, advisory, and personal finance.</li><li>Bionic Advice: Why the future isn't 100% automation, but a blend of AI scale and human empathy.</li><li>The Indian Context: Why global financial models often fail to account for India’s "family-first" mindset and unique trust dynamics.</li><li>Expert Systems vs. Pure AI: Navigating the risks of AI hallucinations in long-term financial planning.</li></ul>If you enjoyed the episode, please subscribe and leave a review. Let us know in the comments: Do you trust AI to manage your long-term life goals? Resources:Find Sanjiv on LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sanjivsinghal/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://www.linkedin.com/in/sanjivsinghal/</a>Find Prakash on LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/prakash-mallya/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://www.linkedin.com/in/prakash-mallya/</a>  Find Prakash on X: <a href="https://x.com/PrakashMallya" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://x.com/PrakashMallya</a>Find Prakash on Substack: <a href="https://www.prakashmallya.com/s/chai-and-chips-podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://www.prakashmallya.com/s/chai-and-chips-podcast</a>Find Prakash on Medium: <a href="https://medium.com/@pmallya2411" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://medium.com/@pmallya2411</a>All episode transcripts are available on Substack and Medium. Chapters:00:00 – Season 2 Introduction01:24 – Introduction to Sanjiv Singhal and Scripbox04:22 – The Twin Challenges: Savings vs. Credit09:54 – The Three Layers of Financial Advice12:44 – LLMs and Democratizing Financial Knowledge15:43 – Why "Expert Systems" Trump Pure AI23:00 – The Unique Traits of the Indian Investor30:00 – What is "Bionic Advice"?41:20 – Speed Round: Investing Habits & Gold60:28 – Financial Advice for the Next Generation

Welcome to the Season 2 premiere of Chai & Chips!Season 1 focused on Chips, the infrastructure powering the AI wave.Season 2 moves up the stack.We’re going beyond the hype to answer a harder question: What must hold true for AI to actually matter in India?We’ll explore this across industry segments, starting with Investing and Wealth Management.Our premiere episode features Sanjiv Singhal, Founder & COO of Scripbox. With 30+ years in financial services, Sanjiv brings a grounded view on how AI could reshape the way Indian households save, invest, and manage risk.In this episode, we discuss:The Savings Gap: Why India’s household savings rate has dropped and what it means for the economy.The 3 Layers of Advice: How to distinguish between investment management, advisory, and personal finance.Bionic Advice: Why the future isn't 100% automation, but a blend of AI scale and human empathy.The Indian Context: Why global financial models often fail to account for India’s "family-first" mindset and unique trust dynamics.Expert Systems vs. Pure AI: Navigating the risks of AI hallucinations in long-term financial planning.If you enjoyed the episode, please subscribe and leave a review. Let us know in the comments: Do you trust AI to manage your long-term life goals?Resources:Find Sanjiv on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sanjivsinghal/Find Prakash on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prakash-mallya/  Find Prakash on X: https://x.com/PrakashMallyaFind Prakash on Substack: https://www.prakashmallya.com/s/chai-and-chips-podcastFind Prakash on Medium: https://medium.com/@pmallya2411All episode transcripts are available on Substack and Medium.Chapters:00:00 – Season 2 Introduction01:24 – Introduction to Sanjiv Singhal and Scripbox04:22 – The Twin Challenges: Savings vs. Credit09:54 – The Three Layers of Financial Advice12:44 – LLMs and Democratizing Financial Knowledge15:43 – Why "Expert Systems" Trump Pure AI23:00 – The Unique Traits of the Indian Investor30:00 – What is "Bionic Advice"?41:20 – Speed Round: Investing Habits & Gold60:28 – Financial Advice for the Next Generation

