Kancheepuram Varamahalakshmi Silks Opens 68th Showroom in Tumkur, Karnataka
Tumkur, March 19, 2025: Sai Silks Kalamandir Ltd (SSKL), one of India’s leading ethnic wear retailers, has launched its 68th showroom under the Kancheepuram Varamahalakshmi Silks format in Tumkur, Karnataka. The grand inauguration was graced by Sri Sri Siddalinga Mahaswamigalu on March 19.
Kancheepuram Varamahalakshmi Silks is renowned for its premium-quality silk sarees at the lowest prices in the market. With its own exclusive looms and in-house designs, the brand ensures direct sourcing and cost efficiency, offering unmatched value to customers. Its extensive collection features Kancheepuram Silk Sarees, Banarasi, Patola, Kota, Paithani, Organza, Kuppadam, Ikkat, Bandhani, and many more – catering to weddings, festive occasions, and everyday elegance.
Speaking on the occasion, Durgarao Chalavadi, Director, Sai Silks Kalamandir Ltd, said, “We are excited to bring the legacy of Kancheepuram Varamahalakshmi Silks to Tumkur with our 68th showroom. Our commitment is to provide customers with the best Price, premium Quality, and widest Range (PQR) of ethnic sarees at the most competitive prices. With a strong presence in Karnataka, we aim to redefine the saree shopping experience by offering the best of traditional and contemporary weaves at unbeatable prices.”
To strengthen its foothold in Karnataka, SSKL is also investing in a state-of-the-art warehousing facility to support its growing retail network. The brand continues to expand aggressively in South India, which accounts for 50% of saree sales in India, reinforcing its position as a market leader in ethnic wear.
Keysight Introduces AI Network Visibility to Enhance Cybersecurity
March 19, 2025
INDIA – Keysight Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: KEYS) announces the expansion of its Keysight Vision Network Packet Brokers (NPBs), with the introduction of AI Insight Brokers. These enhanced NPBs are designed to improve the performance of AI-driven cybersecurity operations such as threat detection, incident response, and forensics. The AI Insight Broker is purpose built to support and leverage the capabilities of AI software, including Keysight’s newly developed AI Stack.
As cyber threats continue to evolve, organizations need to look for new ways to accelerate threat detection. Enterprise IT and security operations (SecOps) teams can leverage AI and machine learning (ML) to address this issue, improving the ability to monitor and troubleshoot performance issues, avoid cyber threats, and maintain operational scale and compliance.
Keysight’s enhanced NPBs are designed to support this with the ability to run AI security and performance monitoring software along with improved memory and storage. In addition, Keysight’s AI stack can also be integrated, offering anomaly detection, dynamic application signature identification and predictive quality and threat analysis. By applying AI earlier in the performance and security monitoring process, the new solution offers customers enhanced protection, and the ability to troubleshoot any performance issues earlier to avoiding cyber threats and enhance detection.
Key benefits of the enhanced Network Packet Broker include:
- Accelerated analytics: With real-time enrichment of network and cloud data, customers can achieve insights through hyper-scale data lakes while optimizing data volume in tool processing
- Cost Savings: Reduction of cloud service expenses by leveraging AI-driven data analysis and volume reduction, leading to lower computing requirements
- Easy Scalability: Configure the AI Insight Broker with on-demand activation of the Keysight AI Stack and include any combination of alliance partner apps for desired visibility and monitoring capabilities
Recep Ozdag, Vice President and General Manager, Network Visibility Solutions at Keysight said, “Industry-leading security vendors are continuing to rely on AI to accelerate threat detection and response. Our AI Insight Brokers go beyond traditional packet brokers to work hand in hand with this, by processing data at the network edge. This reduces the load on security tools and dramatically speeds analysis. With the ability to now run AI software, we can offer customers an enhanced product that will continue to meet evolving security needs.”
