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Ekya Vana Early Years, the nature-based preschool and daycare programme from Ekya Schools, will welcome its first cohort at its Haralur campus on October 21, 2026. Admissions are open for children aged 18 months to 6 years. Spread across 10,000 sq. ft., the campus features a mini-forest, a butterfly garden and indoor and outdoor spaces designed to bring nature into children’s learning experiences.   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.

58% of Indians plan to travel abroad more in 2027 Skyscanner’s Travel Trends 2027 report reveals seven emerging trends shaping Indian travel, including Signal Severance, Pilgra-merch, Sten Do Surge, Grand Odysseys, Gymcation, Sound Bound and Currency Chasers Indian travellers are putting their own spin on travel, with 91% drawn to wellness-focused stays, 89% inspired by history and mythology, and 67% having changed a destination because another offered better value Skyscanner’s Travel Trends 2027 report combines proprietary search insights with research into 2,000 Indian traveller behaviour across travel intent, AI, wellness, music, history, exclusive finds and value   Leading global travel app Skyscanner has officially launched its Travel Trends 2027 report, revealing next year’s top trending and best value destinations as well as showcasing the seven key trends influencing traveller behaviour and key shifts in the travel industry in the coming year.   Neel Ghose, Travel Trends and Destinations Expert   In a fragmented and often overstimulating world, Indian travellers are increasingly seeking value not just in what they spend but what they gain. Whether that means unplugging completely, travelling for an exclusive purchase, maintaining a wellness routine on the road, celebrating together, following music and culture, or tracing history and mythology – getaways are increasingly reflecting how Indians choose to live.   And despite broader consumer spending slowing and global economic tides shifting, travel appetite remains strong – with 58% of Indians planning to travel abroad more in 2027. Instead of giving up on travel, Indians are adapting how they spend, with 56% planning to spend more on flights and 44% on accommodation. At the same time, value remains central, with 67% having changed a holiday destination or considered doing so because an alternative offered better value.   Neel Ghose, Travel Trends and Destinations Expert, Skyscanner India, said, “Indian travellers are entering 2027 with a stronger appetite to explore, but they are also becoming more considered about how they spend their time and money. We’re seeing a shift from simply choosing where to go towards thinking more carefully about the experience they want from a trip, whether that is switching off, discovering something new, staying active or getting better value.   With 87% of Indians now confident using AI to plan and book travel, technology is also becoming an important part of this decision-making journey. Tools such as Skyscanner’s Explore with AI can help travellers turn an idea into a trip, while features like Price Alerts and Drops can help them stay on top of fares and spot opportunities to travel for less. The opportunity for travellers in 2027 is to use these tools to be more flexible and intentional, without compromising on the experiences that matter most.”   Combining exclusive Skyscanner proprietary data with insights into 2,000 Indian travelles and supporting data from trusted partner, the seven trends shaping travel in 2027 include: 1. Sound Bound – Music is taking Indian travellers beyond traditional concert halls, with 43% choosing carnival experiences and 38% preferring unique venues such as volcanoes, pyramids and caves for music-based experiences while on holiday. While genre leads as the biggest consideration at 27%, cultural immersion (20%) and seeing a new venue (19%) also shape music-led travel.   2. Signal Severance – Switching off is easier said than done for Indian travellers, with 43% saying it takes a little time to clear their head and stop checking their phone, while only 23% switch off immediately at the start of their journey. Yet going off-grid could help them reconnect with what matters, with 75% saying they would feel more connected to nature and 73% to themselves without their phones. In response, destinations offering a chance to slow down and switch off are seeing rising demand, with Pokhara (+166% YoY), Agatti (+157% YoY) and Phu Quoc (+133% YoY) emerging as top destinations for digital disconnection.   3. Gymcation – Health and fitness travel is inspiring Indian travellers to seek out destinations where staying active and prioritising nutritious choices is as easy as sightseeing. 91% are likely to book a hotel offering nutritional-performance breakfast options, while 53% actively look for fitness facilities and are willing to choose one hotel over another if its fitness offering is better.   Deepak Raj, Country Head, HYROX India, said, “Our registration data shows that fitness is no longer something Indians pause when they travel – it’s becoming a reason to travel. Nearly half the athletes at our Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru events this year travelled from another city, sometimes another state, just to compete. That tells us the ‘gym-cation’ isn’t a niche behaviour anymore; for a growing number of Indian travellers, a workout event is now as legitimate a reason to book a trip as a concert or a marathon.”   4. Pilgra-merch – The best keepsakes are the ones you have to travel for. 80% of Indians have visited a specific destination or store to purchase a location-exclusive item, with Gen Z (84%) and Millennials (82%) particularly likely to have travelled for an exclusive purchase. Nearly half (49%) would even fly for up to three to six hours to buy something they cannot get elsewhere.   5. Sten Do Surge – As couples marry later in life and move away from traditionally gendered celebrations, the classic ‘stag’ or ‘hen’ trip is giving way to a more inclusive era of joint travel – the ‘Sten Do’. 73% Indian travellers prefer either a shared celebration or a mix of shared and separate celebrations. Fun (64%), more time together before the wedding (53%), convenience (49%) and cost savings (48%) are driving the shift.   6. Grand Odysseys – In a fast-paced world, history and mythology offer context, grounding travellers in timeless human stories. For Indian travellers, the past is inspiring the present, with 89% having had their travel plans inspired by a historic event, a classical story or myth, or both. Historical figures (61%), architectural wonders (57%) and mythological legends (52%) are among the strongest sources of inspiration.   7. Currency Chasers – Savvy Indian travellers are actively

