19 Researchers from Mnaipal University Jaipur felicitated by the university leadership

Compiled through a collaboration involving Stanford University and Elsevier, the list identifies scientists whose research has made a significant impact in their respective fields. The growing representation of MUJ faculty members reflects the university’s sustained efforts to strengthen its research ecosystem, promote innovation and encourage high-quality research across diverse disciplines.
 

The 19 researchers from Manipal University Jaipur featured in the list are Dr. Chaitanya Baliram Pande, Dr. Kuldip Singh Sangwan, Dr. Ajay Kumar, Dr. Pushpendra Kumar Singh Rathore, Dr. Deepak Kumar, Dr. Asaithambi Perumal, Dr. Ravi Kumar Sharma, Dr. Bishwajit Dey, Dr. Somya Rakesh Goyal, Dr. Abdul Haseeb Ganie, Dr. Vijaypal Singh Dhaka, Dr. Veer Singh, Dr. Ashish Goyal, Dr. Pramod Singh Rathore, Dr. Pulakraj Aryan, Dr. Jayasmita Jana, Dr. Saurabh Dewangan, Dr. Pravin Kumar Singh and Dr. Himmat Singh Kushwah.
 

On the occasion, Dr. N. N. Sharma, President of Manipal University Jaipur, interacted with the recognised researchers and congratulated them on their achievement. He appreciated their contributions to advancing knowledge and enhancing the university’s research profile and global academic standing.
 

The recognition underscores the contribution of MUJ’s faculty members to scientific inquiry, knowledge creation and research with wider academic and societal relevance. The university continues to focus on fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, supporting innovative research and creating an environment that enables faculty members and scholars to pursue impactful research.
 

In the year 2025, there were total 10 researchers from Manipal University Jaipur featured in the top 2% scientists list and in the year 2024, the number was 5 only. The year-on-year increase in the number of recognised researchers reflects the university’s continued emphasis on research-driven academic development. With a growing focus on innovation, scholarly collaboration and global engagement, Manipal University Jaipur is working towards further strengthening its position in the national and international research landscape.
 

About Manipal University Jaipur

Established in 2011, Manipal University Jaipur is a NAAC A+ accredited institution and part of the Manipal Education and Medical Group (MEMG). This year Manipal University Jaipur received QS 5 Star overall rating. Located on a 122-acre campus in Rajasthan, the university offers programmes across diverse disciplines, including engineering, computer science, management, law, architecture, humanities and sciences. With an emphasis on academic excellence, interdisciplinary research, innovation, entrepreneurship and industry collaboration, MUJ provides an environment that encourages students and faculty members to engage with emerging technologies and address contemporary societal challenges. The university continues to strengthen its national and international academic partnerships and research ecosystem in alignment with its vision of advancing knowledge, fostering innovation and preparing graduates for a rapidly evolving global landscape.
 

To know more about Manipal University Jaipur please visit jaipur.manipal.edu.

MSMEs Prepare for Diwali Demand Surge 2026

The Economic Survey 2025-26, released by the Government of India’s Ministry of Finance, underlines the contribution that the sector makes to the economy: 31.1% of India’s GDP, 35.4% of manufacturing output and 48.58% of exports. Against this backdrop, it is important to take note of the financial preparedness of MSMEs, who need to manage seasonal demands while continuing with their operations.

Preparing for the Festive Demand Surge
Preparing for the festive season means that MSMEs have to consider the purchase of materials and costs against the amount of sales that they expect to make. Reviewing previous sales patterns, working with suppliers, and projecting expenses can help businesses deal with the purchases. Managing the gap between upfront expenditure and payments received from customers is equally important to maintaining healthy cash flows during this period.
 

Access to finance can be one of the factors businesses consider when preparing for this gap. However, financing requirements need to be assessed against expected cash flows, repayment capacity, and the cost of borrowing to ensure that seasonal expansion remains financially sustainable.

Role of Business Financing in Seasonal Preparedness
Access to timely finance can help eligible Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to meet their seasonal expenses and also to gear up for any festive spurt in demand. Lendingkart provides corporate business loans of up to Rs. 50 lakh to eligible businesses. Such financing may be considered by enterprises evaluating their working capital requirements ahead of the festive season.

Commenting on the importance of financial preparedness, Aman Khanna, Digital Marketing Director, Lendingkart, said, “The festive season presents significant growth opportunities for India’s MSMEs, but capitalising on demand requires careful financial planning. Anticipating working capital needs and accessing credit responsibly can help businesses manage seasonal fluctuations and build long-term resilience.”

As the festive season approaches, a combination of demand forecasting, disciplined inventory management, and prudent financial planning can help MSMEs meet seasonal requirements while keeping longer-term business priorities in view.

About Lendingkart
Lendingkart is a fintech company focused on facilitating access to business finance for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across India. Through its technology-driven approach, the company offers business loans of up to Rs. 50 lakh to eligible businesses, subject to assessment and verification.

Lendingkart helps eligible enterprises meet their working capital requirements and also provides finance to meet their operational expenses and foster business growth. Through its digital lending model, Lendingkart has simplified the loan application journey for business owners across India.

For more information, visit www.lendingkart.com

How Sandip University is Preparing Students for the Future

As India transitions to an AI driven economy, there will be a need to upgrade skills of its workforce through appropriate education and training programs. The NITI Aayog Roadmap for Job Creation in the AI Economy highlights the importance of boosting AI skills, including AI in education, and fostering better teamwork between the government, universities, and businesses.

In line with this, Sandip University is creating an educational environment that mixes technology-based learning, real-world industry experience, hands-on training, and personal growth—helping students get ready for the changing job market.

Modernising the Academic Core
Preparing students for the future is at the core of the education they receive while at the university. Our emerging technologies such as AI & ML are mapped against the various programs offered to students at Sandip University.

For instance, B.Tech in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning covers artificial intelligence, machine learning, natural language processing, intelligent agents, and cognitive modelling, while connecting these concepts to real-world technological applications.

The university’s academic offerings also extend into cybersecurity, cloud technologies, virtual reality, and other technology-driven disciplines, allowing students to develop specialised knowledge aligned with changing industry needs.

Industry-University Collaboration
Academic knowledge gains more significance when students can relate it to the expectations of the workplace. Sandip University has built strong industry associations that offer students opportunities for training, internships, digital learning, certifications, and industry exposure.

Through its Corporate Tie-ups, the university collaborates with organizations such as Capgemini, Edunet Foundation through the IBM Skill Build programme, Infosys Springboard, Xento Systems, and RPG Foundation–Zensar Technologies.

These collaborations support various initiatives including student training, on-campus internships, industry site visits, internship programs, and opportunities for skill development and digital certification.

Real-World Experience Before Graduation
At Sandip University, our students gain practical experience as part of their academic development. Our Career Development Cell focuses on enhancing technology awareness, improving communication skills, inculcating soft and life skills, guiding students for higher education, and guiding them for their careers.

The University also aims to develop students through various field trips, workshops, industrial visits, guest lectures, university clubs, hands-on training, and compulsory internships. By these additional activities, students can reinforce what they have learned in the classroom to develop various skills such as communication, interpersonal skills, leadership, interview, and other professional skills before entering the workforce.

Building Technical and Human Capabilities
Technical skills matter, but long-term employability also depends on abilities beyond them. The World Economic Forum’s Skills Outlook 2025 identifies analytical thinking, creative thinking, resilience, flexibility, and agility—together with technological literacy and expertise in AI and big data—as key competencies for the changing labour market.

Sandip University’s Career Development Cell trains students in communication, leadership, group discussions, interview preparation, soft skills and emerging technologies.

Encouraging Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Innovating for Future Work requires students to be exposed to ideas for innovation and to practice entrepreneurship.

The Research and Innovation ecosystem at Sandip University is specifically designed to carry out research-oriented and innovation-focused activities. In addition to classical university teaching, our entrepreneurship and innovation offers enable students to develop ideas, solutions and business models, and to bring their ventures to market.

Many emerging technologies will develop new applications, business models new job opportunities in various sectors.

Preparing Students for a Changing Employment Landscape
The future of work won’t revolve around just one technology or one kind of job. Things will keep changing—skills, roles, and even how companies operate.

That’s why Sandip University brings together technology-focused programmes, industry partnerships, internships, professional skills training, certifications, and innovation opportunities. The aim is to create a learning environment that helps students stay ready for change.

The real goal isn’t just to prepare students for their first job. It’s to give them the technical knowledge, practical experience, and flexible skills they need so they can keep learning and growing as the workplace continues to evolve.

Dignitaries and experts in the ICAIC 2026 at Manipal University Jaipur

The inaugural session was graced by Dr. Somitra Kumar Sanadhya, Professor, Wadhwani School of AI & Intelligent Systems, IIT Kanpur, as the Chief Guest, and Dr. Emmanuel S. Pilli, Professor, Department of Computer Science & Engineering, Malaviya National Institute of Technology (MNIT) Jaipur, as the Guest of Honour. Dr. Niti Nipun Sharma, President, Manipal University Jaipur; Cdr. (Dr.) Anil Rana, Pro-President, Manipal University Jaipur; and Dr. Kuldip Singh Sangwan, Dean, Faculty of Science, Technology and Architecture, were also present at the inaugural ceremony, which began with the traditional lighting of the lamp.

Building on the success of its inaugural edition, ICAIC 2025, the conference aims to provide an international platform for the exchange of research ideas, interdisciplinary collaboration and discussions on the evolving role of AI in addressing real-world challenges. The second edition has attracted an impressive response from the global research community, receiving 736 research paper submissions. Following a rigorous peer-review process, 81 papers were accepted, representing an acceptance rate of approximately 11 per cent and reflecting the conference's emphasis on research quality and academic rigour.

The conference has drawn participation from 16 countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, Russia, Latvia, Taiwan, Vietnam, the Philippines, Bangladesh, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Iraq, Nigeria and India. The international participation underscores the growing relevance of AI and computing research and provides opportunities for knowledge exchange among researchers and professionals from diverse academic and technological backgrounds.

The technical programme is structured around three major tracks. The first, Artificial Intelligence and Its Applications, explores developments in healthcare, medical imaging, robotics and intelligent systems. The second, Open Innovation & Industry Applications, focuses on areas such as financial technology, sustainability, education and Industry 4.0. The third, Advanced Computational Techniques and Emerging Trends, addresses emerging areas including quantum computing, cybersecurity, explainable AI and augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR). Special sessions further explore Generative AI, intelligent healthcare, cloud security and sustainable digital transformation, highlighting the expanding applications of AI across sectors.

A significant academic outcome of ICAIC 2026 is the planned submission of all accepted and presented papers for publication in Springer's Lecture Notes in Networks and Systems (LNNS) series in two volumes. The series is indexed in SCOPUS, DBLP, INSPEC and zbMATH, providing an established platform for disseminating research findings to the wider scientific and academic community.

Through ICAIC 2026, Manipal University Jaipur seeks to strengthen international research engagement, encourage interdisciplinary collaboration and promote dialogue between academia and industry on emerging technologies. 

About Manipal University Jaipur
Established in 2011, Manipal University Jaipur is a NAAC A+ accredited institution and part of the Manipal Education and Medical Group (MEMG). Located on a 122-acre campus in Rajasthan, the university offers programmes across diverse disciplines, including engineering, computer science, management, law, architecture, humanities and sciences. With an emphasis on academic excellence, interdisciplinary research, innovation, entrepreneurship and industry collaboration, MUJ provides an environment that encourages students and faculty members to engage with emerging technologies and address contemporary societal challenges. The university continues to strengthen its national and international academic partnerships and research ecosystem in alignment with its vision of advancing knowledge, fostering innovation and preparing graduates for a rapidly evolving global landscape.

To know more about Manipal University Jaipur please visit – jaipur.manipal.edu 

Bajaj Finance Personal Loan

Customers can apply for a loan ranging from Rs. 40,000 to Rs. 55 lakh, subject to eligibility and applicable terms. The repayment tenure ranges from 12 months to 108 months. This extended tenure gives eligible borrowers more time to repay their loans and plan their monthly budgets.

What is new in Bajaj Finance Personal Loan?

Bajaj Finance Personal Loan offers a repayment tenure of up to 108 months, giving borrowers the option to spread repayments over a longer period. This feature can help customers manage larger festive purchases while keeping their monthly financial commitments in view.

The available loan amount ranges from Rs. 40,000 to Rs. 55 lakh. Customers can select an amount based on their eligible expenses, repayment capacity and applicable loan terms.

The extended tenure also gives borrowers more flexibility when planning expenses such as home appliances, furniture, electronics, home upgrades and festive gifts. However, the loan amount and tenure offered will depend on the lender's assessment and the applicable terms.

How can an extended repayment tenure support festive budgeting?

A longer repayment tenure can reduce the monthly instalment for a given loan amount and interest rate compared with a shorter tenure. This may help borrowers manage their household budgets during the festive season.

For example, a customer planning to purchase appliances or upgrade a home can compare different repayment periods before choosing a loan. A suitable tenure can help balance the monthly EMI against other costs, such as household bills, savings and existing loan repayments.

However, a longer tenure generally increases the total interest paid over the life of the loan, assuming the same principal and interest rate. Customers should therefore compare both the monthly EMI and the total repayment amount before making a decision.

Who can benefit from the extended repayment tenure?

Bajaj Finance Personal Loan may suit eligible customers who need funds for planned purchases or other permitted personal expenses during Diwali. The extended repayment option can be useful for customers managing larger expenses that may be difficult to cover from their regular monthly income alone.

Potential uses include:

• Purchasing home appliances, electronics or furniture.

• Paying for eligible home improvement work.

• Buying festive gifts for family members.

• Managing planned personal expenses alongside regular household costs.

Customers should borrow only the amount they need and can reasonably repay. Comparing the loan EMI with existing financial commitments can help them make an informed borrowing decision.

What is the Bajaj Finance Personal Loan interest rate?

The Bajaj Finance Personal Loan interest rate ranges from 10% to 30.5% per annum. The applicable rate depends on the lender's assessment and the terms offered to the individual borrower.

The interest rate affects both the monthly EMI and the total cost of borrowing. Customers should review the rate offered, repayment tenure, processing fees and other applicable charges before accepting a loan.

A personal loan interest rate comparison can help borrowers understand how different rates and tenures affect repayment. Choosing a longer tenure may lower the EMI, but it can also increase the total interest paid.

Bajaj Finance Personal Loan is collateral-free, so eligible borrowers do not need to pledge an asset as security. This can make it an option for customers seeking funds without offering property or other assets as collateral.

How does the Bajaj Finance Personal Loan application process work?

Customers can begin the application process online by providing the required details and completing the lender's application steps. The process includes an assessment of the applicant's information, eligibility and other applicable lending requirements.

The application process is designed to support quick approval and requires minimal documentation, subject to the applicant's profile and verification requirements. Approval is not guaranteed and depends on the lender's assessment.

Once the loan is approved and the required formalities are completed, funds may be disbursed within 24 hours* of approval. The actual disbursal time can depend on verification, documentation and other applicable conditions.

Customers should check the final loan offer carefully before accepting it. Reviewing the EMI, interest rate, tenure and charges can help them understand their repayment obligations.

How can customers choose a suitable loan amount and tenure?

Customers can start by estimating their total festive expenses and deducting the amount they can pay from their available savings. The remaining amount can help them determine whether borrowing is necessary and how much they may need.

They can then compare repayment periods between 12 months and 108 months. A shorter tenure generally means higher monthly EMIs but lower total interest, while a longer tenure can reduce monthly payments but increase the overall borrowing cost.

Using a personal loan EMI calculator can help customers estimate monthly instalments for different loan amounts, interest rates and tenures. This allows them to compare repayment options before applying.

How does Bajaj Finance support responsible borrowing?

Bajaj Finance Personal Loan provides eligible customers with access to unsecured credit through a defined application and assessment process. Its loan structure includes a range of loan amounts, repayment periods and interest rates to support different borrowing needs.

Customers are encouraged to assess their financial position, understand all applicable charges and select a repayment plan that fits their budget. Clear information about loan costs and repayment obligations supports informed financial decisions.

As households prepare for Diwali 2026, Bajaj Finance Personal Loan offers an option to manage eligible festive expenses through planned borrowing. Customers can check their eligibility and explore the available loan terms online before applying.

*Terms and conditions apply.

About Bajaj Finance Ltd.

Bajaj Finance Ltd. (BFL), a subsidiary of Bajaj Finserv Ltd., is a deposit-taking Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC-D) registered with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and is classified as an NBFC-Investment and Credit Company (NBFC-ICC). BFL serves over 124.43 million customers through a diversified portfolio comprising consumer loans, SME finance, commercial lending, rural lending, fixed deposits and payments, offered through Web, App and at 4,000+ locations. As a FinAI company, BFL is focused on continuous innovation through smart use of technology, data and analytics to drive seamless, simplified and personalized experiences for its customers. BFL has the highest domestic credit rating of AAA/Stable for long-term borrowing, A1+ for short-term borrowing, and CRISIL AAA/Stable & [ICRA]AAA(Stable) for its FD program. It has a long-term issuer credit rating of BBB/Stable and a short-term rating of A-2 by S&P Global ratings. It has been assigned a ‘Baa3 Corporate Family Rating’ with Stable outlook from Moody’s Rating.

It offered students an opportunity to interact directly with the architect whose work, spanning more than six decades, has contributed significantly to the evolution of contemporary Indian architecture. Bringing together perspectives from architecture, interiors, art, craft and design, the symposium encouraged students to look beyond disciplinary boundaries and understand design as a practice deeply connected to people, culture and society.

A key highlight of the symposium was the screening of Indian Modernity: The Architecture of Raj Rewal, a film exploring the architect’s work and approach to design. The screening was followed by a talk by Ar Rewal and an open interaction with students, offering them insights into his architectural philosophy that reflects a deep engagement with India’s cultural, climatic and social contexts while responding to contemporary needs. This interaction offered students meaningful insights into how architectural ideas evolve through practice, how designers navigate real-world constraints and how individual convictions shape creative work over time.

During the symposium, Ar Rewal also launched the Backpackers Academy of Life Trail 1: Kerala, an initiative of the Global Village Foundation, with its first trail planned across Kerala in December 2026.

The symposium was envisioned by Dr Sanjeev Vidyarthi, Provost, Anant National University, and curated by Ar Jabeen Zacharias, Professor of Practice, Anant National University. It was coordinated by Prof Risha Roy, Associate Professor and Lead, Sustainable Fashion and Textile Design, and Co-lead, Transdisciplinary Design, Anant National University, with the support of the wider academic and organising team.

The symposium reinforced Anant’s interdisciplinary approach to education by encouraging students to consider how architectural, artistic and cultural traditions can serve as resources for contemporary innovation rather than constraints on new thinking. By facilitating direct engagement with accomplished practitioners and documenting their experiences, Anant aims to create learning opportunities that extend beyond the classroom and contribute to a wider exchange of design knowledge.

About Anant National University 
At Anant National University, education begins with a simple belief: the future will not be inherited. It will be purposefully designed.

Guided by the philosophy: Come, Create the New, Anant brings together learners who are curious about the world as it is, but also ambitious about what it could become. The University encourages students to look beyond conventional answers and engage with the complex challenges of our times: Ranging from climate and sustainability to cities, communities, systems and technologies.

Anant offers undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral programmes across design, architecture, climate action and visual arts. Its approach combines academic rigour with studio-based learning, emerging technologies, research, entrepreneurship, Indigenous Knowledge Systems and hands-on engagement with communities. The goal is not only to build practical skills but also to train diligent professionals who can connect disciplines, understand context and create meaningful change.

Recognised as a Centre of Excellence by the Government of Gujarat, Anant received a 5-Star Rating in Architecture and a 4-Star Rating in the University category under the Gujarat State Institutional Rating Framework (GSIRF) 2023-24. These recognitions reflect Anant’s abiding commitment to build an innovating institution where creativity, sustainability, innovation and purpose come together to help shape a more thoughtful and resilient future.

Bajaj Finance Personal Loan

Before applying, customers can use the personal loan EMI calculator to estimate monthly instalments and compare repayment options. By adjusting the loan amount, interest rate and tenure, they can choose a repayment plan that suits their budget.

What repayment tenures does Bajaj Finance Personal Loan offer?

Bajaj Finance Personal Loan offers repayment tenures ranging from 12 months to 108 months, subject to eligibility and the loan terms. This flexibility allows borrowers to select a repayment period that suits their monthly budget and financial commitments.

A longer tenure can reduce the monthly EMI for the same loan amount and interest rate. However, it may increase the total interest payable over the loan period. Borrowers can use a personal loan EMI calculator to compare different repayment periods and understand the impact on their monthly expenses.

Why is repayment planning important?

Repayment planning helps borrowers understand how a loan may affect their monthly finances. It allows them to account for regular expenses, existing EMIs, savings and other financial commitments before taking on additional debt.

For example, a borrower planning home repairs or education expenses can estimate the EMI before applying. This helps determine whether the monthly instalment fits within the available income.

A personal loan EMI calculator also helps compare shorter and longer repayment tenures. A shorter tenure generally results in higher monthly EMIs but lower total interest costs. A longer tenure may reduce the monthly payment but increase the total borrowing cost.

Borrowers should consider both the EMI and the total interest payable before choosing a repayment period.

Who can benefit from flexible repayment options?

Flexible repayment options may help eligible customers who need funds for large expenses or want to spread repayments over a longer period.

Salaried individuals may use a personal loan to manage home improvements, education costs, medical bills, family events or other planned expenses. The available loan amount depends on the applicant's eligibility and the lender's assessment.

Before applying for a Bajaj Finance Personal Loan, customers should review their income, existing EMIs, regular household expenses and savings goals. This can help them choose a suitable loan amount and repayment tenure.

What is the Bajaj Finance Personal Loan interest rate?

The interest rate for Bajaj Finance Personal Loan ranges from 10% to 30.5% per annum. The applicable rate depends on the borrower's profile, eligibility and the loan terms offered.

The interest rate affects both the monthly EMI and the total cost of borrowing. For the same loan amount and tenure, a higher interest rate generally results in a higher EMI and greater interest costs.

A personal loan EMI calculator helps borrowers estimate their repayments before applying. Customers should also review the applicable fees and charges to understand the overall cost of the loan.

How does the personal loan EMI calculator work?

A personal loan EMI calculator estimates the monthly instalment required to repay a loan over a selected tenure. It uses three main inputs: the loan amount, the annual interest rate and the repayment period.

Customers can estimate their EMI by following these steps:

1. Enter the loan amount: Select an amount within the available range, subject to eligibility.

2. Enter the interest rate: Use the applicable annual interest rate.

3. Select the tenure: Choose a repayment period between 12 months and 108 months, where available.

4. Check the estimated EMI: Review the monthly instalment and compare different repayment options.

For example, borrowers can compare two repayment periods to see how the monthly EMI and total interest costs change. The calculator provides an estimate. The final repayment amount depends on the loan terms offered by the lender.

How does the Bajaj Finance Personal Loan application process work?

Bajaj Finance Personal Loan offers an online application process for eligible borrowers. Customers can begin by checking their eligibility and submitting the required details and documents.

The application process generally includes these steps:

1. Check loan eligibility – Customers can visit the personal loan page on the Bajaj Finance website, enter the loan amount needed, select the repayment period, and click on "CHECK LOAN OFFER" to check loan eligibility.

2. Enter personal details – Customers need to provide personal, financial, and employment details to receive a personalised loan offer.

3. Review loan offer – Customers can check their offer details and adjust the loan amount or repayment tenure, if required.

4. Complete KYC verification – The loan applicant can verify their identity and bank details to proceed with their application.

5. Speak to a loan specialist – Once the loan application is submitted, a Bajaj Finance representative will contact the applicant with the next steps.

Bajaj Finance Personal Loan is collateral-free, so borrowers do not need to pledge an asset as security. The application process involves minimal documentation, subject to the lender's requirements.

Funds may be disbursed within 24 hours* of approval and completion of the required checks, subject to the applicable terms. Approval and disbursal are not guaranteed for every applicant.

Supporting responsible borrowing through clear repayment planning

Bajaj Finance Personal Loan provides eligible borrowers with access to funds without collateral and repayment tenures of up to 108 months. A personal loan EMI calculator helps customers estimate monthly instalments and compare repayment options before making a borrowing decision.

Customers should assess their repayment capacity, review all applicable charges and select a loan amount that fits their financial needs. Bajaj Finance follows an application and verification process to assess each application according to the applicable lending terms.

Customers can visit the official Bajaj Finance website to check their eligibility, explore available loan options and apply online.

*Terms and conditions apply.

*Loan approval, interest rates, repayment tenure and disbursal are subject to eligibility, verification and the lender's terms.

About Bajaj Finance Ltd.

Bajaj Finance Ltd. (BFL), a subsidiary of Bajaj Finserv Ltd., is a deposit-taking Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC-D) registered with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and is classified as an NBFC-Investment and Credit Company (NBFC-ICC). BFL serves over 124.43 million customers through a diversified portfolio comprising consumer loans, SME finance, commercial lending, rural lending, fixed deposits and payments, offered through Web, App and at 4,000+ locations. As a FinAI company, BFL is focused on continuous innovation through smart use of technology, data and analytics to drive seamless, simplified and personalized experiences for its customers. BFL has the highest domestic credit rating of AAA/Stable for long-term borrowing, A1+ for short-term borrowing, and CRISIL AAA/Stable & [ICRA]AAA(Stable) for its FD program. It has a long-term issuer credit rating of BBB/Stable and a short-term rating of A-2 by S&P Global ratings. It has been assigned a ‘Baa3 Corporate Family Rating’ with Stable outlook from Moody’s Rating.

Organised by SPR India, the Navaratri Utsavam featured a towering 53.8-foot-high and 42-foot-wide Golu, comprising 3,750+ traditional dolls arranged in an elaborate stepped structure. The installation celebrated Tamil Nadu's centuries-old Golu tradition, combining intricate craftsmanship, cultural storytelling and devotion on an unprecedented scale.
 

Chennai’s Tallest Golu Display Marks a Navaratri Milestone

The World Book of Records, United Kingdom, adjudicated SPR Constructions Pvt. Ltd. (SPR Group India) for the Tallest Golu Display, recognising the scale and significance of the installation.
 

What began as an initiative to celebrate and preserve a cherished cultural tradition soon became one of the city's major festive attractions. Throughout the ten-day celebration, SPR City witnessed a steady stream of visitors, with families gathering to view the installation and participate in the festivities.
 

The celebrations also featured traditional poojas, devotional music and cultural performances, offering visitors an opportunity to experience the spirit of Navaratri beyond the record-setting display.
 

The World Book of Records certificate is to be presented by Ms. Ankita Shah, Chartered Officer, World Book of Records, to Mr. Prakash Mohanasundaram, Vice President – Revenue, and Mr. Balakumar Chandrasekaran, Senior Vice President – Sales & Marketing, on behalf of SPR Constructions Pvt. Ltd.
 

The achievement highlights Chennai's enduring connection with its cultural traditions and demonstrates how community celebrations can engage people across generations. With more than one lakh visitors and international recognition, SPR City Navaratri Utsavam 2026 has emerged as a significant cultural event in the city.
 

The initiative also reflects SPR India's efforts to create community spaces and experiences that extend beyond residential development, bringing people together through cultural and social engagement.

About SPR City

SPR City is a 63-acre integrated township by SPR India in Perambur, Chennai, home to over 1,000 families. It features Chennai’s tallest residential tower at 47 floors. The project brings together residential, commercial and educational facilities, including Market of India, District 12 office spaces and The Shri Ram Universal School, alongside upcoming shopping, entertainment and healthcare infrastructure.
 

Strategically located, SPR City is approximately 500 metres from Perambur Bus Terminus, 1 km from Perambur Railway Station and 800 metres from the proposed Perambur Metro station. It also offers convenient access to Chennai Central Railway Station, the High Court and the Secretariat. Its integrated commercial spaces cater to businesses, traders and investors.
 

About Market of India

Market of India – Envisioning a New Era of Organized Trade and Commerce. Market of India (MOI), a flagship commercial development within SPR City, is envisioned as a landmark destination for organized retail trade, bringing together diverse business communities within a modern, integrated commercial ecosystem.
 

Conceptualized to redefine the traditional trading landscape, Market of India aims to provide a structured and professionally planned environment for traders, retailers, entrepreneurs and businesses, while strengthening commercial connectivity across Chennai, Tamil Nadu and beyond. As outlined in the project's published master plan, Market of India envisages over 5,000 shops, with approximately 54 lakh sq. ft. of planned built-up area. The development is designed to incorporate essential commercial infrastructure, including a central plaza over 1.5 Acre indoor air conditioned atmosphere brings strong experiences to the mall. With its emphasis on scale, accessibility, infrastructure and business integration, Market of India aspires to establish a new benchmark for organized trade infrastructure and position Chennai as a prominent hub for regional and national retailers.
 

About SPR India

Established in 1972, SPR India is one of Chennai’s established real estate developers, with a legacy spanning over five decades across residential, commercial and mixed-use developments. Its portfolio includes landmark projects such as SPR City, Osian Heights and Osian Chlorophyll.
 

The company’s flagship development, SPR City, is a 63-acre integrated township in Perambur, already home to over 1,000 families. Envisioned as a city within a city, the township brings together residential living, commercial spaces, education and upcoming lifestyle destinations, including Market of India and Chennai’s tallest residential tower.
 

With a focus on integrated urban living, SPR India continues to contribute to Chennai’s evolving real estate landscape.

57 Chitkara University researchers earn recognition among the world’s Top 2% Scientists in the prestigious Stanford University–Elsevier report

The Stanford–Elsevier report identifies influential researchers across disciplines based on standardised citation indicators and research impact. The inclusion of 57 Chitkara University researchers in this global recognition highlights the contributions of its academic and research community to the advancement of scholarship and innovation.

Commenting on the achievement, Dr. Madhu Chitkara, President and Co-Founder, Chitkara University, said, “Research is not simply about expanding the boundaries of knowledge; it is about using that knowledge to address meaningful questions, solve real-world challenges, and contribute to society. The recognition of 57 of our researchers among the world’s top 2% scientists is a proud moment for Chitkara University. It reflects the dedication of our faculty, the strength of our academic environment, and our belief that meaningful research must create an impact beyond the university. We remain committed to nurturing a culture where curiosity is encouraged, ideas are challenged, and discoveries translate into progress for communities and the world.”

At Chitkara University, research is viewed as an integral part of academic growth and institutional development. The University continues to encourage faculty members and researchers to pursue rigorous inquiry, collaborate across disciplines and engage with emerging challenges in science, technology, healthcare, business and other fields.

The recognition also celebrates the individual commitment, intellectual curiosity and sustained efforts of the researchers whose work contributes to the global body of knowledge. Their achievements strengthen the University's research ecosystem and inspire the next generation of scholars to pursue questions that can lead to meaningful discoveries and lasting change.

Congratulating all 57 researchers on this achievement, Chitkara University reaffirmed its commitment to advancing research excellence, supporting innovation and building an academic environment where knowledge creates value for society.

About Chitkara University

Chitkara University is a UGC-recognised and NAAC-accredited private university in North India, with campuses in Punjab and Himachal Pradesh, offering career-oriented undergraduate and postgraduate programs in Engineering, Business, Healthcare, Pharmacy, Design, Architecture, Hospitality and emerging technology fields. For Class 11 and 12 students planning higher education, the University provides industry-aligned programs designed to combine academic excellence with practical exposure.

The curriculum emphasises experiential learning through internships, industry projects, research opportunities and global collaborations, supported by modern infrastructure, advanced laboratories, industry mentorship and skill-based training that strengthens student employability. Backed by 2,000+ campus recruiters and 300+ international academic and industry collaborations, students gain strong placement support, international exposure, academic exchange and collaborative research opportunities.

Consistently ranked among leading institutions by national and global frameworks such as NIRF, QS World University Rankings and Times Higher Education, the University maintains high academic rigour and industry relevance. With strong corporate partnerships and a focus on innovation, entrepreneurship and interdisciplinary learning, it prepares students for emerging career opportunities in India and abroad.

For more information, please visit: www.chitkara.edu.in

Tamil Nadu Governor Shri Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar presents the award as the company targets 10 million sq. ft. in land sales by 2029

The award was presented by the Honourable Governor of Tamil Nadu, Shri Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, recognising Propshell’s journey and growth in the plotted real estate segment.

Since its inception in 2007, Propshell has steadily expanded its project portfolio while building enduring relationships with customers, landowners and channel partners. Its journey reflects nearly two decades of entrepreneurship, driven by a focus on expanding land ownership opportunities and strengthening its presence in the real estate market.
 

Reflecting upon the milestone and Propshell’s growth ambitions, G. Jayaram, Founder of Propshell, said, “This recognition is a proud moment for me and the entire Propshell family. When we began our journey in 2007, our vision was to create meaningful opportunities for people to own land and participate in real estate growth. Having sold 12 million square feet over the years, we are now working towards achieving another 10 million square feet in sales by 2029. Our ambition goes beyond business growth. We want to enable more families to own land and move closer to building their dream homes. Through responsible plotted development, customer trust and long-term value creation, we aspire to contribute to the broader national vision of ‘Housing for All’.
 

“This achievement belongs to our team, channel partners, landowners and customers who have supported us throughout the years. The award inspires us to build on this foundation and pursue our next phase of growth with greater commitment and ambition," he added.
 

With its 2029 sales target, Propshell aims to build on its established presence across key markets while expanding its plotted development portfolio and creating further opportunities for prospective landowners.

About Propshell

Founded in 2007 by G. Jayaram, Propshell is a real estate company focused on plotted developments and land ownership opportunities. With more than 80 projects, over 10,000 customers and 12 million square feet of land sold, the company has a presence across Chennai, Trichy, Coimbatore and Kodaikanal, as well as in Dubai. Propshell continues to focus on expanding its portfolio, strengthening customer relationships and creating opportunities in the plotted real estate segment, with a target of selling an additional 10 million square feet of plotted land by 2029.

Mr. Avinash V. unveiled the trophy and Dr. Anand V, unveiled the jerseys in the presence of Dr. S. K. Rao, Dr. M. Veeraraghavan,, Dr. R. Prabhu, Dr. Harish Kumar and captains

Chief guest and cricketer Mr. Avinash Vaidya unveiled the championship trophy and Dr. Anand Venugopal, COO, MAHE, unveiled the team jerseys in the presence of Dr. Sharath K. Rao, Vice Chancellor, MAHE, Prof. (Dr.) Madhu Veeraraghavan, Pro Vice Chancellor, MAHE Bengaluru, Dr. Raghavendra Prabhu, Additional Registrar, MAHE Bengaluru Campus, Dr. Harish Kumar S., Director-Corporate Relations, corporate leaders and captains of the participating teams. 

Speaking at the launch, Mr. Avinash Vaidya said, “Cricket builds teamwork, discipline, leadership and the ability to perform under pressure, qualities that are equally important in the workplace. By bringing corporate teams together through this championship, MAHE has created a meaningful platform that goes beyond competition to strengthen professional relationships, encourage collaboration and build lasting connections through sport.”

Dr. Sharath K. Rao said, “Institutions and industries grow when they engage with each other consistently and work towards shared goals. The MAHE CCC provides a platform for the corporate community and the university to come together in a spirit of teamwork and collaboration. We hope this engagement will strengthen our existing relationships and lead to meaningful, long-term associations.”

Prof. (Dr.) Madhu Veeraraghavan said, “Corporate leaders across sectors bring different experiences, perspectives and approaches to solving real-world challenges. The CCC creates an informal setting for these perspectives to come together, allowing conversations and ideas to develop beyond conventional boardrooms. For MAHE Bengaluru, the value of this initiative lies in creating a vibrant space where the university and the corporate community can exchange ideas and discover areas of shared interest.”

The championship features teams from prominent organisations across technology, healthcare, consulting and financial services. Participating organisations include ARM, Bosch, Carelon, EY, Google, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, JPMorganChase, KPMG, LinkedIn, Manipal Hospitals, Microland, Microsoft, Novo Nordisk, Salesforce, Thomson Reuters and Unisys.

The championship will follow the T20 white-ball format, with weekend matches scheduled at the MAHE Bengaluru Campus. The teams are divided into four pools, with each team playing three league matches. The tournament will feature 27 matches, including two semi-finals and the final.

The concluding phase will be held at MIT Sports Park, MAHE Manipal. The semi-finals are scheduled for December 5, followed by the final under lights on December 6.

Team and individual performances will be recognised throughout the championship. Awards will be presented to the winner and runner-up, along with honours for Man of the Match in each fixture, Man of the Series, Best Batsman and Best Bowler.

Through the championship, MAHE aims to bring competitive sport and corporate-academic engagement together. The initiative gives corporate professionals, team representatives and the university community an opportunity to build relationships and explore common interests beyond conventional institutional settings.

About Manipal Academy of Higher Education
Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) is an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University. MAHE offers over 400 specialisations across Health Sciences (HS), Management, Law, Humanities & Social Sciences (MLHS), and Technology & Science (T&S) streams through its constituent units at campuses in Manipal, Mangalore, Bengaluru, Jamshedpur, and Dubai. With a remarkable track record in academics, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and significant contributions to research, MAHE has earned recognition and acclaim both nationally and internationally. In 2020, the Ministry of Education, Government of India, awarded MAHE the prestigious Institution of Eminence status. Currently ranked 3rd in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2025 rankings, MAHE is the preferred choice for students seeking transformative learning experience and enriching campus life, as well as for national and multinational corporations seeking top talent.

