NPST and Hyperface Partner to Enable Instant Credit Access via UPI for Banks

Mumbai, [28th February 2025] – NPST, a leading provider of banking and payment solutions in India, and Hyperface, Asia’s first Credit Cards as a Service (CCaaS) platform, have announced a strategic partnership to enable banks and credit issuers to offer embedded credit solutions through UPI, marking a significant milestone in India’s digital financial ecosystem and expanding instant credit access for millions of users.

With India’s growing middle class and increasing discretionary spending, affordable access to credit remains a challenge due to low credit card penetration — just 100 million cards compared to over 400 million UPI users. The NPST-Hyperface alliance bridges this gap, delivering a seamless, digital-first credit experience that enhances purchasing power, fuels consumer spending, and drives financial inclusion at scale.

Banks and credit issuers can leverage their vast infrastructure and rich customer data to offer tailored UPI-based credit products. Eligible consumers will gain access to pre-approved credit lines at the point of sale, empowering them to make purchases and split payments into flexible instalments. Merchants stand to benefit from higher conversion rates, larger basket sizes, and stronger customer loyalty.

Through this partnership, NPST will integrate its UPI switch technology with Hyperface’s advanced Embedding Banking Platform. Hyperface’s Credit Management Engine, built on a sophisticated technology stack, is a completely modular, flexible, and comprehensive solution; it enables banks not only to build, iterate and deploy Credit Line on UPI-ready products rapidly but also re-calibrate in real-time to drive scalability. The combined solution equips banks with digital-first credit solutions with full-spectrum lifecycle support — including customer risk assessment, real-time business insights, and built-in compliance tools — enabling innovative and sustainable credit offerings through UPI.

Commenting on the partnership, Deepak Chand Thakur, Co-Founder and CEO, NPST, stated; “We are proud to partner with Hyperface to democratize access to credit through UPI. As consumer expectations evolve, this collaboration positions banks to meet those needs with agility — driving customer satisfaction, boosting transaction volumes, and creating new revenue streams through interchange fees. Together, we’re not just transforming credit; we’re shaping the future of embedded finance in India.”

“The rapidly evolving UPI ecosystem demands both technological sophistication and extraordinary agility — qualities that legacy systems simply cannot deliver”, said Ramanathan RV, Co-Founder and CEO, Hyperface. “As new use cases emerge and requirements rapidly evolve, we recognized the need to partner with a modern, tech-forward player who could match our pace of innovation. Hyperface’s advanced Credit Management Platform, combined with NPST’s proven expertise in UPI technology, creates a powerful synergy that will enable banks to build, rapidly deploy and scale innovative credit solutions for tailored customer segments. This partnership exemplifies how new-age companies can collaborate to solve complex financial challenges at the speed the market demands.”

Gender Diversity Transformation at Swaraj Tractors: Udaiti Foundation Report

Mohali, 28 February 2025: The Udaiti Foundation has released a study showcasing the remarkable strides made by Mahindra’s Swaraj Division and Swaraj Engines Limited (Swaraj) in fostering gender diversity on shop floors.

The study highlights the efforts of Swaraj in increasing women representation – growing from just 1.5% in 2013 to over 10% in 2024, thereby setting a benchmark for India’s tractor manufacturing sector.  Women employees have lower absenteeism and higher retention rates, contributing to enhanced productivity and operational efficiency, hence making a strong case for their inclusion in the manufacturing sector.

Despite challenges such as limited enrolment in technical trades, cultural resistance, and safety concerns, Swaraj has implemented targeted initiatives to overcome these barriers.

One notable achievement is the integration of women into their foundry facilities, a traditionally male-dominated area requiring physical endurance and technical precision.

Key reasons for this transformation

  • Workplace redesigns have played a pivotal role in making manufacturing roles more inclusive. Ergonomic adjustments, including robotics, raised platforms, and gravity mechanisms, have minimized physical strain while improving efficiency.
  • Collaborations with 15 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs), 5 polytechnics, and Advanced Technical Institutes have helped create a robust talent pipeline.
  • Tailored training programs such as dexterity modules and on-the-job training have equipped women with the skills needed to excel.
  • Safety measures such as GPS-enabled transport, buddy systems, and women security guards ensure a secure and supportive environment.