Following the launch of their first project in the KIADB micro-market, Assetz and Fairlark announce a new residential development with at least 1.68 million sq. ft. of estimated saleable built-up area Transaction strengthens Assetz’s presence in one of Bengaluru’s airport-led growth corridors   Assetz, a Bengaluru-based design-led residential real estate developer, has tied up land belonging to Fairlark Sagar Enterprises Centroid Pvt. Ltd., a 10-acre land parcel within the KIADB Hardware Park in North Bengaluru. The proposed residential development will have minimum 1.68 million sq. ft. of estimated saleable built-up area. This new development follows the response to the partners’ first project, Assetz Sora & Saki.   Assetz   The transaction marks another significant addition to Assetz’s development pipeline and strengthens the company’s presence in North Bengaluru, a micro-market that has become an increasingly important part of the city’s residential growth story. The acquisition is aligned with Assetz’s strategy of consolidating and strengthening its position in Bengaluru by expanding presence across established high-absorption, infrastructure-linked and emerging micro-markets. The continued partnership reflects the confidence of both companies in the long-term potential of the KIADB micro-market and in a development model that aims to bring together strategic locations, thoughtful design, quality homes and a customer-centric approach.   Located approximately 15 minutes from Kempegowda International Airport, the site sits within the KIADB Hardware Park and the larger aerospace, technology and advanced-manufacturing ecosystem developing around the airport. The corridor today accommodates a growing concentration of global technology, aerospace and engineering companies, with facilities of companies such as Shell India Markets, SAP Labs and Boeing in the vicinity. The neighbourhood is also supported by educational and healthcare institutions, strengthening its appeal as a residential catchment. The wider area is witnessing further development of its social infrastructure, with new malls, hotels and other lifestyle destinations that are coming up. Reflecting the growing residential interest in the micro-market, the zone has also attracted projects from several real estate developers.   The location also benefits from access towards Kempegowda International Airport, Devanahalli, Bagalur and the wider North Bengaluru region, with road networks providing links towards Budigere Cross, Old Madras Road, East Bengaluru and Whitefield. The Satellite Town Ring Road further strengthens the larger regional road network by connecting Bengaluru’s northern and eastern peripheral growth centres. The upcoming Namma Metro Blue Line and the under-construction Bagalur Cross Metro Station are expected to further enhance public-transport access between the corridor and key parts of the city.   Commenting on the transaction, Mr. Sunil Pareek, Executive Director, Assetz, said, “The scale of this parcel gives Assetz the opportunity to plan a cohesive residential development with the depth and quality that a project of this size demands. There is significant potential to create a development that remains relevant as the surrounding micro-market continues to evolve. At Assetz, growth is not simply about adding acreage; it is about identifying opportunities where thoughtful design, strong execution and capital discipline can create enduring value. This transaction reflects that approach and further strengthens the visibility of our future development pipeline.”   Mr. Madhav Raju, Managing Director, Fairlark, also comments that, “At Fairlark, we believe that the success of any development ultimately comes down to the customer — the location they choose, the quality of the home they purchase and the experience they receive throughout the journey. Assetz brings a strong design-led approach and a deep understanding of what today’s homebuyer values, while Fairlark brings its focus on North Bengaluru and its understanding of the opportunities emerging across this rapidly developing corridor. Together, we are creating a development model that combines strategic locations with aesthetically designed homes, quality and customer-centric thinking.”   About Assetz Assetz is a residential real estate developer with a focus on design excellence, along with disciplined capital allocation, institutional governance and sustainability practices. The developer focuses on delivering high-quality homes characterised by timeless architecture, thoughtful material selection, refined minimalism and calm, cohesive living environments. This philosophy enables Assetz to create value both internally through space planning and externally through amenity-led master plans. As a result, this approach has enabled the company to create a differentiated and recognisable brand positioning within Bengaluru’s residential real estate market.   The Assetz portfolio spans 50+ projects, 50+ million sq. ft. and 22,000+ units as of August 31, 2026, reflecting the scale of its experience and its growing contribution to Bengaluru’s residential landscape.

