April 2026

White Gold hosted its prestigious White Gold Excellence Night on Saturday, bringing together members of the White Gold family for an evening dedicated to recognising loyalty, performance, and the enduring contributions of employees who have played a vital role in the company’s growth journey. In a landmark gesture of appreciation, the company gifted 10 cars to outstanding employees in recognition of their exceptional commitment, years of service, and exemplary performance.   The White Gold management team shares a proud moment ahead of handing over cars to top performers   The event marked a significant milestone for White Gold, which has grown into one of Bengaluru’s most recognised brands through the collective effort, discipline, and dedication of its people. More than an annual rewards and recognition celebration, White Gold Excellence Night stood as a powerful reflection of the organisation’s belief in valuing individuals who contribute consistently and grow alongside the company.   At a time when much of the corporate conversation is centred on layoffs, restructuring, and workforce uncertainty, White Gold’s gesture sends a strong and hopeful message to employees and the wider business community. In recognising and rewarding loyalty in such a meaningful manner, the company has reinforced the importance of long term commitment and people first values in building enduring enterprises.   In what the company sees as one of the first initiatives of its kind by a South Indian company, White Gold’s decision to reward employees with cars highlights a rare and inspiring approach to employee recognition. The move reflects the belief that traditional companies can continue to lead with gratitude, responsibility, and faith in their people, even in an evolving and often unpredictable employment environment.   The evening also reflected the emotional depth of the White Gold journey. As the company looked back on its growth, it celebrated not just employees, but the shared milestones, trust, and relationships that have helped build the organisation. While White Gold has welcomed many new faces over the years, the event paid tribute to those who stood by the company through its defining moments and helped strengthen it from within.   The awardees represented a wide cross section of the organisation, including professionals from administration, finance, gold processing, sales, branch management, and support services. Among those recognised were Mr. Jiju Kochappan, Administration Manager; Mr. Suresh K Sebastian, Gold Processing Manager; Mr. Augustine Kumar, Senior Finance Manager; Mr. Anand R, Sales Manager; Mr. Praveen N, Sales Manager; Mr. Haribabu J, Chauffeur; Mr. Bharath Kumar R, Senior Branch Manager; and Mr. Manoj B, Senior Branch Manager, along with other deserving awardees whose loyalty and performance have left a lasting impact on the organisation.   A particularly meaningful moment of the evening was the recognition of Mr. Haribabu J, Chauffeur, whose honour symbolised one of the strongest values White Gold wanted to celebrate. His recognition showed that at White Gold, value is not defined by designation alone. It is defined by loyalty, trust, consistency, and the quiet strength with which a person serves the organisation every single day. Having been a part of the company’s journey since 2013, Mr. Haribabu has represented dependability and dedication in its truest form. By honouring him alongside managers and senior leaders, White Gold sent a clear message that contribution matters more than title, and that loyalty remains one of the highest values an organisation can uphold.   Each honouree was celebrated not only for professional achievement, but also for embodying the values that White Gold stands for, including discipline, responsibility, humility, and a deep sense of ownership. Their contributions, whether visible on the front lines or behind the scenes, have played a defining role in the company’s continued progress and success.   For White Gold, the cars symbolised far more than rewards. They represented appreciation, trust, and a legacy of mutual growth between the company and its people. The evening served as a reminder that when organisations invest in loyalty and recognise sincere effort, they create a culture that inspires others to remain committed and strive for excellence.   The message from White Gold Excellence Night was simple and powerful: stay committed, work hard, and value will follow. In honouring its employees so visibly and generously, White Gold has not only celebrated achievement but also kept alive an important belief in today’s business environment: that companies can still reward loyalty, uphold traditional values, and offer hope through meaningful recognition.   About White Gold White Gold is one of South India’s most trusted gold buying brands, built on a foundation of teamwork, transparency, and long-term commitment. With 100+ branches across Karnataka, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana, White Gold has grown into a strong and reliable presence in the industry.   White Gold is the only organised player in the gold buying space and is committed to creating a trusted ecosystem that enables customers to make informed financial decisions and sell their gold with dignity.   White Gold