Ep 011 - AI Vs Your Money: The Future of Investing in India - Sanjiv Singhal

Is legal compliance a stumbling block or a long-term investment for Indian startups?In this episode of Chai & Chips, I sat down with Karishma Sundara, founder of Kintsugi Law. With a decade’s experience advising on TMT (Technology, Media, and Telecommunications) at India’s top-tier law firms, Karishma breaks down the rapidly evolving legal landscape in India. We discuss the philosophy behind "Kintsugi Law", and how compliance can offer a sustainable, "golden" foundation. From the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 (DPDP) to the complexities of AI labelling and consent managers, this conversation is a must-watch for founders and tech enthusiasts trying to keep up with the law. In this episode, we cover:<ul><li>The meaning of Kintsugi and why compliance is an investment.</li><li>The impact of India’s new online gaming and data protection laws.</li><li>Global comparisons: How India’s AI regulations stack up against the EU and China.</li><li>What "Consent Managers" are and how they will change consumer privacy.</li><li>Advice for startups: Building a compliant framework from day one.</li><li>The future of legal practice in the age of generative AI tools and legal tech.</li></ul>Chapters:02:27 - Introduction: Karishma Sundara & The Philosophy of 'Kintsugi Law'03:27 - TMT Landscape: Online Gaming, Data Protection, AI Labeling, and Global Comparisons10:33 - AI & Content Creators: Do You Need to Label Your Output?12:42 - India’s Approach to Tech Regulation: Balancing Innovation and Control14:33 - The DPDP Act: Understanding Consent and Security Safeguards23:36 - Legal Advice for Startups: Compliance as an Investment, Not a Cost25:11 - Unintended Consequences: Consent Managers and Notice Fatigue28:28 - Rapid Fire: Consulting Styles, Movies, and Passions outside Law35:03 - The Future of Law: AI's Impact on Pending Cases & Young Lawyers41:31 – The Final Question – Vision of India Disclaimer: The content of this episode is purely informational. Nothing contained in this episode should be construed, or considered as, or relied upon as legal advice. Resources:Find Karishma on LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/karishma-sundara/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 162, 241);">https://www.linkedin.com/in/karishma-sundara/</a>Find Prakash on LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/prakash-mallya/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 162, 241);">https://www.linkedin.com/in/prakash-mallya/</a>  Find Prakash on X: <a href="https://x.com/PrakashMallya" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 162, 241);">https://x.com/PrakashMallya</a>Find Prakash on Substack: <a href="https://www.prakashmallya.com/s/chai-and-chips-podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 162, 241);">https://www.prakashmallya.com/s/chai-and-chips-podcast</a>Find Prakash on Medium: <a href="https://medium.com/@pmallya2411" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 162, 241);">https://medium.com/@pmallya2411</a>All episode transcripts are available on Substack and Medium.

Is legal compliance a stumbling block or a long-term investment for Indian startups?In this episode of Chai & Chips, I sat down with Karishma Sundara, founder of Kintsugi Law. With a decade’s experience advising on TMT (Technology, Media, and Telecommunications) at India’s top-tier law firms, Karishma breaks down the rapidly evolving legal landscape in India.We discuss the philosophy behind "Kintsugi Law", and how compliance can offer a sustainable, "golden" foundation. From the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 (DPDP) to the complexities of AI labelling and consent managers, this conversation is a must-watch for founders and tech enthusiasts trying to keep up with the law.In this episode, we cover:The meaning of Kintsugi and why compliance is an investment.The impact of India’s new online gaming and data protection laws.Global comparisons: How India’s AI regulations stack up against the EU and China.What "Consent Managers" are and how they will change consumer privacy.Advice for startups: Building a compliant framework from day one.The future of legal practice in the age of generative AI tools and legal tech.Chapters:02:27 - Introduction: Karishma Sundara & The Philosophy of 'Kintsugi Law'03:27 - TMT Landscape: Online Gaming, Data Protection, AI Labeling, and Global Comparisons10:33 - AI & Content Creators: Do You Need to Label Your Output?12:42 - India’s Approach to Tech Regulation: Balancing Innovation and Control14:33 - The DPDP Act: Understanding Consent and Security Safeguards23:36 - Legal Advice for Startups: Compliance as an Investment, Not a Cost25:11 - Unintended Consequences: Consent Managers and Notice Fatigue28:28 - Rapid Fire: Consulting Styles, Movies, and Passions outside Law35:03 - The Future of Law: AI's Impact on Pending Cases & Young Lawyers41:31 – The Final Question – Vision of IndiaDisclaimer: The content of this episode is purely informational. Nothing contained in this episode should be construed, or considered as, or relied upon as legal advice.Resources:Find Karishma on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karishma-sundara/Find Prakash on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prakash-mallya/  Find Prakash on X: https://x.com/PrakashMallyaFind Prakash on Substack: https://www.prakashmallya.com/s/chai-and-chips-podcastFind Prakash on Medium: https://medium.com/@pmallya2411All episode transcripts are available on Substack and Medium.