Resources
- Product page: Keysight Vision Series Network Packet Brokers
- Product page: Keysight’s AI Stack Software Suite
- Whitepaper: AI Stack
AASOKA by MBD Group Partners with 4,000 Schools in FY 2025
New Delhi, 19th March 2025 – AASOKA, the cutting-edge blended learning platform by MBD Group, has achieved a significant milestone by partnering with over 4,000 schools in FY 2025. Strengthening its presence in both India and global markets, AASOKA’s reach extends to schools across the country, particularly in tier 2 and tier 3 cities, as well as international institutions in the Middle East, South Africa, and four other regions. This expansion underscores AASOKA’s commitment to making quality education accessible through technology-driven solutions, benefiting K-12 students worldwide.
AASOKA has already benefitted over 9.5 lakh students and 70,000 teachers in more than 438 cities across the country, driving a new era of technology-enabled education. With an emphasis on customized learning, AASOKA equips schools with multidisciplinary content, play-based methodologies, and innovative programs like AASOKA WizKids, which introduces early learners to foundational literacy, numeracy, and computational thinking through interactive storybooks, flashcards, and a screenless, button-based coding robot. For older students, the AI STEAM Lab offers hands-on experience in coding and robotics with advanced kits. Beyond digital content, AASOKA empowers educators with comprehensive training programs to enhance teaching methods and ensure impactful learning outcomes.
Catering primarily to private and international schools, AASOKA’s offerings align with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework (NCF), reinforcing its vision of fostering interactive, engaging, and holistic education. Looking ahead, the platform is set for even greater expansion, with an ambitious goal of partnering with 20,000 schools in the next 2–3 years, further solidifying its presence in both India and international markets.
Ms. Monica Malhotra Kandhari, MD, AASOKA, shared insights on this milestone, stating, “Our collaboration with 4,000 schools reflects our unwavering commitment to transforming education through innovation. By blending technology with research-backed teaching methodologies, we are enabling educators to create engaging learning experiences while ensuring students are prepared for the future. AASOKA has witnessed an impressive 13x growth, a testament to the growing demand for dynamic and accessible learning solutions. This achievement is not just about numbers, it’s about impact, accessibility, and the collective effort to redefine learning in a digital age.”
With MBD Group’s six-decade legacy in education and AASOKA’s forward-thinking approach, this expansion marks another step toward building a more inclusive, technology-enabled education ecosystem that caters to diverse learning needs worldwide.
Day 2 of Bhartendu Natya Utsav 2025 Charms with Socially Relevant Performances
New Delhi, March 19, 2025 – Following a stellar opening with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, a gripping historical drama that captivated audiences with its portrayal of courage and leadership, Bhartendu Natya Utsav 2025, organized by Sahitya Kala Parishad in association with the Government of NCT of Delhi, continued its theatrical brilliance on the second day with two compelling performances.
The afternoon session featured ‘Kanyadaan,’ a powerful social drama penned by renowned playwright Vijay Tendulkar. Directed by Amool Sagar and performed by Black Pearl Arts, the play explores the complexities of caste, idealism, and the harsh realities of social change in India. The narrative revolves around Nath Devalikar, a progressive politician, who encourages his daughter Jyoti to marry Arun Athavale, a Dalit poet, envisioning it as a step toward social transformation. However, the idealistic vision clashes with reality as Jyoti faces domestic challenges, prompting audiences to reflect on the intricacies of societal structures.
In the evening, ‘Rani Nagfani Ki Kahani,’ a satirical masterpiece by Harishankar Parsai, took the stage under the direction of Surendra Sharma, performed by Rang Saptak. This play offered a witty and insightful critique of contemporary socio-political issues, using allegorical characters to mirror facets of modern life. The narrative, rich with humor and sharp commentary, engaged the audience, prompting both laughter and contemplation.