The platform brings strategy discovery, customisation, automated execution and trade monitoring into a single interface. users can explore available strategies, review their objectives, risk profile and margin requirements, and choose to subscribe based on their individual preferences and risk considerations.

For users looking to build their own strategies, the platform offers a strategy builder with configurable indicators, entry and exit conditions, execution parameters and position sizing. Users can define parameters such as trading direction, operating hours and trading days, and configure target, stop-loss and trailing stop-loss mechanisms in line with their strategy requirements.

Risk management is integrated into the platform through configurable controls at both strategy and account levels. Users can set maximum profit and loss thresholds, limit the number of trades for a strategy, and pause individual strategies or stop algorithmic trading through a dedicated stop control. The platform also provides a consolidated view of open positions, pending orders, trade history, execution details and strategy signals, enabling users to monitor activity and execution status.

Ready-made strategies include exchange-registered black-box strategies offered by SEBI-registered Research Analysts, while customised strategies are built using exchange-registered white-box indicators. Strategy information, applicable disclosures and consent requirements are presented as part of the subscription process.

Commenting on the launch, Anurag Misra, Chief Technology Officer, Bajaj Financial Securities Limited, said, "With this launch, we are expanding the range of tools available to users to participate in the markets with greater flexibility and control. By bringing ready-made strategies and custom strategy-building capabilities alongside risk management and trade monitoring, we aim to make rule-based trading more accessible, with clear visibility of their strategies' activity and execution. Our focus remains on building technology-led solutions with transparency and informed decision-making at the core of the experience."

The launch marks another step in Bajaj Broking's continued investment in its digital trading capabilities, supporting a more structured approach to market participation.

Sathiya Narayanan, Production Head, Nishanth, Research & Development Head, Arun Titan, Founder & CEO, Sowmya, Co-Founder & CFO, Ragul Kishan, Chief Production Officer, Midhun Mohan, Marketing Head

The recipients - Ragul Kishan - Chief Production Officer, Midhun Mohan - Marketing Head, Nishanth - Research & Development Head, and Sathiya Narayanan - Production Head - have consistently demonstrated commitment and gone beyond their responsibilities. In a special touch, each recipient’s family was invited to choose the car, making the occasion a milestone for the entire family.

A Thought That Became a Meaningful Gesture

The idea originated at a family function attended by SILAII CEO and Founder Arun Titan, where he noticed a long-serving team member arriving on a two-wheeler with his entire family after a long journey. The sight prompted him to reflect on how the people who helped build SILAII could share in the comfort and security he enjoyed in his own life.

The initiative was kept under wraps until the employees were invited to a dinner, where each received a personal letter revealing the surprise. Their families were subsequently invited to select their preferred cars, turning the announcement into a shared celebration.

Speaking on the occasion, Arun Titan, CEO and Founder, SILAII, said, “I go back home safely in my car every day, and I wanted the people who have built SILAII with me to enjoy the same comfort and safety with their families. This initiative is a way of expressing our gratitude to them and sharing the success we have built together.”

“At SILAII, we believe India has immense artistic talent, but what is needed is an ecosystem that enables artists and craftspeople to build sustainable livelihoods. Today, we have a team of over 250 people, with nearly 80% of our factory workforce comprising women, many from rural communities who have found their first formal employment and an opportunity to develop their artistic skills with us. Our vision is to make art accessible while creating meaningful careers for the people behind it. We hope to take this forward by establishing an arts college that will enable more young people to pursue art as a respected and viable profession. We want our people to grow alongside SILAII, creating opportunities that extend beyond the workplace and benefit their families as well,” he added.

About SILAII

Founded in 2019 by Arun Titan, SILAII is India’s first sculptural home decor brand and one of India’s finest sculpture brands, driven by the vision of making art accessible to everyone. Rooted in craftsmanship, culture and storytelling, the brand creates finely detailed, IP-certified handcrafted sculptures ranging from 5 inches to 50 feet — from devotional sculptures, levitating sculptures and car dashboard god idols to temple replica sculptures, leaders and icons bust sculptures, official movie merchandise, and customised sculptures for corporate gifting.

With more than 2,00,000 products sold and a presence in over 50 countries, SILAII’s portfolio spans home decor, bespoke creations, corporate gifting and large-scale public sculpture installation, including more than 50 government projects. Among its landmark creations is the 30-foot Nilgiri Tahr, Tamil Nadu’s state animal, installed in front of the Tamil Nadu Secretariat. Its latest endeavour, SILAII Artscape, extends the brand’s vision to designing landscapes through art.

SILAII operates its flagship sculpture store in Adyar, Chennai, along with a store in R.S. Puram, Coimbatore, and a massive sculpture store in Banjara Hills, Hyderabad.

For more information, visit www.silaii.com.

On stage Founders of Pour'd Cocktails (RTB Consumer Brands) accepting the honour

The recognition reflects a wider shift in India's alcobev industry. A growing number of homegrown startups are challenging a market long dominated by established brands and conventional formats. They are introducing new products built around how younger, urban consumers actually socialise. Ready-to-serve cocktails are one of the clearest examples. IWSR projects that India's ready-to-drink segment will grow at a compound annual rate of about 6% through 2034, ahead of several traditional beverage alcohol categories (Beverage Daily, September 2026).

Consumer tastes are also moving. Flavoured spirits, botanical gins and cocktail-led drinking have gained ground as Indian drinkers explore beyond straight pours and familiar mixers. Many are looking for variety, discovery and experiences they once found only at bars. Until recently, cocktails meant going out or mixing drinks at home. Ready-to-serve formats offer a third option: a pre-mixed, bottled cocktail, ready to pour over ice or top up with soda, cola or water. Several international and domestic brands have entered the space over the past year. Analysts, including Euromonitor, note that state-level taxation and regulation still limit how quickly the category can scale.

“Indian drinkers today are more curious and more experimental than ever. You can see it in the rise of flavoured spirits and in how quickly cocktail culture has grown beyond bars,” said Sahith Sethuraman, Co-founder, RTB Consumer Brands. “We build all our cocktails to taste the way they would at a good bar, every single time, and winning a blind tasting tells us that consistency comes through in the glass. It’s also encouraging to see Indian startups being recognised for bringing new formats to a category that hasn’t changed much in decades. There’s a lot of room to grow from here.”

Recently founded, Pour'd set out to make bar-style cocktails available beyond bars and restaurants. Its range removes the preparation involved in making cocktails at home while keeping the character of classic recipes.

About Pour'd

Pour'd is a ready-to-drink cocktail brand from RTB Consumer Brands Private Limited that brings bar-quality cocktails home. Three friends who share a love of great cocktails and good company founded it. The brand makes full-strength, balanced bottled cocktails with premium spirits, built on quality, consistency and convenience.

Tamchy SFIT Named Asia-Pacific's Top Rising Star in fDi's Global Free Zones of the Year Awards 2026 

The judging panel highly praised Tamchy SFIT’s long-term strategy for attracting residents across its priority sectors. The judges also highlighted the jurisdiction’s extensive package of business incentives, including a zero corporate income tax rate for 49 years and unrestricted profit repatriation.

fDi Intelligence is the Financial Times’ specialist division for foreign direct investment (FDI). Its annual Global Free Zones of the Year Awards benchmark free zones around the world across a number of key categories.

The Rising Star category, in particular, recognises the strongest newly established zones, judged on their potential, early evidence of investor interest and the strategic advantages they offer investors.

Ayaz Baetov, First Deputy Chairman of Tamchy SFIT’s Management Council, welcomed the recognition as a significant milestone for the project.

“Being ranked first in Asia-Pacific and second globally so early in Tamchy SFIT’s development is an important international endorsement of our vision. We are creating a next-generation financial jurisdiction that combines the certainty of established international legal practices with the speed, flexibility and digital infrastructure that global businesses increasingly expect,” Baetov said.

Established by law in July 2025, Tamchy SFIT was formally inaugurated by Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov on 3 July 2026, less than a year later. Built from the ground up, the jurisdiction operates on the principles of English common law, with its own financial regulator, an International Dispute Resolution Centre and a single-window digital registrar. A special tax regime guarantees a 0% rate on profits, dividends, capital gains and VAT for 49 years, and allows 100% foreign ownership. The model is designed to accommodate a wide range of businesses, from funds, family offices and holding companies to international trading firms, fintech businesses and other innovation-driven enterprises.

The 6,000-hectare territory on the shores of Lake Issyk-Kul is being developed as an integrated ecosystem that brings together business, living and wellness. A Grade A business centre is already operational, offering modern office spaces and meeting facilities. Issyk-Kul International Airport is within walking distance of the business district. Five more buildings, including a second business centre for residents and two office buildings, are expected to be completed by the end of 2026.

The first residents that registered at Tamchy SFIT at its launch included companies from Switzerland, South Korea, Hong Kong, Kazakhstan and the United Arab Emirates. More than 30 further companies are currently completing registration, fully benefitting from the digital one-stop-shop system.

About Tamchy SFIT

Tamchy Special Financial Investment Territory (SFIT) is a new international financial jurisdiction on the shores of Lake Issyk-Kul in the Kyrgyz Republic, inaugurated in July 2026. Built on the principles of English common law, with its own financial regulator, an independent court and a digital one-stop shop, it offers a special tax regime for 49 years and 100% foreign ownership. Positioned at the intersection of the five EAEU economies and the Eurasian corridor, Tamchy SFIT aims to host around 4,000 resident companies and create more than 10,000 jobs by 2035.

Times Higher Education Asia Universities Summit 2027
 

The 2027 summit will focus on “Talent, transition and scale: Leading in an era of expansion,” with discussions on the opportunities and challenges shaping higher education, including talent development, technological transformation, internationalisation, research and innovation, demographic change and climate resilience.
 

The summit will also feature the live reveal of THE Asia University Rankings 2027 and the winners’ ceremony for THE Asia Awards 2027, bringing together leading institutions and higher-education professionals from across the region.
 

Dr H S Ballal, Pro Chancellor, MAHE, said, “Hosting the Times Higher Education Asia Universities Summit in India highlights the nation's growing role in global higher education. MAHE is proud to host this international event at our Bengaluru campus and to participate in discussions that could shape the future of universities, education, and research across Asia.”
 

Speaking about the summit, Dr Sharath K. Rao, Vice Chancellor, MAHE, said, “Hosting the Times Higher Education Asia Universities Summit 2027 at MAHE Bengaluru is an important opportunity to promote meaningful dialogue about the future of higher education in Asia. As the summit comes to India for the first time, MAHE looks forward to welcoming university leaders, academicians, policymakers and industry representatives to Bengaluru and to creating opportunities for knowledge exchange, collaboration and innovation.”
 

The summit will showcase MAHE Bengaluru's technology and innovation environment and provide international delegates with an opportunity to engage with the university’s academic and research ecosystem.
 

About Manipal Academy of Higher Education

Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) is an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University. MAHE offers over 400 specialisations across the Health Sciences (HS), Management, Law, Humanities & Social Sciences (MLHS), and Technology & Science (T&S) streams through its constituent units at campuses in Manipal, Mangalore, Bengaluru, Jamshedpur, and Dubai. With a remarkable track record in academics, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and significant contributions to research, MAHE has earned recognition and acclaim both nationally and internationally. In 2020, the Ministry of Education, Government of India, awarded MAHE the prestigious Institution of Eminence status. Currently ranked 3^rd in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2025 rankings, MAHE is the preferred choice for students seeking a transformative learning experience and enriching campus life, as well as for national and multinational corporations seeking top talent.
 

Event: THE Asia Universities Summit 2027
Dates: 20-22 April 2027
Venue: MAHE Campus, Govindapura, Yelahanka, Bengaluru
Theme: Talent, transition and scale: Leading in an era of expansion
Host: Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE)
Organiser: Times Higher Education (THE)
 

For more information, please click the link: shorturl.at/oOQRi

Dr. Emir Hrnjic, Senior Lecturer in Finance, NUS Business School (fifth from left), at a media engagement with Indonesian media in Singapore

For more than a century, case-based learning has put students in the shoes of business leaders by giving information they need to analyse a problem, and then ask them how they would solve it.

Now, artificial intelligence (AI) is changing what it means to solve a case. Since January 2026, NUS Business School has been piloting an AI-enabled approach in which students are given an AI-simulated problem where they must determine what information they need, decide whom to ask, evaluate the answers they receive and make a recommendation under uncertainty.

The simulation is built on ScholAIstic, a generative AI platform developed by the NUS AI Centre for Educational Technologies (AICET) to support roleplaying and simulation-based learning.

Dr Emir Hrnjic, a Senior Lecturer in Finance at NUS Business School, has been working with AICET to adapt and refine these capabilities for management education, developing executive personas around the business case.

To date, the tool has now been used by close to 100 MBA and Executive MBA students across Singapore and Jakarta, many of whom are senior executives.

Sharpening the human instinct behind good decisions
In the pilot, students interview AI-simulated executives, including a Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Product and Technology Officer, each offering a different perspective to the same business situation. Students must navigate these perspectives, assess the information they gather and reach their own conclusions.

After each interview, students receive personalised feedback on on their questioning, allowing them to reflect and adapt their approach in subsequent interviews.

Dr Hrnjic said: “Students must decide what they need to know, ask the right questions, challenge what they hear and exercise judgement without having the complete picture. The aim is not to replace that human instinct with AI, but to sharpen in by helping students become more discerning about what to ask and trust. That is much closer to how leaders make decisions in the real world.”

Early findings suggest that effective use of AI is not about asking more questions but about asking the right ones. Analysis of interview transcripts showed found that stronger interviews had more targeted questions, follow-ups and adaptation as new information emerged, rather than simply working through a prepared list.

The findings point to a broader role for generative AI in management education. Rather than using AI primarily to search for information or generate answers, the technology can recreate the real-world scenarios, sharpening executives’ judgement to better navigate uncertainty and competing perspectives they face in real organisations.

NUS Business School sees potential for similar AI-simulated tools to be applied to other areas of business education where students need to question stakeholders, negotiate competing interests and make decisions under uncertainty. The ambition is to move beyond the largely static information environment of the traditional case towards a dynamic one where students actively acquire information, pursue emerging lines of inquiry, challenge assumptions and exercise judgement as the problem unfolds.

The simulation is one part of NUS Business School’s broader approach to integrating AI into education. The school is exploring how AI can enhance, rather than replace, meaningful learning, thereby helping students develop the judgement, critical thinking and adaptability needed to navigate an increasingly AI-enabled workplace.

This becomes increasingly important as AI takes on a greater role in business. Companies across Asia, including Indonesia, are rapidly adopting AI across their operations, making the ability to question and assess AI-generated information an increasingly important leadership skill. For Indonesia, the economic stakes are significant. A 2020 study by Kearney and EDBI projected that AI could contribute USD 366 billion to the country’s GDP by 2030, equivalent to 12 per cent of projected GDP.

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About National University of Singapore (NUS)

The National University of Singapore (NUS) is Singapore’s flagship university, which offers a global approach to education, research and entrepreneurship, with a focus on Asian perspectives and expertise. We have 15 colleges, faculties and schools across three campuses in Singapore, with more than 40,000 students from 100 countries enriching our vibrant and diverse campus community. We have also established around 15 NUS Overseas Colleges entrepreneurial hubs around the world.

Our multidisciplinary and real-world approach to education, research and entrepreneurship enables us to work closely with industry, governments and academia to address crucial and complex issues relevant to Asia and the world. Researchers in our faculties, research centres of excellence, corporate labs and more than 30 university-level research institutes focus on themes that include energy; environmental and urban sustainability; treatment and prevention of diseases; active ageing; advanced materials; risk management and resilience of financial systems; Asian studies; and Smart Nation capabilities such as artificial intelligence, data science, operations research and cybersecurity.

For more information on NUS, please visit nus.edu.sg.

About NUS Business School

With 50,000 alumni and 60 global chapters, the National University of Singapore (NUS) Business School is known for providing management thought leadership from an Asian perspective, enabling its students and corporate partners to leverage global knowledge and Asian insights.

The school has consistently ranked first in Asia by independent publications and agencies, such as The Financial Times and Quacquarelli Symonds, in recognition of the quality of its programmes, faculty research and graduates.

The school is accredited by AACSB International (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) and EQUIS (European Quality Improvement System), endorsements that the school has met the highest standards for business education.

For more information about NUS Business School, please visit bschool.nus.edu.sg.

To discover our MBA, MSc or Executive Education courses, visit mscbiz.nus.edu.sg, mba.nus.edu.sg or executive-education.nus.edu.sg

Dr Sharath K Rao, Vice Chancellor, MAHE, sharing his insights during the MAHE Nature Conference

The conference brings together researchers, clinicians, public health experts, policymakers, and industry representatives from 20 countries to share scientific findings, examine emerging research, and strengthen collaboration on the prevention and control of infectious diseases.

The conference addresses critical global health priorities, including emerging and re-emerging pathogens, antimicrobial resistance (AMR), pandemic preparedness, disease surveillance, diagnostics, therapeutics, vaccination strategies, and the One Health approach.

Addressing the inaugural session, Dr Sharath K. Rao, Vice Chancellor, MAHE, stressed the importance of strengthening global health security in the face of emerging infectious disease threats. “Human beings have become increasingly adept at crossing borders, but pathogens have become even more adept. They do not need passports or visas, reminding us that infectious diseases are a global challenge that transcends geographical and disciplinary boundaries. The COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated that health security is inseparable from human security and underscored the need for stronger surveillance, preparedness, and equitable access to healthcare,” he emphasised.

Dr Rao further noted that addressing infectious disease challenges requires collaboration across medicine, pharmacy, engineering, data science, behavioural sciences and public health policy. He added that universities have a critical role in fostering interdisciplinary partnerships that translate research into meaningful public health outcomes.

Dr Jessica Thompson, Senior Editor at Nature Microbiology, opened the proceedings with a warm welcome to all attendees on behalf of the Nature editorial team, and outlined the scientific discussions planned for the day.

The day’s proceedings have been organised around a series of expert-led sessions on disease surveillance modelling, from outbreak forecasting to the design of surveillance systems, One Health digital platforms, the role of network structure and multimodality, data-to-decision-making, population genomics, translational intelligence, and AMR surveillance -Indian scenario.

Hosting this conference reinforces MAHE's growing role as a global hub for health sciences research and reflects its commitment to advancing infectious disease research, international scientific collaboration, and evidence-based solutions to emerging public health challenges.

About Manipal Academy of Higher Education

Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) is an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University. MAHE offers over 400 specialisations across the Health Sciences (HS), Management, Law, Humanities & Social Sciences (MLHS), and Technology & Science (T&S) streams through its constituent units at campuses in Manipal, Mangalore, Bengaluru, Jamshedpur, and Dubai. With a remarkable track record in academics, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and significant contributions to research, MAHE has earned recognition and acclaim both nationally and internationally. In 2020, the Ministry of Education, Government of India, awarded MAHE the prestigious Institution of Eminence status. Currently ranked 3^rd in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2025 rankings, MAHE is the preferred choice for students seeking a transformative learning experience and enriching campus life, as well as for national and multinational corporations seeking top talent.

Crizac launches Partner Growth Program to support counselling partners with marketing, training, and branding

Built especially for small and medium counselling businesses, PGP equips partners with ready-to-use marketing, structured counsellor training and certification, and professional branding under their own name, all through their existing Crizac login. The program is open to Crizac's network of 17,400+ registered counselling partners across 85+ countries.

Helping partners build stronger businesses

Counsellors devote their days to guiding students, managing applications, and handling the steady rhythm of follow-ups. As a result, they seldom have the bandwidth to work consistently on marketing and branding, which can mean missed opportunities to generate new leads and grow their business.

At the same time, they must stay abreast of destination policies, admissions processes, and industry shifts that rarely pause. Finding the time and resources for regular training and certification becomes a challenge of its own.

Crizac believes a platform is only as strong as the counselling partners it works with, and that its role is to contribute to their growth. PGP gives that belief practical form.

"Students trust their counsellor before they trust any university or any platform. That trust is earned one conversation at a time, and it is the most valuable thing in our industry," said Dr Vikash Agarwal, Managing Director, Crizac Limited. "Yet the counselling partners that earn it often have the least time and support to grow. A platform should grow with the partners that trust it, and PGP is our commitment to doing exactly that. When counselling partners grow stronger, students get better advice, and the whole system works better."

How PGP helps the Counselling Partners

• Stay visible without a marketing team. Through the Marketing Studio, partners get ready-to-post content designed by Crizac and branded with their own name and contact details. A small business can keep its channels active and look as professional as a much larger one, at no cost.

• Stay current without losing time. Counsellors can earn Crizac-issued counselling certifications across study destinations at substantial discounts. Each one builds a substantial understanding of a country, from application to visa to loan and beyond, so partners can guide students and families through every step with clarity.

Together, these let partners spend less time on marketing and training logistics, and more time counselling.

"Small and growing education consultancies should not have to choose between serving their students and investing in their own growth," said Nikhil Jain, Chief Product and Marketing Officer, Crizac Limited. "Through the Partner Growth Program, we are making professional marketing support, branding resources, and destination-specific training more accessible to our counselling partners. Ultimately, stronger brands and better-trained counsellors help build student confidence and give education consultancies more opportunities to grow."

"AI will not replace the counsellor. It will separate the counsellors who use it from those who do not," added Dishant Kharbanda, Chief Innovation Officer, Crizac Limited, and the author of Hacked by History: Seven secrets of Dominating the age of AI. "Students now arrive having already asked an AI where to study, what it will cost, and whether they will get a visa. A counsellor's value no longer lies in holding information. It lies in judgment, empathy, and accountability. We are building tools that handle the routine work for our partners, so they can spend more time on what only a human can do.“

Today's launch is the first chapter of PGP, not the full story. Crizac intends to keep adding new tools, training, and benefits to PGP, each shaped by what partners say they need most. Every addition will follow one simple test: if it helps a counsellor win a family's trust, serve a student better, or run a stronger business, it belongs in PGP. Partners who sign in today will get early access to new features.

Crizac partners can sign in to PGP at Link using their existing partner account. Counselling partners new to Crizac can register using the same link.

About Crizac Limited

Crizac Limited is an AI-native student mobility platform partnering with international universities and education counsellors globally, with 450+ institutions across the UK, Canada, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, the USA, and Europe. Headquartered in Kolkata and listed on the NSE and BSE, Crizac is committed to ethical recruitment and tech-driven student success.

Disclaimer

Statements in this release about Crizac's future plans and direction, including the development of PGP and its work in technology and AI, are forward-looking, reflect current expectations, and are subject to change. They are not guarantees of any specific feature, offering, or timeline.

Loyola Institute of Business Administration (LIBA)

Elaborating on the exclusive opportunity and the gradual increase in numbers, Rev. Dr C. Joe Arun, SJ, Director of LIBA, stated, “We have consistently seen interest from students whose parents are working in the Gulf, and this year the level of enquiries around the CIWG category has been particularly encouraging. For eligible candidates, the category provides an opportunity to explore LIBA’s PGDM programme while availing themselves of the applicable domestic fee structure, subject to the prescribed eligibility and admission criteria.”

LIBA, a Jesuit business school in Chennai, combines industry-oriented management education with its philosophy of “Excellence with Ethics”. Its experiential approach to learning has also attracted students from Indian families based overseas, including the Gulf region. Students admitted under the CIWG category account for approximately 15% of each PGDM batch.

“Over the last few years, we have seen growing interest from students from Gulf-based Indian families. Many of these students have already completed or are pursuing their undergraduate education in India, making a PGDM a natural next step as they prepare for careers in a competitive global business environment,” added Rev. Dr. C. Joe Arun, SJ.

While candidates under the CIWG category are required to meet the prescribed eligibility and admission criteria, including applicable entrance-test requirements, the category provides eligible children of Gulf-based Indians with a distinct pathway to apply to LIBA’s PGDM programme. Final selection remains subject to the institution’s admission process and verification of the required documents.

Admissions for LIBA’s 2027–29 PGDM programme are now open. Eligible students interested in exploring the CIWG category can contact LIBA’s admissions team for information on eligibility, documentation and the application process. Further details are available at LIBA’s official website.

About LIBA

A Jesuit business school, LIBA (Loyola Institute of Business Administration) is known for its industry-oriented approach to management education, combining academic rigour with experiential learning. Its Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) programme is designed to equip aspiring business leaders with the knowledge, skills and ethical perspective needed to navigate a dynamic global business environment. Guided by its philosophy of “Excellence with Ethics”, LIBA continues to nurture responsible leaders who can create meaningful impact across industries.

The International Safety Awards are a globally recognised accolade celebrating organisations that demonstrate a strong commitment to high standards of health, safety and wellbeing management. The 2027 awards mark the 69th year of the programme.

Launching the 2027 International Safety Awards, Mike Robinson, Chief Executive of British Safety Council, said, “British Safety Council’s International Safety Awards have long been recognised by leaders and practitioners as a pinnacle of achievement, celebrating outstanding commitment to protecting and improving the health, safety and wellbeing of workers."

“At British Safety Council, our vision is that no one should be injured or made ill through their work, anywhere in the world. I encourage organisations and leaders everywhere who are proud of their health, safety and wellbeing record to put themselves forward for an award.”

In 2026, a total of 885 applications were received for the International Safety Awards; with 95% of applicants successfully achieving a Distinction, Merit or Pass grade.

A full list of 2026 winners can be found here.

Organisations can also be recognised as ‘best in class’ across five award categories:

• Sector Awards recognise the highest-scoring ‘best in class’ submissions to the International Safety Awards by industry sector.

• Best in Country Awards recognise the highest-scoring and best overall applications from individual countries, where there are sufficient applications from that country.

• Best in Company Award recognises organisations with 50 or more participating sites, highlighting the site or sites with the most outstanding applications.

• Chief Adjudicator’s Award recognises the most outstanding applications from the year’s entrants, based on evidence submitted through their application responses.

• People Awards introduced last year, the People Awards are open to all Indian organisations that purchase an entry to the International Safety Awards. Applicants can enter across three categories.

• Site/Plant Head Award recognises efforts to improve the overall health, safety and wellbeing culture of an organisation or site.

• Emerging Female Star in Safety Award recognises women who are breaking through and shaping future leadership in health, safety, wellbeing or environmental management.

• Lifetime Achievement Award recognises an individual who has made an outstanding contribution to workplace health, safety and wellbeing throughout their career.

The following awards are free to enter, whether or not applicants have applied for an International Safety Award:

• Road Safety Initiative: recognises efforts by an organisation to improve road safety through the positive impact of new initiatives.

• India Managing Director Award: recognises efforts to improve overall health, safety and wellbeing culture, with an emphasis on demonstrated leadership across the organisation.

• Dave Parr Medal: recognises a public venue that developed a standout initiative in 2025 that made a significant impact on health, safety or wellbeing at the venue.

• Environmental Award: recognises an organisation that has used climate-change risk assessment and vulnerability modelling to identify and plan adaptation strategies for a changing climate.

• The Innovation in Health Award in collaboration with HSE: This new award recognises pioneering initiatives that have made a significant and measurable impact on preventing work-related health issues in the workplace or across an industry.

• Health, Safety and Wellbeing Ambassador of the Year Award: recognises an employee who has played a significant role in supporting the health, safety and wellbeing of colleagues and others.

• Lifetime Achievement Award: voted for by the Trustees of British Safety Council, this award recognises people who have made an outstanding contribution to workplace health, safety and wellbeing throughout their career.

• Rising Female Star Award in collaboration with SOWSHE-A: recognises women who are breaking through and shaping future leadership in health, safety, wellbeing or environmental management.

• Seize the Opportunity Award: recognises organisations that have gone the extra mile to identify and act on health, safety or wellbeing opportunities arising from a crisis.

• CEO Award: recognises the leadership and strategic vision of CEOs who have made a vital contribution to the health, safety and wellbeing of their business and wider society during 2025.

• The James Tye Award: recognises an organisation or team that developed and ran a campaign in 2025 which made a significant impact on health, safety or wellbeing in the workplace.

• Team of the Year Award: recognises outstanding achievements that have led to a significant improvement in health, safety or wellbeing through collaboration among stakeholders, which may include employees, suppliers, subcontractors or the wider community.

• Wellbeing Initiative Award: recognises organisations that demonstrate a proactive and effective approach to improving employee wellbeing.

The early-bird pricing deadline for applications is 02 November 2026, while the final deadline for entries is 01 February 2027. Results will be announced on 19 March 2027. 

To apply, visit: International Safety Awards | British Safety Council India

In Picture: Conference participants, and staff from TBS and UCL
 

The conference welcomed heads of schools and educational leaders from international, CBSE and ICSE schools to examine the cultural dynamics that shape how teachers, students and communities experience school life. The programme combined interactive activities and hands-on experiences with research-based insights, alongside dedicated opportunities for self-reflection.
 

A key theme emerging from the conference was the role of school leaders in shaping environments where teachers can thrive and do their best for students. The programme encouraged participants to engage with complex challenges facing school leaders, exchange perspectives with peers and connect research-based insights with the realities of their own school communities.
 

“Over the past few days, we’ve grappled with challenging issues facing leaders in schools globally and here in India. Our participants have brought such passion and purpose to the conference and there’s been a huge amount of shared learning. A key takeaway from the conference has been that there are no easy answers but that leaders play a decisive role in creating the culture and conditions in which teachers are able to thrive and do their best for students,” said Greg Ross, Director, Global Development of Educational Leadership, UCL Centre for Educational Leadership.

Vanita Uppal OBE, Director, The British School New Delhi said, “The three-day Leadership Development Conference, led by experts from the UCL Centre for Educational Leadership in partnership with The British School New Delhi, brought together educational leaders from across the country. The deliberations focused on the opportunities and challenges faced by leaders in developing brave and resilient organisational cultures where educators thrive and human flourishing is the key objective. Inspirational and thought-provoking, the discussions will hopefully cascade through learning communities across the country.”
 

In Picture: Gregory Ross, Programme Director, Global Development of Educational Leadership, UCL Institute of Education, taking a session during the conference
 

The conference brought together The British School New Delhi’s experience as one of the top international schools in India with the expertise of the UCL Centre for Educational Leadership. The project was supported by UCL Global Engagement, which is following its development closely.
 

The conference provided participants with fresh perspectives on leadership and the complexities of introducing change within different school contexts. Through research-informed sessions and discussions with fellow educational leaders, delegates had the opportunity to challenge existing assumptions, explore context-specific approaches to change and reflect on how they could apply their learning to their own leadership journeys.
 

The Leadership Development Conference reflects a shared commitment to supporting educational leaders as they navigate the cultural and organisational factors that influence school communities and shape the experiences of teachers and students.
 

About University College London (UCL)
UCL is a global top 10 university, set up in London 200 years ago to offer education for all. Today, we gather 60,000 staff and students, from over 150 countries, to create a unique city within a city – a research and innovation powerhouse that leads the world in subjects spanning the arts, sciences, technology and the humanities. We’ve nurtured 33 Nobel Prize winners, because here, brave ideas have the scale and the support they need to succeed. We are University College London. And here, it can happen. The UCL Institute of Education (IOE) is the world’s leading school of education and social science. In the 2026 QS subject rankings, the IOE was placed first in the world for education for the 13th consecutive year. 

For more information, please visit ucl.ac.uk.
 

About The British School New Delhi
The British School New Delhi is an inclusive, not-for-profit international school located in the heart of the diplomatic area of New Delhi. Founded in 1963 by the then British High Commissioner and his wife, the award-winning school offers high-quality education to British, expatriate and local families by drawing on the best facets of a rich and culturally diverse community. 

For more information, please visit www.british-school.org.

Ekya Vana Early Years, Haralur, Bengaluru - a nature-inspired space where children learn through exploration, play and connection with nature

Haralur is the programme’s third Bengaluru campus, following its centres in RMV Sanjay Nagar and Manyata Tech Park. The campus extends Ekya Vana Early Years’ nature-based approach to early childhood education in south-east Bengaluru.

The campus landscape includes mango, guava, chikoo, banana, coconut and pomegranate trees, alongside a butterfly garden where children can observe and engage with the natural environment.. Spaces such as the mud kitchen, nature workshop, eco lab and indoor atelier support hands-on exploration, creative expression and learning through experience.

As part of its planned eco-initiatives, the campus will also introduce a biopond. Once developed, it will give children opportunities to observe fish and explore how aquatic life interacts with plants and other elements of an ecosystem, helping them understand how different living things depend on one another.

At the heart of the programme is Earth Sense, an approach rooted in the belief that children are part of the natural world. Through its People & Planet and Earth Care pathways, Ekya Vana Early Years encourages children to explore their relationship with nature. The programme aims to make sustainability tangible through observation, inquiry and hands-on experiences, helping children understand how living systems are connected and why care for the environment matters.

“At Ekya Vana Early Years, we want children to grow up seeing nature not as something outside their lives, but as part of the world they belong to. In the early years, even simple experiences of observing a butterfly, exploring soil or noticing how plants grow can shape the way children relate to their surroundings. That connection is where we believe a lasting sense of care for the natural world begins,” said Dr. Tristha Ramamurthy, Founder, Ekya Schools.

Parents are invited to participate in sessions around food, nutrition and nature, creating opportunities to engage with the ideas that shape the programme.

The Haralur campus was unveiled at an event on September 19, attended by parents, prospective families and early childhood educators. The launch was also attended by Dr. K.C. Ramamurthy, IPS (Retd.), Chairman of the CMR Group of Institutions and CMR University, and former Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha), and Dr. Sabitha Ramamurthy, President of CMR Jnanadhara Trust and Chancellor of CMR University.

Admissions are open for children aged 18 months to 6 years. The campus is located at  10th, 13/57, Shubh Enclave, main, Haralur Main Rd, off Sarjapur Main Road, Haralur, Kasavanahalli, Bengaluru, Karnataka. 

About Ekya Vana Early Years

Ekya Vana Early Years is the nature-based preschool and daycare programme from Ekya Schools, part of the CMR Group of Institutions. Founded in 2025, it offers early learning for children aged 18 months to 6 years across three Bengaluru campuses: RMV Sanjay Nagar, Manyata Tech Park and Haralur.

Its Earth Sense approach encourages children to develop a connection with the natural world through curiosity, exploration and hands-on learning. Through its People & Planet and Earth Care pathways, the programme introduces children to ideas of interdependence, care and environmental responsibility from their earliest years.

As an organization that helps businesses and professionals build skills in cloud, AI, and emerging technologies, CloudThat believes that its commitment to capability building must begin from within. The company has created a culture where continuous development, knowledge sharing, and career growth are embedded into everyday work.
 

CloudThat has been recognized again as a Great Place to Work®-Certified organization in India
 

CloudThat's culture of knowledge-sharing is reflected in the fact that nearly one in four employees is a certified technical trainer, enabling them to contribute expertise across teams while delivering greater value to customers. During FY 2025–26, 52 employees advanced through internal career opportunities, reflecting the company’s focus on enabling growth from within.
 

To support long-term career development, CloudThat has implemented a structured Career Architecture Framework that helps employees understand the skills, capabilities, and opportunities required to progress across roles and career levels. The company also maintains regular leadership engagement through town halls, open conversations, and feedback channels that encourage transparency and collaboration.

The company's people-first culture is reflected in its employees' strong sense of identity and belonging. Employees proudly identify themselves as "CTzens," a term that reflects ownership, collaboration, and community across the organisation.
 

“As a company that helps organizations build future-ready talent, we believe that commitment must begin with our own people,” said Bhavesh Goswami, Founder and CEO of CloudThat. “Earning Great Place To Work® Certification for the second consecutive year reflects the trust our employees place in us. We’ll continue investing in opportunities that empower every CTzen to expand their capabilities, take ownership of their growth, and build a meaningful long-term career.”
 

CloudThat also supports employee well-being and connection through flexible work arrangements, wellness initiatives, sports activities, cultural celebrations, recognition programs, and family-focused events. Over the past year, CloudThat presented 154 awards through company-wide appreciation and rewards initiatives, recognizing employees for their contributions, achievements, and commitment to excellence.

“A strong culture is shaped by employees’ everyday experiences and the support they can access,” said Narendra Babu, CHRO at CloudThat. “We use employee feedback to understand where we’re making progress and where we can do better. This recognition encourages us to keep listening and to strengthen a workplace built on growth, trust, and empathy.”
 

As CloudThat continues to expand its global training and consulting footprint, the company remains committed to fostering an environment where employees can continuously build skills, drive innovation, and shape the future of technology learning.

About CloudThat

CloudThat is a global technology training and consulting company founded in 2012 and headquartered in Bengaluru. The company helps organizations and professionals build capabilities across cloud, AI, data, DevOps, cybersecurity, and other emerging technologies. CloudThat works with leading technology providers, including AWS, Microsoft, and Google Cloud, and has trained more than 1.1 million professionals while delivering training and consulting engagements across 30+ countries.

Distinguished experts at WECON 2026, hosted by Chitkara University, to advance conversations on engineering, artificial intelligence, and emerging technologies

Held on the theme “AI Technologies for Societal and Industrial Transformation,” the conference explored how emerging AI technologies can address real-world challenges and create meaningful impact across industry, society, research, education and emerging technology ecosystems.