Ep 010 - Will AI Replace Lawyers? Navigating Indian Tech Law and Data Privacy - Karishma Sundara

How does an economist view the complexities of the semiconductor supply chain? While engineers build the chips, it is economics, policy, and geopolitics that determine who leads the industry.In this episode of Chai & Chips, I sit down with Dr. Badri Narayanan Gopalakrishnan, a seasoned economist and Fellow - NITI Aayog. We move beyond the technical specs to discuss the macro-level levers India must pull to transition from a service provider to a global technology architect. From the "snowball effect" of India’s electronics exports to lessons learned from Taiwan, China, and Vietnam, Dr. Badri provides a unique "30,000-foot view" of the ecosystem. We also dive into the symbiotic relationship between AI and chip manufacturing, the future of work, and why we need to move from "Zero-Sum" geopolitics to "Infinite Sum" geo-economics. Topics Covered:<ul><li>India’s shift from "doing nothing" to multi-billion-dollar exports.</li><li>What India can learn from Taiwan’s education system and Vietnam’s investment policies.</li><li>Why AI needs chips, but chip manufacturing needs AI even more.</li><li>Navigating the "unknown unknowns" of global trade wars.</li><li>Vision 2047: India as a Global Technology Architect.</li></ul>  Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction: The Economist's View on Semiconductors02:30 - India’s Tipping Point: From "Doing Nothing" to Exporting Billions07:36 - Learning from Taiwan: The Power of Education and Industry Promotion13:13 - The China & Vietnam Playbook: Supply Chains and Investment Incentives19:17 - From Policy to Execution: The Need for R&D and State Coordination22:15 - The AI-Semiconductor Symbiosis: How AI is Reshaping Chip Design27:32 - The Future of Work: Navigating the AI Disruption in India’s Job Market39:49 - Lightning Round: Economics, Innovation, and Skills for the Future46:43 - Geo-Economics: Balancing Tariffs, Trade, and Global Alliances59:37 - Vision 2047: India as a Global Technology Architect Resources:Find Badri on LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/badrinarayanang/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/badrinarayanang/</a>Find Prakash on LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/prakash-mallya/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/prakash-mallya/</a>  Find Prakash on X: <a href="https://x.com/PrakashMallya" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://x.com/PrakashMallya</a>Find Prakash on Substack: <a href="https://www.prakashmallya.com/s/chai-and-chips-podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.prakashmallya.com/s/chai-and-chips-podcast</a>Find Prakash on Medium: <a href="https://medium.com/@pmallya2411" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://medium.com/@pmallya2411</a>All episode transcripts are available on Substack and Medium.

How does an economist view the complexities of the semiconductor supply chain? While engineers build the chips, it is economics, policy, and geopolitics that determine who leads the industry.In this episode of Chai & Chips, I sit down with Dr. Badri Narayanan Gopalakrishnan, a seasoned economist and Fellow - NITI Aayog. We move beyond the technical specs to discuss the macro-level levers India must pull to transition from a service provider to a global technology architect.From the "snowball effect" of India’s electronics exports to lessons learned from Taiwan, China, and Vietnam, Dr. Badri provides a unique "30,000-foot view" of the ecosystem. We also dive into the symbiotic relationship between AI and chip manufacturing, the future of work, and why we need to move from "Zero-Sum" geopolitics to "Infinite Sum" geo-economics.Topics Covered:India’s shift from "doing nothing" to multi-billion-dollar exports.What India can learn from Taiwan’s education system and Vietnam’s investment policies.Why AI needs chips, but chip manufacturing needs AI even more.Navigating the "unknown unknowns" of global trade wars.Vision 2047: India as a Global Technology Architect. Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction: The Economist's View on Semiconductors02:30 - India’s Tipping Point: From "Doing Nothing" to Exporting Billions07:36 - Learning from Taiwan: The Power of Education and Industry Promotion13:13 - The China & Vietnam Playbook: Supply Chains and Investment Incentives19:17 - From Policy to Execution: The Need for R&D and State Coordination22:15 - The AI-Semiconductor Symbiosis: How AI is Reshaping Chip Design27:32 - The Future of Work: Navigating the AI Disruption in India’s Job Market39:49 - Lightning Round: Economics, Innovation, and Skills for the Future46:43 - Geo-Economics: Balancing Tariffs, Trade, and Global Alliances59:37 - Vision 2047: India as a Global Technology ArchitectResources:Find Badri on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/badrinarayanang/Find Prakash on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prakash-mallya/  Find Prakash on X: https://x.com/PrakashMallyaFind Prakash on Substack: https://www.prakashmallya.com/s/chai-and-chips-podcastFind Prakash on Medium: https://medium.com/@pmallya2411All episode transcripts are available on Substack and Medium.