Swaraj has also actively engaged with communities by conducting parental counseling and organizing shop floor visits, addressing cultural concerns, and encouraging women to explore careers in manufacturing. Pooja Goyal, Founding CEO of The Udaiti Foundation, commended the efforts, saying, “Swaraj’s journey underscores the transformative impact of investing in skills, infrastructure, and community engagement. It offers a replicable model for the manufacturing sector to drive women’s economic empowerment and significantly contribute to India’s growth story.”

Despite these successes, challenges persist. Women remain under-represented in technical education, with only 400 out of 17,000 students in Punjab’s ITIs enrolled in trades like diesel mechanics and machinists. Furthermore, the reliance on contractual roles limits long-term career growth for women in the sector. Addressing these gaps will require sustained efforts and systemic changes.

Swaraj’s achievements demonstrate that prioritizing gender diversity strengthens workforce resilience and drives operational excellence. This progress serves as an inspiration for companies across industries to create equitable workplaces and unlock the potential of women in India’s economic landscape.

Porche Redefining Luxury Dining & Drinks in Gurgaon

 Gurgaon, February 28, 2025: The G Town’s dining and nightlife landscape reached new heights with the launch of Porche, a multi-level luxury destination that blends gastronomy, fresh German beer, mixology, and entertainment under one roof. The brainchild of brothers Sanjay Kumar Singh and Sandu Kumar Singh, Porche offers an unparalleled experience across its three distinct levels: a vibrant, high-energy bar, a refined dining space with a high-energy bar, and an open-air rooftop lounge with panoramic city views.

Porche embodies the essence of its name: a grand entrance or an opulent gathering space that sets the stage for something truly extraordinary. Designed with timeless elegance, the space is a masterpiece of Mediterranean-meets-colonial luxury, featuring exquisitely hand-painted interiors, plush bespoke furnishings, and an ambiance that seamlessly marries grandeur with comfort. Every detail, from the ornate architectural accents to the rich textures and soft ambient lighting, has been meticulously curated to craft an experience that is as indulgent as it is unforgettable.

The three floors at Porche cater to varied moods and experiences: The High-Energy Bar on the second floor is designed for electrifying nightlife, craft cocktails, and live music performances, creating a dynamic space for an unforgettable night out while the elegant dining space the first floor provide a sophisticated setting where patrons can indulge in a world-class menu and a curated selection of drinks offering an upscale dining affair. The Rooftop Sky Lounge is an oasis above the city, offering an intimate escape with artisanal pizzas, pastas, sushi, and handcrafted drinks, all set against Gurgaon’s mesmerising skyline.

 

Sanjay Kumar Singh, Founder of Porche, shared his vision, “Porche isn’t just a restaurant , a bar or a brewery it’s a complete lifestyle destination. Whether you seek high-energy entertainment, a refined dining affair, or an intimate rooftop escape, Porche offers a curated experience for every moment and mood. With our fully integrated German brewery system, we are setting new standards for craft beer in Gurgaon.”

Curated by Chefs with years of luxury culinary experience spanning Oberoi, Taj, and Leela, Porche is a premier multi-cuisine destination redefining global dining. The menu features

succulent grilled lobsters, premium New Zealand lamb chops, and exquisite Mediterranean flavors, alongside the finest Pan-Asian cuisine. It also includes timeless classics like delicate gnocchi and flambéed Crêpe Suzette. Ideal for business-class lunches and corporate gatherings, Porche offers an elevated experience with artisanal sushi, handcrafted dim sum, and rich Thai curries—each dish meticulously crafted to blend sophistication with indulgence.

Porche’s cocktail menu is a masterful blend of craftsmanship and inspiration, drawing from the essence of the Eight Wonders of the World to create a truly unique mixology experience. Curated by a team with experience at ITC and The Oberoi Group of Hotels, each cocktail is a celebration of purity and innovation—crafted with botanical-based ingredients, no synthetics, no sugar, and no syrups. This commitment to natural flavors results in clean, sophisticated drinks that elevate the art of cocktail-making. At Porche, every sip is a journey across cultures, paying homage to iconic global landmarks while delivering an unmatched sensory experience.

