AGC Launches AAPI Innovation Hub at IIT Hyderabad to Drive India–Japan Digital Transformation and Talent Collaboration

• AGC Asia Pacific India inaugurates AAPI Innovation Hub at IIT Hyderabad Technology Research Park.
• Collaboration to focus on Digital Transformation (DX), Artificial Intelligence, internships, and joint research initiatives.
• Initiative strengthens India–Japan innovation partnership and global industry–academia collaboration.

AGC Asia Pacific India Pvt. Ltd. (AAPI), a group company of Japan-based AGC Inc., inaugurated its AAPI Innovation Hub at the Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad (IITH) Technology Research Park (TRP) on Thursday, marking a significant step toward strengthening India–Japan collaboration in digital technologies, innovation, and talent development.

The inauguration ceremony, held at the TRP, IIT Hyderabad, was attended by senior representatives from AGC Inc., AGC Asia Pacific India, IIT Hyderabad, researchers, faculty members, and industry leaders. Key dignitaries included Prof. B S Murty, Director, IIT Hyderabad; Mr. Kenichi Takemura, Representative Managing Director, AGC Asia Pacific India Pvt. Ltd.; and Mr. Iwakura, General Manager, Digital & Innovation Management Division, AGC Inc.

The newly established AAPI Innovation Hub aims to promote industry–academia collaboration and support the development of Digital Transformation (DX) talent by creating opportunities for internships, collaborative research, and innovation-driven engagements between AGC and IITH students and researchers.

AGC has identified India as a strategic region for advancing Digital Transformation (DX) due to its strong ecosystem of highly skilled Engineering and digital talent. Through the Innovation Hub, AGC plans to work closely with IITH in areas including Artificial Intelligence (AI), digital technologies, advanced engineering solutions, and practical industry-oriented research initiatives.

The collaboration builds upon the existing relationship between AGC Asia Pacific India and IITH, particularly in internship programs and AI-related joint research initiatives. The establishment of the Innovation Hub is expected to further strengthen long-term strategic collaboration and contribute toward global innovation projects involving AGC teams across Japan, Europe, and other international locations.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof. B S Murty, Director, IITH, said: “The establishment of the AAPI Innovation Hub at IITH reflects the growing importance of global industry–academia partnerships in driving future technologies and innovation. IITH has consistently focused on translational research, digital technologies, and interdisciplinary innovation, and this collaboration with AGC will create meaningful opportunities for our students, researchers, and faculty to work on real-world global challenges as innovations, research & collaborations in addition to academia are inextricable objectives of our Institute whose purpose is to make indelible impact towards the better Society which is underway. We are happy to strengthen this India–Japan partnership through innovation, research, and talent development.”

Mr. Iwakura, GM of Digital & Innovation Management Div. at AGC, shares during the ceremony, “Starting from a single sheet of flat glass, AGC's materials have continually transformed to meet the needs of each era. To continue creating future materials, the wisdom and talent of IIT Hyderabad's professors and students are essential. AAPI Innovation Hub as a place of co-creation: The Hub is described not merely as a physical room, but as a space where the bright minds of IIT Hyderabad and AGC engineers will collaborate daily—sharing ideas and building prototypes together.”

The AAPI Innovation Hub forms part of AGC Group’s broader global Digital Transformation (DX) strategy under its mid-term management vision, AGC plus-2026, which focuses on integrating digital technologies with manufacturing expertise and fostering globally connected innovation ecosystems.

The initiative further reinforces IIT Hyderabad’s growing position as a hub for international R&D partnerships, deep-tech innovation, and industry-driven research collaborations. With its strong ecosystem of Startups, advanced research centers, and interdisciplinary programs, IITH continues to attract global companies seeking collaborative innovation and talent engagement opportunities in India.

About AGC Group:

AGC Inc., headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, is a global leader in glass, chemicals, ceramics, electronics, and advanced high-tech materials. With operations in nearly 30 countries and a workforce of around 56,000 employees worldwide, the AGC Group is recognized for its century-long legacy of technological innovation and advanced manufacturing solutions.