Ep 009 - Infinite Sum Game: Crafting India's Win-Win Global Tech Strategy - Dr Badri Narayanan

What does it take to walk away from the corner office at the peak of your career? In this episode of Chai & Chips, we sit down with Rahul Agarwal, the former CEO & MD of Lenovo India, who did just that to build his "second innings" in life.Under Rahul's leadership, Lenovo India became the #1 brand in PCs and tablets worldwide. But his journey is about more than just corporate success. We dive deep into the philosophy and courage required to make a radical life change, the surprising joy he found in "being nobody," and the hard-earned lessons from his 25-year career.Tune in for a candid conversation on:<ul><li>The Mindset of the Indian Consumer: Why they "want it all" and what it takes to win in this unique market.</li><li>Real-World Leadership: The tough decisions that shaped his journey, including the jump from marketing to running a half-billion-dollar P&L.</li><li>Make in India: A pragmatic look at the challenges and opportunities of building a manufacturing ecosystem in India.</li><li>The Courage to Quit: The personal planning and mindset shift required to leave a high-profile corporate life behind.</li></ul>This episode is a masterclass in business strategy, leadership and the art of the career pivot.Resources:Find Rahul on LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/rahul-agarwal-1973476/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://www.linkedin.com/in/rahul-agarwal-1973476/</a>Find Prakash on LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/prakash-mallya/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://www.linkedin.com/in/prakash-mallya/</a>  Find Prakash on X: <a href="https://x.com/PrakashMallya" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://x.com/PrakashMallya</a>Find Prakash on Substack: <a href="https://www.prakashmallya.com/s/chai-and-chips-podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://www.prakashmallya.com/s/chai-and-chips-podcast</a>Find Prakash on Medium: <a href="https://medium.com/@pmallya2411" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://medium.com/@pmallya2411</a>All episode transcripts are available on Substack and Medium. Chapters: 02:45 - The Pivotal Decisions That Shaped a Leader09:10 - Cracking the Code: The 5 Things the Indian Consumer Demands13:55 - Leadership Philosophy: Building Culture & High-Performing Teams22:46 - The Philosophy of Quitting: Finding Joy After the Corner Office36:15 – Rapid Fire: Chai, Tech Predictions, and Life Advice41:32 - "Make in India": A CEO's Unfiltered View on the Challenges46:45 - The Roadmap for True Manufacturing Success in India55:22 - The Mindset That Separates Good from Great Performers58:24 - The Final Question – Vision of India

What does it take to walk away from the corner office at the peak of your career? In this episode of Chai & Chips, we sit down with Rahul Agarwal, the former CEO & MD of Lenovo India, who did just that to build his "second innings" in life.Under Rahul's leadership, Lenovo India became the #1 brand in PCs and tablets worldwide. But his journey is about more than just corporate success. We dive deep into the philosophy and courage required to make a radical life change, the surprising joy he found in "being nobody," and the hard-earned lessons from his 25-year career.Tune in for a candid conversation on:The Mindset of the Indian Consumer: Why they "want it all" and what it takes to win in this unique market.Real-World Leadership: The tough decisions that shaped his journey, including the jump from marketing to running a half-billion-dollar P&L.Make in India: A pragmatic look at the challenges and opportunities of building a manufacturing ecosystem in India.The Courage to Quit: The personal planning and mindset shift required to leave a high-profile corporate life behind.This episode is a masterclass in business strategy, leadership and the art of the career pivot.Resources:Find Rahul on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rahul-agarwal-1973476/Find Prakash on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prakash-mallya/  Find Prakash on X: https://x.com/PrakashMallyaFind Prakash on Substack: https://www.prakashmallya.com/s/chai-and-chips-podcastFind Prakash on Medium: https://medium.com/@pmallya2411All episode transcripts are available on Substack and Medium.Chapters:02:45 - The Pivotal Decisions That Shaped a Leader09:10 - Cracking the Code: The 5 Things the Indian Consumer Demands13:55 - Leadership Philosophy: Building Culture & High-Performing Teams22:46 - The Philosophy of Quitting: Finding Joy After the Corner Office36:15 – Rapid Fire: Chai, Tech Predictions, and Life Advice41:32 - "Make in India": A CEO's Unfiltered View on the Challenges46:45 - The Roadmap for True Manufacturing Success in India55:22 - The Mindset That Separates Good from Great Performers58:24 - The Final Question – Vision of India