The launch of Porche marks the beginning of a new era in Gurgaon’s nightlife and dining scene, bringing together a world-class culinary team, premium beverages, and an extraordinary space that guarantees a distinctive and immersive experience with every visit
Address: Porche, Golf Avenue 42, Golf Course Road, Gurgaon

Housing Sales in 2025: Pune Surpasses Major Cities, Says CREDAI & CRE Matrix

Pune, 24th February 2025 – CREDAI Pune Metro and CRE Matrix have released their much-anticipated Pune Housing Report – February 2025, highlighting Pune’s continued dominance in India’s real estate market. According to the report, Pune has once again emerged as the top city for real estate sales across India in CY2024, maintaining its leading position for the fourth consecutive year since 2021.

The Pune Housing Report – February 2025 was officially unveiled at the Ramkumar Rathi Hall, CREDAI Pune Metro office in Camp by President Ranjit Naiknavare, CRE Matrix CEO Abhishek Gupta, Public Relations Convenor Kapil Gandhi, Management Committee Members Abhishek Bhatewara and Punit Oswal, Data Analyst Rahul Ajmera, and Hiren Parmar. The event was attended by over 100 representatives from the real estate industry.

Key Highlights from the Report:

  1. India’s Real Estate Leader: Pune led the nation with nearly 90,000 housing units sold in CY2024, generating a total sales value of ₹65,000 crores. This marks a significant increase from ₹30,000 crores in 2019, reflecting a remarkable growth of over 116%.
  2. In Pune, real estate has emerged as the most preferred investment avenue, with 51% of individuals choosing property over other asset classes such as equities, gold, or fixed deposits.
  3. Affordability Drives Growth: Pune remains India’s most affordable metro city, attracting industries and migrants alike. With an average home price of ₹73 lakh, Pune remains the most affordable compared to metro cities like Bengaluru (₹1.35 crore) and Hyderabad (₹1.75 crore). Despite not being a capital city or having direct port connectivity, Pune continues to lead in housing sales thus bolstering its appeal as a residential hub. In Pune, homeownership is a common aspiration, with many residents able to purchase their own homes. In contrast, in other metro cities like Mumbai, high property prices often compel people to rent rather than buy.
  4. Rapid Market Growth: Over the past five years, Pune’s residential market has recorded an impressive Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 22% in the total value of unit sales.
  5. Shifting Buyer Preferences: Homes priced below ₹70 lakhs contributed 60% of sales in CY2024—down from 85% in 2020—indicating a shift toward larger and more premium properties.
  6. Surging Luxury Demand: Sales of units priced above ₹1 crore have surged by 5X (5 times) in the last five years, reflecting growing demand for luxury and premium housing.
  7. Affordable Housing: Affordable homes priced below ₹45 lakhs now, contributes 30% of total sales, down from 55% in 2020, signalling a reduced supply in this segment.
  8. Geographic Sales Concentration: Over 75% of housing sales were concentrated in three key regions—Pune North West (around Hinjawadi – Mahalunge), Pune North East (around Kharadi – Wagholi), and Pune North (Pimpri Chinchwad).
  9. Significant Regional Growth: Pune South West (Kothrud-Bavdhan region) witnessed a remarkable 55% increase in the average value of units sold between CY2020 and CY2024.
  10. Value Appreciation: The average value of a home in Pune has risen by 44% over the last five years, fueled by increasing flat sizes and higher input costs.

Mr. Rahul Ajmera delivered a presentation on ‘Real Estate Trends & Analysis,’ while a Senior Inspector provided valuable insights on cybersecurity. During his address, Mr. Ajmera highlighted that new project launches and housing supply in Pune have declined by nearly 25%, primarily due to delays in approvals, challenges in land acquisition, and regulatory constraints. This reduction has not only limited options for homebuyers but has also heightened competition among channel partners.”

Mr. Ranjit Naiknavare, President of CREDAI Pune Metro, stated, “Over the past five years, we have witnessed an impressive 56% surge in sales volumes, solidifying Pune District as the most preferred and highest-selling real estate market in India. Additionally, the total sales value has doubled during this period, significantly boosting government revenues. The average home value now stands at ₹73 lakhs. Most notably, we have  seen a phenomenal 5 times(5X)  growth in homes priced above ₹1 crore, signaling Pune’s evolution into a more affluent city with growing demand for premium apartments. “

Mr. Abhishek Kiran Gupta, CEO of CRE Matrix, stated, “I am thrilled to unveil yet another groundbreaking research report by CRE Matrix in collaboration with CREDAI Pune. It is encouraging to see that units priced between ₹1 crore and ₹2 crore have experienced the highest growth in value, clearly indicating that Pune homebuyers are not only purchasing more homes but also opting for larger, more spacious properties.