WECON 2026 was supported by the DST-sponsored Technology Enabling Centre at Chitkara University (CU-TEC), reinforcing the conference's focus on translating emerging technologies and research into meaningful applications for industry and society.

The two-day conference featured around 15 expert talks by distinguished speakers from leading academic institutions, national research laboratories and industry. Experts and professors from institutions including IITs, NITs, CSIR-CSIO and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, along with professionals from leading technology companies, shared perspectives on the latest developments, opportunities and challenges in Artificial Intelligence. Discussions placed particular emphasis on real-world applications and the transformative potential of AI.

The conference witnessed participation from across India and abroad, bringing together academicians, researchers, industry professionals, technology experts and innovators. International participation from the United Kingdom, Australia and Germany added diverse global perspectives to the discussions. HTWG Konstanz – University of Applied Sciences, Germany, served as the international partner, strengthening opportunities for global academic collaboration, knowledge exchange and future joint engagement.

The discussions moved beyond technological advancement to examine the responsible, sustainable and human-centric adoption of AI. Participants explored emerging trends and opportunities across sectors, while identifying potential avenues for collaboration between industry and academia, researchers and technology leaders, and institutions in India and abroad.

Reflecting on the evolution of WECON, Dr. Madhu Chitkara, President and Co-Founder, Chitkara University, said, “For me, WECON’s evolution represents something very important — an institution must never stand still. It must continuously respond to new technologies, new opportunities and, most importantly, the changing needs of society and industry. The journey of WECON reflects that spirit.”

Over the years, WECON has evolved beyond the conventional academia-driven conference format into a curated platform for dialogue and collaboration among academia, industry, researchers, technology leaders and innovators. WECON 2026 further strengthened this approach by creating opportunities for participants to exchange knowledge, identify emerging trends and explore potential collaborations in AI and related technologies.

WECON 2026 reinforced Chitkara University’s commitment to strengthening industry–academia engagement, advancing research and innovation, and building global partnerships in emerging technologies. The conference also reflected the University's broader efforts to create internationally connected platforms that facilitate knowledge exchange and encourage technology-led transformation.

The two-day conference concluded with a renewed emphasis on collaboration, responsible innovation and translating AI research and expertise into meaningful solutions for industry and society.

About Chitkara University

Chitkara University is a UGC-recognised and NAAC-accredited private university in North India, with campuses in Punjab and Himachal Pradesh, offering career-oriented undergraduate and postgraduate programs in Engineering, Business, Healthcare, Pharmacy, Design, Architecture, Hospitality and emerging technology fields. For Class 11 and 12 students planning higher education, the University provides industry-aligned programs designed to combine academic excellence with practical exposure.

The curriculum emphasises experiential learning through internships, industry projects, research opportunities and global collaborations, supported by modern infrastructure, advanced laboratories, industry mentorship and skill-based training that strengthens student employability. Backed by 2,000+ campus recruiters and 300+ international academic and industry collaborations, students gain strong placement support, international exposure, academic exchange and collaborative research opportunities.

Consistently ranked among leading institutions by national and global frameworks such as NIRF, QS World University Rankings and Times Higher Education, the University maintains high academic rigour and industry relevance. With strong corporate partnerships and a focus on innovation, entrepreneurship and interdisciplinary learning, it prepares students for emerging career opportunities in India and abroad.

For more information, please visit: www.chitkara.edu.in.

Prof. S Sreenivasa Murthy, Director, IPE (Centre), Prof. Rama Krishna Yelamanchiili (left) and Prof. M Meher Karuna (right) on the occasion of Poster and Information brochure launch

Prof. (Dr.) S Sreenivasa Murthy, Director, IPE, released the poster and brochure alongside Prof. (Dr.) Y Rama Krishna, Dean, Admissions and Branding, and Prof. (Dr.) M Meher Karuna, Dean, Academics. The Director also unveiled the revamped admissions webpage and released promotional reels made by PGDM students.

Six PGDM programmes, each with its own strength

Established in 1964 and working under the aegis of the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR), Ministry of Education, Government of India, IPE offers six different two-year full-time PGDM programmes. These are approved by AICTE, accredited by NBA and SAQS, and accorded MBA equivalence by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU). IPE is also a member of AACSB.

The PGDM (General) programme, offered since 1995, builds strong skills across all core areas of management in the first year and adds specialised skills through dual electives in the second year. PGDM (Marketing Management), offered since 2007, combines sales, digital marketing, brand management and consumer psychology with live projects that turn consumer insight into marketing strategy. PGDM (Banking and Financial Services), offered since 2008, gives students 50+ finance-related credits and hands-on work with financial databases such as Bloomberg and ProwessIQ. PGDM (International Business), offered since 2009, takes students on international study tours and port and industry visits to destinations such as Europe, Dubai and Malaysia for first-hand exposure to global markets. PGDM (Human Resource Management), offered since 2012, prepares students for people-management roles through mentoring, live HR projects and extended industry engagements. PGDM (Business Analytics), the institute’s newest programme, offered since 2024, trains students as business analysts by imparting hands-on training in SQL, Python, R, Power BI and Tableau, along with predictive analytics, machine learning and artificial intelligence.

IPE also offers the Fellow Programme in Management (FPM), a doctoral-level programme for first-class Master’s graduates. Selection is through qualification in NET / CAT, a research proposal and interview, and selected candidates receive an IPE fellowship.

Admission process and scholarships

Applicants need to possess a bachelor’s degree from a UGC recognised institution with at least 50 per cent marks (45 per cent for SC, ST and PC candidates). Valid scores in CAT, XAT, MAT, CMAT, ATMA, GMAT or TGICET are accepted. Shortlisted candidates go through a psychometric test, a short essay, a group discussion and a personal interview.

Students can register and appear for upcoming management entrance tests that dates include CAT on November 29, 2026; MAT on December 20 and 27, 2026; XAT on January 3, 2027; and CMAT on February 7, 2027. IPE offers merit scholarships of up to Rs. 6 lakhs and sports and arts scholarships of up to Rs. 4 Lakhs. A special scholarship is available for students from the Northeastern states, Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.

Management education builds careers and leaders

Prof. S Sreenivasa Murthy, Director, IPE, said, “Management education must combine academic rigour with professional relevance. In a fast-changing economy, a good programme gives young people the judgement, skills and confidence to lead organisations and build careers that keep growing. He suggested prospective students to look at the legacy of IPE, its commitment to quality education and infrastructure and then decide to join the IPE.”

Talent should not be turned away for lack of means

Prof. (Dr.) Y Rama Krishna, Dean, Admissions and Branding, said, “We want merit students to join IPE regardless of their financial background. Our program fee is Rs. 9 lakhs for two years and all eligible and merit students will get scholarship ranging from Rs. 60,000 to Rs. 2 Lakhs. Our merit scholarships of up to Rs. 2 Lakhs and sports and cultural scholarships of up to Rs. 4 Lakhs recognise achievement inside and outside the classroom, and our special scholarship supports students from the Northeast, Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. In addition, for limited merit students IPE offers complete tuition fee waiver worth Rs. 6 lakhs.”

Placement preparation begins in the first year

Prof. (Dr.) M Meher Karuna, Dean, Academics, said: “Our placement results come from steady preparation over two years. Group discussions, interviews, resume building and communication training are part of the curriculum from the first year. Live projects, guest sessions and internships enable students meet industry well before they join it. More than 100 companies visit our campus every year, and recruiters tell us our graduates arrive ready to perform from day one on the job.”

Placements and campus

Each year more than 100 companies visit IPE for campus recruitment. IPE’s recent packages range from Rs. 5 lakh per annum at the lowest to a median of about Rs. 8 lakh and a highest of Rs. 23.5 lakh. Prominent Recruiters include Deloitte, PwC, TCS, Wipro, Oracle, Federal Bank, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Wells Fargo, S&P Global, FactSet, DE Shaw, Colgate Palmolive, Heritage Foods, Amul, Dr. Reddy’s, Birla Opus, Tata Power, Naukri, Apple etc,

The 22-acre green campus at Shamirpet has digitally equipped classrooms with lecture-capture technology and a library of nearly one lakh books with access to premium research databases. Students can earn SAP and Bloomberg certifications at no additional cost. About 1,100 students study on campus, which has air-conditioned hostels, an indoor stadium, a FIFA-standard football ground and a yoga and wellness centre.

How to apply

Applications are open at admissions.ipeindia.org. Additional information is available at www.ipeindia.org. Call the toll-free number 1800-120-4473.

Launch of ASICS Running Club (ARC) in Chennai

With a growing presence across India, the ASICS Running Club is now extending its community to Chennai, bringing runners together through regular training, group runs and coaching support. The club will give runners in the city a dedicated space to build consistency, train together and progress across different stages of their running journey.
 

The Freshworks Chennai Marathon will take place on January 3, 2027, marking its 15th edition. Powered by Chennai Runners, the marathon brings together runners across four race categories: the Full Marathon, Twenty Miler, Half Marathon and 10K. As Official Sports Goods Partner, ASICS will engage with runners through the race build-up and event weekend. From ARC training sessions, promotional runs, marathon expo to ASICS House, the partnership will bring the brand closer to participants, with ASICS athletes and coaches also joining the event. The association reflects ASICS’ belief in the role of movement in physical and mental well-being, rooted in its founding philosophy of ‘Sound Mind, Sound Body’, while strengthening its presence within India’s growing running culture.
 

Rajat Khurana, Managing Director, ASICS India & South Asia and Executive Officer, ASICS Corporation, said, “The growth of running culture in India reflects a broader shift in how people are approaching fitness and well-being, with the sport becoming an increasingly important part of everyday life. Chennai has a strong foundation in this culture, and the Freshworks Chennai Marathon has played an important role in bringing runners together over the years. For ASICS, our partnership with the marathon and the launch of ARC Chennai are an opportunity to deepen our roots in the city and support runners through regular training, progression and community. It is an extension of our ‘Sound Mind, Sound Body’ philosophy and our belief in the role that movement plays in helping people lead healthier, more active lives.”

Commenting on the partnership, Chandrasekar M, Race Director, Freshworks Chennai Marathon 2027, said, “Our partnership with ASICS is a natural extension of the Freshworks Chennai Marathon’s commitment to strengthening the culture of running in Chennai. ASICS brings a strong performance heritage and a deep understanding of what drives runners, making it a natural partner for an event that has grown alongside the city’s running culture. As we enter our 15th edition, this association adds further strength to the marathon and reinforces our shared ambition to make running more accessible, engaging and rewarding for participants. We look forward to building on this partnership and contributing to the continued growth of running in Chennai.”

The partnership with the Freshworks Chennai Marathon and the launch of ARC Chennai mark another step in ASICS’ growing presence within India’s running culture. Together, the initiatives deepen the brand’s roots in Chennai and reflect its continued focus on building stronger connections with runners through both participation and community.

About ASICS
Anima Sana In Corpore Sano, meaning ‘A Sound Mind in a Sound Body’, is an old Latin phrase from which ASICS is derived and the fundamental platform on which the brand still stands. The company was founded in 1949, more than 70 years ago by Kihachiro Onitsuka and is now a leading designer and manufacturer of running shoes, as well as athletic and Sport Style-inspired footwear, apparel, and accessories.
 

ASICS currently has 150 stores across India. More details can be found at www.asics.com/in/en-in/store-locator
 

For more information, visit www.asics.com/in/en-in

Neeraj Tulsyan, Founder Hubble Money

The partnership brings together TimBuckDo’s student community and Hubble’s digital ecosystem, with both companies looking to create more meaningful experiences and opportunities for students.

Commenting on the partnership, Mythri Kumar, Co-Founder & CEO, TimBuckDo, said, “Creating earning and gig opportunities is one part of the experience we want to build for students. As a student-first company, we also believe in understanding and addressing the everyday needs and wants of this community. Through our partnership with Hubble, we can now bring relevant student discounts and offers to our users, giving them more value beyond the opportunities they find on TimBuckDo. For us, being student-first means not just helping students earn, but also helping them make the most of what they earn.”

Commenting on the partnership, Mayank, Founder, Hubble said, "Students are India's next generation of earners and spenders. Partnering with TimBuckDo lets us bring 500+ brands to over 700,000 students at the exact moment they earn. That is what rewards infrastructure is built for."

Mayank Bishnoi, Founder, Hubble Money

Hubble provides digital infrastructure for businesses across customer engagement, incentives and rewards-led programmes.

TimBuckDo is a Bangalore-based consumer tech company building the Pink Collar Economy through its network of verified, educated college students, or “Doers,” who address everyday household and business needs across India. Backed by Rukam Capital, Turbostart, Arjun Vaidya and Anupam Bansal, TimBuckDo has partnered with organisations including Decathlon, ONDC and Aditya Birla.

The partnership brings together TimBuckDo’s growing Doer community and Hubble’s ecosystem, while laying the foundation for future initiatives that can create additional value for students.

About TimBuckDo

TimBuckDo is Bangalore-based consumer tech building the Pink Collar Economy, an organised, on-demand layer of verified, educated college students ("Doers") solving everyday household and business convenience needs across India.

Every modern household has everyday needs like pet care, errands, child support, elder support, personal styling and shopping assistance, home management support, and quick business help, that call for educated, on-demand, flexible manpower beyond the traditional house-help or blue-collar labour category. TimBuckDo is that place.

The brand promise: "There's a Doer for that." Whatever the task, there's a verified, educated Doer ready to take it on, making everyday convenience simple, dependable, and just a tap away.

Backed by Rukam Capital, Turbostart, angel investors Arjun Vaidya and Anupam Bansal, and partnered with organisations including Decathlon, ONDC and Aditya Birla.

Website: www.timbuckdo.com

About Hubble

Hubble is a rewards and loyalty infrastructure platform based in India. Through its plug-and-play SDK and API, Hubble enables digital platforms to embed rewards stores and gift card programmes, with access to a catalogue of 500+ brands across 20+ categories, including food, fashion, travel, and entertainment.

Integrations can go live in under a week, and over 1,200 companies use Hubble to run rewards, incentives, and engagement programmes.

Website: www.myhubble.money

Instagram: @hubblemoney

MediaTek collaborates with ThinkStartup to launch ‘Future Minds’ CSR initiative

Powered by ThinkStartup and the Management & Entrepreneurship and Professional Skills Council (MEPSC), the initiative is designed for students in Classes 8 to 12. It will be rolled out across government and foundation-supported communities including Eklavya Model Residential Schools, Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas and PM Shri Schools. 

The comprehensive program provides school students with a structured curriculum covering ideation, business fundamentals and finance. Alongside the core coursework, participants will benefit from live masterclasses hosted by IIT alumni founders, a guided TS Idea Lab, and monthly pitch days to refine their concepts. The initiative will culminate in May 2027 with a national showcase of student-led entrepreneurial ventures, coinciding with MediaTek's 30th anniversary globally. 

"MediaTek's business is built on enabling ideas to become technology that reaches a billion devices," said Anku Jain, Managing Director, MediaTek India. "Future Minds extends that same belief to 6,000 young minds from underprivileged and government schools across 30 states, giving them the tools to turn their own ideas into ventures. Nurturing young builders is what MediaTek has always stood for, and initiatives like this naturally support India’s journey toward a Viksit Bharat."

Mr. Sanjeeva Shivesh, Co-founder, ThinkStartup, added, "At ThinkStartup, we have always believed entrepreneurship is an essential life skill. MediaTek wanted an intervention that could be rolled out at a national scale, reaching youth from underprivileged backgrounds, and our eSchool platform fit perfectly with that vision. Over the next year, we will provide teenagers in Class 8 to 12 the chance to learn, build and pitch real ideas with real mentorship. We are grateful to MediaTek for backing this program, and we are hoping our youngsters will inspire the world with a slew of innovative solutions that take India forward." 

As the initiative begins its phased rollout across the country, it marks a significant step in democratizing entrepreneurship education. The MediaTek Future Minds program reinforces the company's broader commitment to digital inclusion and youth empowerment in India. 

The regional ‘Campus to Career’ Challenge brought together 133 students from Kerala, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Pune and Gujarat, who applied project leadership skills to real-world challenges, including waste segregation and sustainability awareness. Five top-performing students presented their solutions at the Project Management South Asia Conference (PMSAC26) in Bengaluru, presenting their work to project professionals and leaders from India and around the world. Additionally, four students gained global exposure at the PMI  Global Leadership Institute Meeting (LIM) in Seoul, taking their experiences beyond the classroom and into the global project management community.

Students at PMI, Leadership Institute Meeting 2026 in Seoul, South Korea

The initiative gave students a hands-on experience in solving problems rooted in their local communities. Students tackled sustainability and waste management challenges, identifying problems, mapping stakeholders, assessing risks and constraints, developing implementation plans and considering how outcomes could be measured. Students from Presidency University, Bengaluru, explored reducing groundwater dependency through integrated water resource management; L.D. College of Engineering, Ahmedabad, developed a structured waste segregation initiative; while SMEF’s Brick School of Architecture, Pune, focused on building sustainable habits among school children.

Amit Goyal, Managing Director, South Asia, PMI, said, “The transition from campus to the workplace requires students to move beyond theoretical knowledge and develop the confidence to navigate ambiguity, collaborate with stakeholders and deliver outcomes. Through the Campus-to-Career Challenge, we are creating opportunities for students to experience these realities early in their journey. By combining practical problem solving with mentoring, leadership development and exposure to the project management community, we aim to help young talent build capabilities that will remain relevant across industries and geographies. Our focus is to strengthen the connection between academia and the professional world while preparing the next generation of project leaders.”

Reflecting on the experience, Abhin. A, a student leader from the PMI-DUK Student Club at Kerala University of Digital Sciences, Innovation and Technology, said: “The Asia Pacific-South Asia Leadership Institute Meeting 2026 was a transformative experience that broadened my understanding of leadership, student engagement and community building. Representing PMI Kerala Chapter and PMI-DUK Student Club on an international platform gave me the opportunity to learn from diverse perspectives and connect with PMI leaders and student members across the region. The experience strengthened my confidence and inspired me to create more mentoring, leadership and collaboration opportunities within our student community.”

The challenge demonstrated how project leadership can help translate local needs into practical solutions, with students navigating collaboration, stakeholder expectations, changing assumptions and execution constraints. Participation from Kerala, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Pune and Gujarat also brought diverse regional perspectives to the programme. Through global professional platforms such as the PMI Leadership Institute Meeting in Seoul and PMSAC26, students can take their experiences addressing real-world challenges beyond the classroom, gaining exposure to diverse perspectives and a broader understanding of how project leadership can be applied across different contexts.

With over 25 student clubs and 1,800+ student members  across South Asia, PMI offers students an opportunity to learn, lead, and enhance project management skills for their careers. Students can join as PMI Student Members and become part of an existing Student Club, while universities interested in starting a new club can apply through the PMI Student Club program on projectmanagement.com.

PMI hosted the 18th annual PMSAC26 on 3 October in Bengaluru, bringing together more than 800 project leaders and representatives from over 180 organisations under the theme “MORE, Together: Future-Ready in the Age of AI.

About Project Management Institute (PMI)

PMI is the leading authority in project success. Since 1969, PMI has shone a light on the people and advanced practices behind successful projects. Supported by a global community of millions of project professionals and by thousands of corporations, government agencies and academic institutions, PMI provides the knowledge, resources and certifications to lead projects and transformations effectively and responsibly. Join PMI in elevating our world – one project at a time. Connect with us at www.pmi.org, linkedin.com/company/projectmanagementinstitute, on Instagram @pmi_org, and on TikTok @PMInstitute.

PMI Trademarks

Project Management Institute and PMI are trademarks and/or registered marks of Project Management Institute, Inc., in the U.S., in India, and/or in other countries.

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*PMI South Asia market includes India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives and Afghanistan primarily.

Founding members and industry leaders at the launch of the Global Skills Mobility Association of India (GSMAI) in New Delhi on 12 October 2026

Established as a not-for-profit Section 8 company limited by guarantee, GSMAI aims to build trust and coordination across the systems connecting Indian talent with global employment opportunities.

Recruitment, skilling, language training and employer engagement have long operated in separate lanes. GSMAI brings together 17 organisations across these areas: Ambe International, Magic Billion, VFS Global, Learnet Skills, Dynamic Staffing Services, 2COMS, Quess Corp, BorderPlus, Virohan, TeamLease Services, TERN Group, Adecco, Randstad India, UDS, CENTA, LeverageEdu and AnywhereJobs. The association seeks to strengthen coordination across the global skills mobility value chain, building trusted pathways from training to international employment.

The launch comes as working-age populations in Japan, Germany and Italy shrink and demand for international talent grows. India is well placed to respond: for every person aged 50 or above, India has approximately 1.4 people under 18, about five times Japan's ratio and roughly four times Germany's. Realising this demographic advantage requires ethical recruitment, language readiness, recognised qualifications, worker protection and stronger international partnerships.

Shri Vikram Misri, IFS, Foreign Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, delivered the inaugural keynote and unveiled the GSMAI logo and website alongside the founding board.

Addressing the future of India's global skills mobility, Shri Vikram Misri said, “India’s skill mobility must not be treated as a one-way exit. We want our people to go abroad, experience, earn well, build networks and acquire technologies and return, or contribute to India from afar.”

The programme also featured a keynote by Shri Shashank Mani, Hon'ble Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha, and Chairperson of the Standing Committee on Labour, Textiles and Skill Development, Parliament of India, who highlighted "There is almost a need for 65 to 70 million people globally, and India has a surplus of professionals of the 40 million variety. This mismatch has to be answered by institutions which are bringing them together."underscoring the opportunity to connect India's talent and skilling capabilities with evolving global workforce needs.

Ajay Khanna, Founding Chair, GSMAI, emphasised collective industry action to translate global demand into trusted pathways for international employment. He said, "We can treat global skills mobility as a series of transactions, or approach it as a national responsibility. We can remain suppliers, or become partners. GSMAI gives us the opportunity to choose credibility over convenience and institution-building over improvisation."

Mayank Kumar, CEO border plus ​"I think most states are coming to terms that it's not a volume game, it's a quality game.”

Neeti Sharma, CEO Teamlease "Skill is the currency that we need. The most important thing is ethical circular mobility and for you to have ethical circular mobility with the skills and with the kind of demand that is there in the world, it has to be digitally credentialised."

GSMAI's opportunity extends beyond connecting workers with overseas jobs. It lies in strengthening the systems linking workers seeking rewarding careers, employers seeking the right skills and countries addressing workforce needs. Better coordination across recruitment, training, qualification recognition and international partnerships can make mobility more transparent, responsible and mutually beneficial.

The launch also featured a diplomatic and industry dialogue on trusted talent corridors. Embassy representatives from Germany, Italy, Denmark and Switzerland joined industry leaders to discuss workforce demand, employer expectations, qualification recognition, language training, ethical recruitment and pathways connecting local skilling with overseas employment.

The state-level dimension was reflected in partnerships with the Governments of Maharashtra and Odisha, represented by Smt. Manisha Verma, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary, SEEID, Government of Maharashtra, and Shri Bhupendra Singh Poonia, IAS, Commissioner-cum-Secretary, Government of Odisha, respectively. These collaborations aim to connect state-level talent and skilling initiatives with international employment opportunities.

Going forward, GSMAI will focus on ethical recruitment, market intelligence, amplifying the industry's collective voice and connecting recruiters, employers, training providers, governments and international partners. These priorities aim to strengthen trust and align skills development with international workforce requirements.

GSMAI's long-term ambition is to position India not merely as a source of global talent, but as a trusted partner in meeting the world's evolving workforce needs—creating opportunity for Indian workers, confidence for global employers and lasting value for countries on both sides of the mobility corridor.

Drawing a parallel with India's IT story, Arnab Bhattacharya, CEO, GATI Foundation, said, "In 1988, India's IT industry gave itself a name and a voice. It grew into a $315 billion industry employing 5.95 million people. Global skills mobility is at that same moment today. India has the young workforce and the world has the demand. What has been missing is an industry that can speak with one voice."

The launch marks the beginning of a collective effort to make global skills mobility more trusted, transparent and accessible, turning India's talent advantage into a lasting global opportunity.

About GSMAI

The Global Skills Mobility Association of India (GSMAI) is a not-for-profit Section 8 company limited by guarantee established to strengthen India's global skills mobility ecosystem. It brings together organisations across recruitment, skilling, language training and workforce mobility to bridge the gaps between talent, skills and global workforce demand through industry collaboration and trusted international partnerships.

Sukanta Parida, Director, Admissions & Marketing at Centurion University of Technology and Management (CUTM)

The recognition highlights Parida’s contribution to admissions strategy, institutional outreach, industry-academia engagement and student-focused initiatives in the higher education sector.

Parida has been associated with Centurion University since 2019, when he joined as Head of Admissions. He currently leads initiatives covering admissions and student recruitment, marketing, institutional communication, physical and digital outreach, stakeholder engagement and industry academia partnerships.

During his tenure, the university’s student admissions increased from over 2,400 to more than 6,000. His work has included expanding student outreach through digital platforms, grassroots engagement and counselling, while strengthening interactions with schools, industry partners, government organisations and other stakeholders. Through the digital outreach and effective media planning the brand positioning from a regional brand to national brand happened in these years. The student recruitment from across country from all states. During this period, he has been able to initiate and effectively increase the international admissions from 10+ countries.

The recognition comes amid ongoing changes in India’s higher education sector, where institutions are increasingly focusing on employability, industry exposure, skill development, technology-enabled learning and student outcomes.

Speaking on the recognition, Sukanta Parida said, “I am deeply honoured to receive the Excellence in Higher Education Leadership 2026 recognition. I see this award as a reflection of the collective efforts of the institutions, colleagues, students, industry partners and stakeholders with whom I have had the opportunity to work throughout my professional journey. Higher education is undergoing a significant transformation, and I remain committed to contributing to an ecosystem that is more industry-connected, skill-oriented, inclusive and focused on meaningful student outcomes.”

Parida has more than 24 years of professional experience across education, technology, marketing, business development, skill development and entrepreneurship. Prior to his current leadership role at CUTM, he worked with organisations including ICFAI, HCL Learning, iNurture Education and ICA Edu Skills in areas including admission, branding, marketing, business development, leading profit centres, industry engagement and skill-based education.

His professional background also includes co-founding a software venture in 2002 that served more than 50 educational institutions across eastern India. 

The ‘Excellence in Higher Education Leadership 2026’ honour adds to his professional journey in the education sector, particularly in admissions, institutional outreach, industry engagement and student-centric higher education initiatives.

SKDRDP, led by  Dharmadhikari Dr Veerendra Heggade and Mathrushri Hemavathi V. Heggade, wins the Elaben Memorial Award 2025–26 for its commitment to women’s empowerment

The award recognises SKDRDP’s commitment to women’s empowerment, gender equality, and the creation of a safe, supportive, and women-friendly working environment under the guidance of Poojya Dharmasthala D. Veerendra Heggade and Mathrushri Hemavathi V. Heggade.

SKDRDP employs approximately 41,000 people, including 29,000 women, and provides women employees with training, career advancement opportunities, healthcare facilities, and annual health insurance coverage of Rs. 5 lakh. The organisation also facilitates transfers based on family needs and provides specialised training to address workplace safety and the prevention of sexual harassment.

Beyond employment, SKDRDP has played a significant role in strengthening women’s financial independence through its extensive self-help group network. Approximately 3.29 lakh women SHG members have achieved all-round development through 6,547 Mahila Jnana Vikas Kendras, while around 42 lakh women have accessed bank loans facilitated by the Trust to build sustainable livelihoods.

This prestigious recognition reaffirms SKDRDP’s unwavering commitment to women’s empowerment, inclusive development, financial independence, and social transformation.

A proud achievement for SKDRDP and a testament to the vision of Dharmasthala in empowering women and building a stronger society.

Prof. Ch Satish Kumar, VC, SRM AP and University leadership felicitating SRM AP faculty recognised among World Top 2% Scientists

The World’s Top 2% Scientists list is a prestigious global database compiled by researchers at Stanford University in collaboration with Elsevier and based on Scopus citation metrics. This recognition reflects the scholarly contributions of researchers across engineering, environmental sciences, mathematics, physics, chemistry, energy engineering, and interdisciplinary research. Their inclusion highlights the University’s growing research footprint and its ambition to strengthen its position as a research-intensive institution with global relevance.

Drawing from his own experience as a researcher, Prof. Ch Satish Kumar, Vice-Chancellor, SRM University–AP, underscored the effort behind every scientific publication and the need to prioritise research quality and long-term impact over numerical metrics alone. He encouraged the awardees to build on their achievements, pursue focused research agendas and contribute to the University’s long-term ambition of significantly increasing the number of globally recognised scientists.

During the felicitation ceremony held on campus, Prof. Soumitra Datta, Advisor, SRM Group, highlighted the centrality of knowledge creation to a university’s identity. He said, “A university is about knowledge creation.” He noted that recognising researchers celebrates their dedication while inspiring colleagues to pursue higher levels of academic and research excellence. He added that a strong intellectual core is fundamental to building an excellent university.

Dr Karthik Rajendran, Associate Dean of Quality Assurance and Rankings (QAR), highlighted the significance of the achievement in strengthening the University’s global standing. He noted that research impact contributes to institutional rankings and stressed the importance of international collaborations, globally relevant research and translating academic work into meaningful outcomes while upholding academic integrity.

Prof. Ranjit Thapa, Dean-Research, representing the research leadership, highlighted the growth from seven recognised researchers last year to 20 this year. He acknowledged the University leadership’s support in strengthening research and attracting academic talent, and expressed confidence that recognition would continue to grow in the coming years.

The 20 recognised faculty members include Prof. Rangabhashiyam Selvasembian, Dr Akash Balakrishnan, Dr Deblina Dutta, and Prof. Meththika Suharshini Vithanage in the research domain of Earth & Environmental Sciences; Dr Aditya Kumar Sahu, Dr Randhir Kumar, Dr Kshira Sagar Sahoo, Dr Prabhujit Mohapatra, and Prof. Saraju Mohanty in Information & Communication Technologies; Prof. Karthik Rajendran, Dr Vinodkumar Etacheri, Gunda Mohanakrishna, Prof. Lakshminarayana Polavarapu, and Prof. Upadrasta Ramamurty in Enabling & Strategic Technologies; Dr Sumit Kumar Mehta, Dr Basabendu Barman, and Prof. Yoshiyuki Kawazoe in Physics & Astronomy; Prof. Corrado Di Natale and Dr Sudip Pan in Chemistry; and Dr Pintu Bhunia in Mathematics & Statistics.

Dr Vinayak Kalluri, Registrar, noted that the recognition spans diverse research areas and encouraged the academic community to appreciate the distinct contributions researchers make within their respective disciplines. Deans, Directors and University leadership congratulated the honourees and emphasised that institutional recognition can motivate researchers to keep contributing meaningfully to their fields.

Sunny Varkey, Founder of Family First and the Varkey Foundation
 

That strong emphasis on family bonding extends across generations. Seventy-six per cent of children say they would like to spend more time with their grandparents – the highest percentage globally – while 85% of parents say they spend time with their own parents at least once a week, and 65% say they do so every day, both the highest percentages of all countries surveyed. Yet despite this strong commitment to family life, only 22% of Indian children say they are satisfied with the amount of quality family time they have – the lowest percentage of all countries surveyed.

The findings come from the world’s first global intergenerational study of family bonding, surveying children, parents, Gen Z, and grandparents. It features the world’s first Family Bonding Index, which assigns countries a score based on the strength of family connections.

Family First is a global movement launched by the Varkey Foundation to strengthen intergenerational bonds between children, parents and grandparents, with the aim of building stronger communities across generations.

Launched by Sunny Varkey, founder of GEMS Education, the movement reflects a longstanding commitment to fostering strong family values and encouraging greater support between children and parents, contributing to healthier and longer lives. It is rooted in the belief that education goes far beyond academic achievement – it shapes values and develops not only students, but future parents, future leaders, and stronger societies.

Sunny Varkey, Founder of Family First and the Varkey Foundation, said, “This landmark report clearly show that family bonds are under strain. Economic pressures, conflict, geographical distance and technological change all make it harder for families to spend meaningful time together. Across many societies, this is contributing to weaker intergenerational relationships, greater loneliness among older people and less time shared between children, parents and grandparents. Yet the family remains the most fundamental building block of every community, making it more important than ever to understand, protect and strengthen these relationships.”

Family remains central across generations

Family life remains deeply embedded in everyday life for many Indian households.

Eighty-one per cent of parents say that during a typical family meal, “everyone is talking together” – the second highest percentage of all countries surveyed after France (84%).

Seventy-nine per cent of grandparents say they often spend meaningful time with their families – the third highest percentage globally after Argentina (83%) and Brazil (80%).

Forty-one per cent of grandparents say their family typically spends 11 hours or more a week enjoying quality time together – the highest percentage of all countries surveyed.

Grandparents also remain closely integrated into family life. Seventy-six per cent live with their family – the second highest percentage globally after Malaysia (78%) – while 65% say they see their grandchildren in person every day, the second highest percentage after Malaysia (68%).

Seventy per cent say spending more time with their grandchildren would make a big difference to their happiness – the highest percentage of all countries surveyed.

Busy schedules and competing demands are putting pressure on family time

Despite that strong emphasis on family connection, competing demands appear to be putting pressure on time together.

Twenty-nine per cent of children say their parents are too busy to spend time with them – the highest percentage of all countries surveyed.

Forty-three per cent say homework or studying is what most often prevents them from spending more time bonding as a family – the joint second highest percentage globally after Kenya.

Twenty-three per cent say school, activities or expectations take time away from family life “a lot” or “all the time” – the second highest percentage of all countries surveyed after the UAE (27%).

Parents and grandparents also identify children’s schedules as a major challenge. Forty-four per cent of parents and 54% of grandparents say children’s schedules are what most often prevent them from spending more time bonding as a family – the highest percentages of all countries surveyed on both measures.

Even so, 60% of children say their family often makes time for each other despite busy schedules – the second highest percentage globally after Nigeria (81%).

Screens are a growing source of concern

Digital devices have emerged as a major source of concern across generations.

Seventy per cent of parents say screen time and digital devices have harmed their family’s opportunity to bond – the second highest percentage of all countries surveyed after Brazil (74%).

Among grandparents, 60% say the same – the fourth highest percentage globally after Brazil (71%), Malaysia (71%) and the UAE (66%).

Forty-five per cent of children say screen time is what most often prevents them from spending more time bonding as a family – the third highest percentage of all countries surveyed after Sweden (51%) and Malaysia (50%).

Forty-seven per cent say screens have done more harm than good to their family life – the third highest percentage globally after the UAE (52%) and Sweden (49%).

Seventy-four per cent of grandparents believe children today are being raised more by screens than family – the third highest percentage of all countries surveyed.

Children feel supported, but pressure remains high

Children report strong emotional awareness from parents, even alongside time pressures.
 

Fifty-nine per cent say their parent or parents always notice when they are upset or struggling – the joint highest percentage of all countries surveyed alongside Nigeria.

Parents also appear highly engaged in children’s education. Twenty-nine per cent say they help their children with homework for more than seven hours a week – the second highest percentage globally after Nigeria (30%).

Wider systems are seen as supportive

Compared with many other countries, Indian families are relatively positive about how wider systems support family life. Eighty per cent of parents say societal systems such as work, school and technology support family life – the second highest percentage of all countries surveyed after Nigeria (81%). Among grandparents, that rises to 82% – the highest percentage globally.

Thirty-eight per cent of parents and 37% of grandparents say government policies on stronger guidance or limits on children’s screen use and online safety would help their families spend more quality time together – the highest percentages of all countries surveyed.

 The Family First Global Survey 2026: www.varkeyfoundation.org/family-first.

Walkathon, an initiative that promotes mental health literacy by encouraging early recognition of mental health concerns

This walkathon is part of MAHE Bengaluru’s broader initiative to advance mental health literacy and well-being across the campus and community, and to foster supportive spaces where people can speak openly and seek help.

Held under the theme “Walk for Health: Steps Towards Better Mental Health,” the 5K walk brought together students, faculty, staff, healthcare professionals, local authority representatives, volunteers and community members. It highlighted the importance of early recognition, timely support and open conversations around mental well-being.

The need for stronger mental health support systems is increasingly evident in Bengaluru. A 2026 study involving students across higher education institutions highlighted the importance of institutional support, while counselling data identified anxiety, family conflict and academic stress among key concerns. The findings reinforce the need for a connected ecosystem that enables early recognition and appropriate care.

S. R. Vishwanath, MLA, Yelahanka Constituency, flagged off the walkathon in the presence of Dr Raghavendra Prabhu P., Additional Registrar, MAHE Bengaluru, Dr Jothy S. Niraja, Chairwoman Maarga Mind Care, Mr Mahadev, Executive Engineer, Lake Division, BNCC, Yelahanka and Mr Chandu C N, President, Yelahanka United Environmental Association.

The walkathon also highlighted the connection between regular physical activity and mental well-being, encouraging participants to make movement part of everyday life to manage stress and support overall health. The organisers reiterated that seeking professional support is a sign of strength.