Ep 008 - What Happens When a CEO Gives It All Up? - Rahul Agarwal

"Great companies exist because of great people."It's a common saying, but what does it mean in the high-stakes, capital-intensive world of chips? In the latest episode of the Chai & Chips podcast, I had the honour of speaking with Raja Manickam, a true legend of India's semiconductor industry and the founder of Tessolve and iVP Semi. This isn't your typical success story. Raja offers a candid and deeply insightful look into the realities of building a deep-tech company in India. We discussed why he started his latest venture at 68, his unfiltered take on the ecosystem, and his powerful leadership philosophy that "you work for your people, they don't work for you."Tune in to learn: Why the "rest of the world" supply chain is India's game to win. The critical difference between objective vs. emotional bonding in leadership. His bold advice for Indian policymakers and large corporations on how to truly foster innovation. Why he believes the semiconductor industry needs India more than India needs it.This is a must-listen for anyone in tech, leadership, or policy-making who wants to understand the soul of building something that lasts.Resources:Find Raja on LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/manickamworldt2/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://www.linkedin.com/in/manickamworldt2/</a>Find Prakash on LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/prakash-mallya/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://www.linkedin.com/in/prakash-mallya/</a>  Find Prakash on X: <a href="https://x.com/PrakashMallya" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://x.com/PrakashMallya</a>Find Prakash on Substack: <a href="https://www.prakashmallya.com/s/chai-and-chips-podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://www.prakashmallya.com/s/chai-and-chips-podcast</a>Find Prakash on Medium: <a href="https://medium.com/@pmallya2411" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://medium.com/@pmallya2411</a>All episode transcripts are available on Substack and Medium. Chapters:00:00 - Introduction: The Legacy of a Semiconductor Pioneer01:46 - The Personal Journey of a Serial Entrepreneur04:51 - India's Grand Opportunity in a Fracturing World16:35 - The People-First Leadership Philosophy28:43 - Lightning Round with Raja Manikam36:26 - The Next Wave of Innovation: Power, AI, and Local Solutions48:42 - A Call to Action: The Role of Policy and the Private Sector59:34 - Building the Foundation: Lessons on Talent & Ecosystem1:03:08 - Concluding Vision: India's Inevitable Seat at the Global Table

"Great companies exist because of great people."It's a common saying, but what does it mean in the high-stakes, capital-intensive world of chips?In the latest episode of the Chai & Chips podcast, I had the honour of speaking with Raja Manickam, a true legend of India's semiconductor industry and the founder of Tessolve and iVP Semi.This isn't your typical success story. Raja offers a candid and deeply insightful look into the realities of building a deep-tech company in India. We discussed why he started his latest venture at 68, his unfiltered take on the ecosystem, and his powerful leadership philosophy that "you work for your people, they don't work for you."Tune in to learn: Why the "rest of the world" supply chain is India's game to win. The critical difference between objective vs. emotional bonding in leadership. His bold advice for Indian policymakers and large corporations on how to truly foster innovation. Why he believes the semiconductor industry needs India more than India needs it.This is a must-listen for anyone in tech, leadership, or policy-making who wants to understand the soul of building something that lasts.Resources:Find Raja on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/manickamworldt2/Find Prakash on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prakash-mallya/  Find Prakash on X: https://x.com/PrakashMallyaFind Prakash on Substack: https://www.prakashmallya.com/s/chai-and-chips-podcastFind Prakash on Medium: https://medium.com/@pmallya2411All episode transcripts are available on Substack and Medium.Chapters:00:00 - Introduction: The Legacy of a Semiconductor Pioneer01:46 - The Personal Journey of a Serial Entrepreneur04:51 - India's Grand Opportunity in a Fracturing World16:35 - The People-First Leadership Philosophy28:43 - Lightning Round with Raja Manikam36:26 - The Next Wave of Innovation: Power, AI, and Local Solutions48:42 - A Call to Action: The Role of Policy and the Private Sector59:34 - Building the Foundation: Lessons on Talent & Ecosystem1:03:08 - Concluding Vision: India's Inevitable Seat at the Global Table

Ep 007 - Startup at 68? An Indian Serial Chip Founder's Next Chapter - Raja Manickam