Signify (Euronext: LIGHT), the world leader in lighting, continues to advance its commitment to grassroots sports development in India through its flagship CSR initiative, Signify Khel Jyoti, as we approach the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace. The initiative underscores the role of sports as a catalyst for social change, driving inclusion, and community empowerment.   Signify Khel Jyoti Initiative for International Day of Sport for Development and Peace   As part of its commitment to supporting sports development in India, Signify has successfully illuminated four Kabaddi and Kho-Kho centers in rural Haryana, with industry leading energy-efficient LED sports lighting. This intervention is aimed at strengthening the sports ecosystems, enabling inclusive participation, and creating safer, more accessible spaces for athletes to train and compete after sunset.   Signify Khel Jyoti Initiative for International Day of Sport for Development and Peace   Well-illuminated sports grounds significantly extend usable hours, allowing athletes to practice beyond sunset and during early mornings. Enhanced lighting improves visibility, safety, and performance conditions, while encouraging greater participation from youth, women, and local communities. By creating safer and more inclusive spaces for sports, Signify continues to champion accessibility, talent development, and community well-being through the power of light.   Signify Khel Jyoti Initiative for International Day of Sport for Development and Peace   Speaking on the initiative, Nikhil Gupta, Head of Strategy & Marketing, Signify, Greater India said, “Sport has the power to bring communities together and create opportunities for young talent, especially in underserved regions. At Signify, we believe in bringing the best of innovations across India, through Signify Khel Jyoti, we are enabling access to safe and inclusive sporting spaces by improving infrastructure at the grassroots level. This initiative reflects our continued commitment to driving long-term social impact through innovation and sustainability for brighter lives and a better world.”   Divyanshu Singh, CEO, JSW Sports and Haryana Steelers added, “Through Signify Khel Jyoti, we are seeing how an intervention like lighting can unlock significant potential at the grassroots level. In a state like Haryana, where Kabaddi is part of everyday life, extending training hours and improving safety can directly influence participation and performance. At JSW Sports and Haryana Steelers, we remain committed to supporting initiatives that create real, measurable impact and strengthen the future of Indian sport from the ground up.”   The initiative has created meaningful impacts at the community level. With the availability of light extending, playing hours have led to increased participation across age groups, with a notable rise in girls’ participation and overall enrollment. These centers have historically produced athletes who have gone on to represent India and compete at the highest levels, including the Pro Kabaddi League, underlining the importance of strengthening grassroots infrastructure in regions like Haryana.   The centers were identified through a structured selection process with input from JSW Sports and Haryana Steelers team focusing on active training ecosystems, presence of coaching support, and potential for long-term impact. The project was executed by Pro Sport Development, ensuring effective on-ground execution and alignment with local community needs.   Signify Khel Jyoti CSR initiative has illuminated over 200 grassroots sports centers across India, reinforcing its commitment to building an inclusive and sustainable sports ecosystem.   About Signify Signify (Euronext: LIGHT) is the world leader in lighting for professionals and consumers. We proudly bring to market the world’s best lighting brands, from Signify, Philips, Philips Hue, Signify Interact, Philips Dynalite, Color Kinetics and many more. Our advanced products, connected systems and services unlock the extraordinary potential of light for brighter lives and a better world. In 2025, we had sales of EUR 5.8 billion, approximately 27,000 employees, and a presence in over 70 markets. We are in the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index and hold the EcoVadis Platinum rating.   News and updates from Signify can be found in the Newsroom, on LinkedIn and Instagram. Information for investors is located on the Investor Relations page.