Addressing the gathering, MLA S.R. Vishwanath said, “Mental health must receive the same attention as physical health. Initiatives such as the MAHE Bengaluru Walkathon bring people together, encourage healthy habits and create much-needed awareness about mental well-being. Open conversations and strong community support are essential to building a healthier society.”

Dr Raghavendra Prabhu, Additional Registrar, MAHE Bengaluru, said, “At MAHE Bengaluru, we view mental health and well-being as an essential part of a meaningful student and campus experience. This initiative reflects our effort to build greater understanding, empathy and access to support through sustained engagement with students, healthcare partners and the wider community.”

Dr Jothi Neeraja, Founder, Chairwoman and Managing Director, Maarga Mind Care, said, “Bengaluru has built a strong ecosystem around healthcare, education and innovation, and mental health needs to be an equally important part of that progress. Our vision is to build a city where mental health concerns are recognised early, people feel confident seeking help, and quality care is accessible when it is needed. We need to move from responding only when distress becomes a crisis to recognising concerns earlier and making the right care easier to access. Mental healthcare cannot remain confined to hospitals or specific awareness days. It needs to become part of how individuals, families, educational institutions and workplaces think about overall health. Maarga is committed to strengthening this continuum in Bengaluru, from early recognition through treatment, recovery and beyond.”

Participants began the day with a warm-up session before completing the walk around the Allalasandra Lake loop. The event was organised by MAHE Bengaluru in association with Maarga Mind Care, its mental health and well-being partner, with support from the Volunteer Services Organisation, National Service Scheme, National Cadet Corps and Manipal Hospitals.

About Manipal Academy of Higher Education
Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) is an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University. MAHE offers over 400 specialisations across Health Sciences (HS), Management, Law, Humanities & Social Sciences (MLHS), and Technology & Science (T&S) streams through its constituent units at campuses in Manipal, Mangalore, Bengaluru, Jamshedpur, and Dubai. With a remarkable track record in academics, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and significant contributions to research, MAHE has earned recognition and acclaim both nationally and internationally. In 2020, the Ministry of Education, Government of India, awarded MAHE the prestigious Institution of Eminence status. Currently ranked 3rd in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2025 rankings, MAHE is the preferred choice for students seeking transformative learning experience and enriching campus life, as well as for national and multinational corporations seeking top talent.

Policy as the blueprint for Viksit Tech

The report was released by Pankaj Mohindroo, Chairman, ICEA, alongside Sunil Raina, Managing Director, Lava International; Anku Jain, Managing Director, MediaTek India; Himanshu Tandon, CBO, Mivi; Nikhil Rajpal, CEO and Founder, Qubo; and other industry dignitaries.

The Report: 129 Brands, One Ambitious Destination

Prepared by Techarc as knowledge partner, the VT47 Report introduces a 129-brand Index of Indian-owned consumer technology companies across gadgets, devices, appliances and connected cars. Together these brands earn more than Rs. 60,000 crore a year, an average of just Rs. 465 crore per brand. Only 14 earn more than Rs. 500 crore; only two clearly cross Rs. 2,000 crore. The contrast with India’s total electronics production of Rs. 13.11 lakh crore in FY2025-26 shows how much value still sits with global brands and contract manufacturers.

At a projected growth rate of 13 per cent annually, Indian homegrown brands could collectively earn Rs. 1.11 lakh crore by FY2031 and Rs. 2.04 lakh crore by FY2036. If Indian brands gain share in smart and connected segments at 16 per cent a year, those figures could reach Rs. 1.26 lakh crore and Rs. 2.65 lakh crore respectively.

The report introduces Techarc’s TAME model, Trade, Assemble, Manufacture, Engineer, which describes how brands evolve through distinct stages with corresponding revenue ceilings of approximately Rs. 500 crore, Rs. 5,000 crore and Rs. 50,000 crore. Revenues in lakhs of crores, the report argues, come only at the Engineer stage, where a brand owns its design, software and intellectual property. The 2047 ambition: 50 Indian brands each crossing Rs. 1 lakh crore, roughly 83 times today’s base, requiring sustained growth of about 25 per cent a year over two decades.

“A nation that aspires to be Viksit by 2047 must do more than make products for others. It must create, own and scale its own brands, and see them succeed in India and around the world. The ambition this report sets, 50 Indian brands each earning more than Rs. 1 lakh crore by 2047, is bold. It is also the kind of ambition this moment calls for,” said Ramakrishna P., CEO, India Mobile Congress.

The Inaugural Award Winners

VT47 was conceived to correct a “software-first” perception of Indian technology by spotlighting the hardware, IoT and devices landscape underpinning India’s manufacturing ambitions. The inaugural winners are:

• Viksit Tech Leader of the Year: Sunil Raina, Managing Director, Lava International Limited

• Viksit Tech Next Generation Leader: Himanshu Tandon, Chief Business Officer, MIVI

• Viksit Tech Brand of the Year: Lava International Limited

• Viksit Tech Enabler of the Year: MediaTek India

• Dr. M J Zarabi Indigenisation Award (powered by Dixon Technologies): Entra Innovations LLP, Dharwad — recognised for VAAYU, India’s first indigenous automotive Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) SoC, developed out of IIT Dharwad

“VT47 is our attempt to give India’s hardware builders the spotlight software has long commanded. This year’s winners show that Indian brands can design, manufacture and export on their own terms,” said Faisal Kawoosa, Chief Analyst and Co-founder, Techarc.

The Dr. M J Zarabi Indigenisation Award carries a cash prize of Rs. 10 lakh and honours the legacy of Dr. M.J. Zarabi, former Chairman and Managing Director of Semiconductor Complex Limited (SCL), Mohali, and one of India’s most distinguished microelectronics pioneers. It recognises early-stage hardware startups whose innovation reduces India’s reliance on imported technology.

The Jury

The Viksit Tech Leader, Next Generation Leader, Brand and Enabler categories were judged by: Pankaj Mohindroo, Chairman, ICEA; Mohammad Asim Warsi, Former Corporate Vice President, Samsung India; Rajiv Makhni, TV and Radio Show Host, Author and Social Media Presenter; Ershad Kaleebullah, Business Head and Host, Trakin Tech English and Trakin Tech Tamil; and Nimish Dubey, Consulting Editor, TechPP.

The Dr. M J Zarabi Indigenisation Award was judged by: Atul B. Lall, Vice Chairman and Managing Director, Dixon Technologies; Jaswinder Ahuja, Member, Advisory Committee, India Semiconductor Mission; Randeep Raina, Vice President, Ericsson India; PVG Menon, Senior Advisor, Electronics and Semicon; and Tufeel Qurishi, Senior Director, Samsung Research India.

Chancellor felicitating the Chief Guest

The ceremony was presided over by Vice Admiral Atul Anand, PVSM, AVSM, VSM (Retd.), Former Additional Secretary, Department of Military Affairs, Ministry of Defence, Government of India, who served as the Chief Guest. Addressing the graduating class, he shared golden words of wisdom that the students would carry with them into the next chapter of their lives.

“Your compass is competence. Your anchor is character. Your sail is courage. And your course is guided by dharma. Somaiya Vidyavihar University has given you more than a professional education; it has given you the opportunity to encounter different disciplines. Carry that breadth with you. Do not become merely employable. Become useful. Do not become merely successful. Become significant. And do not ask only, ‘What can I get from India?’ Ask also, ‘What can I give to India?,” said Vice Admiral Atul Anand, PVSM, AVSM, VSM (Retd.).

Students at Somaiya Vidyavihar University have had opportunities to explore interests beyond their primary fields. Through initiatives like 120+ Basket Courses, more than 4,000 students have participated in credit-bearing courses spanning sports, literature, languages, nature, aesthetic arts, Indian knowledge systems and spiritual traditions. An engineering student can study Indian philosophy, while a commerce student can take swimming or yoga as part of the academic programme. Through the REACH Fellowship, students have also spent months in rural Maharashtra and Gujarat understanding local communities and developing community-led solutions around issues including water stewardship and sustainable development.

For others, learning has meant taking an idea from the classroom into the real world. Orion Racing India has developed more than 20 race cars and participated in over 30 national and international competitions, with successive student teams building on the work of those before them. The University’s 10+ research centres provide opportunities to work across areas including computational chemistry, biology, materials science, artificial intelligence and environmental research. Through riidl and BioRiidl, more than 380 entrepreneurs have been supported, with INR 198 crore in total investments facilitated. Beyond the classroom, students also pursue sports, with training across 22 sports. More than 10,000 students pursue sports, with over 3,500 representing the institution at district, state, national and international levels. This includes participation in events such as the FISU World University Squash Championship, where Somaiya students represented India at the international university level.

Together, these experiences reflect the University's guiding philosophy, ज्ञानादेव तु कैवल्यम् — Knowledge Alone Liberates, and its approach to education, one that encourages students to think, explore and apply knowledge beyond the classroom.

The question of what students carry with them beyond their degrees was also central to the address by Samir Somaiya, Chancellor, Somaiya Vidyavihar University. Speaking to the graduating class, he shared a traditional Sanskrit blessing that he felt captured some of the qualities he wished for them as they begin the next chapter of their lives.

“बुद्धिर्बलं यशोधैर्यं निर्भयत्वमरोगताम् । अजाड्यं वाक्पटुत्वं च हनुमत्स्मराणाद्भवेत् ॥ .” Explaining the blessing, he said, “May the Almighty give you wisdom; strength; patience; fearlessness; good health; alertness and clarity of thought; and eloquence in speech.”

He then spoke about the kind of education the University seeks to provide through three ideas: “We've always wanted to build what we call Pesha, Soch, aur Charitra, a fantastic skillset in your chosen field, a wide world of thinking, and strong character,” he said.

Prof. Ajay Kapoor, Vice-Chancellor, Somaiya Vidyavihar University, encouraged the graduating class to connect their abilities with a larger purpose. “Find something you are passionate about, something that is also your natural skill. Bring them together and solve society's problems. Do something that society, humanity, people need today and tomorrow. The fundamentals are very simple: if you do something that people want, people will hold you in high esteem. They will need you. They will pay for what you are providing. That gives you a living and a very, very fulfilling life,” he said.

The thought extends the idea of education beyond choosing a profession. The years at university can help students recognise what they are good at, what gives them energy and where those abilities can have practical value.

He also placed this advice in the context of a rapidly changing world, where technology is altering how knowledge is accessed and used. “Artificial intelligence will give you all the knowledge, much faster, much better organised, on anything you desire. But it is the wisdom, the Gyan, that you have to develop,” he added.

For the 3,279 graduates of the Class of 2026, the 5th Convocation marks the close of one chapter and the beginning of another. They leave with their degrees, but also with the experiences, relationships and perspectives gathered along the way. Through these experiences, they truly embrace the meaning of Somaiya Vidyavihar University's philosophy, ज्ञानादेव तु कैवल्यम् — Knowledge Alone Liberates. They now step into the world with the belief that what they have learned will shape their paths, help them become better individuals and contribute meaningfully to the world around them.

VinFast India was honored with the “Electric Vehicle Manufacturer of the Year” award at the HT Auto Leaderboard Awards 2026

Hosted by HT Auto, Hindustan Times’ dedicated automotive platform, the HT Auto Leaderboard Awards is a prominent industry initiative that brings together automotive leaders, brands and enthusiasts to recognise excellence and celebrate the achievements shaping India’s evolving mobility landscape.

Reflecting the broader evolution of India’s electric mobility landscape, the “EV Manufacturer of the Year” honour recognises companies that advance electrification not only through their products, but also through infrastructure, technology, service and long-term commitment. Against this benchmark, VinFast’s recognition reflects its sustained efforts to support the development of India’s electric mobility ecosystem and contribute to the country’s transition towards electrification.

Commenting on the recognition, Mr. Tapan Ghosh, CEO, VinFast Asia, said, “We are honoured to receive the ‘EV Manufacturer of the Year’ recognition at the HT Auto Leaderboard Awards. This is a meaningful acknowledgement of the work we are doing to build a strong and sustainable foundation for electric mobility in India. Our approach has always been to look beyond the vehicle and build an ecosystem that brings together locally manufactured products, a growing retail and service network, financing, charging and customer-focused ownership solutions. As we deepen our presence across India, we remain focused on raising the bar for electric mobility and creating an experience that delivers greater value and confidence to Indian customers.”

Mr. Prashant Singh, Editor, HT Auto, said, “In a relatively short span of time, VinFast has established itself as a significant player in India’s EV ecosystem. With a strategically positioned portfolio that caters to the needs of Indian EV buyers, a supporting charging ecosystem, and competitive pricing, VinFast Auto India is well-positioned to strengthen its presence in one of the world’s largest and most competitive automotive markets.”

The award builds on the recognition VinFast has received across leading automotive platforms in India, including “EV Manufacturer of the Year” at Times Drive Auto Summit and Awards, “EV Champion of the Year” at the Jagran Hi-Tech Awards 2026, and “Breakthrough Brand of the Year” at the Car&Bike Awards 2026, along with product honours such as “EV SUV of the Year – Editor’s Choice” for the VF 7 at the BBC TopGear India Awards 2026 and “Value for Money Car of the Year” for the VF 6 at the Autocar India Awards 2026, reflecting continued positive evaluation from industry experts toward the company’s product direction and long-term investment strategy.

Since entering the Indian market, VinFast has continued to expand its product portfolio and local presence. The company currently offers the VF 6, VF 7 and VF MPV 7 in India, with the vehicles locally assembled at its manufacturing facility in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu. The VF MPV 7, launched in April 2026, marked VinFast’s third product introduction in India within a year. The company has also accelerated the development of its retail and after-sales ecosystem. Having reached its 60th 3S dealership in August 2026, VinFast remains on track to establish 75 dealerships across India by the end of 2026, with its expansion extending beyond major metropolitan markets to emerging cities and towns.

With India emerging as an important market in the global transition towards electric mobility, VinFast is continuing to invest in its local presence while expanding access to premium electric mobility across the country. The company’s growing footprint in India reflects its long-term commitment to supporting the country’s transition towards a more sustainable and technology-led mobility ecosystem.

About VinFast

VinFast (NASDAQ: VFS), a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC, one of Vietnam’s largest conglomerates, is a pure-play electric vehicle manufacturer with the mission of making electric mobility more accessible to everyone. VinFast’s current product portfolio includes a wide range of electric SUVs, electric motorcycles, electric bicycles, and electric buses.

VinFast is entering its next phase of growth by rapidly expanding its global distribution and dealer network while strengthening manufacturing capabilities, with a focus on key markets in North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.

Learn more at: vinfastauto.in.

Ajitesh’s approach to real estate starts much before a building is designed. His focus is on understanding the people who will eventually live in it. From deciding what a home should offer to planning the spaces around it, he believes every decision should answer a simple question: will this make everyday life better for the people who use it?
 

Ajitesh Korupolu, CEO, ASBL awarded with Growth Leader of the Year

While much of real estate has traditionally relied on experience, market intuition and gut feeling, Ajitesh chose to build the company around data and research. He understood that real estate was one of the most data-poor industries and that building a strong data foundation would take time. But he also believed that the effort would create a long-term advantage. Today, data and research are part of how ASBL approaches decisions across the life of a project.

He has built ASBL to work more like a technology company, using technology to understand customers, improve decision-making and make the home-buying and home-owning journey simpler. This approach extends from the early stages of research and design to construction and continues even after handover.
 

His view of a home has also evolved beyond four walls. Homes today need to support work, children, family time and everyday convenience. This means the product cannot stop at the apartment. It needs to consider the spaces people use, the way they interact with their surroundings and the community they become part of. That is why Ajitesh believes in building communities, not just buildings.
 

Ajitesh is working to digitise one of the oldest and most data-poor industries in the world. He does not see this simply as PropTech or Construction Tech, as he believes those terms are too narrow. His thinking goes beyond the building itself. Cities are systems where homes, roads, workplaces and people are connected. When these systems do not work well, people lose time in traffic, families feel the pressure and everyday life becomes harder. For Ajitesh, technology should help improve how this entire system is planned and built. He describes this larger idea as “Civilization Tech”.
 

The Growth Leader of the Year recognition reflects this larger approach to growth. For Ajitesh, growth is not only about selling more homes or building more projects. It is about building a company that understands its customers better, makes better decisions and uses technology and data to improve how homes and communities are created.
 

Under his leadership, ASBL continues to build with the belief that a home should be designed around the people who live in it. The focus is not simply on creating apartments, but on creating places where people can live, work, spend time with their families and build connections. The award is a recognition of that approach and of Ajitesh’s effort to bring a more data-driven, technology-led way of thinking to Indian real estate.

Boxeopath’s Fury at IRIS Broadway Gurugram Delivers High-Intensity Professional Boxing Action

The evening featured nine competitive fights, showcasing the skill, speed, endurance and discipline of professional boxers. The event reached its high point with the eight-round final, where Harsh Kaushik emerged victorious over Siddhant Sikand after an intense contest inside the ring.

Recognising the performance of both finalists, Aman Trehan, Executive Director, Trehan IRIS, presented prize money to Harsh Kaushik and Siddhant Sikand. The presentation acknowledged the dedication, preparation and sporting excellence demonstrated by both fighters throughout the competition.

The whole boxing event was conducted under the supervision of Indian Boxing Council (IBC) officials, with IBC referees and judges overseeing the competition. This ensured that the event maintained the standards and discipline expected of professional boxing while offering audiences an engaging live sporting experience.

Speaking on the successful conclusion of the event, Abhishek Trehan, Executive Director, Trehan IRIS, said, “Boxeopath’s Fury was a strong reflection of how lifestyle destinations can create experiences that bring people together around shared interests and live entertainment. The response from the audience was extremely encouraging, with thousands turning up to witness professional boxing in an energetic live setting. At Trehan IRIS, we are focused on creating destinations that offer more than retail and dining, and events like this allow us to build meaningful engagement with our communities through distinctive experiences.”

Aman Trehan, Executive Director, Trehan IRIS, said, “The energy inside the venue throughout the evening was a testament to the growing appeal of live sporting experiences. Boxeopath’s Fury brought together highly competitive fights and gave audiences the opportunity to witness the skill, discipline and determination of professional boxers up close. We were pleased to support an event that not only showcased sporting talent but also created an exciting and memorable experience for the thousands of visitors who joined us.”

Rajneesh Raveendran, Boxing Coach and Manager, Boxeopathy Promotions, said, “Boxeopath’s Fury was envisioned as a platform to bring professional boxing closer to audiences while giving Indian fighters an opportunity to compete and showcase their abilities in a professional environment. Every fight reflected the months of training, discipline and sacrifice that these athletes put into their sport. We are delighted with how the event unfolded and grateful to the Trehan IRIS management and team for their support in making the event a success.”

With nine professional fights and a high-energy eight-round final, Boxeopath’s Fury brought together professional-level competition, sporting excellence and a strong live audience experience at IRIS Broadway Gurugram. The enthusiastic response from the audience further highlighted the appeal of live sporting experiences as part of the evolving entertainment and lifestyle landscape.

The event also reinforced the role of IRIS Broadway Gurugram in creating platforms for diverse forms of entertainment, sports and community engagement, offering audiences experiences that extend beyond conventional retail and dining.

Spardha Team-Pavan Malpani, Rikhil Jain, Saurabh Srivastav, Dr. Amrita Srivastav & Saurbah Tomar

As technology reshapes education, Spardha is combining its teacher-led model with technology-enabled practice, feedback and progress tracking to create a more continuous and personalized learning experience. The new training platform is built on Spardha’s core one-on-one learning model, keeping teachers at the heart of the learning journey. Its enhanced classroom experience introduces features such as backing tracks, music tools, and student–teacher sync mode, making online music and dance learning more seamless, engaging, and effective. 

Students can access assignments, practice videos and music sheets beyond their scheduled classes as well, while tools such as the metronome, tabla, virtual keyboard, mridangam and tanpura support guided and independent practice. AI-powered session notes and monthly progress reports help students track their development and identify areas that require attention, while real-time AI-powered feedback during practice provides additional guidance.

It also monitors the quality and consistency of each teacher’s session delivery, ensuring a high standard of session hygiene. In addition, it enables continuous teacher upskilling through personalized learning journeys tailored to each teacher’s current skills, performance, and quality of service, supporting ongoing professional development.

“Technology is not replacing the music teacher. It amplifies the ability of teachers to personalize, engage and create better learning outcomes. The future of music education lies in combining the human connection and expertise of a good teacher with the data-driven intelligence of technology to deliver a deeply personalized learning journey for every student,” - Saurabh Srivastav, Founder, Spardha Learning.

The platform brings together discovery, practice and performance of thousands of new songs through Spardha’s proprietary AI based performance platform Jam Station with exciting features such as AI powered self-assessment that enable students to practice independently, evaluate their skills at run time and build greater confidence in their musical abilities. The learning journey extends beyond practice through Spardha’s phygital performance platform, which gives students regular opportunities to perform before a global audience of fellow students, teachers, parents and music enthusiasts, apply what they learn, gain real performance experience and build confidence.

The technology expansion is backed by Spardha’s growing business scale. The company currently generates close to INR 60 crore in annual recurring revenue (ARR) and is targeting INR 100 crore+ ARR by FY 2027-28 by scaling its operations from the current 55,000+ monthly live sessions capacity to 1,00,000 sessions per month by FY 2027-28. Over the longer term, Spardha is targeting to acquire 1 lakh active users globally and scale its operations to deliver 3 lakh live sessions per month by 2030. Beyond technology, Spardha is addressing key gaps in performing arts education through professionally trained teachers, structured learning and multiple unique formats of performance opportunities. Its ecosystem combines live instruction, guided practice, technology-enabled feedback, progress tracking and personalised learning, transforming music education from a weekly class into an ongoing continuous learning & performing journey.

About Spardha School of Music

Spardha School of Music is a global Performing Arts EdTech platform offering personalised, one-on-one live learning experiences in music and performing arts. Founded with the vision of becoming the most trusted platform for performing arts education globally, Spardha combines an outcome-oriented curriculum, qualified professional teachers and a technology-enabled learning ecosystem.

What if students did not all have to learn the same thing, in the same way, at the same time?

GEMS Education, one of the oldest and largest private K-12 education providers, has unveiled GR8 School, a global-first model combining hyper-personalised AI-powered learning with specially trained teachers (human mentors) and real-world expertise. Drawing on almost seven decades of educational experience, more than 10,000 educators and school leaders, and pathways that have taken GEMS graduates to more than 2,000 universities across 71 countries, including all eight Ivy League universities in the US and all 24 Russell Group universities and colleges in the UK, GEMS brings significant scale, experience and educational expertise to the new model. 

Sunny Varkey, Chairman and Founder of GEMS Education

Since its origin in 1959, GEMS has pioneered education in the UAE, from offering international curricula across schools at a range of price points to developing new models such as GEMS School of Research and Innovation (SRI). More than 500,000 GEMS alumni have gone on to become unicorn founders, entrepreneurs, doctors, engineers, scientists, academics, creatives and leaders across industries, with graduates progressing to the world’s leading universities. Its mission has remained constant: to see the potential in every child and evolve education to help them realise it. 

GEMS Education unveils GR8 School, a world-first fusion of AI, teachers and industry experts reinventing education

GR8 is the latest expression of that legacy of innovation and educational firsts. It will initially operate as a “school within a school”, creating a distinct pathway within existing school communities.

The 8 October unveiling comes as Dubai’s leadership explores new approaches to education and how future school models can respond to changing student needs and the world of work.

What makes GR8 School a pioneering education model?
The GR8 School will bring together three connected parts of a student’s education:

Hyper-personalised learning: Students use AI-powered learning that allows them to work through core academic material at their own pace, rather than every student following a fixed timetable. The learning system will continually assess a student’s progress, identifying what they have mastered, where they need additional support, and where they are ready to be challenged further.

World-class teachers (Human Mentors): Real-time data provided by the adaptive learning systems empower teachers to be able to spend most of their time on high-impact 1:1 support instead of teaching an entire class at the same time, as well as on delivering all practical aspects of the curriculum. Teachers will remain responsible for academic rigour while also providing the inspiration, mentorship and human connection central to a child’s growth.

Real-world pathways: Working backwards from each student’s interests and possible future ambitions, GR8 will connect students with relevant specialists, industry experts, practitioners, projects and experiences that help turn what they learn into what they can do. Alongside academic study, the model will place deliberate emphasis on critical thinking, communication, teamwork, financial literacy, and practical life skills, while creating direct pathways from education to further study, entrepreneurship and future employment.

Together, these people will form the GR8 Learning Collective – a wider human team of teachers, specialists, practitioners bringing industry and experts closer to students.

A different learning day: The GR8 model is being designed around a more flexible use of time. Students will combine asynchronous, AI-enabled self-paced learning with approximately 90 minutes to two hours of synchronous, teacher-led learning, supported by real-world experts and globally recognised specialists. This will be complemented by a further two to three hours of enhanced enrichment programmes, creating more time for deeper specialist learning, projects, practical application, collaboration, creativity, sport, the arts and other areas of personal development.

Transformative education should meet the needs of the learners where they are and give families meaningful choice. GR8 is being developed to operate across different GEMS school segments and price points. While final fees will vary by school, market and model and will be confirmed closer to launch, current indicative annual fee ranges are approximately USD 8,000–10,000 for affordable offerings and USD 20,000–40,000 for premium offerings. (Fees may vary by market).

GR8 builds on principles already embedded across GEMS – personalised support, strong teacher-student relationships, character, critical thinking and learning beyond the classroom – as well as existing enrichment programmes and opportunities, bringing them together in a more focused and structured model.

It will offer families a distinctive new choice, designed for students who may thrive in a more personalised, flexible and independently driven learning environment.

The visionary behind the model, Sunny Varkey, Chairman and Founder of GEMS Education, said, “For almost seven decades, we have evolved continually because the world our children are growing into keeps evolving. Throughout that journey one thing has never changed: the teacher has remained at the heart of a child’s learning and growth. A teacher provides inspiration, encouragement, judgement and human connection. That relationship remains fundamental."

“Today, artificial intelligence is changing how we learn and work, but the answer cannot simply be to put more technology into classrooms. We have to ask a bigger question: if we were designing education for young people today, knowing how rapidly the world around them is changing, what would we do differently?"

“GR8 is our answer to that question. It starts with the individual child and asks what combination of technology, great teachers, industry experts and real-industry experiences will help that young person achieve academically and discover what they could become."

“GR8 is not for everyone, nor is it intended to be. No single model of education is right for every child. We are making this pathway available to all our families, but we expect it will appeal to a select group of students who are ready for greater independence, personalisation and ownership of their learning. For the right student, we believe it can be transformative."

“Technology can help us understand and personalise how a child learns. But education is, and will always remain, deeply human. Our ambition with GR8 is to bring many worlds together around the learner."

“We want young people to leave school with excellent qualifications, but also with something more: the confidence to apply what they know, the judgement to think for themselves, and the skills, experiences and relationships that can help them turn their potential into possibility.”

The first GR8 School will soft launch in January 2027, with GEMS using the interim period to continue developing and testing the systems behind the model, including its learning technology, academic model, teacher and guide roles, and network of specialist and industry expertise, with further details to be announced closer to launch.

Radhika Bordia, Journalist; Ashwin Yardi, Non-Executive Chairman, Capgemini India; Chetna Sinha, Founder, Mann Deshi Foundation & Mann Deshi Mahila Bank; Ravi Sreedharan, Founder & President, ISDM

Among the voices contributing to the day's conversations were Ashwin Yardi, Non-Executive Chairman of Capgemini India; Chetna Sinha, Founder and Chairperson, Mann Deshi Bank and Mann Deshi Foundation; and Ravi Sreedharan, Founder and President, ISDM. Their perspectives reflected the breadth of the development ecosystem and the different institutional, community and leadership dimensions required to sustain social change.

DoDM 2026 explored a fundamental question facing the social sector: while many organisations create meaningful change, far fewer are able to sustain it. Programmes can lose momentum, reforms can unravel, and movements can struggle beyond funding cycles or changes in leadership. The fourth edition examined what enables change to endure across organisations, systems and communities.

The day's conversations spanned four interconnected tracks across governance, government systems, funding and impact: “Building Institutions, Not Just Organisations”, which examined the governance, leadership and resilience needed for institutions to endure beyond individuals and funding cycles; “From Schemes to Systems”, which explored how public systems can become more adaptive and capable of sustaining change at scale; “Funding the Future We Say We Want”, which examined the funding relationships and forms of capital needed to support long-term change; and “What is Impact Beyond the Numbers?”, which explored how the sector can move beyond outputs to understand whether change is truly taking root and enduring over time.

Chetna Sinha, Founder and Chairperson, Mann Deshi Bank and Mann Deshi Foundation, said, “For social change to last, communities must have the agency, institutions and resources to shape their own futures. Our experience with rural women has shown that financial inclusion, entrepreneurship and community institutions can root change in people's lives. Lasting change is about creating the conditions in which communities can continue to lead, adapt and expand their own progress.”

Ravi Sreedharan, Founder and President, ISDM, said, "Social change may happen because of good programmes or even good individuals. But for social change to last, it needs Social Purpose Organisations that are resilient and equipped to work over long periods in specific geographies or on specific issues. That is where Development Management comes in: strengthening the leadership, management and organisational capabilities that keep them effective as they grow and contexts change. DoDM 2026 is an effort to bring these questions to the centre of the sector's conversation."

Sharad Agarwal, Co-Founder, ISDM, added, “Sustaining social change requires a greater focus on the systems that development programmes operate within. Outcomes endure when those systems are accountable and responsive to the communities they serve, and when we invest in what carries progress forward, not just in what a programme delivers today."

Since its inaugural edition in 2023, DoDM has grown into a platform for conversations on Development Management, with 4,000+ participants, 400+ speakers and moderators, 270+ research papers presented and 50+ track partners across its editions. DoDM 2026 featured plenary conversations, Development Management Cases, masterclasses, research paper presentations, interactive discussions and Development Management Clinics, creating multiple formats for participants to engage with real questions of organisational and systemic change.

DoDM 2026 brought together diverse perspectives to deepen the conversation on what it takes to move from creating change to sustaining it. By examining the institutional, systemic, financial and impact dimensions of social change, the convening sought to advance a more enduring approach to development, one that enables organisations, systems and communities to build, adapt and carry progress forward over time.

About Indian School of Development Management (ISDM)

Since 2016, ISDM has prepared leaders with functional expertise, managerial judgment, and ethical responsibility to build strong, resilient social purpose organizations that create sustained impact at scale. Its work is anchored in three core efforts: leadership development through its flagship Post Graduate Program in Development Management, advancing Development Management as a distinct discipline integrating management, social science, public policy, and practice, and ecosystem capacity building across NGOs, foundations, social enterprises, and policy spaces.

SDM develops leaders who solve complex social challenges and strengthen institutions across India’s development ecosystem. As the institutional home of Development Management, ISDM integrates leadership, management and development practice to drive social transformation at scale.

PGP-DM

ISDM's Post Graduate Program in Development Management (PGP-DM) prepares leaders to take on India's most complex development challenges, and build the conviction and capability required to lead India’s social transformation. The 11-month program is spread over eight terms, and combines development perspectives with management rigor to equip you with the skills, knowledge and empathy required to lead work with real impact at scale.

Media OutReach Newswire Founder & CEO Jennifer Kok, Top Nominee for the EY Entrepreneur Of the Year 2026 Malaysia awards, in the Woman Entrepreneur category
 

Since its launch in 2002, EY Entrepreneur Of The Year Malaysia has recognised more than 350 entrepreneurs, as part of a global programme held in more than 60 countries and jurisdictions. An independent panel of judges assesses nominees against four pillars: entrepreneurial spirit, purpose, growth and impact. Winners will be announced at a gala dinner on 1 December 2026.

A 17-year entrepreneurial journey

Entrepreneurial spirit that built Asia's first global newswire
Jennifer founded Media OutReach Newswire in 2009 to build what the industry lacked – a global newswire born in Asia – becoming the first woman to found a global newswire, and has continued to redefine the PR industry through industry-first innovations, from the digital era to the age of AI.
 

Purpose that turns business success into shared opportunity
Her mission since day one has been to help Asian brands authentically build their reputation in global markets, leading with a social enterprise mindset that creates opportunity for clients, the PR community and her team. Giving back has always been close to her heart. She provides pro bono press release distribution to help NGOs and community initiatives amplify their impact, while supporting children, marginalised communities and animal welfare.

Growth that promotes Asian excellence worldwide
Today, Media OutReach Newswire connects brands with 200,000+ journalists and editors and 70,000+ media titles across 190+ countries and territories, with targeted distribution across 500+ trade categories, alongside 1,500+ media partnerships and offices in eight Asian markets, including Malaysia.

Impact is redefining PR for the AI era
Trusted by thousands of agencies, corporations, governments and SMEs, the company has repeatedly set industry standards – most recently becoming a fully AI-enabled newswire in 2026. Media OutReach Newswire connects clients' news with journalists and enables the news to be cited by AI, helping build brand trust, increase AI visibility, and maximise PR impact.

Media OutReach Newswire's next phase of growth is anchored in three pillars: AI innovation, people and social impact. The company uses AI to innovate its services and workflows for clients and staff, invests in its team, and funds community projects for children and animals.

"Seventeen years ago, I set out to build Asia Pacific's first global newswire so that Asian brands could tell their stories to the world," said Jennifer Kok, Founder and CEO of Media OutReach Newswire.

"To be named a Top Nominee in the award's 25th year in Malaysia is an honour I share with our team, media partners and clients. Entrepreneurship, to me, has never been just about business. It is about creating opportunities, empowering the PR industry, investing in people and using what you build to help others succeed. Our vision is to help Asian brands to achieve global communications success."
 

Minister of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development Steven Sim Chee Keong (eighth from right) with Top Nominees for the EY Entrepreneur Of the Year 2026 Malaysia awards

About Media OutReach Newswire
Media OutReach Newswire is Asia Pacific's first global newswire, founded in 2009 by Jennifer Kok as a trusted partner to media, corporations, agencies and governments. As an AI-enabled global newswire, Media OutReach Newswire connects brands with 200,000+ journalists and editors and 70,000+ media titles across 190+ countries and territories. Through targeted press release distribution, direct journalist access and guaranteed posting on credible news sites with domain authority, it helps brands earn media coverage and build visibility and citations in AI search. Every distribution includes multi-format reports with data insights, and its PR Campaign Intelligence measures communications impact over time.

Headquartered in Hong Kong SAR, with offices in the Chinese Mainland, Singapore, Japan, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam and Taiwan, Media OutReach Newswire's distribution network spans Asia Pacific, North America, Latin America, the UK and Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

For more information, please visit www.media-outreach.com

DesignUp Day at Chitkara University bringing together creative minds, diverse perspectives and a shared belief in designing with purpose

The event offered students an opportunity to engage with professionals from diverse fields and explore design beyond conventional boundaries. The sessions featured Alysha Naples, Designer Artist Coach Somatic Practitioner, Shiva Vishwanathan, Curator Director, DesignUp; Niteesh Yadav, AVP Design and Research, Pocket FM; and Meru Vashisht, Human-Centered Design Lead, International Rescue Committee.

Through engaging sessions and interactions, the speakers shared perspectives drawn from design, technology, storytelling, human-centred practice and social impact. Students explored how observation, empathy, experimentation and interdisciplinary thinking can influence the way designers understand people, identify problems and develop relevant solutions.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Madhu Chitkara, President and Co-founder, Chitkara University, said, “Design is not simply about creating what looks good; it is about understanding what matters. When students learn to observe closely, question thoughtfully and design with empathy, they begin to see possibilities where others may see limitations. Platforms such as DesignUp give our students the opportunity to engage with practitioners who bring different experiences and perspectives, helping them understand the responsibility and possibilities that come with being a designer.”

The conversations also encouraged students to reflect on the changing role of designers in a world shaped by technology, social complexity and evolving human needs. By bringing together perspectives from creative practice, emerging technologies and social impact, DesignUp Day highlighted the value of interdisciplinary thinking in developing thoughtful and relevant design responses.

For students of Chitkara Design School, the event served as a valuable opportunity to learn directly from accomplished practitioners, gain insights into contemporary design practice and connect academic learning with real-world challenges.

DesignUp Day at Chitkara University reinforced the idea that meaningful design begins with understanding of people, contexts and the problems that shape everyday life and grows through curiosity, experimentation and purpose.

About Chitkara University

Chitkara University is a UGC-recognised and NAAC-accredited private university in North India, with campuses in Punjab and Himachal Pradesh, offering career-oriented undergraduate and postgraduate programs in Engineering, Business, Healthcare, Pharmacy, Design, Architecture, Hospitality and emerging technology fields. For Class 11 and 12 students planning higher education, the University provides industry-aligned programs designed to combine academic excellence with practical exposure.

The curriculum emphasises experiential learning through internships, industry projects, research opportunities and global collaborations, supported by modern infrastructure, advanced laboratories, industry mentorship and skill-based training that strengthens student employability. Backed by 2,000+ campus recruiters and 300+ international academic and industry collaborations, students gain strong placement support, international exposure, academic exchange and collaborative research opportunities.

Consistently ranked among leading institutions by national and global frameworks such as NIRF, QS World University Rankings and Times Higher Education, the University maintains high academic rigour and industry relevance. With strong corporate partnerships and a focus on innovation, entrepreneurship and interdisciplinary learning, it prepares students for emerging career opportunities in India and abroad.