IITH, established in 2008, has reached a respectable position in academics, research, technology development, and Start-ups in a short span of 17+ years. In the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF-2025), IITH is ranked 7th among Engineering institutes (crossing a first-generation IIT this year), and is ranked 6th in Innovation, while it has maintained its rank within the top 10 Engineering Institutes ever since NIRF was launched. IITH is ranked 664th and 270th in the QS World and Asian University Rankings 2026, respectively (among the top 10% of global institutions in citations per faculty). IITH has recorded a major leap in the QS World University Rankings 2026 by Subject, entering the global Top 400 in Engineering & Technology with a rank of 395, marking a sharp improvement from the 501–550 band in 2025. IITH secured 46 positions by 31 faculties in the Stanford /Elsevier Global Top 2% Scientists list 2025 across two categories. IITH has been striving for excellence with a motto of "Inventing & Innovating in Technology for Humanity (IITH)".

With 340+ full-time Faculty, 360+ non-teaching Staff and 5,720+ Students (PG+PhD students accounting for about 60%), IITH has a strong research focus with 5550+ R&D Projects worth of Rs. 1780 Cr (Rs. 245+ Cr funding in 2025-26), 13,580+ Publications, 2,71,100+ Citations, 161 h-index, 745 Patents (250 Patents in 2025, i.e., 0.75 patents per faculty in 2025, making it possibly the best Indian institute in terms of patents filed per faculty in a year), and about 290 Start-ups (that have generated 1100+ jobs with a revenue of Rs. 1500+ Cr).

The thrust areas of research at IITH are: next-generation telecommunications, autonomous navigation, robotics & intelligent systems, semiconductors & devices, additive manufacturing, advanced materials & critical minerals, materials characterisation, catalysis, healthcare, energy, sustainability, climate change, smart mobility, EV technology, quantum technologies, computational engineering, design, AR/VR, waste management, and rural development.

ISRO’s Chandrayaan‑3 Earns Goddard Award in U.S.

India’s Chandrayaan‑3 mission has added another feather to its cap, winning the prestigious Goddard Astronautics Award from the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA). This recognition, announced at the AIAA ASCEND 2026 conference in Washington, D.C., celebrates the mission’s groundbreaking achievement of becoming the first spacecraft to successfully land near the Moon’s south pole — a region long considered treacherous and scientifically invaluable.

The award, named after rocket pioneer Robert H. Goddard, is the highest honor bestowed by AIAA in the field of astronautics. It acknowledges not just technological excellence but also the broader impact of a mission on global space exploration. For India, Chandrayaan‑3’s success was more than a technical triumph; it was a statement of capability, resilience, and ambition.

Congratulations to @isro and Chandrayaan 3 team on winning the prestigious 2026 Goddard Astronautics Award from The American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics @aiaa. Honored to accept the award on behalf of ISRO and to highlight Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi's Space… pic.twitter.com/9wUfPydZnP

— Amb Vinay Mohan Kwatra (@AmbVMKwatra) May 21, 2026

Launched on July 14, 2023, Chandrayaan‑3 carried the Vikram lander and Pragyan rover, which together conducted a suite of experiments on lunar soil composition, surface temperature, and seismic activity. On August 23, 2023, the mission achieved what no other nation had done before: a soft landing near the Moon’s south pole. This region is believed to contain reserves of water ice, a resource that could one day support human habitation and fuel production for deeper space missions. By reaching this scientifically rich but perilous terrain, India not only expanded humanity’s knowledge of the Moon but also demonstrated its ability to execute complex missions at a fraction of the cost of other spacefaring nations.

The award was formally accepted by India’s Ambassador to the United States, Vinay Kwatra, who emphasized the mission’s role in advancing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Space Vision 2047. This long‑term roadmap envisions India as a leader in deep space exploration, human spaceflight, and commercial space innovation. Kwatra highlighted that Chandrayaan‑3’s success has already strengthened India‑U.S. collaboration in space technology and research, opening doors for joint ventures in lunar exploration and beyond.

For the global scientific community, Chandrayaan‑3’s findings are invaluable. The rover’s detection of key chemical elements in the lunar soil provides insights into the Moon’s geology and potential resources. These discoveries could inform future missions aimed at establishing sustainable human presence on the lunar surface. The mission also underscored the importance of cost‑effective engineering, with its budget of around ₹615 crore (roughly $75 million) standing as a model of efficiency in space exploration.

By receiving the Goddard Astronautics Award, Chandrayaan‑3 has secured its place in history as a mission that not only pushed the boundaries of science but also reshaped perceptions of India’s role in the global space race. It is a reminder that innovation, when paired with determination, can achieve milestones once thought impossible.