Park Hospital, part of Park Medi World Limited, marked the groundbreaking ceremony for its upcoming 550-bed multi-super-speciality hospital in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. With an investment of approximately Rs. 200 crore, the project represents a significant milestone in the Group’s expansion plans and its efforts to strengthen healthcare infrastructure in the region.   Park Hospital Marks Groundbreaking of Rs. 200 Crore, 550-Bed Multi-Super-Speciality Hospital in Prayagraj   The hospital is being developed under a public-private partnership (PPP) with the Prayagraj Municipal Corporation. The project is expected to expand access to organised, multi-speciality healthcare for residents of Prayagraj and neighbouring areas. The facility is targeted for completion within two years from the appointed date under the concession agreement.   The groundbreaking marks the next stage of a project for which Park Medi World received the PPP mandate in August 2026. The development forms part of the Group’s broader strategy to expand its hospital network across emerging healthcare markets and strengthen its presence beyond established metropolitan centres.   Park Medi World currently operates a network of 17 hospitals with a combined capacity of approximately 4,290 beds. The Group is working towards expanding its network capacity to approximately 6,660 beds by December 2028 through a combination of new hospital developments, acquisitions and capacity additions at existing facilities.   The Prayagraj project builds on the Group’s growing presence in Uttar Pradesh, where it already operates a 360-bed hospital in Agra and will soon be commissioning two new hospitals in Kanpur and Gorakhpur under the O&M model. Together, these projects are expected to strengthen Park’s healthcare footprint across the state and expand its ability to serve patients across a wider regional catchment.   The Group also has an established presence in Punjab through facilities including Park Hospital Bathinda, Park Hospital Patiala and Park Hospital Mohali. Its wider network spans 15 cities across 6 states in North India, supported by investments in hospital infrastructure, clinical capabilities and patient services.   Commenting on the development, Dr. Ankit Gupta, Managing Director, Park Medi World Limited, said, “The groundbreaking of our Prayagraj hospital marks an important milestone in our expansion journey. As we work towards increasing our network capacity to approximately 6,600 beds by December 2028, our focus remains on strengthening our presence across North India and expanding access to healthcare in emerging markets. Prayagraj is an important addition to our growth plans, reflecting our commitment to developing healthcare infrastructure that responds to the needs of the communities we serve.”   Through its planned investments and capacity additions, Park Medi World aims to strengthen its regional presence and expand access to multi-speciality healthcare across established and emerging markets.   About Park Medi World Limited Park Group is North India’s 2nd largest hospital chain, currently operating 17 hospitals with a combined capacity of ~4,300 beds as on date. Together with this proposed 550-bed PPP facility at Prayagraj, the Group is in the process of integrating 6 additional hospitals and expanding capacity at 3 existing units. These are in various stages of execution and will add ~2,300 beds to our network. With these, Park Group’s total capacity is expected to reach ~6,600 beds, underscoring its commitment to leadership and growth in healthcare delivery. The Group has established a strong presence across 15 key cities including Delhi, Gurgaon, Faridabad, Panipat, Karnal, Sonipat, Ambala, Mohali, Patiala, Bathinda, Behror, Jaipur, Agra, Panchkula and Rudrapur, and is expanding into Zirakpur (Punjab), Kanpur, Gorakhpur, Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh) and Rohtak (Haryana). Built on a commitment to accessible, high-quality healthcare, Park Group offers a comprehensive range of clinical services—spanning super-specialities such as cardiology, neurology, oncology, orthopaedics, gastroenterology, critical care, nephrology, organ transplants, and women & child health. Each facility is equipped with modern medical infrastructure, advanced diagnostics, 24×7 emergency support, and multi-disciplinary teams delivering evidence-based care. Through continuous expansion and strategic investments, Park Group is strengthening its mission to build a dependable, technology-enabled healthcare ecosystem that serves both metropolitan and regional communities across North India.