On the third day, the festival will feature Darjeeling Venom at 3:30 PM, a gripping play by Divyanshu Kumar and Kshitij Theater Group, promising an intense and riveting experience. The grand finale at 7:00 PM will present Saiyyan Bhaye Kotwal, a classic comedy directed by Basab Bhattacharya, ensuring a delightful conclusion with humor and lively performances.
The Bhartendu Natya Utsav 2025 continues to be a testament to the rich blend of Indian theatre, offering a platform for diverse stories that resonate with audiences across generations.
Bhartendu Natya Utsav 2025: Plays based on social issues enthralled audiences on the second day
NAR India Pre-Convention Press Conference Kicks Off NARVIGATE 2025
New Delhi, March 19, 2025: The National Association of Realtors India (NAR-INDIA), in collaboration with APP Delhi NCR, successfully hosted a Pre-Convention Press Conference at Chelmsford Club, New Delhi, unveiling key insights on the future of Indian real estate ahead of the highly anticipated NARVIGATE 2025 – the 17th NAR India Annual Convention scheduled for March 21-22 at JW Marriott, Aerocity, New Delhi.
The power-packed congregation brought industry leaders together on a common platform to discuss all such aspects that affect the evolving landscape of real estate, emerging trends in investment, the role of technology in effecting change, and the requisite partnerships shaping the future of real estate in India. The event saw an interesting round of discussions between the top leadership of NAR India and APP Delhi NCR and was moderated by Mr. Sumanth Reddy Arani, Chairman NAR India.
Some key names present were Mr. Tarun Bhatia (Vice Chairman, NAR India), Mr. Amit Chopra (President, NAR India), Mr. Shivakumar C.R. (Immediate Past President, NAR India), Mr. Chandresh Vithalani (President-Elect, NAR India), Mr. Samir Arora (CEO, NAR India), Mr. Vikas Agrawal (Hon. Secretary, NAR India), and Mr. Ashish Mehta (Hon. Treasurer, NAR India). From APP Delhi NCR were Mr. Abhishek Jain (Chairman, APP Delhi NCR), Mr. Gaganpal Singh (President, APP Delhi NCR & Co-Chair, 17th NAR India Annual Convention), and Mr. Mitesh Poddar (President-Elect, APP Delhi NCR & Co-Chair, 17th NAR India Annual Convention).
Conference themes revolved around the major industry foundations for speeches: Evolution of the Indian real estate market with growth in the market, updates on policies and technological developments that impact the sector. Emphasis has been on NAR India with the basics behind the institute, which strengthened industry standards for ethical brokerage practice, the collaborations with global partners, and professional development for realtors.
They explored investment trends and international expansion, the increasing attraction of Indian real estate by global and cross-border investors for transactions. Major discussions also revolved around technology and artificial intelligence in real estate and how PropTech revolutionizes transactions and brokerage services in real estate. And finally dove into the future of brokerage about real estate professionals needing to adjust to a rapidly changing scene.
Many important announcements were made during the press conference, such as strategic partnerships with leading global real estate organizations to make strides in the industry. New initiatives launched to support realtors through professional development programs, ethical practice guidelines, and better networking opportunities were unveiled.
These developments offer sponsorship and partnership updates focused on key stakeholders and developers joining efforts to promote the industry. Further, a roadmap for real estate brokerage was presented to ensure that such growth is ongoing and sustainable with an emphasis on alignment with government policies and housing sector reforms.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Sumanth Reddy Arani, Chairman of NAR India, said, “The real estate sector in India is at a transformative juncture, driven by innovation, policy reforms, and global collaborations. Through strategic partnerships and professional development initiatives, we are committed to shaping a more transparent, efficient, and growth-oriented industry for all stakeholders.”
The press conference successfully laid the foundation for NARVIGATE 2025 on March 21-22 at JW Marriott, Aerocity, New Delhi. As India’s premier real estate convention, NARVIGATE 2025 promises to be a landmark event, bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, and global stakeholders to shape the future of real estate.