Comparing Moon Missions

Mission	Country	Key Achievements	Cost/Scale
Apollo Program	USA	Crewed landings (1969–72), lunar samples, proof of human presence	Billions of dollars
Luna Missions	USSR	First soft landing (1966), first lunar rover (1970)	Moderate, pioneering robotic exploration
Chang’e Program	China	Sample return missions, plans for lunar base	High investment, modern robotic exploration
Chandrayaan‑3	India	First soft landing near lunar south pole, soil and seismic studies	₹615 crore (~$75M), cost‑effective engineering

Summary: Apollo proved human capability, Luna and Chang’e advanced robotic exploration, while Chandrayaan‑3 carved a new frontier by reaching the south pole — critical for future settlement and resource use.

Govt Launches JEEVAN & SHATAYU, Tech Tools for Elderly Care and Dignity

The Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment has launched two major digital tools — the JEEVAN app and SHATAYU dashboard — to strengthen elder care in India by improving safety, welfare, and caregiver support for senior citizens.

Key Highlights

• Launch Date: 22 May 2026
• Initiative: Strengthening India’s elder care ecosystem through technology
• Platforms: JEEVAN App (mobile app for senior citizens) & SHATAYU Dashboard (caregiver support)

JEEVAN App – Empowering Senior Citizens

• Purpose: Enhance safety, dignity, healthcare access, and social inclusion
• Features:
  • Information on government schemes & welfare programmes
  • Emergency assistance and support services
  • Details of senior citizen homes supported by the Ministry
• Design: User‑friendly interface with simplified navigation and accessibility features

SHATAYU Dashboard – Supporting Caregivers

• Purpose: Strengthen caregiving services across India
• Features:
  • Information on availability of geriatric caregivers by district and state
  • Simplified functionalities for ease of access and service delivery
• Target Users: Care institutions, NGOs, and families seeking trained caregivers

National Workshop: “Creating a Well‑Functioning Care Economy”

• Event: Virtual programme alongside the launch
• Focus Areas: Technology‑driven care solutions, community participation, policy interventions
• Participants: Central ministries, states, academia, and experts
• Best Practices: Shared by Karnataka and Kerala on elder care models

Why It Matters

• India’s ageing population is growing rapidly, creating urgent demand for structured elder care systems
• These platforms aim to:
  • Provide real‑time support for seniors
  • Build a trained caregiver network
  • Promote inclusive and dignified ageing

Challenges & Next Steps

• Digital literacy among seniors may limit adoption — training and awareness campaigns will be crucial
• Caregiver availability varies across regions; SHATAYU must ensure equitable distribution
• Integration with healthcare services will determine long‑term success

Hinduja Scholarships Fuel MedTech Innovation at King's College London

Hinduja Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the Hinduja Group, has announced scholarships 2026 for Indian origin students to pursue the MSc in MedTech Innovation & Entrepreneurship at King’s College London. In 2024, the Hinduja Foundation UK made a significant philanthropic donation to world renowned King’s College London to establish the Hinduja King’s Health Partners’ Academy. This groundbreaking partnership includes support for full four-year PhD studentships in healthcare technologies at the School of Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Sciences and one year MSc. MedTech Innovation and Entrepreneurship will benefit healthcare communities in both the UK and India. Furthermore, the partnership has brought nurses’ training, observer ships and online leadership training courses provided by Guy’s and St Thomas’ Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust to the P.D. Hinduja Hospital, Mumbai.

Three PhD and two MSc Hinduja scholars started their studies at Kings College London in October 2025 and one PhD scholar joined in February 2026.

Applications are still welcome for four PhDs and five MSc scholarships for the coming 2026- 2027 academic year starting in October. Further details on the Hinduja Foundation UK PhD scholarships and instructions on how to apply can be found here Hinduja Scholars - Surgery CDT. Applications are open until 30 May 2026.

Meanwhile five MSc MedTech Innovation and Entrepreneurship scholarships are available – one at 80% and four at 50% for Indian citizens. Further details are given on this link Hinduja Scholarship for MedTech Innovation C Entrepreneurship MSc | King's College London and applications close on 19 June 2026.

The scholarships will empower Indian students with access to global expertise, real-world healthcare environments, and innovation-led learning, enabling them to address critical clinical needs and contribute to the future of healthcare in India and globally at King’s College London, recognised for its excellence in education and research. It is committed to driving positive and sustainable change through impactful research, outstanding education, and service to society, both in the UK and globally.