In line with its commitment to academic excellence, industry engagement and professional development, Chandigarh University (CU)  inaugurated the Student Chapter of Institution of Engineers India (IEI), the largest multidisciplinary professional society of engineers established in 1920, to nurture innovation, research and professional excellence among engineering students by enhancing their technical knowledge and connect them with industry experts through workshops, seminars, conferences, and hands-on training programmes.   This IEI Student initiative is aimed to nurture innovation, research and professional excellence among engineering students at Chandigarh University The dignitaries from academia and industry who graced the inauguration ceremony of the IEI Student Chapter, organized by Department of Computer Science & Engineering, University Institute of Engineering (UIE) Chandigarh University, included Chief Guest Dr Labh Singh, former Chairman IEI Punjab and Chandigarh State Centre, Guests of Honour, Karnail Singh, Secretary IEI Punjab and Chandigarh State Centre, Dr Arvind Dhingra , former Chairman and Ex Council Member IEI Ludhiana, Centre, Prof (Dr) Raviraja N Seetharam,  Vice -Chancellor – Chandigarh University,  Prof (Dr) Raghuveer VR , Pro-VC (Academics) CU and Prof (Dr) RS Bawa, Advisor to Chancellor, CU. In his inaugural address, the chief guest and former Chairman of IEI Punjab and Chandigarh State Center, Dr Labh Singh said, “Today, engineering is not just about machines, it is about shaping society, solving real-world problems and creating a sustainable future. India is at a crucial juncture of digital transformation, artificial intelligence and industry 4.0 revolution. And young engineers are at the centre of this change. IEI was established in 1920 to further this passion and enthusiasm of the youth. It is one of the largest engineering institutes in the world, covering 15 different engineering branches. This IEI Student chapter will act as a bridge between books and practical work for students. Through this, students will also get grants and funds for technical development, certification and research. This initiative is not just about academic excellence, but it is about ‘equitable development’. IEI supports equal opportunities for everyone, skill development and especially greater participation of women in engineering. Our objective is fully aligned with the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Skill India.” Prof (Dr) Raviraja N Seetharam, Vice -Chancellor, Chandigarh University said, “India currently hosts over 1,700 IEI Student Chapters and Chandigarh University is delighted to have one IEI Student Chapter. For the past three consecutive years, Chandigarh University has maintained its position as India’s number one private university—a fact affirmed by QS World University Rankings.  In 2025, five of our academic disciplines were featured in the QS subject-wise rankings. However, today, 11 of our disciplines have secured a place in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026.  Three of CU’s engineering subjects including Computer Science and Information System have been recognized among the top 300 universities globally. Six of CU subjects are ranked within the top 400 in the world. This achievement has made Chandigarh University rank among world’s top 1 % universities. This IEI Student Chapter will provide enhanced opportunities for CU students by facilitating networking and access to grants. It will offer students a golden opportunity to hone their talents.” Karnail Singh, Secretary IEI Punjab and Chandigarh State Centre said, “Becoming a part of IEI will enable Chandigarh University students to acquire a wealth of new knowledge for resolving real-world problems and serve society. Through this Student Chapter, students will have the opportunity to participate in workshops and seminars, as well as to interact with experienced professionals from the industry.” Chandigarh University Vice Chancellor (Academic) Raghuveer VR said, “India is desperately looking out for its engineers to do something in a bigger way. That is why we want students to be a part of these chapters and build their professional career. IEI Student Chapter is one of multiple professional chapters at Chandigarh University and students should take benefit of each of those chapters to build their profile and become successful in life.” Dr Arvind Dhingra, former Chairman and Ex Council Member IEI Ludhiana said, “Besides 124 IEI centers across the country, Chandigarh University students who will also get connected to over 3 lakh professionals through this IEI Student Chapter. CU Students will also get international exposure and professional engineering certificate through the IEI which allows practice in countries across the globe.” Prof (Dr) RS Bawa, Advisor to Chancellor of CU said, “The IEI Student Chapter will provide Chandigarh University students with the opportunity to participate in various technical activities conducted by the Students’ Chapter, access library facilities at IEI Centres across the country and meet Fellow Members of IEI for professional interaction. This apart, CU students can also get 85 Scholarships amounting Rs 7.15 lakh given to the Engineering meritorious students attached to different IEI Student Chapters.” About Chandigarh University Chandigarh University is a NAAC A+ Grade University and QS World Ranked University. This autonomous educational institution is approved by UGC and is located near Chandigarh in the state of Punjab. It is the youngest university in India and the only private university in Punjab to be honoured with A+ Grade by NAAC (National Assessment and Accreditation Council). CU offers more than 109 UG and PG programs in the field of engineering, management, pharmacy, law, architecture, journalism, animation, hotel management, commerce, and others. It has been awarded as The University with Best Placements by WCRC. Website address: www.cuchd.in.

