Crossword Genius

Rishi welcoming step that's ultramodern (5-3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

space-age

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'rishi' is the definition.
Both the answer and definition are singular nouns.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'welcoming step that's ultramodern' is the wordplay.
'welcoming' is an insertion indicator (I've seen this in other clues).
'step' becomes 'pace' (pace is a kind of step).
'that's ultramodern' becomes 'sage' (I am not sure about this - if you are sure you should give a lot more credence to this answer).
'pace' inserted within 'sage' is 'SPACE-AGE'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for space-age that I've seen before include "Futuristic" , "Ultra-modern" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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