Bengaluru to Host One of India’s Largest Climate-Data Gatherings as Bangalore Climate Data Week 2026 Brings 30+ Events Together

• The inaugural city-wide programme, October 12-16, will focus on how data and AI can address real climate challenges
• Google joining as Anchor Partner

The first edition of Bangalore Climate Data Week (BLR-CDW) 2026 will be a city-wide platform focused on accelerating the implementation of data and AI to help solve real-world climate challenges. The week-long convening will be held from the 12th to the 16th of October 2026 with 30+ partner-led events hosted across Bengaluru. This is an initiative by the Climate Collective Foundation (CCF), convened in association with Google as Anchor Partner and Karnataka Digital Economy Mission (KDEM), Karnataka Innovation and Technology Society (KITS), and Startup Karnataka as State Innovation Partners.

BLR-CDW is expected to bring together over 2,000 attendees, including researchers, climate tech founders, investors, policymakers, corporates, technologists, and practitioners. The programme is organised as a city-wide series of events, with ecosystem organisations hosting their own summits, workshops, working sessions, networking sessions, startup pitches, and climate career fairs. This is an opportunity for organisations working at the intersection of climate, data, and AI to form collaborations.

“India has very strong communities in climate technology and data but they often operate in silos," says Nalin Agarwal, Co-Founder, CCF. He adds, “BLR-CDW as an initiative intends to encourage collaborations between stakeholders across climate and data. Our intent is to create more intersections - from applying AI for industrial decarbonisation and anticipating climate risks efficiently to deploying more solutions at scale and building a strong climate workforce. We want to bring together people from different backgrounds, and we expect the conversations to continue well beyond the Week."

Google’s involvement during the Week will reinforce the AI, data, and climate technology convergence. Google is also the Anchor Partner for the AI for Climate Tech Summit 2026, the flagship event of BLR-CDW, in addition to co-hosting the AI for Resilience Tech Summit 2026 along with CCF.

Jaya Dhindaw, Executive Program Director - Sustainable Cities - WRI India said: "We are at a critical inflection point when it comes to data. On one hand, we have unprecedented volumes of information, on the other, we are navigating a sea of misinformation and fragmented datasets that often obscure rather than guide decision-making. The value of such data is even greater in the contentious space of climate action where credible, transparent evidence can serve as an anchor for building consensus, driving accountability, and guiding investment. At WRI India, we help cut through the noise by turning complex data into actionable analysis and tools. Our hope is to share this knowledge with others, so we can work together to achieve positive ecosystem shifts.”

BLR-CDW 2026 is joined by Climate Change AI, the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), and the U.S.-India Business Council (USIBC) as Strategic Partners. Additionally, the Centre for Study of Science, Technology and Policy (CSTEP), Data.org, Net-zero Energy Transition Association (NETRA), UC Davis Global South Center for Clean Transportation Institute of Transportation, Vasudha Foundation, and WRI India are the Knowledge Partners. MathWorks and Salesforce are also supporting this edition of BLR-CDW as Technology Partners. With different stakeholders coming together, the convening will cover themes across climate risk modelling and decision-support tools, clean technologies in buildings and data centres, circular economy; resilience; and clean mobility.

Speaking about BLR-CDW 2026, Dr Indu K Murthy, Sector Head, Climate, Environment and Sustainability, CSTEP, said: "India's climate risks are hyperlocal—a drought in one district, a flood in another, and a heat wave that hits differently depending on who you are and where you live. Generic global models cannot capture this granularity, which is why building India-specific, decision-ready climate data and intelligence is not optional but foundational to resilience. Robust climate data and intelligence are integral to credible, actionable policy, and the Bangalore Climate Data Week is a timely platform to strengthen that foundation together.”

Programme highlights

• AI for Climate Tech Summit 2026: The Week's flagship event, convening founders, investors, policymakers, scientists, corporates and ecosystem leaders to discuss how AI can help develop climate solutions.
• AI for Resilience Tech Summit: An event, co-hosted by Google and CCF, exploring how AI can support better risk assessment, preparedness, and decision-making across high-risk sectors.
• Industry Net Zero Innovation Summit – AI Edition: A convening on AI and climate innovation for industrial decarbonisation.
• She Wins Climate – South Asia: Startup Showcase 2026: A pitch platform for women-led climate startups, alongside a networking session for women working in data and climate.
• The Climate Table: A conversation among CXOs, investors, philanthropists, and ecosystem leaders on how finance can scale climate solutions.
• Climate Jobs Fair: A curated career fair for students and professionals to connect with climate tech startups for internships, jobs, and career opportunities.

Bangalore Climate Data Week 2026 will take place across Bengaluru from 12 to 16 October 2026. For the full programme and registration details, visit: https://mosambi.org/w/bangalore-climate

IACC Summit Unites 100+ Leaders to Shape India’s AI‑Ready Digital Infrastructure

Over 100 business, policy, and technology leaders gathered in Hyderabad at the Indo-American Chamber of Commerce inaugural Summit to address critical infrastructure needs across Data Centers, AI demand, GCC Expansion, Cyber Resilience, Green energy, and cloud innovation

The Indo-American Chamber of Commerce (IACC) hosted its inaugural Digital Infrastructure Summit 2026 in Hyderabad on Friday, drawing over 100 top business, technology, and policy leaders. The summit set out to chart a roadmap for the robust, secure digital infrastructure to power India’s next wave of AI innovation and digital growth.