M3M Foundation has taken a significant step towards strengthening rural livelihoods under its flagship initiative “Payal@40” by launching a focused programme to support and empower rural women and youth in Bangana Block, District Una, Himachal Pradesh.    M3M Foundation Signs MoU with Govind Sagar Block-Level Foundation to Empower Rural Women and Youth in Una, Himachal Pradesh A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed on 2 April 2026 at the Block Office, Bangana, between M3M Foundation and the Govind Sagar Block Level Federation (BLF) for the operation of the Rural Livelihood Centre (RLC), Bangana, under the Himachal Pradesh State Rural Livelihoods Mission (HPSRLM). The partnership aims to deliver structured training, capacity building, and livelihood support to Self-Help Groups (SHGs), along with skill development opportunities for local rural youth.  Through this collaboration, more than 800 beneficiaries per year are expected to benefit from SHG-based training programmes, livelihood enhancement activities, and skill development initiatives designed to improve income generation and create sustainable livelihood opportunities in the region.  The MoU was signed by Dr. Aishwarya Mahajan, Managing Trustee & President, M3M Foundation, and Ms. Rajni Devi, President, Govind Sagar Block Level Federation (BLF), Bangana, who also oversees RLC Bangana.  Sharing her message, Dr. Payal Kanodia, Chairperson and Trustee, M3M Foundation, stated, “Payal@40 is not just an initiative, but a commitment towards dignity, self-reliance, and sustainable livelihoods for rural women. Announced in Banaras (Varanasi), this initiative aims to empower 40,000 women across the country. By working closely with Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and rural youth in regions like Bangana, we are dedicated to driving meaningful change at the grassroots level. This partnership will not only create livelihood opportunities but will also lay a strong foundation for the social and economic empowerment of rural families.”  Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Aishwarya Mahajan reiterated M3M Foundation’s commitment to empowering rural communities through focused interventions in women’s empowerment and youth development. He emphasized that this partnership for operating RLC Bangana under “Payal@40” will create long-term social and economic impact by strengthening grassroots institutions and promoting skill-based livelihood opportunities. He also expressed gratitude to the Himachal Pradesh State Rural Livelihoods Mission, and all officials and representatives for providing this opportunity.  Block Development Officer (BDO) Shri Kishori Lal Verma and Ms. Rajni Devi expressed their appreciation to M3M Foundation and stated that this collaboration will significantly enhance the capacity of SHGs and rural youth, enabling them to become self-reliant and economically independent.  This MoU marks an important milestone in advancing inclusive development and ensuring sustainable livelihood opportunities for rural families in Bangana Block, District Una. Under this initiative, M3M Foundation is committed to creating livelihood opportunities for more than 2,500 women across Bangana Block over the next three years.  The ceremony was held in the presence of Shri Kishori Lal Verma (BDO, Bangana), along with other government representatives and M3M Foundation officials Javid Mir and Rishi Bhatnagar.   About M3M Foundation M3M Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the M3M Group, working across education, health, livelihoods, sports, and environment. With a reach across 22 states and over 1,300 villages, the Foundation has positively impacted more than 5 million lives, driven by a vision of inclusive, sustainable, and transformative nation-building.