What’s the most "foolishly brave" gamble you've ever taken in your career?For Parag Naik, a serial entrepreneur and holder of 50 international patents, it was betting nearly 75% of his family's life savings to keep his semiconductor startup, Saankhya Labs(<a href="https://www.tejasnetworks.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://www.tejasnetworks.com/</a>), afloat during a tough period.That single moment of conviction is just one of the powerful stories he shared on the latest Chai & Chips episode. This conversation goes far beyond the technicalities of chip design; it's a deep dive into the heart and mind of a serial entrepreneur who has seen it all. We discussed: The Anatomy of Risk: The thin line between a brave bet and a foolish gamble when building something truly new in a capital-intensive industry. Nurturing Mavericks: Why true innovation requires leaders who can create a space for brilliant, unconventional minds to thrive without being constrained by corporate structures. The Spiritual Journey of a Founder: How the pressures of entrepreneurship force you to discover facets of your own personality—both the good and the bad—that you never knew existed. India's Real Opportunity: Parag’s sharp analysis on why design and OEMs, not just manufacturing, hold the key to India’s long-term success in the global semiconductor landscape.This isn't just a tech talk; it's a profound lesson in conviction, resilience, and the human side of building a legacy. A must-listen for anyone who has ever dared to build something from scratch. Resources:Find Parag on LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/parag-naik-38a5944/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://www.linkedin.com/in/parag-naik-38a5944/</a>Find Prakash on LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/prakash-mallya/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://www.linkedin.com/in/prakash-mallya/</a>  Find Prakash on X: <a href="https://x.com/PrakashMallya" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://x.com/PrakashMallya</a>

What’s the most "foolishly brave" gamble you've ever taken in your career?For Parag Naik, a serial entrepreneur and holder of 50 international patents, it was betting nearly 75% of his family's life savings to keep his semiconductor startup, Saankhya Labs(https://www.tejasnetworks.com/), afloat during a tough period.That single moment of conviction is just one of the powerful stories he shared on the latest Chai & Chips episode. This conversation goes far beyond the technicalities of chip design; it's a deep dive into the heart and mind of a serial entrepreneur who has seen it all.We discussed: The Anatomy of Risk: The thin line between a brave bet and a foolish gamble when building something truly new in a capital-intensive industry. Nurturing Mavericks: Why true innovation requires leaders who can create a space for brilliant, unconventional minds to thrive without being constrained by corporate structures. The Spiritual Journey of a Founder: How the pressures of entrepreneurship force you to discover facets of your own personality—both the good and the bad—that you never knew existed. India's Real Opportunity: Parag’s sharp analysis on why design and OEMs, not just manufacturing, hold the key to India’s long-term success in the global semiconductor landscape.This isn't just a tech talk; it's a profound lesson in conviction, resilience, and the human side of building a legacy. A must-listen for anyone who has ever dared to build something from scratch.Resources:Find Parag on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/parag-naik-38a5944/Find Prakash on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prakash-mallya/  Find Prakash on X: https://x.com/PrakashMallya

Ep 006 - 50 Patents & The Art of the Chip Startup in India - Parag Naik

What is the real strategy for India to win in the global semiconductor industry? It's not just about money; it's about mindset, market knowledge, and mastering the 'boring' details. In the latest episode of Chai & Chips, I had the privilege of sitting down with GS Madhusudan, Co-founder & CEO of InCore Semiconductors (<a href="https://incoresemi.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://incoresemi.com/</a>) – India’s first processor IP company. Madhu is one of the pioneers behind the Shakti RISC-V processor project. This isn't just another high-level discussion. Madhu breaks down a complex national ambition into an actionable game plan. Key takeaways from our conversation:The 5 Verticals: Why we must stop treating semiconductors as one industry and start creating specific, measurable goals for Design, Product, Packaging, Foundry, and Equipment. The 25/25 Formula: A bold and brilliant vision for India's immediate future - Capturing 25% of the world's sub-$25 chip market. This is where the real volume is. Redefining Atmanirbharata (self-reliance): Madhu’s most powerful insight – "Atmanirbharata is not just doing stuff locally; it's believing in yourself." He argues that the cultural shift is as important as the capital investment. Focus on the Foundation: Why success lies in mature nodes, building a robust supply chain, and fostering deep market empathy before chasing the bleeding edge. This episode is essential listening for founders, policymakers, engineers, and investors in the #DeepTech and #MakeInIndia ecosystems. Resources:Find Madhu on LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/gsmadhusudan/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://www.linkedin.com/in/gsmadhusudan/</a>Find Prakash on LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/prakash-mallya/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://www.linkedin.com/in/prakash-mallya/</a>Find Prakash on X: <a href="https://x.com/PrakashMallya" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://x.com/PrakashMallya</a>