The Pune Housing Report presents accurate and reliable information, as all data and statistics are sourced directly from authoritative government bodies, including the Registration and Stamps Department and the Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRERA). “

NIIT Launches 4th Edition of the ‘EdTech Growth Summit’

New Delhi, 28 February 2025: NIIT Ltd., a leading skills & talent development corporation, proudly announces the 4th edition of the ‘EdTech Growth Summit’, which will be held virtually on March 4, 2025. This year’s summit focuses on leveraging AI for sustainable growth, offering EdTech founders’ valuable insights from top investors and industry leaders.

This edition of the summit promises an engaging lineup of keynote speeches, panel discussions, and interactive sessions, designed to foster networking and knowledge-sharing among entrepreneurs, investors, and industry experts. With AI playing an increasingly pivotal role in shaping the future of education, the summit will spotlight innovative strategies and solutions to accelerate growth and impact in the EdTech space.

This year’s summit gets a major boost with Google Cloud coming on board as a Technology Partner, alongside the Microsoft Founders’ Hub. This partnership opens exciting opportunities for startups to scale through advanced cloud-based solutions, providing access to cutting-edge AI tools, expert mentorship, and potential funding avenues to drive innovation and long-term growth.

Rajendra S Pawar, Chairman & Co-founder, NIIT Group, said, “The 4th edition of EdTech Growth Summit is centered on harnessing AI to drive sustainable growth in the EdTech sector. By bringing together industry leaders, investors, and entrepreneurs, the summit aims to inspire innovation and empower emerging founders with the knowledge and tools they need to navigate and excel in this dynamic landscape.”

The virtual summit will once again present high-impact sessions led by prominent EdTech founders and industry leaders, including Rajan Anandan, MD – PeakXV Partners, Ex-MD – Sequoia Capital, Ex-MD – Google across India & South East Asia; Mayank Kumar, Co-Founder – upGrad & Co-Founder – BorderPlus; Chaitanya Kalipatnapu, Co-Founder, Emeritus; alongside the Founders of NIIT and the Vice Chancellor & President of NIIT University, among others.

Select start-ups will also participate in the Founders’ Growthcamp 2025 in the month of April at NIIT University (NU) campus in Neemrana.

Previous editions of the Growthcamp saw participating founders of EdTech startups who received a total of INR 7.8 Crore worth of benefits from Microsoft Founders Hub, NIIT EdTech Growth program’s Technology Partner.

Hybrid Model Businesses More Optimistic About 2025 Growth CEO Study Finds

New Delhi, 28 February 2025: In a challenging economic environment, businesses operating in the hybrid model have reported that they are significantly more optimistic about growth in the year ahead than more traditionally- focused businesses that require their teams to commute daily. They are also recognising that hybrid working allows them to operate with lower business costs, boost employee productivity and attract the best talent – all of which support this optimism.

A study of more than 1000 CEOs and senior business leaders by International Workplace Group (IWG), found that three quarters (75%) of businesses offering hybrid working had a positive outlook for 2025 compared to 58% of non-hybrid companies.

Flexible working has allowed many businesses to cut overheads by reducing office space and taking advantage of short-term workspace solutions. More than three quarters (79%) of flexible businesses reported cost savings and a similar amount (75%) say hybrid working is incredibly helpful in mitigating upcoming economic pressures like rising taxes, increased tariffs and market trends.

The research, conducted by IWG, the world’s leading provider of flexible workspace, with brands including Regus and Spaces, indicates that as business confidence across the world is under increased scrutiny, businesses prioritising flexibility are significantly more optimistic. 63% of hybrid businesses reported feeling more positive about the economy than they did a year ago, compared to just 44% of non-flexible businesses.

Workforce productivity key to brighter outlook

Flexible working models are also driving productivity and talent retention. 72% of flexible businesses report improved productivity in their workforces, and a similar percentage (71%) believe their policies have enhanced their ability to attract and retain top talent.