Whatfix Empowers US Army with AI-Powered Digital Adoption
Bengaluru, India, March 19, 2025- Whatfix, a global leader among Digital Adoption Platforms (DAPs), today announced its entry into the federal sector through a landmark initiative aimed at empowering the US Army’s PEO-Enterprise software footprint. With the support of Insight Public Sector, Whatfix will play a vital role in the rollout of Integrated Personnel and Pay Record Solutions (IPPS-A). This groundbreaking application integrates personnel and pay functionalities while delivering three essential capabilities: Total Force Visibility, Talent Management, and Auditability.
The collaboration marks a significant step in the digital transformation of the public sector systems, enhancing operational efficiency, and supporting mission-critical functions for the US Army globally. As federal agencies prioritize modernization and digital transformation, Whatfix’s solutions help government organizations enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve mission functionality. By equipping personnel with seamless digital adoption solutions, Whatfix ensures they can fully leverage advanced systems like IPPS-A, maximizing productivity and operational readiness.
It also reinforces Whatfix’s commitment to expanding in the public sector, solidifying its role as a trusted partner in transforming large-scale, mission-critical government systems with cutting-edge digital adoption solutions.
“We are honored to collaborate with the US Army IPPS-A in their pursuit of delivering next-generation digital services to those who serve,” said Khadim Batti, CEO and co-founder of Whatfix. “With the introduction of the new pay module, Whatfix’s Digital Adoption Platform (DAP) will support over 1.1 million active, reserve, and National Guard members worldwide, including 47,000 HR professionals, by transforming a vital HR and payroll system that affects lives daily. This partnership underscores Whatfix’s capability to execute and secure mission-critical implementations in the most complex and high-stakes environments. By enhancing IPPS-A’s accessibility and usability, Whatfix is not only elevating operational efficiency but also reinforcing trust and accuracy in data and payroll management, ensuring the Army’s personnel receive the exceptional support they expect seamlessly and reliably.”
The implementation addresses a key challenge faced by many large-scale IT systems, which is ensuring user proficiency and adoption. For IPPS-A, many support requests stem from users struggling to navigate the system seamlessly, rather than from technical issues with the platform itself. Whatfix’s solution is designed to bridge this gap, providing intuitive, context-sensitive guidance to users in real-time, as they interact with the IPPS-A platform to reduce digital friction, minimize errors, and ultimately enhance the overall efficiency of Army human resource and pay processes.
IPPS-A chose Whatfix’s Digital Adoption Platform to enhance its members’ experience and enable them to use new IPPS-A capabilities effectively. This strategic partnership with Whatfix, the leading pure-play provider of digital adoption solutions, aligns with IPPS-A’s commitment to stay ahead in modernizing its technology and improving member readiness. By leveraging Whatfix’s innovative platform, IPPS-A will make complex technology more user-friendly, streamline processes, and ultimately enhance mission success. IPPS-A is excited to work with Whatfix to achieve these goals.
Whatfix is working with Insight Public Sector, a division of leading solutions integrator Insight Enterprises (NASDAQ:NSIT), which solves technology challenges by combining the right hardware, software, and services. The collaboration unites the proprietary technology, infrastructure, and subject matter expertise necessary to provide the Army’s premier HR system with an integrated training solution.
Whatfix’s contribution extends beyond traditional IT support, leveraging its expertise in digital adoption for Human Capital Management (HCM) software. For the US Army, the company’s platform provides real-time, in-app guidance, automates workflows, and enhances HR process governance, ensuring seamless adoption of the IPPS-A system. With Product Analytics, the Army can capture and analyze HCM end-user behavior and adoption without engineering support, including user actions, attributes, event attributes, and auto-capture to create frictionless user experiences and workflows.
Established as a trusted leader in DAP, Whatfix is recognized across industry reports by Gartner, Forrester, IDC, and Everest Group. It was also the only DAP to be named a Customers’ Choice in the 2024 Gartner® Peer Insights™ Voice of the Customer report and ranked as a leader for the second consecutive year in 2025. Its inclusion in the Deloitte Fast 500 list for four consecutive years as the highest-ranking DAP underscores its rapid growth and sustained impact in the industry.