What is the real strategy for India to win in the global semiconductor industry? It's not just about money; it's about mindset, market knowledge, and mastering the 'boring' details.In the latest episode of Chai & Chips, I had the privilege of sitting down with GS Madhusudan, Co-founder & CEO of InCore Semiconductors (https://incoresemi.com/) – India’s first processor IP company. Madhu is one of the pioneers behind the Shakti RISC-V processor project.This isn't just another high-level discussion. Madhu breaks down a complex national ambition into an actionable game plan.Key takeaways from our conversation:The 5 Verticals: Why we must stop treating semiconductors as one industry and start creating specific, measurable goals for Design, Product, Packaging, Foundry, and Equipment.The 25/25 Formula: A bold and brilliant vision for India's immediate future - Capturing 25% of the world's sub-$25 chip market. This is where the real volume is.Redefining Atmanirbharata (self-reliance): Madhu’s most powerful insight – "Atmanirbharata is not just doing stuff locally; it's believing in yourself." He argues that the cultural shift is as important as the capital investment.Focus on the Foundation: Why success lies in mature nodes, building a robust supply chain, and fostering deep market empathy before chasing the bleeding edge.This episode is essential listening for founders, policymakers, engineers, and investors in the #DeepTech and #MakeInIndia ecosystems.Resources:Find Madhu on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gsmadhusudan/Find Prakash on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prakash-mallya/Find Prakash on X: https://x.com/PrakashMallya

Ep 005 - The 25/25 Vision for India's Chip Dominance - G S Madhusudan

Is India on the verge of becoming a global Deep Tech powerhouse? What will it take to get there? In our latest Chai and Chips episode, I sit down with Manish Singhal, Founding Partner of pi Ventures(<a href="https://www.piventures.in/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">https://www.piventures.in/</a>), one of India's pioneering Deep Tech VCs, to unpack this very question. His journey from a hands-on engineer to a leading investor provides a uniquely grounded perspective on the ecosystem. We covered critical ground for any founder, investor, or technologist in this space, including: The Evolution Curve: How Deep Tech in India has matured from a misunderstood concept to a mainstream focus. The Real Engine of Innovation: Why startups, not large corporates, are currently driving India's most significant technological advancements. The Founder's Duality: Manish’s core advice for entrepreneurs—balancing a deep love for your technology with the pragmatic ability to build a compelling business narrative. Simplifying for Scale: The single most important thing India needs to do to accelerate its journey—cutting through the "red tape" to foster grassroots innovation. His vision for India's place on the global map is both pragmatic and incredibly optimistic. This is a must-listen for anyone building or investing in the future of technology in India. Resources:Find Manish on LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/smanishsinghal/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">Manish Singhal | LinkedIn</a>Find Manish on X:  <a href="https://x.com/manish_saarthi" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">Manish Singhal (@manish_saarthi) / X</a>Find Prakash on LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/prakash-mallya/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">Prakash Mallya | LinkedIn</a>Find Prakash on X: <a href="https://x.com/PrakashMallya" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 122, 224);">Prakash Mallya (@PrakashMallya) / X</a>

Is India on the verge of becoming a global Deep Tech powerhouse? What will it take to get there?In our latest Chai and Chips episode, I sit down with Manish Singhal, Founding Partner of pi Ventures(https://www.piventures.in/), one of India's pioneering Deep Tech VCs, to unpack this very question. His journey from a hands-on engineer to a leading investor provides a uniquely grounded perspective on the ecosystem.We covered critical ground for any founder, investor, or technologist in this space, including: The Evolution Curve: How Deep Tech in India has matured from a misunderstood concept to a mainstream focus. The Real Engine of Innovation: Why startups, not large corporates, are currently driving India's most significant technological advancements. The Founder's Duality: Manish’s core advice for entrepreneurs—balancing a deep love for your technology with the pragmatic ability to build a compelling business narrative. Simplifying for Scale: The single most important thing India needs to do to accelerate its journey—cutting through the "red tape" to foster grassroots innovation.His vision for India's place on the global map is both pragmatic and incredibly optimistic. This is a must-listen for anyone building or investing in the future of technology in India.Resources:Find Manish on LinkedIn: Manish Singhal | LinkedInFind Manish on X:  Manish Singhal (@manish_saarthi) / XFind Prakash on LinkedIn: Prakash Mallya | LinkedInFind Prakash on X: Prakash Mallya (@PrakashMallya) / X

Ep 004 - Hard Tech & Hard Truths - Manish Singhal

How does a top executive who helped build India's semiconductor industry pivot to fight one of the world's biggest health crises? On the new Chai and Chips episode, I sit down with Dr. Anand Anandkumar, Cofounder & CEO of Bugworks. He shares his extraordinary journey from designing complex microchips to inventing new drugs against untreatable "superbugs"—a silent pandemic the WHO calls a top global threat. This isn't just a story about technology; it's a masterclass in purpose, resilience, and building what truly matters.In this conversation, you will learn: The deeply personal story of survival that fuelled his mission to make his life "count." Why the world hasn't had a new class of antibiotics in over 60 years and the broken economics behind it. How AI is revolutionizing drug discovery, turning traditional biotech into cutting-edge "Tech Bio." His powerful vision for India to become a global leader by solving its own problems with affordable, deep-science innovation.If you want to understand the future of science in India and be inspired by a leader who defines what it means to innovate for humanity, this episode is for you.