This is supported by Stanford academic Professor Nicholas Bloom’s recently published study** which found that hybrid working improved job satisfaction and reduced quit rates by one-third (33%), without damaging productivity.

Higher confidence in growth and workforce expansion

Flexible businesses are also more confident in their growth and workforce expansion. Over two-thirds (67%) of hybrid businesses are confident their business will grow in 2025, and nearly a half 48% are confident in expanding their workforce, compared to only 51% and 38% of non-hybrid companies, respectively.

Hybrid leaders cited wide-ranging benefits including increased employee satisfaction (53%), retention (43%), and productivity (46%).

Mark Dixon, CEO of International Workplace Group, commented: “In these challenging times, CEOs and business leaders are contemplating the path ahead. Businesses that are aiming for peak profitability understand that the key to success lies in retaining and attracting the best talent – their greatest intellectual capital. This strategic focus is essential for maintaining a competitive edge in a rapidly evolving world.

“By embracing hybrid working, businesses are reducing costs and enhancing their team’s happiness and productivity. It’s no surprise that businesses adopting this model are the ones looking to the year ahead with optimism.”

Harsh Lambah, Country Manager, India added “The findings of this study reinforce what we have been witnessing in India—businesses that embrace hybrid working are not only more resilient but also significantly more optimistic about their future. By offering greater flexibility, companies can attract top talent, drive productivity, and reduce operational costs, all of which are critical for sustainable growth. At IWG, we are committed to empowering businesses with our expansive network of flexible workspaces across India, enabling them to navigate economic uncertainties while fostering a more agile and efficient work environment.”

RRP Electronics Partners with Deca Technologies on Semiconductor Packaging

Mumbai, February 27, 2025– In a groundbreaking move for India’s semiconductor sector, RRP Electronics, backed by cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar, has forged a strategic alliance with US-based Deca Technologies, Inc. to supercharge its wafer-level packaging capabilities. This partnership marks a significant milestone in India’s journey to becoming a global semiconductor powerhouse.

Under this collaboration, RRP Electronics—renowned for its expertise in assembling and testing semiconductor components—will integrate Deca’s cutting-edge Wafer-Level Chip Scale Packaging (WLCSP) and M-Series™️ Fan-Out Wafer-Level Packaging (FOWLP) technologies into its state-of-the-art processes. This will elevate the company’s ability to deliver high-performance semiconductor solutions to customers worldwide.

Deca Technologies, a leader in advanced semiconductor packaging with backing from industry giants like Qualcomm, Infineon, and ASE Group, sees this alliance as a gateway to India’s booming electronics and semiconductor ecosystem.

A Leap Toward Semiconductor Excellence Electronics is already making waves in the sector, currently collaborating on a prestigious project for a Swiss client, producing sophisticated Application-Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs) in QFN packages. This further cements its reputation for delivering precision and innovation in high-tech electronics.

Rajendra K. Chodankar, Chairman & CEO of RRP Electronics, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating “We are investing in a large-scale Technology Transfer License Agreement (TTLA) with Deca, potentially on exclusive terms, to create a fully automated, world-class infrastructure. This partnership will take semiconductor packaging in India to new heights. We aim to complete our qualification tests by August 2025 and foresee revenue exceeding USD 30 million (about ₹260 crore) in just the second year of operations, with exponential growth in the years to come”

Tim Olson, Founder & CEO of Deca Technologies, added “We are thrilled to be part of India’s ambitious semiconductor growth story. RRP Electronics’ vision, expertise, and determination make them the perfect partner to drive innovation in semiconductor packaging. This collaboration will accelerate their ambitious plans and strengthen India’s position in the global semiconductor value chain”

A Game-Changer for India’s Semiconductor Industry Beyond this partnership, RRP Electronics is spearheading a massive ₹12035 crore, phase 1 Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly Test (OSAT) initiative, and 24000 crore fab set to establish a cutting-edge semiconductor manufacturing and assembly facility in Maharashtra. The Government of Maharashtra is backing this initiative, recognizing its potential to drive economic growth and technological advancement in the region.

In September 2024, RRP Electronics inaugurated a world-class facility equipped with next generation manufacturing technology. This initiative is expected to create around 4,000 jobs, bolstering the local economy and cementing Maharashtra’s status as a global semiconductor hub.