For more information, please visit: www.chitkara.edu.in.

The CoA National Awards for Excellence 2026 Jury Begins at Manipal University Jaipur

The inaugural ceremony was graced by Ar. Naveen Kanithi, Vice President, CoA; Shri Deepak Kumar, Registrar, CoA; Ar. Jayashree Deshpande, Director, CoA-TRC and Convenor; and Ar. Bhavna Vimawala, Member, CoA. Representing Manipal University Jaipur were Cdr. (Dr) Anil Rana, Pro President, MUJ; Dr. Amit Soni, Registrar, MUJ; Prof. (Dr) Kuldip Singh Sangwan, Dean, FoSTA; Prof. (Dr) Madhura Yadav, Dean, DSW ; and Dr. Pooja Lalit Kumar, Director, School of Architecture & Design, along with faculty members and 220 student participants from MUJ and architecture institutions across India.

Dr. Pooja Lalit Kumar, Director, School of Architecture & Design welcomed all dignitaries and said that students and faculty members of the school had put in their best efforts to make the national event a success. She noted that the world-class infrastructure and academic environment at Manipal University Jaipur provide an ideal setting for an event of national stature and offer participating students an opportunity to showcase and explore their creative and academic potential.

Cdr. (Dr.) Anil Rana, Pro-President, Manipal University Jaipur delivered the presidential address. He highlighted the achievements of Manipal University Jaipur in research, academic excellence and its global footprint in ranking and accreditations. He appreciated the efforts of School of Architecture and Design and thanks Council of Architecture for choosing Manipal University Jaipur for this national event. 

The exhibition presents a diverse spectrum of architectural ideas, highlighting innovative design thinking, contextual sensitivity, sustainability and contemporary approaches to the built environment. It provides a platform for young architects to showcase their academic explorations, exchange ideas and engage with distinguished professionals and academicians.

The event also highlights the evolving role of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies in architectural education, while emphasising the continued importance of critical thinking, creativity, contextual understanding and empathy in design.

Reaffirming the School of Architecture & Design’s vision of being “locally invested but globally relevant”, the event underscores the importance of preparing future architects who remain rooted in their cultural and environmental contexts while equipped to address emerging global challenges.

The School of Architecture & Design extends its heartfelt gratitude to Dr. N. N. Sharma, President, Manipal University Jaipur for his valuable support and encouragement in making the event possible.

A press conference of the event was presided by the Council of Architecture at The Lalit Jaipur in presence of the President CoA, Executive committee Council of Architecture, along with the convenors and coordinators of the event from CoA and Manipal University Jaipur. Prof (Ar) Kiran S Mahajani, addressed the press briefing on the process of the CoA awards, the selection and evaluation. He also emphasised on creating platforms to promote the efficiency of built environment to the grass root levels, emphasising not just urban but also at rural levels.

The jury proceedings and Award Ceremony will be held on 9 October 2026, marking the culmination of the two-day event and recognising outstanding student achievements in architectural education.

Azeez Gupta, Rocket Learning; Dr. Shena Aggarwal, Govt. of Punjab; Radhika Jha, Govt. of India; Dr. Mrinalini Darswal, Govt. of Odisha; Rakhi, Parent from Sonipat
 

Amongst the esteemed speakers and guests were distinguished leaders including Dr. M. Srinivas, Member, NITI Aayog; Arti Ahuja, Former Secretary, Ministry of Labour and Employment, Government of India; Amanda Devercelli, Former Global Early Childhood Development Head, World Bank Group; Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, Chairperson, M. S. Swaminathan Research Foundation; Radhika Jha, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Women and Child Development, Government of India; Dr. Dinesh Arora, Principal Specialist at the Asian Development Bank, and Dr. Abhijeet Singh, Professor at the Stockholm School of Economics and Board Member (Education), J-PAL. They were joined by Dr. Shena Aggarwal, Special Secretary-cum-Director, Dept. of Social Security, Women and Child Development, Govt. of Punjab; Dr. Mrinalini Darswal, Commissioner-cum-Secretary, Dept. of Women and Child Development, Govt. of Odisha and senior officials of the Women and Child Development departments of Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and Andhra Pradesh; leaders from OpenAI, TRYST at IIT Bombay, and SIRA; and Rocket Learning co-founders Azeez Gupta, Namya Mahajan, Siddhant Sachdeva, and Utsav Kheria.

Delivering the keynote discussion on reducing the administrative burden on Anganwadi workers in India, Dr. M. Srinivas, Member, NITI Aayog, said, "Frontline workers like Anganwadi staff should not be burdened solely with administrative tasks and manual record-keeping. Technology and policy changes must simplify their workload so they can focus on their primary mission: directly nurturing mothers and children."

Speaking on targeted AI interventions for vulnerable families, Arti Ahuja, Former Secretary, Ministry of Labour and Employment, Govt. of India, said, "The true power of AI lies in data-driven empathy. Down to the village and hamlet level, AI can help us identify red flags such as family migration or food scarcity, thus enabling targeted, local-level support for the most vulnerable children and families before they fall behind."

Speaking about the vision behind building Udaan as a cross-sector platform, Rocket Learning’s co-founders, Azeez Gupta, Namya Mahajan, Siddhant Sachdeva, and Utsav Kheria, in a joint statement said, “Every child deserves more than simply surviving the early years - they deserve the opportunity to thrive. We have witnessed the possibilities of Anganwadi educators, pre-school teachers and parents working together as one coherent unit to change children’s trajectories. Udaan 2026 was about moving from surviving to thriving, and the conversations on evidence, investment and technology reinforced that India has both - the ideas and the will - to make this possible at scale. Rocket Learning remains committed to supporting India’s early learning ecosystem, with Udaan 2026 marking an important milestone in this journey.”

Discussions throughout the day addressed how to best reform and enable Anganwadis, better invest in early childhood development, lessons from academia, and the role of technology in supporting the youngest children. The conference also saw the launch of results and lessons from the evaluation of a highly successful, technology-based homegrown early childhood development model, presented by Dr. Abhijeet Singh, and extended a platform to showcase stories of Anganwadi educators and parents.

Udaan 2026 reinforced that the case for ECCE is clearly established. The task now is to translate that understanding into action at scale - with rigour, compassion and a commitment to every child.

About Rocket Learning

Rocket Learning is one of India’s largest early learning non-profits focused on transforming early childhood and foundational learning outcomes at scale. Eighty-five percent of brain development happens before the age of six, making early learning extremely critical. By leveraging technology, behavioral insights, and strong government partnerships, Rocket Learning empowers parents, teachers, and frontline educators to drive measurable improvements in children’s learning. Working directly with government systems across 15 states and union territories and 200+ districts, since 2020 the organization has impacted 6 million children between birth and 6 years of age, across more than 500,000 classrooms, including 400,000 Anganwadi educators. Through responsible use of AI and digital innovation, Rocket Learning is striving to make quality early education accessible, inclusive, and effective for every child, with the aim to positively impact 50 million underserved children by 2030.

For more information, visit rocketlearning.org.

Racold joins the Restore Awards as Earth Partners

The partnership comes at a time when sustainability is increasingly influencing how consumers, businesses and institutions think about the technologies they use every day. As Earth Partner, Racold will contribute to the larger conversation around how innovation can enable more responsible choices, particularly in areas where energy efficiency can have a direct and measurable impact. The partnership brings together Racold’s expertise in efficient heating technologies with a platform focused on positive impact for people and the planet.

Racold’s focus on “Sustainable Comfort For Everyone” is rooted in this intersection of comfort and efficiency. Its portfolio of advanced water heaters and heat pump solutions is designed to optimize energy usage, and reduce energy consumption by up to 70%*, depending on the application and operating conditions. By enabling more efficient heating, these solutions can help households and businesses reduce their energy footprint while continuing to meet their everyday hot water requirements efficiently.

The opportunity extends beyond individual products to the wider built environment. As businesses and institutions increasingly integrate energy efficiency into their infrastructure and operational priorities, technologies such as heat pumps can play a role in reducing energy demand and supporting the transition towards more sustainable systems.

Commenting on the association, Mohit Narula, Managing Director & Country Manager – Ariston Group India Pvt. Ltd, said, “Comfort and sustainability need not be competing priorities. The opportunity lies in using technology to deliver the comfort people need while consuming energy more responsibly. Our association with The Restore Awards reflects our belief that sustainability is also about making better choices in the technologies we use every day. Through our energy-efficient water heating and heat pump solutions, we are working towards making responsible comfort a more practical reality for consumers and businesses.”

As the conversation around sustainable living and infrastructure evolves, Racold remains focused on solutions that bring together performance, energy efficiency and environmental responsibility. Through its association with The Restore Awards®, the brand seeks to reinforce a simple proposition: the future of comfort is not just about how well we live, but how responsibly we use the resources that make that comfort possible.

About Racold

Racold is one of India's leading premium water heating solutions providers and a wholly owned subsidiary of Ariston Group, the Italian global leader in sustainable thermal comfort. With over six decades of expertise, Racold combines Italian design, global engineering and local manufacturing to deliver innovative, energy-efficient and durable water heating solutions for residential, commercial and institutional applications. Its comprehensive portfolio includes instant and storage water heaters, heat pumps and customized hot water systems equipped with advanced technologies. Backed by Ariston Group's presence across more than 40 countries and its expertise in water heating, space heating and renewable energy technologies, Racold brings global innovation tailored to the evolving needs of Indian consumers. Recognized as the only water heating brand in India to receive the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) Award ten times, Racold continues to redefine everyday comfort through innovation, performance, safety and sustainability, supported by a robust nationwide service network.* Up to 70% electricity savings compared to conventional electric water heating solutions.

L-R: Kumarasamy Ramesh, S. Thirunavukkarasu, S. Maasnam, Vishnu Khemani, Appar Lakshmanan and R. Rangachari at I AM STRONGEST Awards

The 2026 edition, themed “CARVED IN STRENGTH: Honouring Generations of Craftsmanship & Innovation,” celebrated the people behind some of the country’s most intricate wooden creations. From temple chariots and sacred sculptures to monumental doors and architectural woodwork, the awardees represent generations of knowledge, skill and perseverance that continue to keep traditional craftsmanship alive.

The five awardees were Perunthachar Appar Lakshmanan, Dr. R. Rangachari Sthapathi, Thiru. S. Maasanam Achari, Thiru. S. Thirunavukkarasu Sthapathi, and Thiru. Kumarasamy Ramesh Sthapathi. Their work spans temple and heritage projects across India and overseas, while their contributions extend beyond craftsmanship to training, knowledge-sharing and supporting the wider artisan community.

Perunthachar Appar Lakshmanan was recognised for his innovative approach to traditional carpentry, including his distinctive wooden car, bike and household creations. A master carpenter from the Thiruvallur region, he has created temple chariots at several locations across Tamil Nadu, including the Tamil Ther at Chennai International Airport. A recipient of the Poompuhar State Award for 2011–2012, he has also authored ten books on carpentry and trained students in wood sculpture.

Dr. R. Rangachari Sthapathi was honoured for carrying forward a 13-generation legacy of temple chariot making and traditional wood sculpture. Through Rangachari Traditional Wood Sculptures, he creates hand-carved sculptures, decorative panels and architectural woodwork rooted in Tamil Nadu’s craft traditions. His work reflects both the intricate detailing of traditional sculpture and his commitment to passing this knowledge on to future generations.

Thiru. S. Maasanam Achari was recognised for his mastery of large-scale wood carving using traditional hand tools. Based in Madurai, he continues a family craft tradition spanning for about 55 years, working with his brothers to create deity figures, Chettinad-style doors and pooja mandapams. His family workshop has contributed wooden structural components to the Meenakshi Amman Temple’s Velli Ambalam silver mandapam and supplied carved pillars and deity sculptures to Malaysia.

Thiru. S. Thirunavukkarasu Sthapathi was honoured for his extensive contribution to crafting temple vahanams and preserving the intricate sculptural traditions associated with sacred processional works. A graduate of the Government College of Sculpture and Architecture, Mamallapuram, he carries forward his traditional practice through MARABU in Andipandal. His major works include a 62-foot chariot for the Sri Pandurangan–Rukmini Temple at Govindapuram and the 32-foot Athi Vinayagar sculpture, carved from athi wood, installed in Nagapattinam.

Thiru. Kumarasamy Ramesh Sthapathi was recognised for combining craftsmanship with a strong commitment to the welfare of fellow artisans. With more than two decades of experience, he leads Manasa Wood Creations, specialising in traditional woodcraft and large temple timber structures. Among his major projects are the 90 doors created for Ayodhya’s Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir, handed over in November 2025, along with temple projects undertaken in India and overseas.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Vishnu Khemani, Founder and Managing Director, SharonPly, said, “A finished creation reflects not just skill, but years of learning, discipline and experience. Through this year’s I AM STRONGEST Awards, we place the maker at the centre, celebrating artisans whose expertise preserves traditional knowledge while evolving with contemporary needs. CARVED IN STRENGTH reflects SharonPly’s long standing association with wood and our respect for the craftsmanship that transforms it into functional, architectural and cultural creations. By honouring these masters of woodcraft, we hope to inspire greater appreciation for skilled craftsmanship and encourage the transfer of knowledge across generations. I AM STRONGEST continues to spotlight individuals whose achievements and contributions inspire others.”

I AM STRONGEST: Celebrating Strength in Every Form

Launched in 2019, the SharonPly I AM STRONGEST Awards celebrates individuals whose actions demonstrate strength, resilience and service to society. Its first edition honoured wheelchair basketball player Malathi and social change maker Logammal. In 2020, the Awards paid tribute to frontline workers who lost their lives during the COVID-19 pandemic, while the 2021 edition recognised everyday heroes who supported communities during the pandemic’s second wave. Both editions were held online. In 2022, the platform turned its attention to animal welfare, celebrating individuals whose work extended to birds, elephants and other animals. The 2024 edition honoured Tamil Nadu’s Olympic hockey legends, while the 2025 edition recognised retired senior Army officers who continue to contribute to public understanding as defence analysts.

With each edition, I AM STRONGEST has sought to make a different form of strength visible. In 2026, the spotlight turned to artisans whose names may be less familiar than the remarkable works they have created—recognising the skill, experience and dedication behind generations of craftsmanship.

About SharonPly

Established in 1987, SharonPly offers plywood, decorative veneers, doors and related products. Its manufacturing facility is located in Gummidipoondi - India’s largest plywood manufacturing facility, near Chennai, and is among. The company’s connection with wood gives the 2026 edition of I AM STRONGEST Awards particular significance, as it recognises the human skill, knowledge and dedication that transform wood into products, structures and cultural creations.

Say goodbye to financial friction and hello to ultimate cart freedom. Finnable and Flipkart Finance have officially joined hands to integrate consumer credit right where you actually spend your time: your favourite shopping apps. Available across Flipkart, Myntra and Flipkart Minutes, the partnership deepens the digital credit infrastructure, now with Finnable's underwriting extending access to a wider set of India's shoppers.

Finnable partners with Flipkart Finance to expand access to instant checkout credit across Flipkart, Myntra and Flipkart Minutes, including for new-to-credit customers

Whether you're refreshing your wardrobe on Myntra, restocking essentials on Flipkart Minutes, or grabbing tech on Flipkart, you can now split payments, manage your budget, and check out seamlessly with up to Rs 1 Lakh. The programme is already live across India and has seen strong early uptake from customers since launch.

Customers can choose from three repayment options. Short-term credit repayable in up to 30 days, Pay in 3 splits the cost across three payments. EMI plans run from 3 to 12 months for higher-value purchases such as mobiles, electronics and appliances. The entire journey takes place within the app, and eligible customers are approved within seconds.

"India's next wave of consumers will meet credit where they already shop, not at a traditional bank branch," says Amit Arora, Co-Founder, Finnable. "With Flipkart Finance and Flipkart platforms, we're bringing formal credit to customers across segments with the exact simplicity they expect in their shopping experience."

About Finnable

Finnable is a technology-led lending start-up focused on making credit simple, fast, and accessible. Founded by Nitin Gupta and Amit Arora, the start-up offers personal loans, Loans Against Property (LAP), and consumer finance, combining data-driven underwriting with a customer-first approach. (Web: finnable.com/finnable.credit)

Disclaimer & Regulatory Note

Finnable Credit Private Limited and Flipkart Finance Private Limited are RBI-registered NBFCs. Loans are jointly originated under the RBI specified digital & co-lending framework, with Flipkart platforms facilitating the digital customer journey. All loans are subject to eligibility, documentation, and credit assessment. All applicable charges are detailed in the Key Fact Statement.

MOU Signing & File Exchange between SNPSU and Google Cloud, with Shanoop, Head, Google AI GTM, India, and G. D. Manoj, Pro-Chancellor, SNPSU

The collaboration is aimed at strengthening AI education, research and industry engagement by giving students exposure to emerging technologies and practical applications of intelligent systems. It also seeks to build capabilities that enable students and faculty to engage meaningfully with the rapidly evolving field of AI.

Speaking at the MoU signing, Shanoop, Head, Google AI GTM, India, said, the collaboration represents the beginning of a broader vision for technology-led education. He highlighted the potential of the initiative to serve as a model for progressive institutions looking to integrate emerging technologies into academic learning and prepare students for an increasingly AI-driven world.

G. D. Manoj, Pro-Chancellor, SNPSU, emphasized the need to view AI not merely through the lens of its impact on employment, but as a powerful tool for extending human capability. He noted that educational institutions have an important role to play in helping students understand AI, use it responsibly and harness its potential to create meaningful solutions for society.

Reinforcing the importance of integrating AI across disciplines, Dr. Jayanthi V,Vice Chancellor, SNPSU, highlighted the growing relevance of emerging technologies across higher education, including medicine and allied health sciences. She pointed to applications of AI in areas such as research, diagnostics, teaching and learning, and emphasized the need to embed AI capabilities within curricula while simultaneously strengthening faculty development, student training, research and innovation.

The partnership brings together Google Cloud, Google for Education and Google AI expertise, creating opportunities to connect academic learning with industry knowledge, technology platforms and real-world applications. Navisha Prabhakar, Regional Head – South, Google for Education, highlighted the role of technology-enabled education in helping institutions and learners respond to the changing demands of the future.

For SNPSU, the collaboration is part of a larger institutional effort to build a stronger foundation for AI education, research, innovation and industry collaboration. Dr. H. Ramakrishna, Registrar, SNPSU, Dr. Prashanth Kumar H. P., Director – Marketing, SNPSU and Shashank K R, Director – Admissions, SNPSU, were part of the university leadership supporting the initiative and its broader institutional vision.

The industry dimension of the collaboration is further strengthened through the participation of Surya Nigam – Google, and the CloudReign team, bringing technology expertise and industry perspectives into the partnership.

Deshmukh Omkar, OSD – Tech Partnerships, SNPSU, has been closely involved in developing the university’s technology partnerships and in strengthening the institution’s engagement with emerging technology ecosystem.

The MoU signing ceremony was held at Google Bengaluru-Ananta campus, in the presence of Dr. A. M. Nagaraja, Registrar – Evaluation, SNPSU and Dr. Mahendrababu, Dean, SoET, SNPSU; along with senior representatives from SNPSU, Google for Education and CloudReign.

The collaboration marks an important step in SNPSU’s vision to create an academic environment where emerging technologies are not simply studied, but actively explored, applied and developed through education, research and industry engagement.

Building the next chapter of AI-led education

The Agentic AI programme is envisioned as the starting point of a broader initiative at Sapthagiri NPS University—one that brings together learning, research, industry expertise and innovation to prepare students to participate meaningfully in an AI-driven world.

For SNPSU, the partnership represents more than the introduction of a new programme. It is a move towards making emerging technology an integral part of the university experience and creating a stronger bridge between what students learn today and the technologies shaping tomorrow.

Shri Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu, Hon’ble Minister of Civil Aviation, Government of India with GC members of IFQM

The second day of the symposium focused on translating the quality and innovation agenda into action, with discussions around strengthening MSME capabilities, building industry–academia partnerships, developing talent and leveraging technology to improve productivity and competitiveness. As part of this effort, IFQM announced plans to roll out a leadership programme for MSMEs and subsequently extend a similar programme to large industries, with a focus on sharing best practices, reducing waste, improving quality and driving innovation through education and continuous learning.

Delivering the keynote address on “Wings of Viksit Bharat: Transforming India into a Global Aviation Hub,” Shri Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu, Hon’ble Minister of Civil Aviation, Government of India, emphasised the need to strengthen India's aviation manufacturing ecosystem and develop capabilities across the supply chain.

He said, “The ultimate goal is to make aircraft in India. The government is committed to providing policy support for the aviation sector, especially for MRO. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has set a target of 350 airports by 2047; we are working to achieve it. But we need to strengthen aviation manufacturing in India. The industry needs to understand the importance of material quality; we need more people and more clusters; we also need skilling, from design to the factory floor. It has to be reflected in the Indian aviation sector.”

The Minister also called upon global OEMs to bring together their supply-chain partners and MSMEs through collective industry forums. He urged companies such as Boeing and Airbus, etc to lead discussions with Indian MSMEs on the requirements of the aviation industry, noting that clarity on product and quality specifications would enable MSMEs to better plan, innovate, design and manufacture to global standards. He also highlighted the role that institutions such as IFQM can play in facilitating this collaboration.

IFQM, established by a consortium of India’s leading enterprises, is an industry-led movement committed to catalysing Indian organisations to become globally competitive and export-capable through Quality, Innovation and Excellence. The Foundation is focused on strengthening the capabilities of Indian industry, including MSMEs, through initiatives that promote quality, innovation and sustainable development in line with the nation-first objectives of Viksit Bharat.

From Quality Intent To Measurable Action

The two-day symposium brought together senior industry leaders, policymakers, global quality experts, CEOs, CXOs, academia and MSMEs to explore how India can leverage its scale, technology and human capital to build globally competitive enterprises.

In his concluding remarks, Mr. Venu Srinivasan, Chairman, IFQM, emphasised that quality must become a personal commitment across leadership and organisations. He said, “Our shared responsibility is to build India's reputation and make it synonymous with Quality. Quality must be a personal commitment from the leaders. Change begins at the top. To build a world-class company, innovation has to be continuous; follow the standards. Be willing to make mistakes and learn to correct them quickly. Daily discipline has to be part of the work.”

Highlighting the critical role of MSMEs in India's growth, he added, “MSMEs are the foundation of any country, and vibrant MSMEs are key to the country’s success. IFQM’s single-minded purpose is to make 5,000 MSMEs part of quality and innovation and to become part of a nationwide movement. Caring and sharing is a critical journey. Our commitment is to make quality a habit; it should start at home.”

Mr. Soumitra Bhattacharya, CEO and Director, IFQM, highlighted the organisation's ambition to scale its MSME engagement and turn collective industry participation into measurable action. He said, “We create USPs and turn plans into action. We had 200-plus MSMEs; we are looking at 500-plus, and the next target is 1,000-plus MSMEs. How can we use our members and non-members as force multipliers? We need to create a burning platform and work together, contribute, cooperate and participate.”

Mr. T.V. Narendran, CEO & Managing Director, Tata Steel, emphasised the need to build momentum and a critical mass around quality. He said, “We need to create momentum, create a critical mass, and the mindset. Industry-academia tango has to happen for real success and quality in the MSME ecosystem. To build a quality culture, we need to go beyond CEOs; there are many ways to influence it.”

Mr. K.N. Radhakrishnan, Director & CEO, TVS Motor Company, stressed the need to accelerate the transformation of MSMEs into process-driven organisations. He said, “I believe there is a lot to do. As an example, how to transform the 132 MSMEs that TVS Motors has released, in the next 90 days. Transforming Indian companies to be process-driven. Intensify the CEO connect sessions; the more we share, the more we achieve.”

Building Quality and Governance Across Sectors

Day 2 featured four keynote addresses that explored how organisations can strengthen their understanding of customers, challenge existing systems and processes, and use both successes and failures as opportunities to improve quality.

The discussions brought together industry leaders around themes including “Creating Force Multipliers for the Industry-led Movement,” “Quality to Credibility: Building Trust at Global Scale,” “Instilling a Culture of Quality Excellence: Boardroom to Shopfloor,” “From Incremental to Breakthrough: Reimagining Kaizen at Scale,” “Deploying AI for Manufacturing and Services,” and “Strengthening Partnerships Globally.”

Dr. Masahiko Mori, President & Group CEO, DMG MORI, highlighted the importance of understanding customer needs and using real-world data to improve products and solutions. He said, “Customers' culture is also important, and understanding it is key to acquiring and retaining customers. Gathering data from the customer site is very critical. Using the data, the company can customise the software for customers’ requirements.”

Speaking on the importance of leadership commitment to continuous improvement, Mr. Yugo Miyamoto, Managing Director, Kaizen Saudi Arabia, Abdul Latif Jameel, said, “Kaizen must become a necessity for the CEO. Not something the CEO supports, not something the CEO sponsors and leads with personal commitment and not something they occasionally visit. A necessity.”

Mr. Stefan Grosch, Member of the Board of Management and Director of Industrial Relations, Robert Bosch GmbH, highlighted the importance of quality governance and shared his perspective on the alignment between IFQM and global quality movements. He said, “My experience with EFQM (European Foundation for Quality Management) has helped me understand the IFQM vision. We understand the quality governance process to help customers achieve their set goals.”

AI: A Challenge And Opportunity For Msmes

The growing role of artificial intelligence in manufacturing and services was another key area of discussion, with the symposium examining how organisations can move from experimentation to meaningful adoption.

The panel, moderated by Mr. Girish Krishnamurthy, MD & CEO, Tata Technologies, and featuring Dr. Gopichand Katragadda, Founder & CEO, Myelin Foundry, and Dr. Lucas Bretz, General Manager, KIT/GAMI, explored whether industry’s understanding of AI is evolving from experimentation into a more mature discipline.

The discussion highlighted the distinction between Core AI—the intelligence layer—and Operational AI, where AI is embedded into workflows and decision-making. With Large Language Models increasingly changing how organisations learn, operate and use technology, the panel emphasised that AI adoption must be viewed as an operating-model opportunity rather than only a technology upgrade.

For MSMEs, however, barriers to adoption remain significant. The discussion highlighted the opportunity for an IFQM-led platform that can curate, validate and simplify AI solutions for MSMEs, enabling them to use AI as a practical force multiplier rather than viewing it as a distant or complex technology.

Strengthening Global Partnerships

The symposium also reinforced IFQM’s focus on building global partnerships to accelerate India's quality and innovation journey.

Delivering a special address on “Strengthening Partnerships Globally: IFQM and JUSE Collaboration,” Mr. Masato Onodera, Managing Director, JUSE, emphasised the importance of a two-way exchange of knowledge and experience between India and Japan. He said, “We want to keep this timeline going from Japan to India and from India to Japan. It will be a two-way relationship where we learn from each other and build value together.”

Building Momentum For India’s Quality Movement

Over two days, the IFQM Symposium 2026 brought together around 50 CEOs, 200 CXOs, and a total participation of more than 400 including academicians and students representatives from government, industry, academia, global quality institutions and MSMEs to advance a common agenda for India's competitiveness.

The discussions reinforced the need for India to move from scale to excellence, from intent to adoption, and from individual organisational initiatives to a broader industry-led movement for Quality and Innovation. With MSMEs at the heart of India's economic growth and global supply chains, the symposium highlighted the need to equip them with the right capabilities, partnerships, talent and technology to build quality into the way they design, manufacture and deliver.

The symposium also underscored that India's journey towards Viksit Bharat will require quality to become more than a process or metric—it must become a culture, a leadership commitment and a way of working across the country's enterprises and supply chains.

About IFQM

Instituted in the year 2023, IFQM is the Indian Foundation for Quality Management ( IFQM) that is committed to the promotion of transformative changes across Indian industries. It seeks to institutionalize a culture of quality that meets and exceeds global standards. It is about bringing in continuous improvements of both products and services, thereby elevating the perception about Brand India. Committed to the prosperity and quality of life of all, IFQM functions as a catalyst in making Indian businesses globally respected with cooperative trust, respect, empathy, and mutual sharing. Through its initiatives, IFQM supports India's journey towards becoming a developed nation by 2047, with an emphasis on innovation, excellence, and stakeholder engagement across sectors.

The IFQM Governing Council, Mr. N. Chandrasekaran, Chairman, Tata Sons, Mr. Dilip Sanghvi, MD, Sun Pharmaceuticals, Ms. Kiran Mazumdar Shaw, Executive Chairperson, Biocon Biologics, Mr. TV Narendran, CEO & MD, Tata Steel Limited, Mr. K.N. Radhakrishnan, Director & CEO, TVS Motor Co, Dr. Randhir Thakur, CEO & MD, Tata Electronics Pvt. Ltd., Mr. Salil Gupte, President, Boeing India & South Asia, Mr. SN Subrahmanyan, Chairman & MD, Larsen & Toubro, Mr. Venu Srinivasan, Chairman Emeritus, TVS Motor Co & Chairman, IFQM

IFQM on Web: ifqm.org.in
IFQM Events: events.ifqm.org.in
IFQM on social media: www.linkedin.com/company/ifqm

Five years of LWL creating spaces for women to connect, lead, and make impact

Over the last five years, the organisation has evolved from a community for women into a curated ecosystem for women leaders, bringing together women across industries, cities and stages of leadership. Today, LWL comprises 1,500+ women across 80+ industries and 25+ cities, with a growing presence across India, Dubai and London, and has brought 200+ speakers into its ecosystem.

As LWL marks five years, the conversation around women in leadership is shifting from representation to meaningful influence, decision-making and access. LWL’s five-year journey reflects a shift in its own approach: from creating access and community to building pathways that can translate relationships, knowledge and visibility into tangible outcomes.

“When we started Ladies Who Lead, the need was clear: women needed access to the right rooms, the right people, and each other. Five years later, it has become equally clear that access alone is not enough. The real opportunity lies in what a woman is able to do once she enters that room, whether that is to build a business, raise funding, step into a board role, find a mentor, or create an opportunity for someone else. For me, the evolution of LWL has always been about staying close to the individual journeys within our community and building an ecosystem that responds to where women are in their careers and where they want to go next. LWL isn’t just about being in the room. It’s about what becomes possible because you were,” said Aabha Bakaya, Co-Founder, Ladies Who Lead.

Over the last five years, the network has seen conversations and connections translate into a range of career and business outcomes for its members. These include Rutvika Charegaonkar being inspired to build her curly hair-care brand, The Curl Co., through an LWL curation; Supriya Jain launching a Kosmoderma clinic franchise through her connection with Dr. Chytra Anand; and Rachna Nath and Atreyi Das connecting through LWL and subsequently launching BXV Global Consulting together. An LWL introduction also connected Suniti Gupta’s Meero Digital Labs with NITI Aayog’s Women Entrepreneurship Program, leading to the co-design of the Agri ATR programme.

The evolution of LWL’s offerings reflects how the needs of women professionals and entrepreneurs have changed, with greater emphasis on practical support alongside access to a network. The mentorship programme, for instance, enables women to seek guidance on specific career and business challenges, while its broader conversations and interactions with leaders offer exposure to diverse perspectives. Together, these initiatives reflect a growing need for women to have access to mentorship, knowledge and networks that can support them at different stages of their leadership journeys. 

“Having spent years building businesses and sitting on boards, I have seen first-hand that the lack of women around the table is not an anecdotal gap. It is a structural one. What stood out to me about LWL was its attempt to address that gap not simply through representation, but by building the infrastructure around leadership: the relationships, knowledge, mentorship, and opportunities that allow access to translate into meaningful participation. A strong leadership ecosystem should create value in both directions. It should help women access the rooms that matter, while also enabling them to contribute, create opportunities, and open doors for others. That is the opportunity LWL has been building towards over the last five years,” said Aditya Ghosh, Co-Founder, Ladies Who Lead.

As LWL enters its next chapter, the focus will be on deepening the value of its network, expanding its global footprint and creating stronger pathways across different stages of leadership. This includes enabling emerging leaders to find the right mentors, supporting founders as they scale, helping senior professionals access board opportunities, and creating greater access to capital, knowledge and global platforms.

The organisation also aims to create more measurable outcomes from its ecosystem, including more businesses scaled, leadership transitions enabled, board opportunities created and collaborations facilitated.

The next phase of LWL’s journey is therefore centred on building a more connected global leadership ecosystem where women can enter at any stage of their journey and find the people, perspectives, opportunities and support they need for what comes next.

About Ladies Who Lead

Ladies Who Lead (LWL) is a premium, members-only leadership and networking platform committed to empowering women professionals across India. Founded in 2021 by veteran business journalist Aabha Bakaya and business leader Aditya Ghosh, LWL brings together a diverse community of over 1,500 women leaders across 80+ industries. With curated events, high-intent networking, mentorship, and a robust digital platform, LWL enables women to connect, collaborate, and grow. The platform’s vision is to see more women in leadership roles and to create an ecosystem where women can lead boldly, drive impact, and inspire change.

For more information, please visit ladieswholead.in.

Widely regarded as the global authority on workplace culture, Great Place To Work® has been setting the global benchmark for high-trust workplaces across more than 170 countries. Its rankings are built on confidential employee feedback through the Trust Index™ Survey, making this recognition even more meaningful because it reflects the lived experiences of women employees and provides an authentic measure of workplace culture. 
 

For Pramerica Life Insurance, this recognition builds on a culture journey that has strengthened steadily over the years. The company has now been Great Place To Work® Certified™ for four consecutive years, with its Trust Index™ score improving progressively throughout these years. During this period, Pramerica Life has also advanced from the being among the Top 50 to Top 25 in India’s Best Workplaces™ in BFSI 2026, secured the 72nd rank among India's Best Companies To Work For 2026, and been recognised among India's Best Workplaces™ in Life Insurance 2026.
 

The company's progress is also reflected in the growing representation of women across the organisation. Women's representation in the overall workforce has increased from 21% in 2022 to 30% in 2026, while women now represent 17% of leadership at the Vice President level and above, up from 12% in 2022. 
 

A dedicated initiative, SheShines, sits at the centre of this progress. It offers wellness support, expert-led sessions on personal and professional themes, and structured opportunities for dialogue and learning, alongside creative and therapeutic activities and programmes focused on women's health, mental well-being and personal growth. The initiative reflects Pramerica Life's broader culture philosophy, centred on listening, well-being, growth, safety and belonging, designed to give women employees the support and opportunities to thrive across different stages of their careers.
 

The company further strengthens its support for employees through 182 days of fully paid maternity leave, paid adoption leave and structured reintegration support, helping make the transition back to work more seamless. It also places strong emphasis on safety and dignity through its POSH policy, confidential grievance mechanisms and safe cab facilities for employees travelling late. Underpinned by a zero-tolerance approach to disrespect and misconduct, these measures help foster a workplace where every employee feels secure, respected and empowered to learn, grow and realise their full potential.
 

Broader people and culture initiatives support this direction too. Platforms such as Aap Ki Awaaz, CEO town halls and regular leadership communication promote openness and active listening, while engagement programmes like Swasthum and SPARKLE build connection and well-being. Career development, mentoring and recognition programmes give employees the room to build capabilities and pursue growth. 
 

Pankaj Gupta, Managing Director & CEO, Pramerica Life Insurance, said, "For an insurer, trust holds immense importance. It's the basis on which customers choose us to secure the future of the people they love. It's equally important to us that our employees place that same trust in us, in how we treat them, support them and help them grow. It's a matter of pride that our efforts on this front are being validated consistently, by our own employees, earning us recognition year after year from a platform as credible as Great Place To Work®. We will continue building a workplace our people can place their trust in, just as our customers place theirs in us."
 

Sharad K. Sharma, Chief Human Resources Officer, Pramerica Life Insurance, added, "We believe employees who feel supported, heard and valued bring their best to work every day, and are far more likely to grow with an organisation for the long term. That belief has shaped several of our decisions and initiatives, from health and well-being support to safety, flexibility and growth opportunities, all built around what our people genuinely need. This recognition is a welcome validation of that direction and we are proud of it. We remain committed to continuing this journey by creating opportunities that enable our people to thrive and contribute with confidence."
 

This recognition reinforces Pramerica Life Insurance's belief that an inclusive and high-trust workplace is fundamental to building a stronger organisation and delivering long-term value for customers and stakeholders. 

About Pramerica Life Insurance Limited

Pramerica Life Insurance Limited is a joint venture between DIL, a wholly owned subsidiary of Piramal Finance Limited (erstwhile Piramal Capital and Housing Finance Limited) and Prudential International Insurance Holdings, Ltd. (PIIH), a fully owned subsidiary of Prudential Financial, Inc. (PFI). It represents the coming together of two renowned financial services organizations with a legacy of business excellence spread over decades. Pramerica Life Insurance Limited, started operations in India on September 1, 2008 and has a pan India presence through multiple distribution channels which have been customized to address the specific insurance needs of diverse customer segments. The Company is committed to providing protection and quality financial advice to its customers. Pramerica is the brand name used in India and select countries by PFI.

For more details, please visit www.pramericalife.in.