How does a top executive who helped build India's semiconductor industry pivot to fight one of the world's biggest health crises?On the new Chai and Chips episode, I sit down with Dr. Anand Anandkumar, Cofounder & CEO of Bugworks. He shares his extraordinary journey from designing complex microchips to inventing new drugs against untreatable "superbugs"—a silent pandemic the WHO calls a top global threat.This isn't just a story about technology; it's a masterclass in purpose, resilience, and building what truly matters.In this conversation, you will learn: The deeply personal story of survival that fuelled his mission to make his life "count." Why the world hasn't had a new class of antibiotics in over 60 years and the broken economics behind it. How AI is revolutionizing drug discovery, turning traditional biotech into cutting-edge "Tech Bio." His powerful vision for India to become a global leader by solving its own problems with affordable, deep-science innovation.If you want to understand the future of science in India and be inspired by a leader who defines what it means to innovate for humanity, this episode is for you.

Ep 003 - From Designing Chips to Curing Superbugs

Chai & Chips is where semiconductors and deep tech meet Indian ambition. We’re here to educate, inform, and spark curiosity—through sharp insights, real conversations, and bold perspectives from leaders shaping the future of chips and deep tech.From India’s semiconductor strategy to the explosive rise of AI chips, from the geopolitics of silicon to the ethics of supply chains, we go deep. We explore how deep tech is transforming EVs, healthcare, telecom, education, and defence—and talk to the people building, investing in, and regulating the ecosystem.This is the podcast for those who believe deep tech is not just a sector—but a national mission. About Us:Chai & Chips is India’s go-to platform for honest, no-fluff conversations at the intersection of semiconductors, AI, and nation-building. Hosted by global tech executive Prakash Mallya, the podcast draws on over two decades of experience in the chip industry across India, Southeast Asia, and the US. Prakash’s deep love for technology and passion for India shape thoughtful conversations on the forces driving innovation, industry, and the country’s tech ambitions. As AI reshapes industries and supply chains are redrawn, chips have never been more critical to a country’s self-reliance. But are we asking the right questions? With insights from the brightest minds around the world, we explore what it takes—and what history teaches us—to build a resilient deep-tech ecosystem in India that endures. Follow us for sharp takes, real stories, and a vision for a Deep Tech Nation. Twitter: @PrakashMallyaLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/prakash-mallyaContact: prakash.chaiandchips@gmail.com Timbre Media helps brands talk like people, not press releases. For over 15 years, we’ve been turning company culture and everyday work stories into engaging video, audio and written content that feels real, not rehearsed. We make sure your message actually connects. If you’ve got something to say, we’ll help you say it in a way people want to hear.

Chai & Chips is where semiconductors and deep tech meet Indian ambition.We’re here to educate, inform, and spark curiosity—through sharp insights, real conversations, and bold perspectives from leaders shaping the future of chips and deep tech.From India’s semiconductor strategy to the explosive rise of AI chips, from the geopolitics of silicon to the ethics of supply chains, we go deep. We explore how deep tech is transforming EVs, healthcare, telecom, education, and defence—and talk to the people building, investing in, and regulating the ecosystem.This is the podcast for those who believe deep tech is not just a sector—but a national mission.About Us:Chai & Chips is India’s go-to platform for honest, no-fluff conversations at the intersection of semiconductors, AI, and nation-building. Hosted by global tech executive Prakash Mallya, the podcast draws on over two decades of experience in the chip industry across India, Southeast Asia, and the US. Prakash’s deep love for technology and passion for India shape thoughtful conversations on the forces driving innovation, industry, and the country’s tech ambitions.As AI reshapes industries and supply chains are redrawn, chips have never been more critical to a country’s self-reliance. But are we asking the right questions? With insights from the brightest minds around the world, we explore what it takes—and what history teaches us—to build a resilient deep-tech ecosystem in India that endures.Follow us for sharp takes, real stories, and a vision for a Deep Tech Nation.Twitter: @PrakashMallyaLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/prakash-mallyaContact: prakash.chaiandchips@gmail.comTimbre Media helps brands talk like people, not press releases. For over 15 years, we’ve been turning company culture and everyday work stories into engaging video, audio and written content that feels real, not rehearsed. We make sure your message actually connects. If you’ve got something to say, we’ll help you say it in a way people want to hear.

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