Dubai’s leading real estate group Danube has announced there will be no layoffs and that salaries will be paid on time, pledging support for its entire workforce during these challenging times.   Rizwan Sajan, Founder and Chairman of Danube Group Founder and Chairman Rizwan Sajan is demonstrating strong leadership by standing firmly with the company’s employees. With the US–Israel–Iran conflict reshaping geopolitical and economic realities, businesses across the region are being tested on their ability to adapt and endure. Against this backdrop, Danube’s commitment provides stability and reassurance to its staff and stakeholders.  Recently, Sajan took to Instagram to announce that the company will not lay off any employees. “I’ve faced many challenging situations in the past – from the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait to the 2008 financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these, we have always bounced back stronger, and I’m confident we will do so again. During the pandemic, I had committed to not letting go of any employees, and I stood by that promise. Similarly, there will be no layoffs at Danube Group this time as well,” he said. He further added, “Our 6000+ employees are not just our workforce – they are our family. They helped build Danube Group into what it is today. In times like these, we stand by them with the same commitment. All salaries will be paid on time, and we remain dedicated to serving our clients and customers.” Over the years, Danube Group has developed a diversified and agile structure spanning building materials, real estate, and home solutions, allowing it to respond effectively to changing market conditions. In fact, Danube Properties recently unveiled its first large-scale integrated community, Greenz by Danube, featuring premium townhouses and villas, starting from AED 3.5 million with their iconic 1% monthly payment plan, which has been well received by investors and homeowners alike.  The company continues to prioritize execution, ensuring timely project delivery and honoring commitments. As it navigates current geopolitical challenges, Danube Group is not only holding its ground but reinforcing its position – demonstrating that strong fundamentals and decisive leadership can turn uncertainty into sustained progress.   About Danube Properties Danube Properties, a subsidiary of the Danube Group founded in 1993 by Rizwan Sajan, is among the UAE’s leading private real estate developers. Known for pioneering the 1% payment plan, the company delivers fully furnished apartments complemented by over 40 lifestyle amenities, with a strong track record of quality construction and timely delivery.

As part of its ongoing efforts to bring women leaders together, Ladies Who Lead (LWL), India’s premier leadership and networking platform for women professionals, curated a series of high-impact engagements across Mumbai and Bengaluru. Bringing together a diverse mix of leaders from business, entrepreneurship, and the creative ecosystem, these invite-only gatherings were designed to enable meaningful exchanges, peer learning, and deeper community-building in thoughtfully curated, high-trust environments.   Ladies Who Lead – Mumbai and Bangalore Events – International Women’s Day 2026   As part of this series, LWL hosted an invite-only evening in Mumbai in partnership with HSBC, along with a jewellery showcase by House of Yarane, at Fielia – Mumbai’s first cocktail cinema bar designed by Gauri Khan – bringing together leaders including Deepthi Sirvuri, Head – Credit Cards and Retail Lending at HSBC; Almona Bhatia, Chief Strategy Officer at Tata CLiQ Luxury; Gauri Devidayal, Co-Founder of Food Matters; Darshana Shah, Chief Marketing Officer, Aditya Birla Capital; Naiyya Saggi, Founder of BabyChakra (ext)   and Co-Founder of The Good Glamm Group; and Neha Motwani, Founder and CEO of Luma Fertility. The Mumbai chapter also featured closed-door sessions, including a mentor session with Pallavi Mohadikar and Dr. Amol Patwari, Co-founders of Palmonas, a Lessons in Excellence session with Ronnie Screwvala, and an earlier mentor session with Aparna Saxena, Founder & CEO of Antinorm, focused on building and scaling consumer brands.   Aabha Bakaya, Founder at Ladies Who Lead, said, “Our approach is centred on curating thoughtful, high-value interactions for women leaders. The Mumbai and Bengaluru gatherings brought together a diverse mix of voices, enabling conversations that are both relevant and impactful for today’s evolving leadership landscape.”   