Organized by the Andhra Pradesh & Telangana Branch of the IACC, with support from CtrlS Datacenters as the Presenting Partner, the summit brought together key voices across industry, government, and finance to align on a shared vision for India’s digital growth.

In her welcome speech, Dr. Sreedevi Devireddy, Chairperson, IACC Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, said, “India is on the cusp of an unprecedented digital revolution, where next-generation infrastructure will act as the ultimate catalyst for hyper-scale innovation. Looking beyond simple capacity, we are pioneering a sustainable future, scaling world-class data centers, expanding Global Capability Centers (GCCs), fortifying cybersecurity, and deploying secure, AI-ready technologies.

The Indo-American Chamber of Commerce is proud to unite visionary leaders from industry, government, and finance to bridge critical gaps and forge high-impact partnerships. Hyderabad and Telangana are uniquely positioned to power this ecosystem, and this inaugural IACC Digital Infrastructure Summit 2026 marks the launchpad for a sustained, forward-looking movement.” Sreedevi added.

The inaugural session laid a strong strategic foundation for the day’s deliberations on India’s digital infrastructure growth. Mr. Srikanth Badiga, Group Director of Phoenix Group, Chairman of SEZEPC (Ministry of Commerce & Industry, GoI), and Director NEC, IACC, delivered the Theme Address, setting the tone for India’s digital scaling journey. Mr. Chandra Shekhar Sarma G, CISO & Director of Compliance at CtrlS Datacenters delivered the Opening Keynote on infrastructure security, followed by a Special Address from Mr. S. Purnachandra Rao, Former National President of IACC and Managing Director of Global Infovision Pvt. Ltd.

The summit featured distinguished leadership from both government and diplomacy. Ms. Laura Williams, Consul General at the U.S. Consulate General in Hyderabad, addressed the gathering as Guest of Honour, emphasizing bilateral technology and trade collaboration.

Addressing the IACC Summit, Ms. Laura Williams said that Mission 500, COMPACT, TRUST, and Pax Silica are not abstract frameworks — they are direct opportunities for investment, supply-chain partnership, and market access, especially here in Telangana and across South India.

As Ambassador Gor said: Our two countries have always built the strongest relationship from the ground up through entrepreneurs, engineers, and manufacturers who see opportunities in partnership rather than competition.

Chandra Shekhar Sarma G, CISO & Director, Compliance, CtrlS Datacenters, stated, “India’s digital transformation is entering a defining phase, with digital infrastructure evolving from an enabler to the foundation of the digital economy. The convergence of AI, cloud, hyperscale computing, edge and data-intensive applications is reshaping infrastructure needs. The next phase will be defined by speed to capacity, high-density compute, resilient connectivity, reliable power, sustainability and intelligent scalability."

Keynotes & Strategic Panel Highlights

The business sessions kicked off with an insightful keynote on "The Future of India’s AI & Cloud Landscape" by Mr. Anil Nama, CIO of CtrlS Datacenters Ltd., followed by a dynamic session on "The Build & Scale Journey" by Mr. Anil Pinapala, Managing Director of Vivifi India Finance Private Limited.

The summit’s technical agenda centered on two high-impact panel discussions:Building India's AI & Digital Infrastructure Capital: Moderated by Mr. Varma Konala (Co-Founder & CEO, Mahanim India), this panel brought together Mr. Shyam Menon (Co-Founder & General Partner, Bharat Innovation Fund), Mr. Rahul Dhar (President - Global Datacenter Operations, CtrlS Datacenters Ltd.), and Ms. Padmini Gopalakrishnan (VP Software Engineering, Agrani Labs) to discuss ecosystem enablers, venture capital, and local scaling.
Powering the Digital Economy — Resilience, Reliability, Security & Green Transformation: Moderated by Mr. Srini Reddy (EVP - Service Delivery, CtrlS Datacenters Ltd.), expert panelists including Dr. Paravastu Rambabu (Chief Sustainability Officer, Greenko Group), Mr. Krishna Sastry Pendyala (Partner Cybersecurity, EY), and Ms. Annapurna Kuchibhatla (CTO, Bajaj Electronics) explored the intersection of clean power, sustainability, and airtight cyber resilience in hyper-scale data centers.

About the Indo-American Chamber of Commerce (IACC): Established in 1968, the Indo-American Chamber of Commerce (IACC) is the apex bilateral chamber synergizing India–U.S. economic engagement. Founded by Ambassador Chester Bowles alongside prominent industry leaders of the era, the IACC works continuously to deepen economic ties and trade between the two nations. Today, the IACC boasts a pan-India presence with over 1,500 members representing a wide cross-section of Indian and U.S. industries.

India’s Chip Ambition Accelerates: 25 Deals Announced at SEMICON 2026 Day 2

India’s semiconductor ecosystem is rapidly transitioning from policy intent to commercial execution, with SEMICON India 2026 marking a watershed moment: 25 strategic collaborations, global participation from 52 countries, and five semiconductor projects already in commercial production. This positions India as a credible global hub for chip manufacturing, design, and supply chain resilience.