Whatfix recently raised $125 million in a Series E funding round, strengthening its position as the largest pure-play digital adoption platform. This investment fuels its expansion into complementary DAP offerings and accelerates its mission to transform digital adoption at scale—especially in the public sector.
IIM Sambalpur Opens MBA Applications for Working Professionals 2025-2027
Mumbai, March 19th, 2025: IIM Sambalpur, a premier management institution, has announced the final date for submitting applications for its two-year MBA program for Working Professionals (2025-2027) at the Delhi Campus located at ISID, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi. This MBA program is uniquely designed to cater to working professionals seeking to upgrade their expertise in key management areas such as Data Science, Product Management, Entrepreneurship, Sustainability, and Risk Management. With a blended learning format, the program offers a combination of in-person weekend classes and interactive online sessions, ensuring flexibility for professionals balancing work and studies.
Prof. Mahadeo Jaiswal, Director, IIM Sambalpur informed, “Our weekend-based blended MBA for Working Professionals at the Delhi Campus is aimed at giving entrepreneurs and working professional’s strategic leadership and digital abilities in Data Science, Product Management, Entrepreneurship, Sustainability, and Risk Management while allowing them to continue working. This comprehensive program provides globally accepted certifications from NSE Academy partners such as RIMS, US, in addition to special tracks, an international immersion and a dual degree option from the best global universities. With a blended learning methodology such as flipped classrooms, case discussions, project work, management simulations, and industry-led sessions, this program develops leadership through a CEO Immersion Program and career guidance support, enabling professionals to manage and shape the changing global business environment.”
Program Highlights:
- Designed for working professionals with a minimum of three years of experience.
- Weekend classes at the Delhi Campus to accommodate busy schedules.
- Specializations in emerging fields such as Data Science, Product Management, and Sustainability.
- Global certifications, including Risk Management (RIMS-CRMP) and Business Valuation by Prof. Aswath Damodaran.
- CEO immersion program and networking opportunities with industry leaders.
- An option for international Immersion as well as Dual MBA degree from international universities.
Eligibility Criteria:
- A Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in any discipline with a minimum of 50% marks.
- At least three years of full-time managerial, entrepreneurial, or professional experience.
Somany Ceramics launches six State-of-the-Art Showrooms in Karnataka
Bengaluru 19 Mar 25; Somany Ceramics, a leader in the tiles, sanitaryware and bathware industry, has marked a significant milestone with the launch of six new showrooms across Bengaluru, Tumkur, and Mysuru. Spanning a total area of over 16,000 square feet, this strategic expansion under the ‘Karnataka Rising’ initiative – reinforces the brand’s focus on bringing world-class surfaces and innovative designs closer to homeowners, architects, and interior designers in the region.
Speaking on this landmark expansion, Amit Sahai, CEO, Somany Ceramics, said, “Karnataka remains a key market for us, and this expansion reinforces our commitment to premium surfaces. With six new showrooms launched today and three last month in Bengaluru, Tumkur, and Mysuru, we are strengthening our retail presence in critical regions. These showrooms enhance accessibility while elevating the customer experience, serving as hubs for consumers and architects to explore our diverse range of contemporary and high-performance surfaces.”
With each showroom offering a carefully curated selection of the latest in tiles, bathware, and sanitary solutions, customers can explore a diverse range of premium products that merge cutting-edge technology with artistic craftsmanship. The newly launched showrooms include Somany Atelier, Somany Duragres Lounge, and Somany Exclusive format stores – each designed to provide an immersive experience, showcasing the brand’s extensive portfolio in an inspiring environment.