As India accelerates its semiconductor ambitions, RRP Electronics and Deca Technologies are poised to redefine the landscape, bringing cutting-edge packaging solutions, massive job creation, and a new era of technological leadership to the country.

ENGIE Powers India’s Renewable Energy Transition

India, 27th Feb, 2025 : ENGIE, a global leader in low-carbon energy solutions, continues to strengthen India’s energy transition by expanding its renewable energy footprint and investing in community development. As part of its commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), ENGIE yesterday inaugurated a school shed at Shree Kundaliya Pagar Kendra School in Taluka VAV, near its Electro Solaire project at Raghanesda Solar Park (GUVNL-1, 200 MW). Established in 1954, the school provides education up to 10th standard and serves 400 students.

The newly constructed shed offers much-needed protection from extreme temperatures, creating a safer and more comfortable environment for outdoor activities. Identified by ENGIE’s site teams, this initiative reflects the company’s commitment to supporting education, health, and community well-being. The shed was officially inaugurated by Sandeep Jadhav, Head of Operations.

“At ENGIE, our vision extends beyond clean energy. We believe in empowering the communities where we operate by investing in education, health, and sustainable livelihoods. Our renewable energy projects are not just about power generation—they are about creating opportunities and driving meaningful change. Today, 80 percent of our project workforce comes from local communities, and we continue to support initiatives such as skill development programs, clean water access, and education support,” said Amit Jain, CEO & Country Manager India | MD Renewables & Batteries India & South-East Asia

Beyond Key CEO Piyush Goel Named 2025 Chicago Titan 100 for Leadership

New Delhi, 27th February 2025– Beyond Key, a leading global technology solutions provider, proudly announces the recognition of its Founder and CEO, Mr. Piyush Goel, as a distinguished honoree of the 2025 Chicago Titan 100 by Titan CEO. This prestigious accolade honored the top 100 CEOs and C-level executives in Chicago, representing companies that collectively generate over $70 billion in revenue and employ more than 439,000 individuals across diverse industries.

The Titan 100 program, an internationally recognized initiative, celebrates CEOs and visionary executives who exemplify innovation, leadership, and industry impact. The program, led by Jaime Zawmon, President of Titan CEO, acknowledges executives who are driving meaningful change and setting new standards for success. This year’s honorees were celebrated at an exclusive awards ceremony recently at the Aon Grand Ballroom at Navy Pier, where they joined an elite network of transformative leaders.

Piyush Goel, recognized as the 2025 Chicago Titan 100 for the second time in a row, recognizes his exceptional leadership and his instrumental role in Beyond Key’s global growth and innovation in AI, data analytics, and custom software development. Under his stewardship, Beyond Key has consistently been at the forefront of cutting-edge technology solutions, fostering a culture of inclusivity, continuous learning, and forward-thinking innovation.

Reflecting on this achievement, Mr. Piyush Goel, CEO and Founder of Beyond Key, stated: “Being recognized as a Titan 100 honoree is a tremendous honour and a testament to the relentless dedication of the entire Beyond Key team. Our focus has always been on delivering transformative solutions that empower businesses, and this milestone reaffirms our commitment to driving meaningful impact in the technology sector.”

Under Piyush Goel’s leadership, Beyond Key has achieved remarkable milestones, including being recognized as a “Great Place to Work” for six consecutive years, securing a spot among the Top 25 Organizations for Building Culture and Innovation for All, and ranking 35th in India’s Great Mid-Size Workplaces 2024 by Great Place to Work®. Additionally, Beyond Key was named an Inc. 2024 Power Partner Award Winner, reinforcing its industry leadership.

As a 2025 Chicago Titan 100 honoree, Piyush Goel remains dedicated to Beyond Key’s mission of fostering innovation, driving growth, and delivering impactful technology solutions. His continued leadership ensures Beyond Key remains at the forefront of industry advancements, making a lasting difference in the digital landscape.

AI’s Role in Sustainable Development Highlighted at ESIC National Seminar

Hyderabad, February 27, 2025 – The Engineering Staff College of India hosted a landmark National Seminar on the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital technologies across various sectors, emphasizing their crucial role in achieving sustainable development goals.