On the occasion, the Union Minister, Ashwini Vaishnaw, unveiled India’s first indigenous System‑on‑Module — IndieSemiC’s ISC VegaSOM — which combines C‑DAC’s Vega‑Thejas32 processor with IndieSemiC’s globally certified LoRa‑RF module.

Developed under C‑DAC’s Industry Support Centre initiative, this breakthrough marks a pivotal step in India’s semiconductor journey. It showcases how Indian design firms, empowered by the DLI program, are not only innovating but successfully delivering market‑ready products. With chips now integrated into final applications, India is steadily transforming into a true product nation.

Key Highlights from SEMICON India 2026

• 25 Strategic Announcements: Covering semiconductor manufacturing, advanced packaging, logistics, chip design, power electronics, and workforce development.
• Global Participation: Over 600 exhibitors (300 international), 12,000+ visitors on Day 1, and delegations from Japan, Singapore, South Korea, Netherlands, Belgium, Sweden, Malaysia, and the U.S.
• Commercial Production: Five semiconductor projects already operational, exporting products globally.
• Policy Push – ISM 2.0: Backed by ₹1,000 crore allocation in Union Budget 2026–27, focusing on equipment manufacturing, advanced nodes (3nm, 2nm), and supply chain fortification.

Major Collaborations Announced

• Tata Electronics: Partnerships with INOX Air Products (high-purity gases), Sumitomo Chemical (wet chemicals), Kelington Engineering (fab readiness), and Enomoto (advanced packaging).
• L&T Semiconductor Technologies: Deals with Virtual Forest (power electronics), Newen Systems (SiC modules), Fimer India (IGBTs), and Tata Electronics (consumer-grade camera modules).
• C-MET & Hindalco: Scaling indigenous raw materials for supply chain resilience.
• India Deep Tech Alliance (IDTA): Reported $263 million investments across 56 deep-tech firms.
• NIELIT Collaborations: With Siemens EDA, Tata Electronics, Singapore Polytechnic, and SEMI University to strengthen chip design education and workforce development.

Strategic Significance

• Supply Chain Localization: India is reducing dependence on imports by localizing gases, chemicals, and packaging.
• Sustainability Focus: Water recycling in fabs and closed-loop cooling in data centres highlight India’s push for resource-efficient infrastructure.
• Global Confidence: ASML and other toolmakers showcased next-gen lithography and wafer inspection solutions tailored for Indian fabs.
• Talent Development: ISM 2.0 aims to train 100,000 semiconductor engineers in five years, with cleanroom centres in Bengaluru, Noida, and Hyderabad.

India’s Semiconductor Opportunity

• Market Growth: India’s semiconductor market projected to reach $100–110 billion by 2030.
• Global Capability Centres: India hosts 7% of GCCs in semiconductors and employs 20% of the global chip design workforce.
• Strategic Goal: By 2029, India aims to design and manufacture chips for 70–75% of domestic applications, moving toward global leadership by 2035.

SEMICON India 2026, underway at Yashobhoomi in New Delhi until September 19, brings together over 600 companies and is projected to draw nearly 50,000 visitors. The event hosts representatives from 52 nations, more than 400 senior executives, and over 150 speakers. Showcasing global collaboration, the exhibition features six Country Pavilions — Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, the Netherlands, Singapore, and Sweden — alongside 12 State booths, a Startup Pavilion, Innovation Showcase, Student Hackathon, and a dedicated Workforce Development Pavilion.

NODWIN Gaming Announces SpaceFest; India's Ist Dedicated Space, Science & Sci-Fi Festival, Backed by Maharashtra Govt.

SpaceFest will bring together global leaders, space startups, policymakers, creators, students and space enthusiasts for one-of-its-kind experience that blends knowledge, innovation, and Science fiction entertainment under one roof

NODWIN Gaming, a global leader in new-age youth entertainment, gaming and esports, announced the launch of SpaceFest during the press conference held at Trident, Mumbai. Backed by the Government of Maharashtra, it will be India’s first large-scale event dedicated to space, science, innovation and space-inspired pop culture, aiming to create a platform that brings knowledge and entertainment together.

The conference was attended by eminent guests including Hon'ble Minister Dr. Uday Samant, Industries, Investment and Services Department, Dr. P Anbalagan, IAS, Principal Secretary (Industries, Investment & Services) at Government of Maharashtra, Shri Deependra Singh Kushwah, IAS, CEO of MIDC Mumbai alongwith Aarti Harbhajanka, Co-Founder and MD, Primus Partners India and Akshat Rathee, Co-founder and Managing Director of NODWIN Gaming, who conceptualised the IP.

Inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for India’s space economy and supported by the Government of Maharashtra, SpaceFest aims to be a flagship platform celebrating space exploration, innovation and discovery, while enabling Maharashtra’s space-tech startups to showcase innovations, forge partnerships and connect with global industry leaders and investors.