Located in prime areas such as Hosur Main Road, Hennur Main Road, Bannerghatta, and Tumakuru, each showroom is set to redefine the retail experience in the ceramic industry. The collections on display include Somany’s flagship Coverstone 15, Duragres, Vitro, and newly launched collections like Colorato, Sedimento, Porto, Everstone, Eternastone, and Harmony ranges, featuring advanced surfaces and trendsetting finishes.
ConfirmTkt Renews RCB Partnership for T20 2025
Mumbai, 19th March 2025: ConfirmTkt, India’s leading online train-utility and ticketing platform, has renewed its association with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) as their official Train Ticketing Partner for the T20 season of 2025. This year, ConfirmTkt’s brand logo will be prominently displayed on the sleeve of RCB’s official and training jerseys.
This partnership marks an exciting milestone for both brands, with ConfirmTkt strengthening its association with RCB through engaging fan-driven initiatives. As part of this collaboration, ConfirmTkt will roll out a 360-degree marketing campaign across television, outdoor, and digital platforms, featuring RCB stars Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, and Krunal Pandya. ConfirmTkt is also bringing back its popular and exciting in-app game with a new edition, Ticket to Cricket, for the second year in a row, along with social media contests, giving RCB fans a chance to win match tickets, signed merchandise, and travel vouchers.
Expressing his enthusiasm, Dinesh Kumar Kotha, CEO, ixigo Trains & ConfirmTkt, said, “We look forward to another exciting season with RCB as we continue to simplify travel for cricket fans. This collaboration goes beyond just the game – it’s about bringing the excitement of cricket into every journey. Whether fans are traveling to catch a live match or celebrating victories on the go, we want to be a part of their experience, ensuring they stay connected to the action both on and off the field.”
Rajesh Menon, COO, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, said, “We’re thrilled to renew our partnership with ConfirmTkt. This collaboration will bring the excitement of cricket to every journey, ensuring our fans stay connected to the action and their favourite team.”
Entering its 18th season, the T20 league remains a global spectacle, with the last edition drawing a television viewership of over 54.6 crore. As ConfirmTkt renews this strategic partnership, it is set to keep the cricket fever alive, ensuring fans stay engaged long after the cheers fade.
Gov. Dr. C.V. Ananda Bose Inaugurates AIU East Zone Meet at JIS University
Kolkata, 19th March 2025: The AIU East Zone Vice Chancellors Meet 2024-2025 commenced with JIS University as the host university, bringing together distinguished academic leaders and vice chancellors across Eastern India. The prestigious event was inaugurated by H.E. Dr. C.V. Ananda Bose, Hon’ble Governor of West Bengal, in the esteemed presence of Prof. Vinay Kumar Pathak, President, AIU; Prof. V. N. Rajasekharan Pillai, Vice President, AIU; Dr. Pankaj Mittal, Secretary General, AIU; Prof. Partha Pratim Chakrabarti, Former Director, IIT Kharagpur; Sardar Taranjit Singh, Managing Director, JIS Group; Sardar Simarpreet Singh, Director, JIS Group; and Dr. Bhabes Bhattacharya, Vice Chancellor, JIS University. The two-day conference has convened Vice Chancellors from over 100 universities to deliberate on the evolving landscape of higher education under the theme “Equity, Diversity & Sustainability.”
The inaugural day set the stage for insightful discussions, beginning with the inauguration of Posters on Best Practices, EduTech and a Book Exhibition by the Chief Guest. This was followed by a session on Innovation, Skilling, Ranking and Assessment, which delved into transformative approaches shaping contemporary education. The day also featured thought-provoking technical sessions, including “Incorporating IKS in Curriculum and Pedagogy” and “Catering to Equity and Diversity on Campuses,” addressing the pressing need for holistic and inclusive academic frameworks. Additionally, an engaging session on INIHE & EdTech Companies explored the growing influence of educational technology in redefining learning methodologies.