Ashok Hinduja, Chairman of Hinduja Foundation said, “Guided by our philosophy of ‘Act Local, Think Global’, we believe investing in future-ready talent is essential to building resilient healthcare systems in India that are aligned with global standards, contributing to the vision of a Viksit Bharat. Through this partnership, we aim to enable Indian students to access global expertise. The focus is on strengthening India’s capabilities in healthcare and expanding the scope of knowledge and research linked to India. Over the long term, the objective is to advance India’s role in the global healthcare landscape.”

About Hinduja Foundation:

Deeply rooted on the philanthropic principles of the Founder of Hinduja Group, Shri Parmanand Deepchand Hinduja, this Foundation is a public charitable trust established first in Mumbai in 1968. In its 50 years of existence, with the guidance of the Hinduja Family and support from Hinduja Group companies, its global presence has led to the development in the fields of Education, Healthcare, Water Stewardship, Sustainable Rural Development, Social Welfare, Arts & Culture and Sports. It also works actively with the Group Companies in delivering an aligned approach to creating Social Impact.

About Hinduja Group:

The Hinduja Group is a 111-year-old transnational conglomerate with over 250,000 employees across 100 countries. Founded in 1914 by Late Shri Parmanand Deepchand Hinduja, the Group has evolved into one of India’s most respected diversified business houses, with a leadership in automotive and mobility, banking and financial services, IT and digital solutions, energy and healthcare. Through its enterprises, the Group has contributed to India’s industrial evolution and economic progress while building strong global partnerships and market presence worldwide. Anchored in robust governance, disciplined risk management and long-term value creation, the Hinduja Group is guided by its enduring credo, “My Dharma is to work so that I can give,” reflecting a legacy that combines global enterprise with nation-building and community commitment.

About King’s College London

King’s College London is amongst the top 35 universities in the world and 5th best in the UK (QS World University Rankings 2026), and one of England’s oldest and most prestigious universities.  With an outstanding reputation for world-class teaching and cutting-edge research, King’s maintained its sixth position for ‘research power’ in the UK (2021 Research Excellence Framework). King's has more than 42,000 students (including more than 12,800 postgraduates) from some 190 countries worldwide, and 8,500 staff.

ideaForge Q6 V2 GEO Wins DGCA Certification for Enterprise UAV Ops

ideaForge Technology Limited, India’s leading UAV technology company, today announced DGCA Type Certification for the Q6 V2 GEO, a multi-purpose enterprise and geospatial UAV designed for advanced surveillance, mapping, inspection, and multi-sensor aerial data acquisition, under the Drone Rules, 2021, in the Small category (2 to 25 kg).

The Q6 V2 GEO addresses the growing demand for reliable aerial surveillance, mapping, surveying, and geospatial data acquisition across enterprise and government operations, spanning infrastructure, mining, utilities, urban planning, forestry, agriculture, environmental monitoring, and disaster response.

Launched at PRAGYA 2025 as part of ideaForge’s geospatial technology initiatives, the platform supports five payload configurations: LiDAR, LiDAR with RGB imaging, high-resolution photogrammetry, 3D oblique imaging, and dual (day & night) payload operations. The platform is suited for applications such as perimeter surveillance and patrolling, terrain modelling, corridor mapping, volumetric analysis, infrastructure inspection, environmental assessment, glacier and avalanche mapping, river basin conservation, rural land digitisation, and high-resolution heritage and terrain documentation across challenging environments.

The Q6 V2 GEO is part of ideaForge's complete enterprise and geospatial stack, operating with the BlueFire Touch ground control system for terrain-adaptive mission planning and multi-UAV coordination, and FLYGHT CLOUD for video data analysis, mission data management, and processing orthomosaics, point clouds, NDVI layers, and 3D terrain models in the cloud. Together, the platform and the stack deliver an end-to-end workflow from flight to certified data output.

Commenting on the milestone, Mr Ankit Mehta, Co-founder & CEO, ideaForge Technology Limited, said: “We are pleased that Q6 V2 GEO has received DGCA Type Certification. The platform has been developed to address the growing need for reliable aerial intelligence, surveillance, mapping, and geospatial data acquisition across enterprise and government applications supporting safety, security, and governance operations. With support for advanced payloads including LiDAR, Q6 V2 GEO is designed to operate in demanding environments while enabling high-quality data capture for a wide range of surveying, mapping, and inspection workflows.”

With up to 45+ minutes of flight time, the Q6 V2 GEO is designed to support demanding survey and mapping operations across varied terrain and operational environments. This certification further expands ideaForge’s portfolio of DGCA-certified UAV platforms deployed across defence, homeland security, civil, and enterprise applications.