Guest of honor, Mr Uday Samant, at the press conference said, "For me, space was always associated with missions like Chandrayaan and the achievements of ISRO and NASA. But SpaceFest has made me realise the immense interest and potential this sector holds, especially among India’s students and youth. I am proud that Maharashtra is taking the lead with this initiative. I propose that Space Fest be held in February, giving us more time to create employment opportunities and strengthen the ecosystem. Our vision is to position Maharashtra not only as a leader in India’s space sector, but as a global space hub. The space economy has the potential to generate lakhs of crores, and we are committed to bringing a significant share of this opportunity to Maharashtra. We will take every step necessary to make this vision a reality.”

Key dignitary Dr. P Anbalagan IAS Principal Secretary (Industries, Investment & Services) at Government of Maharashtra, unveiled the SpaceFest launch video and expressed his support towards the initiative. He mentioned,, "Nearly 25% of India’s aerospace, defence and navigation systems are manufactured in Maharashtra, and the state is also the first to have an independent aerospace policy that includes space technology. With India’s space-tech sector currently valued at around $8.5–9 billion and projected to reach $100 billion by 2040, the opportunity is significant. For any sector to grow, it needs the right ecosystem of stakeholders, agencies, international institutions, R&D and capital. SpaceFest is not just a three-day event; it is the beginning of a larger journey for Maharashtra. It will help nurture new talent and create opportunities for young people who are passionate about the space sector. It is our responsibility to guide them, provide the right exposure and help them build careers in this growing industry.”

Shri Deependra Singh Kushwah, IAS, CEO of MIDC Mumbai, further added, “As a state, we want to position Maharashtra at the centre of India’s growing space ecosystem. We want to build a strong ecosystem where space-tech startups can grow, scale and access unique opportunities. MIDC is also driving this transformation by supporting the sector’s growth. Our focus is on better policies, stronger startup support and a robust innovation ecosystem. This is part of our larger vision, to create an environment where innovation and investment can thrive, and Maharashtra can emerge as a leading hub for the space sector.”

Sharing his excitement about the launch, Akshat Rathee, Co-founder and Managing Director, NODWIN Gaming, expressed, “I truly believe India’s time has come. When I met Dr. P. Anbalagan and shared this idea, it immediately resonated with our shared vision of creating opportunities for young Indians to explore and build careers in the space sector. As the ecosystem grows, we will see more industries join, investments increase, and our young talent gain exposure and opportunities. Ultimately, this is about enabling our young people to shine alongside the nation’s growth. That has been the idea behind this initiative, and I am grateful to everyone here for supporting this mission. I am confident that we will see significant progress in India’s space ecosystem in the years ahead.”

Aarti Harbhajanka, Co-Founder and MD, Primus Partners India said, “I am delighted to be part of this mission. Space is no longer limited to government agencies, it is now a growing ecosystem that includes startups, entrepreneurs, students, AI, robotics, deep tech and much more. This is especially significant for Maharashtra. As a knowledge partner, we are committed to supporting the initiative and helping turn ambitious ideas into action. What excites me most is the possibility that 10–15 years from now, today’s children will look back at this moment and remember it as the beginning of something truly historic.”

The initiative by NODWIN Gaming, with Primus Partners as its Knowledge Partner, will offer immersive experiences, keynote addresses and panel discussions from leading figures in both the Indian and global space ecosystems, major policy announcements, international partnerships and MoU signings, and showcases from pioneering space-tech startups.

The festival will also feature dedicated zones celebrating sci-fi, gaming, and space-inspired entertainment, alongside celebrity appearances, fan engagement experiences, investor interactions, student-focused programs, hands-on workshops, hardware exhibits, aerospace technology demonstrations, and exclusive networking opportunities connecting industry leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs.

For the purpose to encourage students to explore more in this field, a dedicated school outreach programme and college-level innovation challenge will be conducted to lead-up to the main SpaceFest event.

NASA’s recent invitation to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to participate in its ambitious plans for a permanent human presence on the Moon underscores India’s growing stature as a global space power. This, combined with the Government’s progressive policy opening the sector to private participation, creates the perfect backdrop for SpaceFest to bring together the people, ideas and technologies shaping the country’s next chapter in space.

The inaugural edition will be held at Nehru Science Centre, with the Government of Maharashtra also planning to install new permanent exhibits at the venue as part of the initiative. Maha Government is also planning to visit international space-tech events to engage with global industry stakeholders and showcase the state’s space-tech vision and ambitions.

The event dates and guest line-up will be updated on the newly launched official website: https://spacefest.in/

From Bangkok to Delhi: OHM's Sathi Roy Brings AI and Consciousness Dialogue Worldwide

• OHM Founder Sathi Roy brings global AI and Consciousness tour to New Delhi following Bangkok launch with The AI Collective

India has one of the largest populations of AI users and builders in the world. As the technology becomes woven into everyday life, the questions surrounding it are beginning to shift. Less about what AI can do. More about what it is doing to us.

(L-R) Sathi Roy & Nathasha Kumar

In February, New Delhi hosted the India AI Impact Summit, the first of the global AI summits to be held in the Global South. Months later, the conversation has moved well beyond policy rooms and into boardrooms, startup communities and everyday life, where founders, investors and leaders are increasingly asking what rapid advances in artificial intelligence mean for human agency, identity and consciousness.

Against this backdrop, Our Highest Mantra (OHM) brought its global AI and Consciousness speaking tour to New Delhi. Following its opening event in Bangkok, presented in partnership with The AI Collective, OHM convened a private gathering of founders, investors, technologists, creators and operators to explore one of the defining questions of the AI era: how humanity evolves alongside increasingly intelligent machines.