On this special occasion, it was announced that the Hon’ble Governor of West Bengal has decided to confer the Governor’s Award of Excellence on the Association of Indian Universities (AIU). This award is being presented to AIU in recognition of its outstanding contributions to higher education, academic leadership and institutional excellence. The Governor’s Award of Excellence will be presented at a future event and will include a citation, a trophy symbolising the highest standards of academic achievement and innovation, along with a cash prize of Rs. 2 lakhs. This award reflects our commitment to strengthening higher education and honouring those who play a pivotal role in advancing knowledge, research and academic collaboration.
Building on the momentum of the inaugural day, the second day of the conference will feature crucial deliberations, including the Technical Session on “Creating Green and Sustainable Campuses,” the AIU Business Session, and the much-anticipated Valedictory Session. These discussions will further underscore the importance of sustainable campus development and strategic institutional governance in the future of higher education.
With its dynamic sessions and the presence of distinguished academicians, the AIU East Zone Vice Chancellors Meet 2024-2025 at JIS University continues to serve as an essential platform for garnering academic excellence and institutional growth.
H.E. Dr. C.V. Ananda Bose, Hon’ble Governor of West Bengal, said, “Nelson Mandela once called education ‘the most powerful weapon’ for changing the world. In India, where classrooms shape the nation’s destiny, the challenge isn’t just excellence—it’s relevance. A vice chancellor’s constitutional duty is to push for higher achievement. The new generation is ready. India is strong. Give them the order and they’ll scale the fortress of knowledge. The world runs on knowledge, and Indian universities are producing the talent that fuels it. Yet, education without impact is an exercise in futility. ‘If the student hasn’t learned, the teacher hasn’t taught,’ goes the old adage. India’s youth are thriving in AI and IT, proving their teachers have delivered. Three cheers to the educators shaping India’s ascent. Education is what remains after classroom lessons are forgotten. India’s first education reform report, led by Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, warned that the system was ‘thrice removed from reality.’ Decades later, the disconnect between education and employment remains stark. Enlightenment without economic utility is just theory. India’s latest education policy aims to fix that, shifting from a Eurocentric framework to one rooted in indigenous knowledge. This isn’t about replacing science with superstition—it’s about practical skills over outdated rote learning. The real test is whether education fosters leadership, sharpens decision-making and trains individuals to distinguish perception from reality. Education should equip individuals to discern between perception and reality. India’s education reforms are a step toward bridging this gap.”
Prof. Vinay Kumar Pathak, President, AIU, said, “This conference on Equity, Diversity and Sustainability is vital but India has long upheld these values in its Vedas, Puranas and Upanishads. Rather than importing Western models, we must revive our indigenous approaches. India competes globally in education with NEP, young talent, and ample resources fueling transformation. However, South Asia is progressing rapidly—China contributes 28% of global production, while India lags at 1.5%. Our universities must shift from projects to products and paper-based research to transnational, product-driven innovation—a goal achievable through hard work and strategic innovation.”
Prof. V. N. Rajasekharan Pillai, Vice President, AIU, said, “West Bengal has long been a hub of higher education, from establishing India’s first public university to the rise of private institutions like JIS, the host of this prestigious conference. Education extends beyond knowledge—it enhances life and societal progress. The National Education Policy (NEP) advocates transforming STEM into STEAM by integrating Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences into technical education, shift Indian universities are well-positioned to lead. Vice Chancellors play a pivotal role in driving innovation, unrestrained by regulations that serve as guidelines for progress. Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, the NEP and the upcoming Deregulation Commission will further liberalize and strengthen higher education. With India witnessing a reverse brain drain, universities must capitalize on this by recruiting top talent from premier institutions like IITs and IISERs, fostering a world-class academic ecosystem.”
Speaking on this occasion, Sardar Taranjit Singh, Managing Director, JIS Group, said, “The AIU East Zone Vice Chancellors Meet is more than just a conference; it is a call to action for academic leaders to reimagine higher education. As we navigate the challenges of equity, diversity, and sustainability, our commitment must be to create institutions that empower every learner while developing responsible innovation and global academic collaboration.”