The seminar underscored that technology is ever-evolving. Its journey began in ancient times with the invention of the wheel for transportation—a breakthrough that enabled humanity to cover vast distances swiftly. From the advent of navigation systems that have allowed us to discover and connect with distant places, to the revolutionary impact of the printing press during the industrial era, and now, the transformative influence of Artificial Intelligence, human ingenuity continues to drive improvements in quality of life. “Today, AI is making significant inroads in sectors such as aerospace, healthcare, finance, retail, manufacturing, transportation, logistics, marketing, cyber security, education, and textiles, thereby fostering innovative development,” stated Professor V. Balakishtha Reddy, Chairman of the Telangana State Higher Education Council.

Professor Reddy further emphasized that the goal of leveraging AI and modern digital technologies to achieve sustainable development is being jointly pursued by the Engineering Staff College of India in Gachibowli, Jayaprakash Narayan College of Engineering, and Avinash Group of Institutions. The seminar, held on Tuesday, 25th February 2025 at the SK Campus Convention Center, was attended by nearly a thousand students from various colleges.

Addressing the assembly, Professor Reddy highlighted the importance of technology for India’s competitive edge in the global arena. He noted that with 65 percent of the population being young, it is crucial for this demographic to embrace and master new technologies. He expressed optimism that India, which currently supplies skilled, semi-skilled, and unskilled workers to nearly every corner of the globe, is well on its way to achieving sustainable development by 2047—provided that the youth continue to refine and apply their intellectual abilities.

Dr. Sandhya Chintal, Vice President of the National Association of Software and Service Companies (NASSCOM), highlighted the continuous evolution of technology. She remarked that while innovations such as the steam engine and electricity have each marked significant technological revolutions, today’s advancements—including augmented reality, robotics, blockchain, 3D printing, quantum computing, cloud computing, and nanotechnology—are fueling a new wave of global innovation that spans sectors from finance to healthcare.

In her address, Dr. Chintal encouraged the youth, whom she referred to as the “Future of India,” to seize the opportunity to contribute to the nation’s progress by leveraging their skills in science and technology.

Dr. G. Rameshwar Rao, Director of the Engineering Staff College of India, assured the audience that the institution remains committed to providing training on emerging technologies. He noted that the college annually trains approximately 7,000 personnel working in various government offices across the country and has already extended training to hundreds of students from 17 colleges under the Prime Minister’s Kaushal Vikas Yojana.

The seminar featured a series of insightful presentations covering a range of topics, including:

The use of AI in preventing, forecasting, and detecting challenges related to earth, air, water, sky, and energy (presented by retired IG Dr. S. Umapati).

AI, digital skilling, and sustainability—bridging the gap for a smarter tomorrow.

The latest advancements and research in AI for sustainable development by Futurelink’s Sri Pramod Chintapenta.

Career opportunities in AI and the role of technology in driving social impact (addressed by Associate Vice Chancellor Dr. Hafiz Bhash).

Perspectives on cyber security risks from Singapore’s Sai Krishna, along with discussions by Kashyap Kompel, Vijay Kumar Makyam, KS Ravi Kumar, Dean Sushil of Avinash College, and an address on Intelligent Traffic Management – the e-Chalaan system by Police Officer Nursing Rao from the Telangana Police Command Control Center.

Speaking at the concluding session, Telangana Planning Board Vice Chairman Dr. G. Chinna Reddy stated that the most talked-about subject in the world today is Artificial Intelligence. He mentioned that a recent international conference on Artificial Intelligence was held in France, where the Prime Minister of India also participated and explained the importance of AI.

He highlighted that the script of the Gondi language spoken by tribals in the Asifabad district was discovered through artificial intelligence, a fact that the Indian Prime Minister recently mentioned in Mann Ki Baat.

Dr. Chinna Reddy also noted that the brain of Einstein, who contributed to the discovery of nuclear energy and the atomic bomb, was preserved in a laboratory. He emphasized that even greater intelligence is now embedded in artificial intelligence.

He encouraged Telangana students, who have been securing top marks in national exams, to conduct further research on AI in the future and contribute new discoveries to the world.

The entire program was successfully organized under the leadership of Sai Kishore, Head of the Faculty Development Cell at the Engineering Staff College of India.