The private gathering featured OHM Founder and CEO Sathi Roy alongside James Pimentel-Pinto, award-winning technologist, UK Regional Director of The AI Collective, Apple's first iPhone developer in Europe, and Chief Product Officer of OHM. Together, they led a discussion exploring how increasingly intelligent technologies are reshaping not only the way we work, but the way we think, relate, make decisions and experience being human.

Having followed Roy's work on AI, consciousness and modern spirituality, conscious entrepreneur Nathasha Kumar, Founder and Managing Partner of Maloka and Founder of NeoYug, invited her to continue the conversation through a filmed discussion for her platform exploring AI, consciousness and spirituality with founders, investors and modern India.

Roy comes to the subject from inside high-growth business rather than from outside it. She spent more than a decade scaling companies, including one that moved from 30 million dollars to 7 billion dollars in valuation, worked within the family office of a billionaire real estate principal, led teams across the United States and Asia, and has mentored over 1,000 people. She built OHM after watching what that pace does to the people sustaining it.

“It was a slow accumulation of evidence,” Roy says. “I watched people achieve the outcomes they were trained to pursue. But instead of arriving at steadiness, they were scattered and dysregulated.”

Roy is currently leading OHM's global AI and Consciousness speaking tour alongside James Pimentel-Pinto in partnership with The AI Collective, bringing conversations on artificial intelligence, consciousness and human agency to founders, investors and technology leaders across major cities worldwide. She believes AI and consciousness is one of the defining questions of the decade, as societies work out what increasingly capable technology means for human identity, agency and experience.

In New Delhi, she pushed back on a common assumption: that intelligence and consciousness are the same thing. AI may turn out to be one of the most powerful tools we have ever built, she said, but it is not the same as being alive.

“Artificial intelligence is becoming part of the operating system of modern life. It can organize information, speed up work, identify patterns and help us solve problems at a scale previously unimaginable,” said Roy. “But intelligence is not the same as consciousness. Consciousness is lived experience: memory, emotion, intuition, meaning, relationships and the ability to be transformed by life itself.”

The more urgent question, she argued, is not whether AI will replace people. It is what kind of people we become as we live with it.

"The deeper risk is not that machines become more capable,” Roy said. “It is that we begin surrendering our own agency without realizing it. We can outsource calculations and repetitive tasks, but we must be careful not to outsource curiosity, discernment and the discomfort of not knowing. Some of humanity’s greatest growth emerges from uncertainty, reflection and direct experience."

AI, in her reading, does not create that condition. It magnifies it.

"Technology amplifies whatever internal state it touches,” she says. If founders are scattered, the tools accelerate the scatter. If they are steady, the same tools extend their clarity. Which is why, she told the room, the next real advantage will not be speed. It will be internal stability.

She also expects the language around this to change as it goes mainstream.

“What will enter the mainstream will not look like spirituality,” Roy says. “It will look like emotional literacy, nervous system regulation and cognitive resilience. The future will call it good design.”

India, she said, sits in an unusual place in this. It has the demographic weight, the engineering talent and the pace. It also has a tradition that has been asking what consciousness actually is for several thousand years, and Roy reads that tradition as a set of internal technologies for regulation and inquiry rather than as belief or heritage.

“India carries a deep inheritance of universal spiritual wisdom,” she says. “Sharing that intelligently may be its most meaningful global contribution.”

Nathasha Kumar, Founder and Managing Partner of Maloka, said: “We need more humans like Sathi. An insider to the AI revolution, moving from dharma, not just bluntly building and optimizing. Consciousness and awareness are the core seeding of these actions, not just an afterthought or a good-to-have.”

The evening was one of a series of conversations Roy is having with founders, investors and researchers around the world about the responsibilities that come with building the next chapter of technology.

Our Highest Mantra (OHM)

Our Highest Mantra (OHM) is a human flourishing ecosystem that integrates frequency-based longevity support, Vedic-inspired spiritual wisdom, AI-guided reflection, and conscious community into a modern membership experience. Through non-invasive, clinically guided frequency protocols, educational content, and a global community, OHM supports greater vitality, awareness, and coherence while exploring the intersection of science, consciousness, and human potential.

The AI Collective

The AI Collective is a global platform that brings together builders, investors, researchers and thinkers to examine how artificial intelligence and new technologies are changing the world and what we must consider as we shape that change.

India Showcases Innovation at Europe’s Biggest Tech Fest

Union Minister Piyush Goyal inaugurated the India Pavilion at VivaTech 2026 in Paris, marking India’s role as the Official AI Partner Country at Europe’s largest technology and innovation event. The pavilion highlights India’s leadership in AI, digital innovation, and startup ecosystems, while strengthening India–France collaboration in technology and sustainable growth.

VivaTech is known for spotlighting cutting‑edge startups, global tech leaders, and breakthrough innovations, so India’s presence there signals both confidence and ambition in expanding its innovation footprint globally.

This move also reinforces India’s strategy of connecting its DeepTech ecosystem with international investors, industry partners, and research networks — much like what we saw at Bharat Innovates 2026. It’s not just about showcasing technology; it’s about building cross‑border partnerships and positioning India as a global hub for innovation.