About Piramal Finance Limited

Piramal Finance Limited is a retail-led upper-layer NBFC with a pan-India presence, having served over 5 million customers across 26 states. The company manages Assets under Management (AUM) of over ₹1,00,000 Cr and operates a distinctive phygital model - combining high-touch engagement across 13,000+ pin codes with high-tech capabilities including machine learning models, agentic AI tools and real-time dashboards. In retail lending, Piramal Finance offers home loans, loans against property, used car loans, personal loans, digital loans and small business loans, with a strong focus on metro-adjacent, semi-urban and rural markets. In wholesale lending, the company provides asset-backed, data-driven solutions across real estate and select non-real estate sectors, with a focus on mid-segment residential projects and capital solutions for mid-market corporates. With its digital-first approach and AI-enabled platforms, Piramal Finance is committed to expanding access to affordable credit and driving inclusive growth across India.

For more information visit piramalfinance.com.

About Prudential Financial

Prudential Financial, Inc. (NYSE: PRU), a global financial services leader and premier active global investment manager with approximately $1.6 trillion in assets under management as of June 30, 2026, has operations in the United States, Asia, Europe, and Latin America. Prudential’s diverse and talented employees help make lives better and create financial opportunity for more people by expanding access to investing, insurance, and retirement security. Prudential’s iconic Rock symbol has stood for strength, stability, expertise, and innovation for over 150 years.

For more information, please visit news.prudential.com.

Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, Union Minister for Communications & Development of North-Eastern Region, Government of India with GC members of IFQM

Delivering the keynote address on “Powering Viksit Bharat – Scale without Boundaries to Advance Development through Technology, Digital Innovation and Inclusive Connectivity,” Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia – Union Minister for Communications and Development of North Eastern Region, Government of India said that the world will soon look to India to learn about quality, innovation and self-reliance. He highlighted the role of initiatives such as IFQM in taking India forward towards Viksit Bharat@2047 and strengthening the country's journey towards Atmanirbharta.

IFQM, established by a consortium of India’s leading enterprises, is an industry-led movement committed to catalysing Indian organisations to become globally competitive and export-capable through Quality, Innovation and Excellence. The Foundation is focused on strengthening the capabilities of Indian industry, including MSMEs, through initiatives that promote quality, innovation and sustainable development in line with the nation-first objectives of Viksit Bharat.

Speaking at the symposium, Mr. N. Chandrasekaran, Executive Chairman, Tata Sons, highlighted India's progress in building sustainable, world-class infrastructure and institutions. He said, “India has made tremendous progress in developing sustainable world-class infrastructure and institutions. Our economy is doing very well, and over the last few years it has exceeded expectations. Achieving this amid global economic uncertainty is no mean task. It was possible because of infrastructure growth, manufacturing, especially precision manufacturing and investment in human process (education and skill development).”

Delivering the inaugural address, Mr. S.N. Subrahmanyan, Chairman & Managing Director, Larsen & Toubro, focused on the importance of making quality a culture across organisations. He said, “In infrastructure, doing projects with quality is critical. We are still not there yet; there is a lot to learn from global practices. Hopefully, initiatives like IFQM will help us reach that level of excellence. Personally, I can share many examples, and each one contributes to the lessons we need to achieve quality. Every employee has to be involved. It's not just about quality; it's about innovation. Quality has to be a culture; I think that will make it happen.”

Recognising Excellence in Quality and Governance
A key highlight of Day 1 was the recognition of Mr. Venu Srinivasan, Chairman, IFQM, by the International Academy for Quality (IAQ) with the Marcos E. J. Bertin Quality in Governance Medal, recognising his contribution to advancing sound governance through quality principles and methods. The honour was presented by Mr. Sunil Sinha, Trustee, IAQ, and Mr. Raúl Molteni, President, IAQ.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Raul Molteni, President – International Academy for Quality highlighted IAQ’s vision of moving beyond traditional quality management towards “quality for humanity”, and underscored India's growing importance in advancing this agenda. He noted that Indian companies have demonstrated that Total Quality Management (TQM) can be implemented at scale and evolve into a broader movement. Mr. Sinha emphasised the importance of recognising leaders who have embedded quality into the way organisations are managed and governed.

Reflecting on TVS Motor Company’s quality journey, Mr. Venu Srinivasan recalled how Japanese quality experts helped strengthen the company’s focus on TQM more than three decades ago. He emphasised that the Deming Prize should not be viewed as the destination, but as the beginning of an organisation’s TQM journey. He noted that the journey extends beyond processes and practices to building trust with stakeholders, highlighting the responsibility that comes with good governance.

IFQM and karlsruhe institute of technology (kit) join hands to strengthen industry–academia collaboration
Further strengthening its focus on knowledge, research and capability building, IFQM and the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) formalised a new collaboration through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the symposium.

Mr. Soumitra Bhattacharya, CEO and Director, IFQM, exchanged the MoU with Prof. Dr.-Ing. Gisela Lanza, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, in the presence of Mr. Venu Srinivasan, Chairman Emeritus, TVS Motor Company.

The collaboration will strengthen cooperation in quality and innovation and reflects a shared ambition to embed these principles more deeply into the systems and processes that drive industry. The partnership will also advance IFQM’s focus on industry–academia collaboration, connecting academic research and expertise with the evolving needs of Indian industry.

Taking the quality conversation across sectors
Day 1 featured six panel discussions that brought together industry leaders and MSMEs to examine the challenges and opportunities across sectors and demonstrate how quality and innovation can create measurable impact.

The discussions included “Pharma & Life Sciences: Moving Beyond Generics – Pioneering Global Leadership in Innovative Medicine”; “From Scale to Excellence: Reimagining Infrastructure for India’s Global Leadership”; “IFQM as Force Multiplier – Measurable Impact Across Sectors”; “Humble Beginnings to Global Standards – The Force Multiplier Playbook”; and “Transforming India into a Trusted Global Electronics Hub.”

The sessions also highlighted the experiences of MSMEs that have benefited from the IFQM initiative, showcasing how focused interventions in quality, technology, capability building and innovation can help businesses strengthen their competitiveness and move towards global standards.

Day 1 also featured five keynote addresses exploring India's Viksit Bharat ambition, quality and innovation, technology-led transformation, artificial intelligence and global competitiveness, including perspectives on China's evolving role in the global economy.

An exclusive CEO session, “Creating Force Multipliers for the Industry-led Movement – Boardroom Vision to Shop Floor Excellence,” brought together senior business leaders to examine the practices and organisational interventions that can translate boardroom vision into excellence on the shop floor. The session focused on how leadership commitment, employee participation, quality culture and innovation can work together to create sustainable and measurable impact across organisations.

With its first day bringing together perspectives from government, industry, academia, global quality institutions and MSMEs, the IFQM Symposium 2026 reinforced the need for India to move from scale to excellence and from individual organisational initiatives to a broader, industry-led movement for quality and innovation.

About IFQM 
Instituted in the year 2023, IFQM is the Indian Foundation for Quality Management ( IFQM) that is committed to the promotion of transformative changes across Indian industries. It seeks to institutionalize a culture of quality that meets and exceeds global standards. It is about bringing in continuous improvements of both products and services, thereby elevating the perception about Brand India. Committed to the prosperity and quality of life of all, IFQM functions as a catalyst in making Indian businesses globally respected with cooperative trust, respect, empathy, and mutual sharing. Through its initiatives, IFQM supports India's journey towards becoming a developed nation by 2047, with an emphasis on innovation, excellence, and stakeholder engagement across sectors.

*The IFQM Governing Council: • Mr. N. Chandrasekaran, Chairman, Tata Sons • Mr. Dilip Sanghvi, MD, Sun Pharmaceuticals • Ms. Kiran Mazumdar Shaw, Executive Chairperson, Biocon Biologics • Mr. TV Narendran, CEO & MD, Tata Steel Limited • Mr. K.N. Radhakrishnan, Director & CEO, TVS Motor Co • Dr. Randhir Thakur, CEO & MD, Tata Electronics Pvt. Ltd. • Mr. Salil Gupte, President, Boeing India & South Asia • Mr. SN Subrahmanyan, Chairman & MD, Larsen & Toubro • Mr. Venu Srinivasan, Chairman Emeritus, TVS Motor Co & Chairman, IFQM • 
 

IFQM on Web: ifqm.org.in
IFQM Events: events.ifqm.org.in
IFQM on social media: www.linkedin.com/company/ifqm

Chitkara University Ranks 3rd in India for Research Quality | #17 Overall | Top 701-800 Globally

The recognition places research quality at the centre of Chitkara University’s latest achievement. The THE World University Rankings assess research-intensive universities across five broad pillars; Teaching, Research Environment, Research Quality, International Outlook and Industry. The Research Quality pillar evaluates the influence and reach of a university’s research through indicators including citation impact, research strength, research excellence and research influence.

Chitkara University’s strong performance reflects its continued efforts to build an ecosystem where research is encouraged across disciplines, supported through institutional infrastructure and connected to real-world challenges. The University has been strengthening its research capabilities through interdisciplinary work, collaborations, innovation-led initiatives and opportunities for faculty and students to engage with emerging areas of knowledge.

Commenting on the achievement, Dr. Madhu Chitkara, President and Co-Founder, Chitkara University, said, “The actual measure of research is not only where it is published, but where it takes us. This recognition by Times Higher Education clearly shows the persistence of our researchers, the curiosity of our students, the work of our faculty and the ecosystem we have built to allow ideas to be explored, challenged and transformed into meaningful knowledge. For us, the significance of being ranked 3rd in India for Research Quality lies in what it represents - a culture that encourages people to ask better questions and pursue knowledge with purpose. We want research at Chitkara University to move beyond publications and laboratories, and become a pathway to innovation, collaboration and meaningful impact on society.”

The 17th position in India Overall and placement in the 701–800 global band further add to Chitkara University’s growing presence in global higher education. The 2027 edition of THE World University Rankings features 2,297 universities from 118 countries and territories, making it one of the most comprehensive editions of the rankings to date.

The achievement also builds on Chitkara University’s consistent performance in research-focused global rankings. In the THE World University Rankings 2026 as well, the University was placed among the Top 800 and was recognised among India’s leading institutions for Research Quality.

For Chitkara University, the latest recognition is not simply a measure of rankings performance, but an acknowledgement of the growing depth and quality of its research ecosystem. With a continued focus on knowledge creation, interdisciplinary collaboration, innovation and societal relevance, the University remains committed to strengthening its contribution to India’s evolving higher education and research landscape.

About Chitkara University

Chitkara University is a UGC-recognised and NAAC-accredited private university in North India, with campuses in Punjab and Himachal Pradesh, offering career-oriented undergraduate and postgraduate programs in Engineering, Business, Healthcare, Pharmacy, Design, Architecture, Hospitality and emerging technology fields. For Class 11 and 12 students planning higher education, the University provides industry-aligned programs designed to combine academic excellence with practical exposure.

The curriculum emphasises experiential learning through internships, industry projects, research opportunities and global collaborations, supported by modern infrastructure, advanced laboratories, industry mentorship and skill-based training that strengthens student employability. Backed by 2,000+ campus recruiters and 300+ international academic and industry collaborations, students gain strong placement support, international exposure, academic exchange and collaborative research opportunities.

Consistently ranked among leading institutions by national and global frameworks such as NIRF, QS World University Rankings and Times Higher Education, the University maintains high academic rigour and industry relevance. With strong corporate partnerships and a focus on innovation, entrepreneurship and interdisciplinary learning, it prepares students for emerging career opportunities in India and abroad.

For more information, please visit: www.chitkara.edu.in.

Dignitaries present in the Inaugural session of the FDP at Manipal University Jaipur

The programme was formally inaugurated in the presence of Pro-President Cdr. (Dr.) Anil Rana; Director CDOE, Dr. Mallikarjun Gaddapa; Dean Faculty of Management, Commerce and Arts (FoMCA) Dr. Brijesh; and senior representatives and experts from IIMBx, including Shainesh G., Chairperson, IIMBx; Sitaraman Shankar; Dr. S. Naga Siddharth; and Vijaya Tripathi, along with the IIMBx and SWAYAM expert and technical teams. The programme is being supported by experts including Shweta Shree, Raksha B., Manikandan K., Erwin Fernandes, Diljith Kannan, Nidhi A.C., Vishal C. Reddy, Sushma Nayak, Varun P., Bhumika Arora, Kalaiarasan R., Megha Srinivasan, Rajamohamadu Jeeyavudeen, Aarya S. Kumar, Malhar Patel and Anjali Alex, who are contributing to various sessions related to course design, content development, technology, video production, instructional design and SWAYAM course development. 

The four-day programme is structured around three key stages Design, Develop and Deliver. On the first day, faculty members are being trained to understand the needs of online learners, develop learner profiles, and align learning outcomes, course content and assessment. Participants are also being provided with hands-on experience in developing a module outline for their respective subjects and creating video scripts based on their course design. The second day focuses on the Develop stage, with particular emphasis on Artificial Intelligence and digital content production. Participants are being introduced to the fundamentals of Generative AI, its applications, strengths, limitations and associated risks. The programme also includes training in active learning activities and studio-based educational video production. Faculty members are getting an opportunity to record their learning videos and receive immediate expert feedback on delivery, pacing and the effective use of teaching aids. The third day focuses on the Deliver stage and will address the changing landscape of online education, the use of AI as a teaching and course-design assistant, and assessment development. Participants will be trained in developing different forms of assessments and aligning them with learning outcomes, as well as using AI for developing question banks with appropriate faculty validation. The programme will also include a showcase and peer review of participant-developed educational videos, followed by an orientation on course development, approval and launch through the SWAYAM platform. On the final day, participants will present their course blueprints in groups before an expert panel comprising members from IIMBx and Manipal University Jaipur. Each group will present its learner profile, course or module outline, sample script or video, learning activity, assessment and course launch plan. The presentations will be followed by expert and peer feedback and interaction with the panel. The programme will conclude with closing remarks and certificate distribution by Sitaraman Shankar, CEO, IIMBX. 

Dr. Mallikarjun Gaddapa, Director, CDOE, said, "Higher education is rapidly becoming more digital and learner centric. In this environment, subject expertise alone is not sufficient for faculty members; they also need capabilities in online course design, digital learning content development, AI-enabled teaching and outcome-based assessment. The FDP being organised in collaboration with IIMBx is providing faculty members with comprehensive hands-on exposure, from developing the initial course outline to digital content production, studio recording, assessment and online delivery. Our objective is to develop high-quality courses that respond effectively to the needs of contemporary learners.”

Shainesh G., Chairperson, IIMBx said, the objective of this programme is not merely to train faculty members, but to provide them with practical experience of the complete online course development process. From identifying learners and developing the course framework to scriptwriting, AI-enabled content development, studio recording, learning activities, assessment and preparing the course for online delivery, participants are getting an opportunity to work through every stage of the process. The collaboration between IIMBx and Manipal University Jaipur provides a strong platform for faculty members to experiment, receive expert feedback and develop modern, technology-enabled, learner-centric and outcome-oriented courses. The programme is designed as a hands-on and outcome-oriented faculty development initiative, enabling participants to move beyond theoretical understanding and work on tangible course-development outputs. The initiative is aimed at further strengthening the quality of digital and online education at Manipal University Jaipur and equipping faculty members with the capabilities required for contemporary teaching and learning. The collaboration brings together the digital learning expertise of IIMBx and the academic ecosystem of Manipal University Jaipur, providing faculty members with an effective platform to develop innovative, technology-enabled, learner-centric and outcome-based courses.

Raj Subramaniam, President & CEO FedEx Corporation with Karen Schneier Dresbach, Executive Vice President, & Rabbi Arthur Schneier, Founder & President, Appeal of Conscience Foundation

As president and CEO of FedEx Corporation, Subramaniam leads one of the world's largest transportation and logistics companies. A more than 35-year FedEx veteran, Subramaniam became the second CEO in the company's history in 2022 after serving in a series of leadership roles across the global enterprise, including as President and Chief Operating Officer. His international leadership experience and focus on globalization have contributed to the success and transformation of FedEx, while his work outside the company has focused on advancing economic growth and global trade. In 2023, Subramaniam received the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award, the highest civilian honor presented by the President of India to members of the Indian diaspora in recognition of outstanding achievements in India and abroad.

"I am honored to receive the Appeal of Conscience Award from Rabbi Schneier and the Appeal of Conscience Foundation," said Raj Subramaniam, president and CEO of FedEx. "At FedEx, we believe that connecting the world through trade and innovation does more than move goods – it builds bridges, fosters international cooperation, and brings communities closer together. We are committed to leveraging our global reach to build a more connected and unified world."

Through its global network, FedEx connects businesses and economies, enabling trade and creating pathways for businesses to reach markets around the world. In India, FedEx continues to strengthen its infrastructure and capabilities, supporting Indian businesses in accessing international markets and participating in global trade.

"Raj Subramaniam is being recognized for his international visionary leadership and steadfast commitment to connecting people worldwide through innovation and service," said Rabbi Arthur Schneier, founder and president of the Appeal of Conscience Foundation. "Under his stewardship, FedEx has advanced a culture of social and global responsibility and international cooperation that reflects ACF's mission."

Previous Honorees

The ACF has recognized prominent business leaders and public figures with the Appeal of Conscience Award including: Bernard Arnault, Mary Barra, Barbara Bush, Michael Bloomberg, Albert Bourla, Archbishop Elpidophoros, Robert Iger, Muhtar Kent, Coretta Scott King, Robert Kraft, Brian Moynihan, Virginia Rometty, Stephen A. Schwarzman, Masayoshi Son, Paul Volcker, Timotheus Höttges, Stephen M. Ross, Susan Wojcicki, Dr. Rong Yiren, Dr. Henry Kissinger, Cardinal Timothy Dolan and Tony Elumelu.

Oxford University Press partners with Canva to empower future-ready learners

As rapid advances in automation and visual communication reshape how current and future generations learn, work and create, schools are moving beyond traditional instruction to build skills that prepare students for the future. Reflecting this shift, the collaboration brings together OUP’s decades of pedagogical expertise with Canva’s intuitive, industry-leading visual communication platform. Through the textbook series, students gain hands-on opportunities to develop digital creativity, communication and design skills, aligned with the aspirations of India’s National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework (NCF).

Under the partnership, all OUP partner schools adopting the Keyboard series will receive complimentary access to Canva Education, providing teachers and students with hands-on access to professional-grade design tools in the classroom. A key highlight is the integration of Canva-based projects across Keyboard and OUP’s other computer science series, Reboot!, for Grades 3 to 8, with Reboot! available through the Oxford Educate platform.

Sukanta Das, Managing Director, Oxford University Press India, said, “At Oxford University Press, we are committed to developing educational resources that prepare learners to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital world. By embedding Canva into the curriculum, OUP and Canva are empowering students to think like creators from an early age, using technology to imagine, design and bring their ideas to life. Together, we aim to equip learners not only with technical knowledge, but also with the critical digital, communication and problem-solving skills essential for the future and envisioned by NEP 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework.”

"At Canva, our mission is to empower the world to design, and education is at the very heart of that goal. We are thrilled to collaborate with Oxford University Press to bring together their rich legacy of trusted educational content and Canva Education's intuitive visual communication tools. Together, we are making it easier than ever for educators and students to create highly engaging, interactive learning experiences." - Megan Townes, APAC Lead, Canva Education.

Featuring age-appropriate templates, including presentations, logos, flyers, websites and social media content, these projects encourage students to apply their learning in meaningful, real-world contexts while building creativity, digital literacy and visual communication skills. The collaboration broadens the impact beyond a single series, extending creative digital learning across OUP India’s wider learning ecosystem.

Designed for young learners from Grades 1 to 8, the Keyboard series combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on application, covering everything from foundational digital productivity to advanced areas like Python coding, AI, machine learning, IoT, big data, and AR/VR, making computer science engaging and interactive. Aligned with NEP 2020's emphasis on experiential, competency-based, and interdisciplinary learning, the series helps students build confidence in using technology while developing essential digital skills for the 21st century.

In addition to student resources, Canva will conduct a series of teacher-training sessions and webinars for OUP user schools, equipping educators to effectively lead design-based, visually driven learning into classroom instruction.

With technology continuing to reshape education and the workplace, the OUP-Canva partnership represents a significant step toward empowering learners with the digital fluency, creativity, and computational thinking skills required to thrive in the future.

About Oxford University Press

Oxford University Press (OUP) is a department of the University of Oxford. It furthers the University's objective of excellence in research, scholarship, and education by publishing worldwide. OUP is one of the world's largest university presses with a wide global presence. It currently publishes thousands of new publications a year, has offices in around fifty countries, and employs approximately 5,000 people worldwide. It has become familiar to millions through a diverse publishing program that includes scholarly works in all academic disciplines, bibles, music, school and college textbooks, children's books, materials for teaching English as a foreign language, business books, dictionaries and reference books, and academic journals.

About Canva

Launched in 2013, Canva is the world's leading all-in-one visual communication platform, empowering individuals, educators, and organizations to design, collaborate, and communicate visually through an easy-to-use online platform. Canva Education is designed specifically for schools and educators, providing tools that foster creativity, collaboration, and digital skills development in the classroom.

Winners of Millennium AI Creators Championship 2026 organised by Millennium Group of Schools

Held around the theme ‘Sustainable Cities. Intelligent Futures.’, the championship encouraged students to imagine how AI and human creativity can come together to address real-world challenges and contribute to cleaner, greener, kinder and more inclusive cities. The initiative was open to students from Grades 5 to 12 across India and was organised with Times Now, the leading English news channel from The Times Network, as the Official Broadcast Partner.

The championship featured three age-specific creative challenges:

• Grades 5–7: Storytelling Challenge
  • Winner: 
  1. Vishuddhi Jain
  2. Angad Mehta
  3. Aarav Mahajan
• Grades 8–9: Song Creation Challenge
  • Winner: 
  1. Ibrahim Siddiqui
  2. Hadiya Noor
  3. Rehan
• Grades 10–12: Short Film Challenge
  • Winner: 
  1. Karanjot Singh
  2. Krishna Chaudhary
  3. Abhiraj Sanjay Mokashi

The championship brought together students from across India, with entries evaluated on originality, creativity, storytelling, relevance to the theme, responsible use of AI and overall impact. 

Commenting on the conclusion of the championship, Neha Vaz, Head of Events & Strategic Alliances, The Millennium Group of Schools, said, “The response to the Millennium AI Creators Championship has demonstrated the curiosity and creative potential that young learners bring to conversations around Artificial Intelligence. What stood out was the way students used AI not simply to create, but to explore ideas, tell stories and engage with real-world challenges. Through this championship, we wanted to reinforce that responsible AI use begins with human imagination, critical thinking and intent. The winning entries reflect that spirit and serve as an encouraging reminder of what is possible when technology becomes a tool for young minds to express and build their ideas.”

As part of the championship, registered participants also received access to expert-led sessions covering prompt engineering, AI ethics and digital citizenship, helping students understand the responsible use of AI while strengthening critical thinking, creativity and innovation.

The Top 15 National Winners will receive an exclusive, fully sponsored AI Fellowship powered by TechnoKids in association with Knowledge Hub, providing advanced learning and coding opportunities to further develop their AI capabilities and future-ready skills. Winners will also receive robotics kits from E-BOT Plus, a solution designed around Computer Science, Coding, AI and Robotics, with a focus on practical and intuitive learning.

Speaking on the educational significance of the championship, Dr. Priyanka Jain, Head of Academics, The Millennium Group of Schools, said, “The Millennium AI Creators Championship has given students an opportunity to engage with Artificial Intelligence through creativity, inquiry and real-world problem-solving. The quality and diversity of the submissions demonstrate that when learners are given the right guidance, AI can become a powerful medium for expressing ideas and exploring solutions. Our focus has been to help students understand that responsible use of technology is as important as technical capability, and we hope this experience encourages them to continue questioning, creating and learning with purpose.”

The championship forms part of The Millennium Group of Schools’ broader focus on preparing students for a technology-led future while keeping creativity, critical thinking, ethical awareness and human imagination at the centre of learning. By bringing AI into a structured, creative and age-appropriate learning environment, the initiative sought to encourage students to build with AI rather than simply depend on it.

About The Millennium Group of Schools

The Millennium Group of Schools is a prominent chain of K-12 schools across India that follows the CBSE curriculum. Known for its holistic, child-centric approach, the institution follows the award-winning, research-backed Millennium Learning System™ (MLS™), developed through 10+ years of action research, to create personalised, experiential learning experiences that nurture curiosity, creativity, conceptual understanding and real-world application, while integrating global learning theories with the Indian education and value system.

Manav Rachna leadership and distinguished guests celebrate MRIIRS’ rise in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2027

The advancement marks a notable strengthening of MRIIRS's global position in one of the world's widely recognised university ranking frameworks. Its position among ranked Indian institutions has also moved from 98th among 128 ranked institutions in 2026 to 63rd among 170 institutions in 2027, as per the analysis of data available on the official ranking website.
 

The achievement comes as Manav Rachna celebrates 30 years of its educational journey, adding another significant milestone to three decades of institution building.
 

A key contributor to MRIIRS's performance this year has been Research Quality, which emerged as the University's strongest pillar. The development reflects sustained institutional efforts to strengthen the entire research ecosystem — spanning research funding and infrastructure to intellectual property, prototyping, incubation and translation of research into applications.
 

Dr. Prashant Bhalla, President, Manav Rachna Educational Institutions, said, “This upward movement is deeply meaningful for us because it reflects progress built steadily over time. As we celebrate 30 years of Manav Rachna, our aspiration is not simply to move higher in rankings, but to build an institution whose teaching, research and innovation create lasting value. This recognition belongs to our faculty, researchers, students and every member of the Manav Rachna family who continues to raise the bar. It strengthens our resolve to keep investing in academic excellence and research that can make a meaningful difference to society.”
 

MRIIRS has attracted more than Rs. 850 lakh in research funding, with support from organisations including the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR), Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS), Haryana State Council for Science, Innovation & Technology (HSCSIT), and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research–Indian Institute of Millets Research (ICAR-IIMR), among others. Its research portfolio also includes participation in the European Union-funded ERASMUS+ Capacity Building in Higher Education programme.
 

The University's research priorities encompass Artificial Intelligence and Data Science, Biotechnology and Life Sciences, Sustainable Materials and Green Technologies, Health Sciences and Clinical Research, and Management, Economics and Policy.
 

Dr. Amit Bhalla, Vice President, Manav Rachna Educational Institutions, said, “Global recognition is an outcome of what happens within a university every day - in its laboratories, classrooms, collaborations and the ideas its people pursue. Our focus has been on creating an environment where research is supported by the right infrastructure, funding, partnerships and pathways for innovation. The improvement in THE World University Rankings is encouraging, but more importantly, it tells us that the direction we have chosen is yielding results.”
 

The research ecosystem at MRIIRS has reported more than 6,000 research publications and over 300 patents published. Its areas of innovation include biomedical devices, agricultural technologies, environmental sustainability solutions, smart systems and automation, while prototyping extends to medical devices, sustainable packaging, agri-tech solutions and smart IoT systems.
 

Prof. (Dr.) Sanjay Srivastava, Vice Chancellor, MRIIRS, said, “A university's global standing is ultimately strengthened by the quality, relevance and impact of the knowledge it creates. The improvement in our THE World University Rankings position, with Research Quality emerging as our strongest pillar, is particularly encouraging because it reflects years of sustained work towards building a more rigorous and enabling research culture. Our endeavour now is to deepen this culture and take more research from knowledge creation to meaningful application.”
 

An important component of the University's innovation ecosystem is the Manav Rachna Innovation and Incubation Foundation (MRIIF), a Section 8 company established to foster innovation and entrepreneurship. The Foundation reports having supported 110+ startups, providing innovators with access to mentorship, infrastructure, skill development, incubation and acceleration, funding support and industry linkages.
 

For MRIIRS, the latest ranking represents an important external marker of progress while reinforcing its longer-term direction: strengthening research quality, expanding global and industry collaborations, supporting innovation and increasing the societal impact of academic work.
 

As Manav Rachna celebrates its 30^th year, the movement in THE World University Rankings 2027 signals both progress achieved and the ambition ahead.

SRM University-AP, Amaravati Campus
 

Other than achieving a strong position overall, SRM University-AP’s performance was particularly strong in International Outlook, where it recorded a score of 58.5 and was placed fifth in India on this indicator, above some of best academic institutions. Its Research Quality score of 55.4 further reflects the strong reach, influence and growing impact of the University’s scholarly output within the global research community.

Dr P. Sathyanarayanan, Pro-Chancellor, SRM AP, expresses, “Entering the Times Higher Education World University Rankings within a decade of our founding affirms that we are moving in the right direction. It reflects the quality, purpose and ambition that define SRM University-AP. With a focused roadmap for research and academic growth, we will build on this foundation by further strengthening academic quality, global engagement and meaningful impact.”
 

For Vice-Chancellor, SRM AP, Prof. Ch Satish Kumar, the recognition reflects the culture of inquiry the university has built in under a decade: "To be placed in the 1001-1200 bracket of the THE World University Rankings so early in our journey is a moment of real pride, and it deepens our resolve toward the vision we have set for this university. It reflects the culture of curiosity we have nurtured at SRM University-AP, where faculty and students pursue questions that matter and share their findings with the global scholarly community. We will now strengthen every pillar, with re-energized focus so that the university increasingly transforms as a global destination for learning and research."
 

The University’s inaugural participation was coordinated by its Quality Assurance and Rankings (QAR) team. Dr Karthik Rajendran, Associate Dean, Quality Assurance and Rankings, said, “This was our first submission to THE, and securing a place in the rankings on our first attempt is deeply encouraging. It validates our efforts to benchmark teaching, research and international engagement against global standards. More importantly, it gives us a meaningful international baseline from which to measure progress and build further.”

With its schools spanning engineering and sciences, liberal arts, and business, as well as dedicated institutes in artificial intelligence and quantum technology, SRM University-AP continues to build a research-driven academic community with global ambitions. The THE World University Rankings 2027 recognition provides an important international reference point as the University expands its research ecosystem, academic collaborations and global partnerships.

SRM University-AP is a multidisciplinary private university in Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh, committed to advancing knowledge through high-quality education, research, innovation and international collaboration.

MYCPE ONE awarded in the service Export EdTech Category at the Payoneer India Cross-Border Excellence Awards 2026

Shalin (Shawn) Parikh, Co-Founder & CEO, and Nemin Vora, VP of Client Relationship Management, received the award on behalf of MYCPE ONE at the ceremony in New Delhi.

Shalin (Shawn) Parikh and Nemin Vora represented MYCPE ONE at the Payoneer India Cross-Border Excellence Awards 2026 in New Delhi

The award recognizes MYCPE ONE's approach to combining AI, automation, digital learning, and compliance technology to support the evolving needs of CPA and accounting firms. 

Unlike traditional EdTech platforms focused primarily on course delivery, MYCPE ONE combines professional education with technology and operational capabilities designed for the day-to-day needs of accounting firms. 

At the center of its learning ecosystem is MYCPE ONE's CPE platform, providing CPA and accounting firms with access to professional education across 100+ qualifications, along with tools for CPE compliance and learning management. The platform brings together 15,000+ hours of content, 50-state compliance tracking, automated reminders, audit-ready reporting, and a centralized Learning Management System for managing users, learning plans, assignments, practical training, assessments, and performance. It also supports customized learning paths, firm academies, and AI-powered learning tools to help firms develop skills across their teams. 

The company is also developing practical training programs, AI-focused academies, and AI-monitored assessments to help accounting professionals build skills for an increasingly AI-driven workplace. Its assessment platform uses AI-based monitoring to strengthen assessment integrity. 

Beyond learning, MYCPE ONE is developing an AI-first, technology-enabled offshoring model that combines offshore talent with structured workflows, digital productivity tools, candidate assessments, centralized management, and technology-enabled operations. Through its offshoring solutions, accounting firms can build their own offshore teams or use managed offshoring models while accessing accounting professionals across multiple locations. 

"This award reflects the journey we have taken at MYCPE ONE to bring technology, talent, and learning together to create more meaningful solutions for accounting and professional services firms," said Shalin (Shawn) Parikh, Co-Founder & CEO, MYCPE ONE. "We are proud to be awarded in the Service Export: EdTech category. It reinforces our belief in building solutions that help firms access the right talent, develop skills, and embrace technology as they grow globally." 

MYCPE ONE's technology and processes are backed by a SOC 2 Type 2 and ISO 27001:2022-certified Information Security Management System covering technology, development, operations, and offshore staffing activities. 

As accounting and professional services firms look beyond geographic boundaries for talent, technology, and learning, MYCPE ONE continues to expand its capabilities across AI-enabled education, compliance, and cross-border service delivery. 

About MYCPE ONE 

MYCPE ONE is a full-stack accounting and business services platform headquartered in Ahmedabad, India, serving 3,000+ CPA and accounting firms, along with 300+ growing businesses across North America, the UK, and Europe. 

Founded by Shalin (Shawn) Parikh and Valay Parikh, the company has evolved into an integrated platform offering offshore staffing, continuing professional education and learning and development, digital marketing, website solutions, managed IT, cybersecurity, AI implementation and other professional solutions. With SOC 2 Type II certification, ISO 27001 compliance, GDPR readiness, and a proven track record of zero data breaches, MYCPE ONE delivers secure, scalable workforce, education, and business enablement solutions. 

Backed by a talent pool of 500,000+ vetted professionals and a global team of 3,000+ members, MYCPE ONE operates as a unified ecosystem supporting firms and businesses at every stage of growth.

Bisleri Wins Mahatma Awards 2026 in CSR Excellence for its Greener Promise initiative

The award ceremony was graced by Dr Santrupt Mishra, Rajya Sabha MP, Dr Kiran Bedi, the first woman IPS Officer of the country, as the Chief Guest, along with Guests of Honour Ms Sukanya Bharat Ram, Mahatma Gandhi Ji’s Great-Granddaughter.

The Mahatma Award draws its inspiration from the life and principles of Mahatma Gandhi. Embodying the spirit of his enduring legacy, this prestigious award recognises and celebrates individuals and organisations that catalyse positive change, dedicate their efforts to making the world a better place, and exemplify Mahatma Gandhi's ideals through their transformative work. The award was instituted by Gandhian and lawyer Mr Amit Sachdeva, CSR Man of India and supported by Ms Rajashree Birla, Chairperson of the Aditya Birla Centre for Rural Development and Communication Initiatives.

Speaking on the achievement, Dr Angelo George, CEO, Bisleri International, said, “Receiving the Mahatma Award for the second time is especially meaningful, as it reflects the consistency and commitment of Bisleri’s sustainability efforts. Our Greener Promise is shaped by the choices our teams make, the partnerships we build, and the communities we work with. This recognition is a testament to the collective efforts of our employees, partners and people on the ground who continue to translate our sustainability ambitions into meaningful, measurable action. As we grow, our focus remains on building a responsible business that contributes meaningfully to India’s sustainable progress.”

As part of the event, Mr K Ganesh, Director – Sustainability and Corporate Affairs, Bisleri International, participated in a panel discussion on Corporate Environmental Responsibility: How businesses can adopt and champion eco-friendly practices, sharing insights on Bisleri's approach to embedding sustainability across its business operations.

The event also saw the launch of CSR Good Book, a compendium of Sustainable and Socially Responsible Brands, Corporations, Public Sector enterprises and foundations. The edition featured Bisleri’s sustainability journey, including the extensive work the company has done to advance circular economy models, water stewardship, and a water credits framework to encourage water conservation across industries and sectors.

For Bisleri, the consecutive Mahatma Awards reflect how the company has made Greener Promise integral to business growth, value chain, and stakeholder interactions.  By linking environmental responsibility to people’s participation, community livelihoods, and scalable systems, the company continues to foster positive, long-term change for individuals and communities to maintain greener planet.

About Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd
With a legacy of over 50 years, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd has grown to become one of the largest premium beverage businesses in India. Being the makers of the country's largest-selling packaged drinking water, Bisleri follows a stringent process of 90 quality tests and a 10-stage purification. It remains true to its core value of providing consumers with pure, safe and healthy water.

Bisleri International has a strong presence with 130 operational plants and a robust distribution network of over 6,000 Distributors and 7,500 Distribution Trucks across India and UAE market. It offers a range of beverages that are produced for all occasions. Whether it is the promise of goodness, trust, and purity with Bisleri packaged drinking water, or a daily dose of health offered through Vedica Himalayan Spring Water. Besides, Bisleri International has ventured into fun-filled refreshments with a diverse range of carbonated drinks available in multiple flavours, such as Bisleri Limonata, Bisleri Pop and Bisleri Soda. These Bisleri products are also available on the e-commerce platform - Bisleri@Doorstep. This D2C platform reassures customers that they will receive a safe and uninterrupted supply of their most trusted brand at their doorstep.

The core values of Bisleri International lie in yielding growth and embedding sustainability by being responsible in all aspects of the business. The organization has unveiled Sustainability 2.0 with Bisleri Greener Promise that focuses on creating greener future for all through implementing initiatives under the program of recycling, water conservation, and sustainability. For more information on Bisleri International, our people, brands, and OSR initiatives, visit www.bisleri.com.