As part of its Bengaluru series, LWL hosted curated engagements including an International Women’s Day Conversation Over Cocktails with Bhakti Modi, Co-founder and CEO of Tira, and Kulsum Shadab Wahab, Founder of Ara Lumiere and Ara Prêt, followed by a From Farm to Table soirée at Farmlore. Known for its globally recognised, Michelin-level approach to sustainable dining, Farmlore offered a thoughtful setting for reflection and meaningful dialogue. Rooted in the Give to Gain theme of International Women’s Day 2026, the gathering celebrated leadership and purpose, bringing together esteemed guests such as Savitha Nanjappa, Founder of Success With Savitha; Varna Bhat, Founder & CEO of Blisswater Industries Pvt Ltd; Rashmi Attavar, Joint Managing Director at Indo American Hybrid Seeds (India) Pvt Ltd; Sreepriya N S, Co-founder & Director at Entrust Family Office; Nishita Thakurdas, Founder & Designer at Nishita Design; and Rashmi Somashekar, Partner at BSR & Co (KPMG).   Through these gatherings, Ladies Who Lead continues to bring women professionals together in a way that feels easily accessible. The idea is to create a space where conversations can flow naturally, and people can share their experiences without it feeling formal or forced. It’s also about meeting like-minded people and building connections that go beyond just the event. Over time, these interactions are helping shape a more connected and supportive community of women across industries. It’s a simple approach, but one that’s clearly resonating with members.   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 50+ 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.

Cryoablation: A procedure that treats abnormal heart rhythms by freezing the faulty electrical pathways in the heart. RF (Radiofrequency) Ablation: A procedure that treats abnormal heart rhythms by using heat energy to destroy the faulty electrical pathways in the heart.   In a remarkable clinical achievement, Kauvery Hospital, Alwarpet, successfully treated a 71-year-old man with multiple co-morbidities and two potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias using image-guided, catheter-based electrophysiological interventions with high-density 3D electroanatomical mapping and energy-based ablation technologies.   Kauvery Hospital, Alwarpet   The patient had a complex medical background, including diabetes, hypertension, chronic kidney disease, heart failure, prior coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery, and an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD). He presented with two critical arrhythmias: Atrial Fibrillation (AF): A common supraventricular arrhythmia associated with a significantly increased risk of stroke Ventricular Tachycardia (VT): A potentially fatal ventricular arrhythmia, for which the patient had already received a life-saving ICD shock   Simultaneous management of both AF and VT is highly challenging. Conventionally, such combined procedures can extend up to six hours and often necessitate general anesthesia with endotracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation—posing substantial risk in elderly patients with multiple co-morbidities.   Following a comprehensive multidisciplinary evaluation involving cardiac electrophysiology and cardiac anesthesia teams, the team elected to perform a single-session, dual arrhythmia ablation under conscious sedation, thereby minimizing procedural risk.   The patient successfully underwent: Cryoballoon ablation for atrial fibrillation Radiofrequency (RF) substrate-based ablation for ventricular tachycardia   Cryoablation utilizes controlled cryothermal energy to achieve precise pulmonary vein isolation by selectively targeting arrhythmogenic foci, while preserving adjacent myocardial tissue.   The combined procedure was completed safely within three hours using high-resolution 3D electroanatomical mapping systems, real-time intracardiac navigation, and fluoroscopy-minimizing techniques. Vascular access was obtained percutaneously via the femoral route, eliminating the need for surgical incisions or mechanical ventilation.   The patient had an uneventful recovery and was discharged the following day.   Dr. Deep Chandh Raja, Director of Cardiac Electrophysiology at Kauvery Hospitals, said, “Innovative technologies such as cryoablation and fast high-density 3D mapping systems allow us to treat complex and high-risk arrhythmias with greater precision and efficiency. Even in elderly patients with multiple co-morbidities, we can now offer definitive rhythm correction with minimal physiological stress and faster recovery.”   Dr. Aravindan Selvaraj, Co-founder and Executive Director of Kauvery Group of Hospitals, added, “Kauvery Hospital, Chennai, is focused on bringing international standards of cardiac care to patients in India through advanced technology, expert clinical teams, and evidence-based treatment protocols. Our aim is to ensure that even highly complex heart rhythm disorders can be treated here with the same precision and confidence patients would expect from leading global centres.”   This case underscores how advancements in cardiac electrophysiology and minimally invasive technologies are transforming the treatment of complex arrhythmias—making sophisticated care safer, faster, and more accessible, even for high-risk elderly patients.