Union Minister Piyush Goyal Inaugurates India Pavilion at VivaTech 2026

India’s Strategic Presence at VivaTech 2026

• Official Partner Country: India was named France’s Official AI Partner Country at VivaTech 2026, underscoring its global leadership in artificial intelligence and digital innovation.
• Theme – Tech for Humanity: The India Pavilion showcased technology designed to empower citizens, drive inclusion, and solve challenges at scale, reflecting India’s vision of human‑centric innovation.
• Largest National Pavilion: India’s pavilion was among the largest at the event, featuring startups, unicorns, ministries like DPIIT and MeitY, and industry leaders across AI, SpaceTech, HealthTech, ClimateTech, and cybersecurity.

Key Highlights from the Inauguration

• Ministerial Engagements: Piyush Goyal met global leaders, including L’Oréal CEO Nicolas Hieronimus, to explore collaborations in beauty‑tech innovation, skill development, and manufacturing under Make in India.
• India–France Partnership: Alongside French Minister Anne Le Hénanff, Goyal reaffirmed the India–France Year of Innovation 2026, emphasizing cooperation in AI, digital resilience, and sustainable technology.
• Vision of MANAV AI: Goyal introduced India’s concept of “MANAV” — ethical, accountable, inclusive, and trustworthy AI — positioning India as a hub for responsible AI talent and advanced technologies.

Why This Matters

• Global Innovation Hub: India’s participation signals its ambition to be a preferred destination for innovation, manufacturing, and investment.
• Startup Ecosystem Showcase: The pavilion highlighted India’s vibrant startup culture, rapidly expanding digital economy, and deep‑tech advancements.
• Strengthened Bilateral Ties: The India–France partnership in AI and technology is set to create new opportunities for startups, universities, and research institutions.

Looking Ahead

• India’s presence at VivaTech 2026 is more than symbolic — it is a strategic move to attract global investments, promote technology exports, and foster international partnerships.
• With its young talent pool, strong digital infrastructure, and commitment to ethical AI, India is positioning itself as a global leader in innovation for humanity’s benefit.

The inaugural ceremony brought together key voices from the global innovation ecosystem, with inspiring remarks from Shri Piyush Goyal, Hon’ble Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Government of India; Ms Anne Le Hénanff, Digital Minister of France; Professor Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Adviser, Government of India; Mr Nicolas Douchement

Chief Business and Experience Officer, VivaTech; along with the welcome address by Amb. Jawed Ashraf, Chairman, India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO).

India Games Showcase to Debut at Summer Game Fest, Spotlighting 40 Indie Titles on June 8

NODWIN Gaming and Nodding Heads Games today announced the launch of the inaugural India Games Showcase (IGS), a new digital showcase created to bring India's most promising indie games to a global audience. Premiering on June 8, the event will feature 40 curated titles through trailers, reveals, gameplay showcases and announcements, shining a spotlight on the creativity, ambition and diversity emerging from Indian game studios. 

The India Games Showcase is an official partner event of Summer Game Fest, the annual celebration of video games founded by Geoff Keighley that brings together players, developers and publishers from across the world for a weekend of major announcements and game discoveries. The showcase will also be accompanied by a dedicated Steam event, making it easier for players to discover, follow and wishlist participating games.

India's game development community has come a long way over the last decade. Today, developers across the country are creating original experiences that draw from a wide range of genres, artistic influences and storytelling traditions. Yet for many independent studios, reaching audiences beyond their home market remains a significant challenge. India Games Showcase was born from a simple idea: great games deserve to be seen. By creating a dedicated platform within one of gaming's biggest moments, the initiative aims to help Indian developers find new audiences, build global visibility and unlock new opportunities.

The showcase is spearheaded by Nodding Heads Games, the studio behind Raji: An Ancient Epic, a title that marked a turning point for Indian game development on the world stage, becoming the first Indian game to be nominated at The Game Awards in the Best Debut Game category, and winning multiple accolades globally.

NODWIN Gaming Co-founder and Managing Director Akshat Rathee shares–

There is a raw, untapped creative energy in the Indian indie ecosystem right now that is completely unique. We are seeing developers blend world-class mechanics with incredibly rich, localized storytelling that the global gaming community hasn't experienced before. We want to make sure that a brilliant game built in India doesn't just stay a local secret, but gets the global eyeballs, distribution, and recognition it rightfully deserves.

Nodding Heads Games Co-founder and Game Director Avichal Singh shares –

The debut of India Games Showcase proves that Indian indies are making strides as they arrive and make a presence internationally. The rise of quality and genre variety titles in recent years is very promising. Our partnership with the world’s biggest showcase, Summer Game Fest, is another mark of approval for the country. We’re excited for the times ahead.

The showcase is supported by a passionate community of Indian game developers who have volunteered their time and expertise to help build a platform dedicated to advancing the country's indie game ecosystem.

What games can we expect at the showcase?

Ahead of the showcase, India Games Showcase has revealed the first set of the 40 participating titles that will be featured during the June 8 broadcast.