A new way for India to pay with Apple Pay on Razorpay
 

As digital payments continue to evolve in India, the way shoppers authenticate transactions is evolving too. In September 2025, the RBI introduced a new framework that lets payment players move beyond SMS OTPs to other secure ways of authenticating payments. It came into effect in April 2026, opening the door to checkouts that are faster without compromising on security.

Apple Pay on Razorpay is built for exactly this moment. Shoppers simply choose Apple Pay at checkout, check their payment, and confirm it in seconds with Face ID, Touch ID, or their device passcode. No card details to type. No OTP to wait for.

It's more secure too. Apple Pay uses tokenised card credentials, so the shopper's actual card number is never shared with the business. That adds another layer of protection against fraud and helps reduce the risk of chargebacks.

For businesses, the payoff is simple: fewer steps between "I want this" and "Payment successful." And because Apple Pay works across iPhone, Apple Watch, iPad, Mac and Apple Vision Pro, as well as on PCs through browsers like Chrome and Firefox, Razorpay merchants can offer the same smooth experience wherever their shoppers purchase.

Rahul Kothari, COO, Razorpay said, “Paying should be the easiest part of buying something, not the hardest. People expect every experience on their mobile devices and at payment outlets to be quick and effortless, and online payments via checkout should be no different. Apple Pay removes much of that friction, and with Razorpay, businesses don't need to rebuild anything to offer it. It fits right into the checkout they already use, backed by the reliability and scale thousands of Indian businesses count on. For merchants, that means faster checkouts and more successful payments."

For businesses using Razorpay Standard Checkout, Apple Pay can be enabled without building and maintaining a separate checkout flow, subject to enablement requirements. Razorpay securely routes transactions across Apple Pay, card networks, issuing banks, and processes the domestic payment once it is authorised by the shopper.

The launch extends Razorpay’s existing support for Apple Pay international transactions to domestic payments in India, further strengthening its role in helping businesses offer modern payment experiences through a single payments infrastructure.

About Razorpay

Razorpay, an omnichannel payments platform for businesses, strives to help Indian businesses with innovative solutions built with technology to address the payment and banking journey for businesses. Established in 2014 by alumni of IIT Roorkee, Shashank Kumar and Harshil Mathur, the company strives to provide technology payment solutions to many businesses. A few angel investors have also invested in Razorpay’s mission to simplify payments and business banking.

Graduating students with distinguished guests and Ms. Archana Surana, Director, ARCH College of Design & Business, during the 24th Convocation Ceremony in Jaipur

The ceremony was graced by distinguished guests, including Sh. Vijay Golecha, Co-Founder and Director, Golcha Jewels, who delivered the Convocation Keynote Address; Dr. Rahul Mishra, State Director, KVIC, MSME, Government of India; and Sh. Rajat Verma, Assistant Director, DCH, Jaipur. Also, present were Sh. Binoy Thoompunkal, Director – International, ARCH, and Sh. Siddharth Mohanty, Coordinator, ARCH, along with faculty members and staff. The ceremony was presided over by Ms. Archana Surana, Director, ARCH College of Design & Business.

A graduating student receives the degree from the dignitaries during ARCH College of Design & Business’s 24th Convocation Ceremony in Jaipur

Speakers Emphasise Purpose, Creativity, Entrepreneurship and Sustainability

Delivering the keynote address, Sh. Vijay Golecha emphasised the importance of understanding the ‘why’ behind every journey, noting that clarity of purpose is what ultimately makes a difference. He highlighted that the clearer individuals are about the reasons behind their journey, the more meaningful and successful that journey can become.

Speaking about his experience at ARCH, Sh. Golecha expressed how deeply he was moved by the work of the college's Jewellery Design students. He remarked that he would have considered himself fortunate to have studied at ARCH himself.

Drawing from his experience as an artist, he spoke of a strong creative kinship with the students and encouraged them to preserve their individuality and creative ethos at every stage of their journey towards becoming designers.

Sh. Rajat Verma congratulated the graduating students and encouraged them to explore entrepreneurship as a pathway to creative freedom. He also highlighted the various government schemes and support mechanisms available to young designers seeking to establish their own ventures, encouraging students to explore these opportunities as they enter their professional lives.

Addressing the graduating batch, Dr. Rahul Mishra reflected on the significance of the present era, where technology has made it remarkably seamless to accomplish tasks and pursue possibilities that were once difficult to access.

Using the metaphor of a river that originates at a glacier and spontaneously winds its way towards the sea, Dr. Mishra encouraged students to recognise the opportunities and possibilities available to them in the present era.

He urged students to use their education not only to seek employment but also to consider building enterprises of their own. He further emphasised the importance of sustainable living, responsible consumption and conserving resources for future generations.

Referring to the opening verse of the Isha Upanishad, Dr. Mishra highlighted the philosophy of respecting and responsibly using the world's resources. His message reinforced the need to take only what is required, conserve resources and work towards a sustainable future.

ARCH Graduates Recognised for Excellence

Addressing the graduating students, Ms. Archana Surana, Director, ARCH, reflected on the larger purpose of design education.

“Design is not merely a skill; it is a way of thinking, seeing and bringing about change in society. Our students are moving forward today not merely with a degree, but with a vision, a sense of responsibility and the ability to shape the future. The mission of ARCH has always been to prepare creative and confident professionals who can create meaningful impact in the world.”

The convocation recognised 75+ graduating students with certificates. Students and alumni were also honoured across several categories for their academic performance, innovation and contribution.

• Best Overall Performance: Shagun Gupta, B.Des. Interior Design

• Innovative Student: Sukanya Sen, B.Des. Fashion Design

• Academic Excellence Award: Sakshi Biyani, Rishi Mehta, Ishika Lohia, Devanshi Rander, Bhumika Srivastava and Pranjal Thadnani

• Alumni Excellence Award: Sukriti Banthia, Narendra Saini, Rohit Paliwal and Pooja Vijayvergiya

The ceremony concluded on a celebratory note, bringing together graduating students, parents, faculty members, guests and the ARCH community to commemorate the students' achievements and wish them success as they embark on their professional journeys.

For admission and programme-related information, prospective students can visit ARCH Admission Information.

Collaboration will cover joint research, Work Integrated Learning, and specialised healthcare
 

The collaboration brings together the clinical environment of the Apollo network and BITS Pilani's strengths in engineering, technology and data science. Clinicians and BITS Pilani researchers will explore joint research on clinical and healthcare problems, with specific areas to be identified as the collaboration develops.
 

The two institutions will collaborate to develop Work Integrated Learning programmes for healthcare professionals. These programmes allow doctors, nurses, allied health professionals and healthcare managers to earn a qualification while continuing in their jobs. Potential areas include healthcare logistics and supply chain, pharmacy, and hospital finance, with the curriculum built around the work these professionals actually do.
 

The partners will also explore technology learning for students, built around the role each student is training for. This would extend to learners at The Apollo University, at the medical and nursing colleges in the Apollo network, and at Apollo Healthcare Academy's partner institutions.
 

Specialised programmes in allied health and healthcare technology are a further area the two institutions will explore, combining BITS Pilani's competency centres with clinical training in Apollo hospitals.
 

Dr. Preetha Reddy, Executive Vice Chairperson, Apollo Hospitals Group, said, “Healthcare is entering an extraordinary era, where technology is opening new possibilities and widening the horizons of diagnosis, treatment and care. Yet the future of healthcare will be shaped not by technology alone, but by our ability to bring high tech and high touch together, combining innovation with the human connection that lies at the heart of healing. This landmark partnership brings together two pioneering institutions, Apollo Hospitals and BITS Pilani, each with a legacy of transforming its field and a shared belief in the power of knowledge to shape the future. Together, we can enable healthcare professionals to learn while they continue to care, build capabilities for a rapidly changing world, and advance research rooted in the challenges clinicians encounter every day. In doing so, we hope to nurture a generation of healthcare professionals ready not only for the future of healthcare, but ready to shape it.”
 

Prof. V. Ramgopal Rao, Group Vice-Chancellor, BITS Pilani, said, "Healthcare is one of the areas where good engineering makes a direct difference to people's lives. The collaboration creates opportunities to work with Apollo's clinical ecosystem and with a large base of healthcare professionals and students. We bring the technology, data science and a proven model of teaching people who are already working. We expect this collaboration to produce both research and trained professionals."
 

About Apollo Knowledge
Apollo Knowledge is a higher education, skilling and workforce development group backed by the promoters of Apollo Hospitals, working across medicine, nursing, allied health, technology and management. Its institutions include The Apollo University, Apollo Institute of Medical Science and Research, Apollo Nursing Colleges, Apollo Healthcare Academy, Medvarsity and Global Workforce Development. More than 10,000 students are on campus today, undergoing clinical training in the hospitals. More than 5,000 healthcare professionals have been placed in roles in India and abroad, including over 400 radiographers who joined the National Health Service in the United Kingdom in the last three years.
 

About BITS Pilani
The Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani (BITS Pilani) is a leading private deemed-to-be university in India, founded in 1964 under the patronage of the Birla family. It was among the first six institutions in India to be declared an Institution of Eminence by the Government of India. BITS Pilani operates campuses at Pilani, Goa, Hyderabad, Mumbai and Dubai. Its Work Integrated Learning Programmes division has offered degree programmes for working professionals since 1979. More than 1,36,000 professionals have graduated through these programmes, and over 50,000 are currently enrolled across India and more than 32 countries. Over 350 companies work with BITS Pilani for workforce development.

L-R: Alba Smeriglio, British Deputy High Commissioner, Chandigarh; CII Chandigarh Education Summit Chairman Reekrit Serai; Haryana Education Minister Mahipal Dhandha; CII Chd Director Sumanpreet Singh

Calling for greater collaboration between schools, universities, industry and society, Dhanda said India’s youth must be equipped with the skills and capabilities required to contribute meaningfully to a Viksit Bharat. He invited education and industry leaders to share their ideas and work alongside the government in strengthening the education ecosystem and preparing young people for the opportunities of the future.

“The future is something we build together. The Greater Chandigarh region has all the ingredients to become a model for connecting education, skills and industry. By bringing government, academia and businesses together, we can equip young people with the skills, creativity and adaptability needed for tomorrow. The UK is proud to be a long-term partner in this journey,” said Alba Smeriglio, British Deputy High Commissioner, Chandigarh.

Emphasising the importance of decisions being taken today, Reekrit Serai, Chairman, CII Chandigarh Education Summit 2026 and Managing Director, Satluj Group of Schools, said, “The future is not something our children will one day enter. It is something we are building for them—in our classrooms, our institutions and in the decisions we make today.”

Highlighting the region’s potential, Serai added, “Greater Chandigarh has the ingredients to emerge as a major education and knowledge hub. Panchkula, in particular, has the potential to become a higher-education destination, attracting leading Indian and international universities, including British institutions. Education must ultimately prepare young people not simply for the jobs of today, but to think, adapt, create and lead in the world of tomorrow.”

Vivek Verma, Chairman, CII Chandigarh UT and Managing Director, Spray Engineering Devices Ltd, highlighted the growing impact of technology on education. “The education ecosystem is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by Artificial Intelligence, digital technologies and changing industry requirements. Technology can enable personalised learning, improve access and create new approaches to teaching and assessment, but it must remain an enabler and not a replacement for the human element of education,” he said.

The discussions at the Summit focused on strengthening the school-to-skills-to-industry connect, promoting experiential and vocational learning, enhancing teacher development, integrating emerging technologies and creating greater industry exposure for young learners.

The Summit also brought together perspectives from both the academic and institutional ecosystems, enabling stakeholders to examine how schools, higher-education institutions, policymakers and industry can collectively respond to rapidly changing workforce and societal requirements.

Stakeholders underlined the need for closer collaboration between government, academia and industry to ensure that education remains aligned with evolving workforce requirements while continuing to nurture the broader intellectual, social and human capabilities of young people.

The dialogue reaffirmed CII Chandigarh’s commitment to facilitating industry-led engagement on education and supporting the development of a future-ready, inclusive and skills-oriented education ecosystem.

Pranav Raaj Aggarwall receives the National Awards at the 15th National Education Excellence Conclave 2026

The event was attended by several distinguished dignitaries including Dr. Amit Dutta, Director, All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE); Dr. Alka Gurjar, Honourable Member of Parliament, BJP; Mr. Varun Tandan, CEO, Water Management and Plumbing Skill Council, and many other eminent personalities from the education and skilling sector. The prestigious awards were received by Mr. Pranav Raaj Aggarwall, Group CEO, International School of Design.

The “Best Design Institute in India 2026” award acknowledges INSD’s contribution to design education and its continued focus on developing skilled, industry-ready creative professionals. INSD has built its education model around skill-first learning, industry-driven curriculum, practical exposure, live projects, internships, portfolio development and career support. The institution offers programmes across disciplines including Fashion Design, Interior Design, Graphic Design, Jewellery Design, Animation & VFX, UI/UX, Textile Design, Photography, Beauty & Makeup and Luxury Education.

The second recognition, “India’s Most Promising Aviation Academy 2026”, was awarded to INSD Aviation, the latest initiative from International School of Design. The initiative marks INSD’s expansion of its skill-first education philosophy into air hostess training, cabin crew for business class training, hospitality, travel, retail and customer support, with a focus on creating professionally trained, industry-ready talent for these rapidly growing industries.

The institution today has a network of 75+ centres across 23 states and has trained more than 30,000 students. Its career ecosystem includes 500+ industry recruiters and placement partners, with INSD reporting a successful placement track record for thousands of students.

INSD students have gone on to work with leading organisations across design, fashion, interiors, jewellery, retail, technology and allied creative industries. Its industry and placement ecosystem includes names such as Lifestyle, Lenskart, Malabar Gold & Diamonds, Asian Paints, Lakmé, Gaurav Gupta, Jaipur Rugs and other leading brands. INSD provides students with career and placement support backed by practical training, live projects, internships, portfolio development and industry exposure. The highest salary package offered to INSD students has reached Rs. 18 lakhs per year (Rs 1 lac 50 thousand per month), reinforcing the growing career opportunities available to professionally trained creative talent.

Over its 15-year legacy, International School of Design has evolved from a design education institution into one of India’s largest networks for skill-based creative education, positioning itself as “India’s New Age Skill-School.” INSD has received multiple recognitions over the years for its contribution to design education and skill development, including recognition as the “Fastest Growing Design Institute in India” in 2023, presented by Shri Yogendra Upadhyay, Honourable Minister of Higher Education, Uttar Pradesh, and recognition for “Excellence in Design Education” in 2025by the Times of India Group. The two honours received at the 15th National Education Excellence Conclave 2026 — “Best Design Institute in India 2026” and “India’s Most Promising Aviation Academy 2026” — mark the next phase of INSD’s growth as it expands its skill-first education model beyond design into aviation, hospitality, travel, retail and other high-growth service sectors.

For more information, visit www.insd.edu.in.

India’s Esports Run Continues at the 2026 Asian Games

India is the world’s second-largest mobile gaming market, with mobile titles accounting for more than 90% of esports engagement. That strong mobile-first audience is helping drive the expansion of India’s esports scene, which is gaining ground globally. The country is also producing competitive teams ready to take on the region’s top competition.

India’s 15-member esports contingent will compete across four titles at Aichi-Nagoya: League of Legends, Pokémon UNITE, eFootball and Puyo Puyo Champions. The lineup combines two team events with two individual competitions, giving India multiple opportunities to challenge Asia’s leading esports nations.

Akshaj Shenoy and Adnan Mohammed Badshah will lead India’s League of Legends and Pokémon UNITE squads respectively. The country also returns with Asian Games experience, having finished fifth in League of Legends at Hangzhou 2023.

The competition will put India’s esports teams up against some of the region’s established contenders. Every fixture will add another test for a country building its presence across Asia.

For fans, Parimatch offers a dedicated place to keep track of the Asian Games. Check the esports schedule, follow live match results and support your favourite players throughout the competition.

Signature images from The Postcard Hotel portfolio, including - Goa, Leh, Gir, Karnataka and beyond

Leading the evening’s recognition, The Postcard Hotel was once again named Asia’s Leading Boutique Hotel Brand 2026, reinforcing the brand’s growing presence in ultra-luxury hospitality across the region.

Among the individual hotel honours, The Postcard on the Arabian Sea was named Asia’s Leading Boutique Hotel 2026, while The Postcard Gir Wildlife Sanctuary received Asia’s Leading Wildlife Resort 2026. In a significant first for one of the brand’s newest properties, The Postcard on the Mandovi River was named India’s Leading New Hotel 2026, while The Postcard in the Himalayan Willows, Leh, which opened last year, was recognised as India’s Leading Mountain Resort 2026. With further recognition for properties across India, Bhutan and Sri Lanka, The Postcard Hotel closed the evening with a total of 12 awards.

For an independent luxury hotel company founded only in 2018, the breadth of the recognition is significant. The Postcard Hotel was created around a deliberately different idea of luxury: intimate hotels in remarkable destinations, generous space, thoughtful design and highly personalised service, with fewer rules and greater freedom for the guest.

That philosophy is reflected not only in industry recognition, but in the response of guests. The Postcard Hotel consistently records some of the highest guest ratings across leading global travel platforms, across a portfolio that ranges from beaches and wildlife reserves to tea estates, heritage homes and the Himalayas.

The recently opened The Postcard in the Himalayan Willows, Leh, for instance, sits at approximately 11,500 feet and combines expansive suites, highly personalised service and an extraordinary Himalayan setting. It is an example of the brand’s ability to create hotels of considerable comfort and sophistication in destinations that are both remote and deeply compelling — while commanding some of the country’s highest room rates and earning exceptional guest scores.

“We have always believed that the future of luxury hospitality is about giving guests more freedom, more space and more extraordinary experiences — not more rules. To receive twelve honours across such diverse categories, and more awards than any other hotel brand in Asia this year, is a very special recognition of that belief.

But awards are only one measure of what we do. The scores our hotels receive and, more importantly, the affection guests have for them matter enormously to us. When industry recognition and guest response come together in this way, it gives us the confidence to continue challenging conventions and pushing the boundaries of what an ultra-luxury hotel can be,” - Kapil Chopra, Founder and CEO, The Postcard Hotel.

Established in 1993, the World Travel Awards recognise excellence across the global travel and tourism industry. Winners are determined through votes from travel and tourism professionals and consumer travel buyers, with votes from verified industry professionals carrying additional weighting. The awards are presented at country, regional and global levels, with regional winners progressing to the World Awards.

Following the Asia, Oceania & Indian Ocean awards, several of The Postcard Hotel’s winning hotels and categories will now progress to the World Travel Awards Grand Final, scheduled to take place in Tanzania in December 2026.

The twelve awards come at an important moment for The Postcard Hotel as it enters its next phase of growth. With twelve operational hotels and nine more scheduled to open over the next twelve months, the brand is expanding into some of the region’s most distinctive destinations while remaining deliberately intimate in scale.

Rather than standardising luxury across its portfolio, The Postcard Hotel designs each hotel around the character of its destination. Its hotels are found along coastlines and rivers, within wildlife landscapes, among tea gardens and coffee estates, in the Himalayas and within restored historic assets. Each is individual, but united by the same principles: exceptional design, extraordinary space, highly personalised service and experiences rooted in the destination.

The next chapter will take The Postcard Hotel beyond the region, as the brand begins its global expansion into extraordinary destinations around the world. The focus will remain on places with a powerful landscape, culture and identity — places where the hotel does not simply occupy a destination, but becomes an integral part of experiencing it.

About The Postcard Hotel

Founded in December 2018 by Kapil Chopra, together with a team of seasoned luxury hoteliers including Akanksha Lamba, Anirudh Kandpal and Raman Bansal, The Postcard Hotel was created with a simple ambition: to reconsider many of the conventions of traditional luxury hospitality and bring greater freedom, discovery and joy back to travel.

Today, The Postcard Hotel operates twelve luxury hotels across India, Bhutan and Sri Lanka. In October 2026, the brand will enter Nepal with The Postcard on the Rapti River, Chitwan, extending its presence into another remarkable landscape and continuing its approach of choosing destinations where the experience of the place is as important as the hotel itself.

The brand has become known for generous space, highly personalised service, destination-led food and experiences, some of the highest room rates in the country and consistently high guest ratings across leading global travel platforms. Its growing portfolio spans remote Himalayan landscapes, wildlife reserves, beaches, rivers, tea estates and restored heritage buildings.

With nine new hotels scheduled to open over the next twelve months, The Postcard Hotel is building a new generation of intimate ultra-luxury hotels from Asia, combining a strong sense of place with an increasingly international outlook.

As it begins its next chapter of global expansion, its ambition remains unchanged: not simply to build more hotels, but to push the boundaries of what an ultra-luxury hotel can be.

AET Summit - India’s Most Iconic Workplaces 2026–27

At the heart of the property lies one clear conviction: iconic is never claimed — it is earned. Each honoured workplace emerges from independent market research carried out by one of India’s foremost research and insights agencies — a nationwide study that measures workplaces against ten published parameters, among them culture, wellbeing, retention, leadership, learning, inclusion and employee voice.

The felicitation takes place on Wednesday, 16 December 2026 at Taj Santacruz, Mumbai — a morning that gathers the CHROs, CEOs and founders behind the honoured workplaces. The programme features a data-led keynote on the anatomy of an iconic workplace, a leadership panel on culture as a driver of growth, a fireside dialogue on AI stepping into the modern org chart, and a walkthrough of the evaluation methodology — after which each honoured workplace is felicitated on stage.

Commenting on the launch, Snehas Ajgaonkar, Founder & CEO, Adentech, said, “Most organisations describe themselves as people-first; only a handful can demonstrate it — in who stays, who rises, and in how their employees speak about work when no one is watching. India’s Most Iconic Workplaces was created to identify such workplaces through research and celebrate them in the company of their peers. December in Mumbai will be their moment, and we are delighted to host it.”

Among the themes the 2026–27 edition will explore:

• Turning culture into growth — the measurable business impact of great people practices

• AI as a teammate — how work, skills and the HR function change when intelligent agents join the workforce

• The anatomy of an iconic workplace — insights from the 2026–27 nationwide evaluation

• Workplaces employees champion — the everyday credibility behind retention and employee voice

With India’s Most Iconic Workplaces, the portfolio of AET Summit by Adentech — already home to Brands that India Trusts — now stretches from brand recognition into the arena of workplace excellence.

The honoured cohort will be revealed at the ceremony on 16 December 2026. To explore the platform further, visit www.aetsummit.com.

About Adentech
Adentech is a marketing and creative powerhouse headquartered in Mumbai, working across outdoor media, digital and performance marketing, video production and brand building — work designed to turn heads and move metrics. Its events and recognition arm, AET Summit, curates research-led platforms for the leadership of Indian business. Visit adentech.in.

About AET Summit by Adentech
AET Summit by Adentech is the gathering platform for India’s senior business leadership, producing business conferences, felicitations, round tables, conclaves and leadership awards. Its portfolio features India’s Most Iconic Workplaces, celebrated each year in Mumbai, alongside Brands that India Trusts and Most Trusted Workplaces of India.

A Moment of Celebration as IIT Jammu Hosts Its 7th Convocation

A total of 420 degrees were conferred during the ceremony, comprising 209 B.Tech, 124 M.Tech, 23 M.Sc., and 64 Ph.D. degrees, reflecting the Institute’s growing contributions to higher education and research.

The ceremony was graced by Dr. Shankar M. Venugopal, Vice President, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., Mahindra Research Valley, as the Chief Guest, and Dr. Amitabh Ranjan, Vice Chairman, Pan IIT Alumni India, as the Guest of Honour.

Addressing the graduating students, Dr. Venugopal encouraged them to embrace the opportunities emerging in a world being reshaped by technology and innovation. He urged the graduates to remain connected with their alma mater and contribute to its growth as mentors, collaborators, and ambassadors of IIT Jammu. Reflecting on their student journey, he encouraged them to cherish the experiences and relationships they had built at the Institute and draw strength from them as they navigate the challenges ahead. He also highlighted the immense potential of India to transform its challenges into opportunities through innovation, determination, and collective effort.

Dr. Amitabh Ranjan, Guest of Honour, congratulated the graduating students and emphasised the importance of staying connected with the IIT ecosystem and contributing to the larger community. He encouraged the graduates to carry forward the values, knowledge, and spirit of excellence cultivated at IIT Jammu as they embark on their professional journeys.

In his address, Prof. Manoj Singh Gaur, Director, IIT Jammu, congratulated the graduating class and spoke about the importance of curiosity, resilience, and purpose in shaping meaningful careers and lives. He encouraged the graduates to remain committed to lifelong learning, create value through their work, and ensure that their knowledge and innovations contribute meaningfully to society. He urged them to remain grounded in their roots, pursue new paths with courage, and nurture friendships and relationships that extend beyond professional networks.

A key highlight of the ceremony was the unveiling of ‘Antardṛṣṭi’, meaning “inner vision”, a new sculpture dedicated to the graduating class of 2026. The sculpture symbolises the moment before departure, when clarity must come from within before one steps into the wider world. It embodies a message of self-trust, courage, and aspiration for the graduates as they begin the next chapter of their lives. The sculpture serves as a reminder to look within when the path ahead appears uncertain, to dream beyond the limits set by others, and to move forward with confidence even when the journey ahead is challenging.

The ceremony also recognized outstanding academic achievements through the conferment of prestigious medals. Vivek Kumar Shandilya, Department of Materials and Metallurgical Engineering, was awarded the President Gold Medal for securing the highest CGPA among all B.Tech graduates. The Director Gold Medal was conferred upon Ayush Raj, Department of Chemical Engineering, for the best overall performance.

The Institute Gold Medal for the highest CGPA among graduating M.Tech students was awarded to Mohammad Shamsul Haq, M.Tech in Civil Engineering, while Sheikh Aabid Nisar, M.Sc. in Chemistry, received the Institute Gold Medal for securing the highest CGPA among graduating M.Sc. students.

The Institute Silver Medals were awarded to students securing the highest CGPA in their respective disciplines. Among the B.Tech programmes, the recipients were Ayush Raj (Chemical Engineering), Khushboo (Civil Engineering), Chaitanya Tandon (Computer Science and Engineering), Nageshwar Kumar (Electrical Engineering), and Harshit Beri (Mechanical Engineering).

In the postgraduate programmes, the Institute Silver Medals were conferred upon Shivangi Sharma (M.Tech in Chemical Engineering), Anshu Kumari (M.Tech in Computer Science and Engineering), Sandeep Kumar (M.Tech in Electrical Engineering), Binod Kumar (M.Tech in Mechanical Engineering), and Akshita (M.Sc. in Physics).

The 7th Convocation of IIT Jammu was a celebration of academic accomplishment, perseverance, and aspiration. As the graduating class of 2026 steps into a new phase of its journey, the Institute congratulates all the graduates and wishes them success in their future endeavors. Equipped with knowledge, resilience, and a sense of purpose, the graduates are poised to make meaningful contributions to society and carry forward the values of IIT Jammu in the years ahead.

Highlights from the ARISE Learning Festival 2026—powerful conversations, distinguished voices, and the launch of AI Adoption for K-12: Moving Beyond Experimentation

Held around the theme ‘Connected Schools – Building Communities. Inspiring Futures,’ this year’s Festival was designed as an immersive, delegate-centred experience moving beyond a conventional conference format to combine school visits, keynotes and conversations with masterclasses, student voices, school showcases, partner and exhibitor engagements, peer learning and networking.
 

The Festival began with curated school tours across India on September 24 and across Delhi-NCR on September 25, offering delegates an opportunity to experience first-hand how schools are building collaborative cultures, strong communities and future-ready learning environments. The initiative brought together 6 host schools across India and 11 schools across Delhi-NCR*.
 

The learning continued at the Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi, through interactive masterclasses and breakout conversations spanning teacher development, school leadership, institutional culture, technology and AI, digital resilience, student wellbeing, curriculum leadership and future readiness.
 

A key knowledge outcome of the Festival was the launch of the FICCI–ARISE–EY-Parthenon Knowledge Report, AI Adoption Plan for K12: Moving beyond Experimentation, focused on enabling schools to move from experimentation with artificial intelligence towards more purposeful and responsible adoption.
 

Perspectives shaping the future of education

Deepak Bagla, Mission Director, Atal Innovation Mission, NITI Aayog, shared perspectives on how schools can evolve from standalone innovation initiatives into connected ecosystems linking young people with creativity, entrepreneurship, problem-solving, partnerships and real-world opportunities. He highlighted the role of leadership and collaboration in embedding innovation more deeply within school culture.
 

Bringing a perspective from beyond education, Shikhar Dhawan, Chairman, Da One Group and former Indian international cricketer, drew upon his journey in high-performance sport, entrepreneurship and community initiatives to reflect on resilience, discipline, confidence and purpose. The conversation explored how schools and communities can create the conditions that help young people navigate challenges, build self-belief and translate their potential into meaningful achievement.
 

Patrick Derham OBE, former Head Master of Westminster School, Rugby School and Solihull School, drew on his extensive experience of school leadership to reflect on the fundamentals that continue to matter in education purpose, service, shared values, relationships and the strength of the school community. His reflections reinforced the importance of looking beyond academic outcomes to the broader role schools play in shaping young people.
 

Nikole Blanchard, Head of Educational Technology and Innovation, LSU Laboratory School, brought the conversation to the intersection of technology and humanity, highlighting the distinctly human capabilities young people will continue to need including curiosity, creativity, empathy, judgement, collaboration, courage and imagination as schools prepare students for an increasingly unpredictable future.
 

Students at the centre

Student voice formed an important part of the Festival. A main-stage student panel brought together students from government and private schools to share their perspectives on learning, wellbeing, belonging, creativity, purpose and what they would like the next generation of schooling to look like. The conversation placed students not simply as recipients of education, but as important participants in shaping its future.
 

Students were also visible across the Festival through presentations and showcases, bringing their ideas, creativity and work directly into the delegate experience.
 

From conference to experience

A defining feature of this year’s Learning Festival was its emphasis on participation and experience. The ARISE Experience Zone, school showcases, student presentations, partner and exhibitor engagements and interactive formats created opportunities for delegates to discover new practices and solutions, engage directly with innovators and connect with peers.
 

Across the programme, practitioners and experts also explored some of the most pressing questions facing schools today from the changing role of teachers and curriculum leadership to AI-enabled school management, career readiness, wellbeing, safeguarding and institutional culture.
 

Together, these formats sought to ensure that delegates did not simply listen to conversations about the future of education, but could experience ideas in practice, interact with those implementing them and build connections that could continue beyond the Festival.
 

Celebrating excellence in school education

The Festival culminated with the 4th Edition of the FICCI supported ARISE Excellence Awards, celebrating exemplary and innovative practices across school education.
 

The Awards drew participation from schools across the country, with an almost equal representation of government and private schools, reflecting the breadth and diversity of India’s school education ecosystem. Entries underwent a structured evaluation process involving an Interim Jury followed by a Grand Jury, with EY serving as the official tabulator.
 

The Awards ceremony also saw the release of the FICCI-supported ARISE Excellence Awards Compendium, showcasing exemplary practices and initiatives from participating schools and enabling their learnings to reach the wider education community.
 

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Arunabh Singh, President, ARISE; Co-founder & Director, Healthy Planet Schools & Nehru World School, said, “Connected schools are ultimately about people students, teachers, leaders and communities learning from and strengthening one another. Through the ARISE Learning Festival, we wanted to move beyond a conventional conference and create an experience where delegates could see, participate, exchange and connect. The diversity of voices represented this year from government and private schools to students, policymakers, experts and industry demonstrates the power of bringing the ecosystem together.”

The ARISE Learning Festival 2026 (in collaboration with FICCI) reinforced the need for schools to remain connected, adaptive and deeply human-centred as they prepare young people for a rapidly evolving world. By bringing together ideas, lived experiences and on-ground practices, the Festival sought to translate conversations about the future of education into opportunities for learning, collaboration and action.

*List of ARISE host schools:

For Delhi NCR, Host School are as follows:
1. Pathways World School, Gurugram, Haryana
2. Healthy Planet School, Noida, Uttar Pradesh
3. Khaitan World School, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh
4. Heritage International Xperiential School, Gurugram, Haryana
5. The Shri Ram School, Aravali, Gurugram, Haryana
6. The Ardee School, New delhi
7. Delhi Public School, Sector-45, Gurgaon, Haryana
8. Silverline Prestige School, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh
9. Vasant Valley, New Delhi
10. Nehru World School, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh
11. Shiv Nadar School, Noida, Uttar Pradesh

For PAN India, Host Schools are as follow:
1. The Ardee School, Sangolda, Goa
2. Valistus International School, Whitefield, Bangalore, Karnataka
3. Walnut School, Pune, Maharashtra
4. The Newtown School, Kolkata, West Bengal
5. Sagebrook International School, Hyderabad, Telangana
6. Grassroots Global Early Years, Patna, Bihar

Bajaj Finance Personal Loan

The selected tenure can affect the monthly EMI and total interest payable. Borrowers can use a personal loan EMI calculator to compare repayment periods before deciding on a loan structure.

How does personal loan tenure affect monthly EMI?

Loan tenure determines the period over which the borrowed amount is repaid. A longer tenure spreads the repayment across more months, which can reduce the monthly EMI.

However, a longer repayment period can increase the total interest payable because interest may be charged over a greater number of months. A shorter tenure can result in a higher monthly EMI but may reduce the overall interest cost.

Borrowers should therefore assess both the monthly EMI and total repayment rather than considering the EMI alone.

What is the available repayment tenure?

The Bajaj Finance Personal Loan provides repayment tenures from 12 months to 108 months. The available period gives borrowers different options for structuring repayments based on the loan amount and applicable terms.

The selected tenure should be considered alongside the applicable interest rate and loan amount. These factors work together to determine the monthly repayment and overall borrowing cost.

Borrowers with higher existing financial commitments may need to assess whether the monthly EMI can be maintained throughout the selected tenure.

How does loan amount affect the choice of tenure?

The loan amount also influences the repayment obligation. Bajaj Finance Personal Loan amounts range from Rs. 40,000 to Rs. 55 lakh.

For the same interest rate, a higher loan amount generally results in a higher EMI. Selecting a longer tenure can spread this repayment across more months, although it may increase the total interest payable.

Borrowers should first assess the amount required and then compare different tenure options. Borrowing more than the required amount can increase the overall repayment commitment.

How can a personal loan EMI calculator help?

A personal loan EMI calculator can provide an estimated monthly instalment based on the loan amount, interest rate, and tenure entered.

Borrowers can change the tenure while keeping the loan amount and interest rate unchanged. This can show how a shorter or longer repayment period may affect the estimated EMI.

The calculator can also help compare the estimated total repayment across different scenarios. The result is an estimate and does not represent the final loan obligation.

What should borrowers consider before selecting a tenure?

Tenure should be assessed against the borrower's repayment capacity and overall borrowing cost. A lower EMI may provide more room in the monthly budget, but a longer tenure can increase the total interest payable.

Borrowers should consider:

• Monthly income and existing financial commitments

• Required loan amount

• Applicable interest rate

• Estimated monthly EMI

• Total repayment over the selected tenure

• Applicable charges

• Part-prepayment terms

• Loan terms stated in the offer and related documents

The personal loan interest rate for Bajaj Finance Personal Loan ranges from 10% to 30.5% per annum. The final rate offered to an applicant remains subject to the lender's assessment, eligibility and applicable terms.

What are the eligibility requirements?

The eligibility criteria for a Bajaj Finance Personal Loan include the following:

*Customer should be 80 years or younger, at the end of the loan tenure.

Meeting these criteria does not guarantee approval. The final loan offer remains subject to eligibility assessment, document verification and applicable terms.

How can customers apply for the personal loan?

Customers can begin the application process online through the Bajaj Finance website. The process generally includes the following steps:

1. Check loan eligibility – Customers can visit the personal loan page on the Bajaj Finance website, enter the loan amount needed, select the repayment period, and click on "CHECK LOAN OFFER" to check loan eligibility.

2. Enter personal details – Customers need to provide personal, financial, and employment details to receive a personalised loan offer.

3. Review loan offer – Customers can check their offer details and adjust the loan amount or repayment tenure, if required.

4. Complete KYC verification – The loan applicant can verify their identity and bank details to proceed with their application.

5. Speak to a loan specialist – Once the loan application is submitted, an executive will contact the applicant with the next steps.

The application remains subject to eligibility and successful verification. The stated disbursal timeline is within 24 hours*, subject to successful document verification and applicable terms. The timeline should not be treated as a guaranteed disbursal period.

Bajaj Finance Personal Loan tenure can affect overall repayment

The Bajaj Finance Personal Loan offers repayment tenures from 12 to 108 months. The selected period can affect both the monthly EMI and the total interest payable.

A longer tenure may reduce the monthly repayment but can increase the overall interest cost. A shorter tenure may increase the EMI while potentially reducing the total interest payable.

Borrowers should compare the loan amount, applicable interest rate, tenure, EMI and total repayment before accepting a loan offer. The personal loan EMI calculator can support this comparison by providing estimated repayment figures.

*Terms and conditions apply.

*Disbursal within 24 hours is subject to successful document verification and applicable terms.

About Bajaj Finance Ltd.