ASICS, the global Japanese sportswear brand, today announced its partnership with the Freshworks Chennai Marathon (FCM) as its Official Sports Goods Partner. The partnership, alongside the launch of the ASICS Running Club (ARC) in Chennai, marks a deeper investment in the city’s thriving running culture. While FCM connects ASICS with Chennai’s established running community, ARC will foster a consistent, year-round connection with runners through training, experience and shared progress.   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

The Institute of Public Enterprise (IPE), Hyderabad, today announced that PGDM admissions are open for its 2027-29 batch. The announcement was made at an event organized in the IPE Auditorium, where the institute launched its Admissions 2027-29 poster and Information Brochure.   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.

Chitkara University hosted WECON 2026, the 9th World Engineering Conference on Contemporary Artificial Intelligence Technologies, on October 9–10, bringing together distinguished experts from academia, research and industry to deliberate on the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence.   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.

Power cuts continue to disrupt everyday life across many Indian households, interrupting entertainment, live sports, news, learning and family viewing time. While televisions may have advanced significantly in picture quality, screen size and smart features, the basic challenge of uninterrupted viewing during power interruptions has remained largely unaddressed.   NVY Power+ LED TV Recognising this real consumer need, Indian consumer-electronics brand NVY identified a clear market gap: a television solution built specifically for the realities of Indian homes and power conditions. The result is the NVY Power+ LED TV, a first-of-its-kind innovation, conceived and developed in India, for India. The NVY Power+ LED TV represents a significant step forward in indigenous consumer-electronics innovation. It supports the larger spirit of Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat by demonstrating how Indian brands can identify local challenges, invest in in-house R&D and create original technology solutions for domestic consumers. The NVY Power+ LED TV incorporates an in-built battery solution that enables consumers to continue watching television during a power outage. Crucially, the system is designed not only to support the television but also to charge and power the connected Set-Top Box and Wi-Fi modem, helping ensure a truly uninterrupted viewing experience, for up to 3 hours. “Power interruptions should not mean an interruption to family time, entertainment or access to important live content,” said Mr. Ricky Gosain, Chairman & CEO, Reach NVY Pvt. Ltd. “Our R&D team began with a simple question: why should consumers need separate power-backup solutions just to continue watching television? The NVY Power+ LED TV is our answer. It is an indigenous innovation designed around a distinctly Indian consumer need.” NVY’s R&D team developed the Power+ LED TV in-house, combining practical engineering with an understanding of how Indian households consume television. Rather than treating power backup as an external accessory, NVY has integrated it into the product experience itself. The innovation reflects NVY’s commitment to creating technology that goes beyond conventional feature upgrades and delivers tangible everyday value. With its growing television portfolio, the brand continues to focus on reliability, accessibility and relevant innovation for Indian consumers. NVY LED TV has also built strong visibility and credibility through its long-standing association with cricket, having been the official partner of the IPL RCB team for the last eight years. This sustained presence reinforces the brand’s connection with Indian audiences and its growing stature in the consumer electronics market. Aligned with the Prime Minister’s “Vocal for Local” message, NVY’s innovation-led approach reflects the confidence of Indian enterprise in designing and building products for domestic needs. The Power+ LED TV stands as a compelling example of how local insight and local R&D can create meaningful, market-relevant technology solutions. Further strengthening its market presence, NVY has tied up with Reliance for retail and distribution in India, expanding access and visibility for consumers across the country. NVY LED TV is now available across 28 states, underlining the scale of its footprint and its ambition to serve households nationwide. With the launch of the Power+ LED TV, NVY aims to establish a new category in television – one where uninterrupted and seamless viewing is not an added convenience, but a built-in promise. About NVY NVY is an Indian consumer-electronics brand, with a growing portfolio of televisions designed around the evolving needs of Indian consumers. The brand is committed to combining technology, reliability, accessibility and practical value through meaningful, consumer-led innovation.  

CloudThat, a global technology training and consulting company, has earned Great Place To Work® Certification for the second consecutive year. Based entirely on confidential employee feedback, the certification recognizes CloudThat’s learning-driven culture, internal career mobility programs, and commitment to employee development.   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.