1. Raahi by Kalp: Cruise through the heart of 1990s Goa as an auto-rickshaw driver collecting stories, secrets, and memories from every passenger.
2. Dodo Duckie by BornMonkie: A charming dimension-swapping puzzle adventure where a duck flips between 2D and 3D to rescue kidnapped chicken friends.
3. Loop : Beginning Of Never Ending Journey by Pravin Nikam: A surreal 2.5D adventure where a boy with amnesia journeys through a dreamlike world filled with mystery, puzzles, and unsettling twists.
4. Rakshasa by Odd Compass Studio: Battle through a dark mythological nightmare inspired by Indian folklore, where terrifying demons and brutal combat await at every turn.
5. Silkgrove by Gallic Entertainment: Build, explore, and survive in a beautifully handcrafted world where cozy village life meets mystery and adventure.

Event Details:

Date: 8th June 2026, Monday

Timings: 10 AM PT or 10:30 PM IST

Platforms:

• Youtube
• Twitch

If you are interested in streaming the event, please feel free to fill out our Co-Streamer and Media Sign-up Form.

Binance Marks Bitcoin Pizza Day in Bengaluru with 2,000+ First‑Time Learners in Immersive Blockchain Education Drive

• Interactive learning activation focuses on responsible digital asset literacy amid growing regional interest

Binance, the world’s largest digital asset exchange and leading blockchain ecosystem, marked Bitcoin Pizza Day with an educational activation at Forum Mall, Bengaluru, that drew more than 2000 participants eager to learn about blockchain technology and digital asset fundamentals, with 88% attending their first-ever digital asset education event.

Held on 23-24 May, the initiative transformed a high-footfall shopping destination into an immersive blockchain learning zone aimed at demystifying Web3 through gamified and easy-to-understand activities. The activation featured a Binance engagement booth strategically placed within the mall, where visitors participated in quizzes, educational missions, and onsite mini-games designed to make blockchain and digital asset concepts more accessible to everyday users. Through the initiative, Binance aimed to address the growing knowledge gap as global digital asset adoption accelerates and interest in blockchain technology continues to rise in India.

Education must come before adoption," said SB Seker, Head of APAC at Binance. "In markets across South Asia, we see tremendous curiosity about blockchain, but limited access to reliable, responsible information. We're focused on ensuring communities have the knowledge and resources they need particularly in markets where awareness is growing faster than understanding.

Attendees engaged with a series of interactive experiences including live blockchain quizzes, educational challenges, guided learning missions, and onsite games designed to make Web3 concepts more accessible to everyday users. To mark Bitcoin Pizza Day and raise awareness of one of the most iconic milestones in digital asset history, attendees participated in community activities, received Binance Swags, and enjoyed complimentary pizza treats inspired by the transaction that helped demonstrate Bitcoin’s real-world utility. The activity covered blockchain basics, risk awareness, and scam prevention, with attendees completing the full educational journey in an average of 8 minutes.

SB Seker, Head of APAC at Binance, added, “Bitcoin Pizza Day has become one of crypto’s most celebrated traditions because it captures something essential: innovation happens when someone is willing to try something new, even if it seems impractical at the time. In 2010, Laszlo Hanyecz used Bitcoin to buy pizza because he believed digital currency should have use cases not just sit in a wallet. Today, we are seeing that vision materialize at scale. Stablecoins are processing trillions in monthly volume and users globally are discovering crypto’s practical applications from everyday transactions to wealth creation and preservation. Bitcoin Pizza Day celebrates the moment crypto moved from theory to practice, and reminds us that the real work is making that utility accessible to everyone.”

Binance continues to advance blockchain literacy and responsible digital asset adoption across South Asia through Binance Academy, which offers accessible educational resources on blockchain technology, Web3, digital assets, and online safety. Complementing these efforts are localized content, media and community engagement initiatives including Binance Blockchain Yatra, the Binance Case Challenge and Binance Square that help build awareness and make Web3 education more accessible for emerging digital-first audiences across India and the broader region.

India Takes Charge of Nuclear Tech Cooperation in Asia-Pacific

India has formally assumed the Chairmanship of the Regional Cooperative Agreement (RCA) for 2026, marking a major milestone in its leadership on peaceful nuclear cooperation across Asia-Pacific. The announcement was made during the 48th Meeting of National Representatives (NRM) held in Navi Mumbai from May 19–22, 2026.

What is the RCA?

• Regional Cooperative Agreement (RCA): Established in 1972 under the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
• Membership: 22 Asia-Pacific nations.
• Purpose: Promote cooperative research, training, and development in the peaceful applications of nuclear science and technology.

India’s Role in 2026

• Chairmanship: India assumed the RCA Chair for 2026 during the 48th NRM in Navi Mumbai.
• Host: Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), Government of India.
• Delegates: 29 representatives from 17 Asia-Pacific nations, plus 3 delegates from AFRA.
• Themes Highlighted:
  • Healthcare: Nuclear medicine, cancer care, radiotherapy.
  • Agriculture & Food Security: Mutation breeding, food preservation.
  • Water Management: Nuclear desalination, purification technologies.
  • Environmental Sustainability: Radiation technologies for waste management and isotope hydrology.