Chitkara University is proud to announce that two of its students, Parth Bhandari and Ishan Attri, have been awarded the Deakin University Vice-Chancellor’s Meritorious 50% Scholarship (India), one of the most competitive merit-based awards available to Indian students seeking internationally recognised education pathways.   Chitkara University students Parth Bhandari and Ishan Attri celebrate their achievement of receiving Deakin University’s prestigious Vice-Chancellor’s Meritorious 50% Scholarship   The scholarships were conferred at a special ceremony held at Chitkara University, underscoring the strength of the long-standing academic partnership between Chitkara University and Deakin University, Australia.   The Vice-Chancellor’s Meritorious Scholarship is among Deakin University’s most sought-after awards for Indian students, offering 50% tuition fee support to pursue industry-aligned, future-focused programs with genuine international exposure. For Indian families weighing the real cost of a globally recognised degree, this scholarship meaningfully changes what is possible.   Reflecting on the achievement, Dr. Madhu Chitkara, Pro Chancellor, Chitkara University, said, “Seeing our students Parth Bhandari and Ishan Attri earn the Vice-Chancellor’s Meritorious Scholarship from Deakin University fills all of us at Chitkara with immense pride. This is a reflection of their hard work and academic commitment, and of the global pathways our partnerships make possible. At Chitkara, we remain committed to nurturing talent, building global perspectives, and preparing our students to succeed in a rapidly evolving world.”   Ravneet Pawha, Vice President (Global Engagement) and CEO (South Asia), Deakin University, spoke to the vision behind the initiative: “These scholarships are about expanding access to world-class education and recognising the ambition of students who are ready to compete on a global stage. Our partnership with Chitkara University allows us to identify and support that talent early, helping Indian students build international capabilities while contributing to India’s future in a connected world.“   Deakin University, ranked among the top 1% of universities globally, is widely recognised for its focus on graduate employability, innovation, and deep industry engagement, qualities that make it a genuinely strong destination for Indian students pursuing higher education abroad. Chitkara University, one of India’s leading private universities, brings to this partnership an industry-integrated curriculum and a consistent track record of connecting students with international learning opportunities.   Together, the Deakin–Chitkara partnership offers students access to globally aligned curricula, international faculty engagement, and flexible study pathways, including the option to transition directly to Deakin’s campuses in Australia. The collaboration is also aligned with the objectives of India’s National Education Policy (NEP 2020), which actively supports internationally integrated, future-ready education.   Parth Bhandari and Ishan Attri’s achievement speaks to what Chitkara University has quietly been building for years: a genuine pipeline of globally competitive students, and the institutional partnerships to match.   About Chitkara University Chitkara University is a UGC-recognised and NAAC A+ accredited private university with campuses in Punjab and Himachal Pradesh, recognised among India’s leading institutions by NIRF, QS World University Rankings, and Times Higher Education. It offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs across Engineering, Business, Healthcare, Pharmacy, Design, Architecture, Hospitality, and emerging technologies including Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, and Machine Learning.   The University’s academic model integrates internships, live industry projects, and research into core curricula, supported by 2,000+ campus recruiters and 300+ international academic and industry partners. Global Pathway programs, developed in partnership with leading universities in the United States, Australia and Canada, allow students to complete part of their degree abroad. With a focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and applied learning, Chitkara University, prepares graduates for careers in India and internationally.   For more information, please visit: www.chitkara.edu.in.