Bajaj Finance Ltd. (BFL), a subsidiary of Bajaj Finserv Ltd., is a deposit-taking Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC-D) registered with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and is classified as an NBFC-Investment and Credit Company (NBFC-ICC). BFL serves over 124.43 million customers through a diversified portfolio comprising consumer loans, SME finance, commercial lending, rural lending, fixed deposits and payments, offered through Web, App and at 4,000+ locations. As a FinAI company, BFL is focused on continuous innovation through smart use of technology, data and analytics to drive seamless, simplified and personalized experiences for its customers. BFL has the highest domestic credit rating of AAA/Stable for long-term borrowing, A1+ for short-term borrowing, and CRISIL AAA/Stable & [ICRA]AAA(Stable) for its FD program. It has a long-term issuer credit rating of BBB/Stable and a short-term rating of A-2 by S&P Global ratings. It has been assigned a ‘Baa3 Corporate Family Rating’ with Stable outlook from Moody’s Rating.

Musclemind X RUNYODHA

Fitness icon and RUNYODHA ambassador Milind Soman was also present at the event. As part of its association with RUNYODHA 2026, Mr. Bharat Gupta, Founder & Chairman, Musclemind, presented trophies to winners across various race categories.

Speaking about the association, Mr. Bharat Gupta, said, “RUNYODHA brought together people from different age groups and backgrounds around fitness and a larger social purpose. For us at Musclemind, it was an opportunity to celebrate the determination of the participants and recognise their achievements. We are glad to have been part of an event that encourages people to make fitness a more consistent part of their everyday lives.”

Musclemind also engaged with participants through an on-ground product showcase and consumer engagement activities on 26th and 27th September, 2026.

Through its association with RUNYODHA 2026, Musclemind continues to engage with platforms that encourage active lifestyles, fitness and community participation.

About Musclemind

Musclemind is a premium Activeleisure apparel brand built around the philosophy of “Workout to Weekend.” Combining performance, style and comfort, the brand creates versatile clothing designed to move seamlessly between workouts, everyday activities and moments of relaxation. Its approach brings together innovative materials, functional design and quality craftsmanship to support active lifestyles without compromising on style. Beyond apparel, Musclemind aims to inspire movement, wellness and a community that embraces both physical activity and everyday balance. With its “Make Your Mark” philosophy, the brand encourages individuals to pursue their goals with confidence, on and off the training floor.

For more information, visit www.musclemind.com.

Bisleri International Partners with the Ladakh Marathon as Official Hydration Partner for the third consecutive year
 

As part of the partnership, Bisleri will provide on-ground hydration support across multiple race formats — the Silk Route Ultra (122 km), Khardung La Challenge (72 km), Full Marathon (42 km), Half Marathon (21 km), 11.2 Km Run, and Run for Fun (5 Km). The association will give Bisleri category exclusivity and nomenclature rights, along with a strong on-ground presence through hydration stations, product integration at runner support areas and sustainability initiatives. The association will also extend to digital and social content, including race-day highlights, runner-focused hydration and endurance content, and behind-the-scenes storytelling around the high-altitude running experience in Ladakh.
 

Commenting on the association, Mr. Tushar Malhotra, Senior Director of Sales and Marketing at Bisleri International, said, “Ladakh Marathon is a true test of endurance, performance and resilience, making hydration an essential part of every runner’s journey. For Bisleri, our association with the marathon gives us an opportunity to champion hydration and connect with athletes and fitness enthusiasts who value endurance.”
 

Mr. Motup Chewang , Chairperson, High Altitude Sports Foundation Ladakh, said, "The Ladakh Marathon is not just a race, it is a celebration of endurance, community and the spirit of Ladakh. Having Bisleri International on board as our Official Hydration Partner for the next three years strengthens our ability to support runners across every category of the event, while also advancing our commitment to sustainable and responsible event management. We look forward to a long and meaningful partnership that benefits both our athletes and our local community."

The partnership further strengthens Bisleri's growing footprint across Indian sport, reaffirming the brand's commitment to endurance, performance, and responsible, sustainable sporting practices.

About Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd
With a legacy of over 50 years, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd has grown to become one of the largest premium beverage businesses in India. Being the makers of the country's largest-selling packaged drinking water, Bisleri follows a stringent process of 90 quality tests and a 10-stage purification. It remains true to its core value of providing consumers with pure, safe and healthy water.
 

Bisleri International has a strong presence with 130 operational plants and a robust distribution network of over 6,000 Distributors and 7,500 Distribution Trucks across India and UAE market. It offers a range of beverages that are produced for all occasions. Whether it is the promise of goodness, trust, and purity with Bisleri packaged drinking water, or a daily dose of health offered through Vedica Himalayan Spring Water. Besides, Bisleri International has ventured into fun-filled refreshments with a diverse range of carbonated drinks available in multiple flavours, such as Bisleri Limonata, Bisleri Pop and Bisleri Soda. These Bisleri products are also available on the e-commerce platform - Bisleri@Doorstep. This D2C platform reassures customers that they will receive a safe and uninterrupted supply of their most trusted brand at their doorstep.
 

The core values of Bisleri International lie in yielding growth and embedding sustainability by being responsible in all aspects of the business. The organization has unveiled Sustainability 2.0 with Bisleri Greener Promise that focuses on creating greener future for all through implementing initiatives under the program of recycling, water conservation, and sustainability. For more information on Bisleri International, our people, brands, and OSR initiatives, visit www.bisleri.com

Bisleri International becomes Official Hydration Partner of F4 and the Indian Racing League

As part of the partnership, Bisleri will bring its hydration proposition to the race-day experience through on-ground hydration support, product integration, brand activations and dedicated hydration zones across race and festival environments. Bisleri logo will feature on both sides of the race car sidepods, on the sleeves of driver racing suits and Festival kits, along with on-ground brand visibility. The partnership will also bring Bisleri closer to professional drivers, racing personalities and a young, aspirational audience.

The partnership will extend into digital and content integration across the racing calendar, including driver-led social media content, short-form videos, race-day and behind-the-scenes content, along with digital amplification around F4 and IRL race rounds.

Commenting on the association, Tushar Malhotra, Senior Director of Sales and Marketing at Bisleri International, said, “We’re thrilled to partner with Racing Promotion Private Limited as the Official Hydration Partner of F4 and the Indian Racing League. This association strengthens Bisleri’s presence across India’s evolving motorsport landscape and adds to our broader sports marketing programme, as we continue to champion hydration globally and create exciting engagement opportunities for our consumers.”

Mr. Akhilesh Reddy, Chairman & Managing Director, Racing Promotions Pvt. Ltd. (RPPL), commented, “We are delighted to renew our partnership with Bisleri as the Official Hydration Partner of the Indian Racing Festival for the 2026 season. The success of our association last year demonstrated the strong synergy between two brands that are committed to performance, innovation and engaging with a young, dynamic audience. As we enter an exciting new season, we look forward to building on this partnership through innovative fan experiences and meaningful initiatives that take the IRF experience beyond the racetrack. Bisleri’s continued support is an important part of our journey as we look to make motorsport more accessible, engaging and relevant to audiences across India.”

The partnership further strengthens Bisleri’s growing footprint across Indian sport, reaffirming the brand’s commitment to hydration, performance and India’s evolving motorsport landscape.

About Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd.

With a legacy of over 50 years, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd has grown to become one of the largest premium beverage businesses in India. Being the makers of the country's largest-selling packaged drinking water, Bisleri follows a stringent process of 90 quality tests and a 10-stage purification. It remains true to its core value of providing consumers with pure, safe and healthy water.

Bisleri International has a strong presence with 130 operational plants and a robust distribution network of over 6,000 Distributors and 7,500 Distribution Trucks across India and UAE market. It offers a range of beverages that are produced for all occasions. Whether it is the promise of goodness, trust, and purity with Bisleri packaged drinking water, or a daily dose of health offered through Vedica Himalayan Spring Water. Besides, Bisleri International has ventured into fun-filled refreshments with a diverse range of carbonated drinks available in multiple flavours, such as Bisleri Limonata, Bisleri Pop and Bisleri Soda. These Bisleri products are also available on the e-commerce platform - Bisleri@Doorstep. This D2C platform reassures customers that they will receive a safe and uninterrupted supply of their most trusted brand at their doorstep.

The core values of Bisleri International lie in yielding growth and embedding sustainability by being responsible in all aspects of the business. The organization has unveiled Sustainability 2.0 with Bisleri Greener Promise that focuses on creating greener future for all through implementing initiatives under the program of recycling, water conservation, and sustainability.

For more information on Bisleri International, our people, brands, and OSR initiatives, visit www.bisleri.com.

Anant National University Hosts Mass Timber Workshop 2026, Championing Sustainable Construction and a Greener Future

As the construction sector grows, the need for environmentally responsible building practices becomes increasingly important. Mass timber offers an opportunity to explore alternatives to conventional construction materials and contribute to a more sustainable built environment. The workshop encouraged dialogue and collaboration around the role of such materials in shaping the future of construction.

At Anant National University, sustainability is central to its vision for education and its commitment to creating a better future. The University supports initiatives that encourage students, faculty and industry partners to address real-world challenges through sustainable architecture, responsible material use, climate-conscious design and interdisciplinary research.

The Mass Timber Workshop reflected this commitment by bringing together perspectives from academia and industry through discussions, knowledge-sharing and practical engagement. It provided a platform to explore how mass timber and other sustainable approaches can contribute to a more environmentally responsible built environment. Ahead of the workshop, participating Anant students also visited India’s landmark mass timber project in Umargam, Gujarat, gaining firsthand insights into the material’s practical applications.

By supporting initiatives such as this, Anant continues to create opportunities for its academic community to engage with emerging ideas and contribute to meaningful change. Through sustainability-focused learning, research and collaboration, the University remains committed to nurturing designers, architects and changemakers who can help build a more sustainable future.

About Anant National University

At Anant National University, education begins with a simple belief: the future will not be inherited. It will be purposefully designed.

Guided by the philosophy: Come, Create the New, Anant brings together learners who are curious about the world as it is, but also ambitious about what it could become. The University encourages students to look beyond conventional answers and engage with the complex challenges of our times: Ranging from climate and sustainability to cities, communities, systems and technologies.

Anant offers undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral programmes across design, architecture, climate action and visual arts. Its approach combines academic rigour with studio-based learning, emerging technologies, research, entrepreneurship, Indigenous Knowledge Systems and hands-on engagement with communities. The goal is not only to build practical skills but also to train diligent professionals who can connect disciplines, understand context and create meaningful change.

Recognised as a Centre of Excellence by the Government of Gujarat, Anant received a 5-Star Rating in Architecture and a 4-Star Rating in the University category under the Gujarat State Institutional Rating Framework (GSIRF) 2023-24. These recognitions reflect Anant’s abiding commitment to build an innovating institution where creativity, sustainability, innovation and purpose come together to help shape a more thoughtful and resilient future.

The collaboration will bring together Khel Now’s digital sports presence in India and Cricketaaa’s network spanning 38 international cricket associations and Test-playing nations. The two organisations will work towards developing and distributing up to 1,000 hours of original cricket content, covering players, teams, tournaments and stories from across the cricketing world.

The initiative comes as India-UAE ties continue to deepen across trade, investment, technology, culture and sport, with cricket serving as a strong bridge between the two countries. With the UAE emerging as a major international cricket hub and India representing one of the world’s largest cricket markets, the partnership aims to connect Indian and global cricket audiences ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup. Khel Now is owned by Uday Narang, Chairman of the Anglian Omega Group, Omega Seiki Mobility and OBSC Perfection.

Ashish Negi, CEO and Co-founder, Khel Now, said, “Cricket has become a truly global sport, and the India-UAE relationship presents a significant opportunity to connect audiences, players and cricket communities across markets. Our partnership with Cricketaaa combines Khel Now’s understanding of Indian sports audiences with an international cricket network spanning multiple cricket-playing nations. As we look towards the 2027 ODI World Cup, our focus is on taking compelling cricket stories beyond traditional boundaries and creating formats that engage audiences across geographies.”

Zainul Islam, Global Alliance Head, Cricketaaa, said, “India and the UAE share a strong and growing relationship, and cricket has an important role to play in bringing people and markets closer together. Our collaboration with Khel Now will allow us to develop and distribute original cricket content at scale. With access to a network spanning 38 international cricket associations and Test-playing nations, we see an opportunity to give greater visibility to players, teams, tournaments and cricket communities from across the world.”

As cricket consumption evolves, audiences are increasingly engaging with the sport through short-form video, original programming, player-led storytelling and behind-the-scenes content. The partnership will explore content formats for diverse audiences and digital platforms across India and international markets, while creating opportunities for brands and cricket stakeholders around major events and cricket narratives.

With the Men’s ODI World Cup 2027 on the horizon, the collaboration seeks to take cricket storytelling beyond traditional boundaries and bring stories from across the cricketing world to new audiences.

About Khel Now
Khel Now is a digital sports media platform covering football, cricket and other major sporting disciplines. The platform delivers sports news, analysis, interviews, features and original digital content to audiences across India and international markets.

About Cricketaaa
Cricketaaa is a UAE-based cricket content creation and distribution network focused on developing and distributing cricket content across international markets. Its network spans 38 international cricket associations and Test-playing nations, supporting content opportunities across multiple cricket markets.

Check Credit Score and Understand Credit Health with the Bajaj Finance Credit Pulse Report

The Bajaj Finance Credit Pulse Report provides an online way to check available credit information at no additional cost. Reviewing this information can help individuals understand their credit profile, stay aware of their credit position and make informed decisions about future borrowing.

What is a credit score?

A credit score is a numerical representation of information in an individual's credit history. It provides a quick view of credit standing and forms one part of the overall credit profile.

The score is calculated using information related to an individual's credit behaviour. Factors such as payment history, credit utilisation, credit history and credit accounts can contribute to credit scoring.

A credit score is therefore useful as a starting point, but it does not provide the complete context of an individual's credit profile.

How to check a credit score online?

A credit score can be checked through different online channels, including credit bureau websites and financial platforms that provide access to credit information. The process usually involves entering basic personal details and completing a verification step before the available credit information can be accessed.

The Bajaj Finance Credit Pulse Report provides an online way to check available credit information.

Step 1: Visit the Bajaj Finance Credit Pulse Report page

Individuals can visit the official Bajaj Finance website and open the Bajaj Finance Credit Pulse Report page. The option to check the credit score can then be selected.

Step 2: Verify the registered mobile number

The registered mobile number needs to be entered. An OTP is sent to the number to complete the verification process.

Step 3: Enter the required details

Customers need to provide details such as their name, PAN, date of birth, email address, mobile number and PIN code.

Step 4: Access the credit score

Once the required verification is completed, the available credit score is displayed on the screen.

Step 5: Review the credit report

The available credit information can then be reviewed to understand the credit profile. The report includes information relating to repayment history, credit accounts, recent enquiries and other credit-related details.

The report can also be downloaded for future reference.

What is credit health?

Credit health refers to the broader condition of an individual's credit profile and how credit has been managed over time.

A credit score is one part of credit health. Information such as repayment history, credit accounts, credit utilisation, credit history and credit enquiries can provide additional context about the credit profile.

In simple terms, a credit score provides a number, while credit health provides a broader view of how credit has been managed.

Why does credit health matter?

Credit information can become relevant when an individual applies for a loan or credit card, manages existing credit or plans future borrowing.

Regularly reviewing credit information can help individuals remain aware of their credit position and identify information that may need attention.

What information helps understand credit health?

A credit report can provide information that helps individuals understand their credit profile. The exact information available can vary depending on the credit bureau and report.

What is credit analysis?

Credit analysis is the process of reviewing credit-related information to understand an individual's credit profile and creditworthiness.

Credit analysis can involve reviewing:

• Credit score

• Repayment history

• Credit accounts

• Credit utilisation

• Credit history

• Credit enquiries

Looking at these factors together can provide more context than reviewing a credit score alone.

For example, a credit score can provide a quick indication of credit standing, while credit history and account information can provide additional insight into how credit has been managed.

Credit score vs credit health: what is the difference?

Credit score and credit health are related, but they are not the same.

In short: a credit score provides a numerical summary, while credit health provides a broader understanding of an individual's credit profile.

Why should credit health be checked?

Checking credit information can help individuals stay informed about their current credit position.

How does the Bajaj Finance Credit Pulse Report help?

The Bajaj Finance Credit Pulse Report provides an online route to check available credit information. It can serve as a starting point for individuals who want to check their credit score and understand their credit position.

Rather than looking at a credit score in isolation, reviewing the available credit information can provide greater context about the credit profile. A credit score is the starting point. Reviewing available credit information provides greater context about the credit profile.

How to read credit information?

Checking a credit report is useful when the information can be understood in context.

If any information appears incorrect or unfamiliar, it can be reviewed and, where necessary, raised with the relevant lender or credit bureau.

How can individuals maintain healthy credit?

Understanding credit health is only the first step. Responsible credit management can also help individuals maintain their credit profile.

• Pay credit obligations on time: EMIs and credit card dues should be paid by their due dates.

• Monitor credit utilisation: Regularly reviewing credit card usage can help individuals remain aware of how much available revolving credit is being used.

• Avoid unnecessary credit applications: Individuals can avoid applying for credit when there is no immediate need for additional borrowing.

• Review credit information periodically: Periodic checks can help individuals remain aware of changes in their credit profile.

• Check for unfamiliar activity: Accounts or enquiries that appear unfamiliar should be reviewed and, where necessary, raised with the relevant lender or credit bureau.

When should a credit score be checked?

There is no single situation in which a credit score needs to be checked. Individuals may consider reviewing their credit information at different points in their credit journey.

• Before applying for a loan

• Before applying for a credit card

• When reviewing existing credit

• After closing a credit account

• When planning future borrowing

• When unfamiliar credit activity appears

• As part of regular financial planning

A periodic review can help individuals remain informed about their credit position instead of checking it only when a new credit application is being considered.

Stay informed about your credit profile. Check your credit score and credit report for free with the Bajaj Finance Credit Pulse Report.

*Terms and conditions apply.

About Bajaj Finance Limited

Bajaj Finance Ltd. (BFL), a subsidiary of Bajaj Finserv Ltd., is a deposit-taking Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC-D) registered with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and is classified as an NBFC-Investment and Credit Company (NBFC-ICC). BFL serves over 124.43 million customers through a diversified portfolio comprising consumer loans, SME finance, commercial lending, rural lending, fixed deposits and payments, offered through Web, App and at 4,000+ locations. As a FinAI company, BFL is focused on continuous innovation through smart use of technology, data and analytics to drive seamless, simplified and personalized experiences for its customers. BFL has the highest domestic credit rating of AAA/Stable for long-term borrowing, A1+ for short-term borrowing, and CRISIL AAA/Stable & [ICRA]AAA(Stable) for its FD program. It has a long-term issuer credit rating of BBB/Stable and a short-term rating of A-2 by S&P Global ratings. It has been assigned a ‘Baa3 Corporate Family Rating’ with Stable outlook from Moody’s Rating.

SAP Learning Hub, student edition
 

Imagine graduating with more than a degree on your resume. You don’t need to be an IT professional to explore what SAP Certification-related jobs look like—SAP skills can open career opportunities in roles such as Consultant, Analyst, Business Process Analyst, Developer, Technology Analyst, and Application Support Associate across areas like Finance, HR, Sales, Procurement, Manufacturing, Analytics, and Technology. It’s a step toward a globally recognized certification, and a chance to work at the world’s top companies running on SAP, the world’s largest ERP company.

Eligible final-year college and university students in India can access the platform at no cost. Registration starts with using a university email to create an SAP Universal ID and uploading a student ID for verification. Once that’s done, they get an activation email, and they’re in.

Some head straight for supply chain or analytics, others explore HR, and SAP Learning Journeys cover all of it, each one a structured path built around a specific area. A commerce student can explore finance, an aspiring HR professional can go deeper into HR, and a student interested in technology can follow an entirely different path. The idea is to connect what they’re learning with the work they want to pursue.

“We want students to be able to explore, experiment, and find what works for them,” says David Chaviano, Program Manager, SAP Learning Hub, student edition. The experience goes beyond self-paced learning. Students can join sessions led by SAP experts and use real SAP practice systems to put their learning to work. “A classroom lesson can explain how a business process works. A practice system lets you try it yourself.” They can also join a learner community and prepare for SAP Certifications, with two exam attempts included.

By the time they graduate, students have explored an area of interest, built practical skills, and gained experience with SAP systems, giving them more to take into their first job search than a degree alone.

Eligible final-year students in India can register for the free SAP Learning Hub, student edition at https://learning.sap.com/free-student-edition.

David Warner on Cricket, Fans and the Power of Genuine Connection

Speaking about how fan engagement has changed during his career, Warner said that the relationship between athletes and fans has moved far beyond the cricket ground.

“When I started, most of your interaction with fans happened at the ground. You'd play the match, maybe sign a few autographs afterwards, and that was pretty much it. Today, it's completely different. Fans follow your journey every day through social media, interviews, short videos and everything happening away from the game.”

According to Warner, this evolution has also given athletes an opportunity to show more of their personality. While performances remain important, audiences increasingly want to understand the person behind the player.

“People still care about performances, but they also want to understand the person behind them. An honest connection can last much longer than any result on the scoreboard.”

Building a Connection with Indian Fans
Warner has developed a strong connection with Indian cricket fans, extending beyond his performances on the field. He believes that respecting the culture while engaging with its entertainment and humour played an important role in building that relationship.

“I think the biggest thing was showing respect for the culture and not being afraid to have some fun. Cricket means so much in India, but so does entertainment. The music, the films and the humour are all part of everyday life.” He explained that his social media videos and participation in popular trends came from genuine enjoyment rather than a planned strategy.

“Fans can tell when something feels natural, and I think that's why they connected with it. Whether it's through cricket, a funny video or simply sharing a moment with fans.”

Creating Moments That Stay With Fans
For Warner, memorable sporting moments are ultimately about creating an emotional connection with audiences. Whether through humour, an unexpected moment, or a compelling story, a moment's impact is reflected in how long people keep talking about and sharing it. “The best sports moments create an emotional connection. Sometimes it's a great story, sometimes it's humour, sometimes it's something completely unexpected. If people are still talking about it or sharing it a week later, that's usually a sign you've done something right.”

This philosophy also influences the projects he chooses to associate with outside cricket. Warner said authenticity and enjoyment remain important considerations when taking on brand collaborations. “For me, it's pretty simple. I want it to feel authentic and enjoyable. If it feels like something fans will genuinely have fun with, I'm interested. I don't want to be standing in front of a camera just holding a product. I'd rather be part of something with a bit of personality.”

A Cricket-Inspired Connection with India
One such collaboration was Warner’s recent limited-edition T-shirt with Parimatch Sports. The design featured lotus flowers, sacred animals and a cricketer woven together in a single illustration. Warner said the concept immediately resonated with him, particularly because it brought together elements of Indian culture and the passion surrounding cricket.

“I loved how it captured the culture and passion around cricket in India in a way that felt personal to me. It represented the connection between cricket, India and the fans.”

Life Beyond the Cricket Field
As his career has evolved, Warner has also placed greater importance on life away from cricket. Time away from the sport has allowed him to spend more time with his family and focus on himself beyond his identity as a cricketer. “For me, it's about getting the best out of myself in every part of life. Cricket is a huge part of who I am, but it's not the only part.”

Warner’s reflections highlight the changing nature of sports fandom, where audiences increasingly value authenticity, personality and genuine interaction alongside sporting performance. In an environment where fans engage with athletes throughout the year, the moments that feel real can often become the ones that stay with them the longest.

Architect and Design Educator Jabeen Zacharias Joins Anant National University as Professor of Practice

As Chief Architect of Jabeen Zacharias Architects, she has led more than 300 successful projects across hospitality, institutional, corporate, museum, cultural and residential sectors. She has also contributed extensively to design education in India through teaching, advocacy and leadership roles across academic and professional institutions, including the College of Engineering Trivandrum, the IIID Education Council and the Institute of Indian Interior Designers (IIID).

She has been associated with the Asia Pacific Space Designers Association (APSDA), the International Federation of Interior Architects/Designers (IFI) and the Indian Institute of Architects (IIA), where she was the first woman to chair the Kerala Chapter. She currently serves as Director, Vision & Strategy at the Global Village Foundation, further extending her engagement across education, human settlements, ecology, culture and civic initiatives.

At Anant, Zacharias will bring her extensive professional experience and industry perspective into the academic environment, strengthening the connection between design education and professional practice. Her engagement will span experiential and interdisciplinary learning, design advocacy, mentorship and professional networks, creating opportunities for students to learn from real-world practice and engage with the broader social, cultural and environmental contexts of design.

Her appointment strengthens Anant’s commitment to creating a wholesome learning ecosystem where students engage with leading practitioners who have shaped the profession through sustained work, exemplary leadership and powerful impact. 

As design education evolves beyond technical training towards contextual, ethical and purpose-driven problem-solving, her multidimensional engagements will play a key role in preparing students to respond thoughtfully to the complex realities of our world.

About Anant National University
Anant National University is India’s premier design university, preparing students to face the complex challenges of both the contemporary and emergent worlds. Guided by its brand philosophy, “Come, Create the New”, Anant encourages learners to move beyond conventional ways of thinking and imagining, designing and pursuing more inclusive, sustainable and future-ready possibilities instead.

The University offers multidisciplinary undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral programmes across design, architecture, climate action and visual arts. Anant’s inventive academic approach combines rigorous learning, studio-based practice, emerging technologies, sustainability, Indigenous Knowledge Systems, research, entrepreneurship and hands-on community experiences.

Anant has been recognised as a Centre of Excellence by the Government of Gujarat. It has also received a ‘5-Star Rating’ in Architecture and a ‘4-Star Rating’ in the University category under the Gujarat State Institutional Rating Framework (GSIRF) 2023–24. These recognitions reflect Anant’s continuing commitment to build a world-class institution rooted in creativity, contextual understanding, innovation and purpose.

About Anant National University
At Anant National University, education begins with a simple belief: the future will not be inherited. It will be purposefully designed.

Guided by the philosophy: Come, Create the New, Anant brings together learners who are curious about the world as it is, but also ambitious about what it could become. The University encourages students to look beyond conventional answers and engage with the complex challenges of our times: Ranging from climate and sustainability to cities, communities, systems and technologies.

Anant offers undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral programmes across design, architecture, climate action and visual arts. Its approach combines academic rigour with studio-based learning, emerging technologies, research, entrepreneurship, Indigenous Knowledge Systems and hands-on engagement with communities. The goal is not only to build practical skills but also to train diligent professionals who can connect disciplines, understand context and create meaningful change.

Recognised as a Centre of Excellence by the Government of Gujarat, Anant received a 5-Star Rating in Architecture and a 4-Star Rating in the University category under the Gujarat State Institutional Rating Framework (GSIRF) 2023-24. These recognitions reflect Anant’s abiding commitment to build an innovating institution where creativity, sustainability, innovation and purpose come together to help shape a more thoughtful and resilient future.

VAHDAM India Ranks No. 38 Among Best Workplaces in Asia 2026

The recognition comes as VAHDAM India continues to grow its business globally while putting equal focus on building a workplace where employees can learn, take ownership and grow with the company.

This is a significant improvement from the company’s previous Asia ranking. Last year, VAHDAM India was ranked No. 97 among the Best Workplaces in Asia in the Mid-Sized Organisations category.

The company has also been recognised among the Top 5 Best Workplaces in India and the Top 10 Best Workplaces for Women, making this a strong year for VAHDAM India across workplace recognition programmes.

Bala Sarda, Founder & CEO, VAHDAM India, said, “We have always believed that the kind of company we want to build starts with the kind of workplace we create. As we have grown, we have tried to give our teams the freedom to take ownership, experiment, learn and make decisions. To see that reflected in these recognitions is very encouraging. The Asia ranking is particularly special because it shows how far the team has come in a relatively short time.”

For VAHDAM India, the focus on its people has grown alongside the business. With the company now established across international markets, it has continued to build teams across functions while encouraging a culture where employees are given responsibility early and are encouraged to think like owners.

The company’s recognition among the best workplaces for women is also an important part of this journey, reflecting its efforts to create a workplace where employees have opportunities to build long-term careers and grow with the organisation.

Kalpesh Tiwari, Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO), VAHDAM® India, said, “For us, building a good workplace is really about creating an environment where people feel trusted and have the space to do their best work. We want our teams to take ownership, learn from their experiences and grow along with the organisation. These recognitions are encouraging because they show that the culture we are building is being felt by our people, and that matters the most.”

The latest recognition adds to VAHDAM India’s growing list of workplace achievements and comes at an important stage in the company’s journey as it continues to build an Indian consumer brand with a global presence.

Prakhar Kapoor, Co-Founder & Head Marketing; Kapil Chopra Founder, EazyDiner & The Postcard Hotel; Sachin Pabreja, Co-Founder & CEO; Ahana P Clayton, Co-Founder & COO

The EazyDiner Foodie Awards are a people's choice honour. Over 850 restaurants were nominated across 102 categories, and the winners were decided by the votes of EazyDiner users. More than 3 lakh diners voted this year. Chefs, restaurateurs, hoteliers, F&B entrepreneurs and food lovers from across the region came together for the night.

Highlights from the EazyDiner Foodie Awards, Delhi NCR Edition, featuring Founder Kapil Chopra, industry leaders and cricketer Yuvraj Singh felicitating the winners

Often called the Oscars of Indian dining, the EazyDiner Foodie Awards recognise every part of eating out, from hotel restaurants, buffets and Sunday brunches to cafes, bakeries, microbreweries, and neighbourhood favourites.

Honouring the people behind Delhi's hospitality

The evening's leadership honours were presented by Kapil Chopra, Founder, EazyDiner; Gautam Aggarwal, Division President, South Asia and Country Corporate Officer, Mastercard; and Yuvraj Singh, Indian cricketer and World Champion. The honourees were:

• Deeksha Suri, Executive Director, The LaLiT Suri Hospitality Group, was named Hospitality Trailblazer of the Year. She took the group into cities such as Ayodhya and Vrindavan and built one of hospitality's most credible inclusion programmes, opening careers to the LGBTQIA+ community, acid attack survivors and neurodivergent talent.

• Kush Kapoor, CEO, Roseate Hotels & Resorts, received Hospitality Leader of the Year for growing a single Delhi property into a design-led luxury portfolio across India and the UK.

• Bibhor Srivastava, Managing Director, ITP Media India, the home of Hotelier India, was honoured as The Voice of Hospitality for giving Indian hospitality a platform to meet, share and grow.

• Natwar Nagar, Founder, The People Network and The Job Plus, received the award for Leadership in Hospitality Workforce Development, having trained and placed thousands of young people in hospitality careers.

• Abhimanyu Lodha, General Manager, The Lodhi, New Delhi, was named General Manager of the Year. He has steered The Lodhi to a Michelin Key and back-to-back FHRAI General Manager of the Year honours.

• Atul Tiwari, Director of Operations, The Leela Palace New Delhi, was named F&B Head of the Year. A former Indian Sommelier Champion, he joined the hotel's pre-opening team in 2010 and rose from restaurant manager at MEGU to lead F&B.

• Chef Manish Sharma, Executive Chef, The Oberoi, New Delhi, was named Chef of the Year. With close to two decades at Oberoi Hotels & Resorts, he pairs classical technique with a contemporary touch while mentoring the next generation of chefs.

• Shafquat Ali, Publisher of Hospitality Horizon and CEO, Trikaya Media Group, received Editorial Excellence in Hospitality Journalism for three decades of telling the stories of Indian hospitality across India and the Gulf.

The night's headline honours

ITC Maurya, New Delhi was named Food & Beverage Hotel of the Year. For over four decades it has been Delhi's address of choice for visiting heads of state, and it is home to Bukhara, Dum Pukht and Avartana.

Restaurant Opening of the Year went to Nisaba, Chef Manish Mehrotra's first independent restaurant, set within the Humayun's Tomb Museum Complex, and to Raga, a homecoming for chef Gaggan Anand, bringing his distinctive approach to Indian food to Delhi after years of international acclaim in Bangkok. The LaLiT was named Most Inclusive Hotel Chain in India.

Delhi's legacy names had their moment too. Haldiram's received The Legacy of Indian Dining, Bikanervala was named The Pride of Indian Dining, Punjab Grill took The Nation's Favourite Indian Dining Brand, and Connaught Place institutions Kwality and United Coffee House were named The Legacy Legend of the City.

Among the hotel dining winners, Kheer at Roseate House, New Delhi was named The Best Indian Restaurant in a Hotel, where regional Indian cooking is served with a lighter, contemporary hand in one of the capital's quietest luxury dining rooms.

Farmers Basket at Pullman New Delhi Aerocity took The Best Sunday Brunch, a long, unhurried afternoon of live counters and global spreads that has become a weekend fixture for Aerocity regulars.

And MEGU at The Leela Palace, New Delhi won The Best Japanese Restaurant in a Hotel, bringing precise sushi, robata and Japanese fine dining to a room built around its signature Buddha and bell.

A word from EazyDiner

Speaking at the awards, Kapil Chopra, Founder, EazyDiner, said, "The EazyDiner Foodie Awards belong to Delhi's diners. Every winner tonight was chosen by the people who book the tables, bring their families and keep coming back. This year's nominees show how much range the city has, from Kwality and United Coffee House to legendary chains like Haldiram’s and Punjab Grill that everyone is talking about. To every chef, restaurateur and hotelier here tonight, thank you for giving Delhi so many reasons to dine out."

Partners

The EazyDiner Foodie Awards 2026, Delhi edition, was made possible by Hospitality Partner The LaLiT, New Delhi; Associate Partners UNOX, BMW Bird Automotive and Byufuel; and Experience Partners Johnnie Walker, Grover Vineyards, Bad Monkey and Lion Brewery.

EazyDiner Foodie Awards 2026, Delhi NCR: the winners

Leadership and special honours

Hospitality Trailblazer of the Year: Deeksha Suri, Executive Director, The LaLiT Suri Hospitality Group

Hospitality Leader of the Year: Kush Kapoor, CEO, Roseate Hotels & Resorts

The Voice of Hospitality: Bibhor Srivastava, Managing Director, ITP Media India

Leadership in Hospitality Workforce Development: Natwar Nagar, Founder, The People Network & The Job Plus

General Manager of the Year: Abhimanyu Lodha, General Manager, The Lodhi, New Delhi

F&B Head of the Year: Atul Tiwari, Director of Operations, The Leela Palace New Delhi

Chef of the Year: Chef Manish Sharma, Executive Chef, The Oberoi, New Delhi

Editorial Excellence in Hospitality Journalism: Shafquat Ali, Publisher, Hospitality Horizon, and CEO, Trikaya Media Group

Food & Beverage Hotel of the Year: ITC Maurya, New Delhi

Restaurant Opening of the Year: Nisaba, Humayun's Tomb Museum Complex, New Delhi; Raga, Windsor Place, New Delhi

Most Inclusive Hotel Chain in India: The LaLiT, New Delhi

Ambassador of Taste: namasteyculture, New Delhi

The Authentic Indian Plate: Masaldani, Aditya Ancora, Noida

Best Hotel dining

The Best Indian Restaurant in a Hotel: The Great Kabab Factory, Radisson Blu Plaza, Delhi Airport; Kheer, Roseate House, New Delhi

The Best Sunday Brunch: Farmers Basket, Pullman New Delhi Aerocity

The Best European Cuisine in a Hotel: San Gimignano, The Imperial, New Delhi

The Best Cocktail Bar in a Hotel: The Brewhouse, Radisson Gurugram, Sohna Road City Center; Lyrah Alfresco Bar, Trident, Gurgaon

The Best Luxury Buffet in a Hotel: K3, JW Marriott Aerocity, New Delhi

The Best Vegetarian Buffet in a Hotel: 64/6, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Ghaziabad

The Best Asian Cuisine in a Hotel: Erawaan, The Claridges, New Delhi; OKO, The LaLiT, New Delhi

The Best Chinese Restaurant in a Hotel: Shang Palace, Shangri-La Eros, New Delhi

The Best Japanese Restaurant in a Hotel: MEGU, The Leela Palace, New Delhi

The Best All-Day Dining Restaurant in a Hotel: Spectra, The Leela Ambience, Gurugram; The One, Le Meridien, New Delhi

The Best Italian Restaurant in a Hotel: Cena Pranzo- Italian Eatery, Grand Hyatt, Gurgaon; La Piazza, Hyatt Regency, New Delhi

The Best Cafe in a Hotel: Seasonal Tastes, The Westin, Gurgaon; Latest Recipe, Le Meridien, Gurgaon

The Best South Indian Restaurant in a Hotel: Dakshin, Sheraton, New Delhi

The Best Pan-Asian Restaurant in a Hotel: 32 East, The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel, New Delhi

The Best Debutant Restaurant in a Hotel: Tyde, The Park, New Delhi; Del One, WelcomHotel Dwarka, New Delhi

The Best Rooftop Bar Experience in a Hotel: The Flying Trunk, Novotel City Centre, Delhi NCR

The Family Favourite Buffet: SXVIII, Radisson Blu MBD Hotel, Noida; Level 2, Radisson Blu, Paschim Vihar

The Family Favourite Hotel Dining: Singh Sahib, Eros Hotel, Nehru Place

The Best Contemporary Buffet: Cafe NH8, Radisson Gurugram Udyog Vihar; DKK - Dilli Kanteen Kitchen, The Grand, New Delhi