Key Significance

• Scientific Diplomacy: Reinforces India’s positioning as a technology-driven partner for the Global South.
• Track Record: India has decades of experience in peaceful nuclear applications, from healthcare to industrial development.
• Strategic Outreach: Strengthens India’s regional ties in Asia-Pacific and builds bridges with Africa through AFRA participation.

Event Details

• 48th NRM Dates: May 19–22, 2026.
• Location: Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra.
• Special Activities: Technical exhibition and guided tours at ACTREC, showcasing India’s nuclear-enabled healthcare innovations.

Quick Comparison: RCA Focus Areas

Sector	India’s Contributions	Regional Impact
Healthcare	Nuclear medicine, radiotherapy	Improved cancer care capacity
Agriculture	Mutation breeding, food preservation	Food security & sustainability
Water Management	Nuclear desalination, purification	Safe drinking water access
Environment	Radiation for waste & hydrology	Cleaner cities, better monitoring

Enlit Africa 2026 Puts Nuclear Delivery at the Centre of Energy Transition

• Enlit Africa 2026 to spotlight Africa’s nuclear execution pathway, from Koeberg life extension to new build readiness
• As countries and utilities balance energy security, affordability and decarbonisation goals, nuclear is increasingly being evaluated through the lens of implementation: life extension, supply chain capability, regulatory readiness, skills and grid integration

Enlit Africa has announced dedicated nuclear-focused content within its 2026 conference programme, positioning nuclear not as a theoretical debate but as an execution topic centred on addressing delivery constraints, readiness and real-world decision-making. The event takes place on 19–21 May 2026 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre in Cape Town, South Africa.

As countries and utilities balance energy security, affordability and decarbonisation goals, nuclear is increasingly being evaluated through the lens of implementation: life extension, supply chain capability, regulatory readiness, skills and grid integration. Enlit Africa’s nuclear programme coverage is designed to bring together utilities, regulators, policymakers, technology providers and financing stakeholders to engage on these practical enablers.

Nuclear programme coverage will include:

• Koeberg life extension as an execution case study: lessons on planning, delivery and operational readiness for life extension programmes
• New build readiness and procurement realities: a focus on the governance, sequencing and decision frameworks required to move from intention to delivery
• Grid integration and system planning: discussions on how nuclear fits within wider system reliability, transmission planning and long-term capacity strategies
• Supply chain, localisation and skills: what it takes to build durable delivery capability beyond individual projects

“The conversation is shifting from whether nuclear is part of the mix to what it would take to deliver it responsibly and successfully,” said Claire Volkwyn, Head of Content, Power, Energy and Water, VUKA Group. “We are structuring this content around execution: readiness, regulation, supply chain, skills and system integration.”

Enlit Africa, created by VUKA Group, forms part of a broader delivery-focused agenda spanning power and water infrastructure. The full programme is available online.

Download the full programme: https://apo-opa.co/4tTRDYB

Register: https://apo-opa.co/4nggi77
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of VUKA Group.

About Enlit Africa:

Enlit Africa convenes stakeholders across the power sector value chain to address the commercial and operational realities of delivery, bringing together leaders across finance, utilities, government, industry and technology to accelerate bankable investment, system readiness and measurable outcomes. https://apo-opa.co/4de7o5q

About VUKA Group:

VUKA Group connects people and organisations across Africa’s energy, mining, mobility, green economy, and retail sectors through events, content, and strategic networking. Venture partners to The Global Trust Project and leaders of NPO Go Green Africa. www.WeAreVUKA.com

SOURCE
VUKA Group

India Hosts First ISO Space Systems Plenary, Driving Global Standards for Sustainable Space Economy

The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe), in collaboration with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), hosted the 36th Plenary of ISO TC 20/SC 14 on Space Systems and Operations, along with associated Working Group meetings, for the first time. The international event is being held from May 4 to May 8, 2026, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, with BIS serving as the National Standards Body and official host.

The plenary saw participation from over 200 delegates across 33 member nations in a hybrid format, including around 55 delegates from 10 countries attending in person. Over the five days, specialised working groups will deliberate on key areas driving a sustainable and commercially viable space economy, including orbital debris (WG 7), space environment (WG 4), downstream space services (WG 8), and design engineering (WG 1).

In conjunction with the plenary, IN-SPACe and BIS will organise the International Workshop on Space Systems Standardisation on May 7, 2026, featuring four panel discussions covering the complete lifecycle of space systems, including topics such as engineering, production and validation from concept to launch; programme management, quality and materials for ensuring reliability; challenges and standards in space operations and environmental management; and the need for safe orbits alongside sustainable space services to address emerging challenges.

Dr. Pawan Goenka, Chairman, IN-SPACe, in his inaugural address, said, “The Indian space sector is undergoing a paradigm shift from a state-operated model to a private sector-driven space economy. Hosting this plenary in India at this juncture has provided a valuable opportunity for the Indian space industry to contribute to global standard formation. Adopting and aligning with these standards will enable the development of globally competitive and interoperable space systems.”

He also thanked BIS and the Department of Consumer Affairs for hosting the plenary and expressed confidence in the sub-committee’s progress towards advancing the standards under development.

Rajeev Jyoti, Director (Technical), IN-SPACe, and Chairman of the BIS TED 14 Committee, welcomed delegates during the inaugural session and encouraged active participation, knowledge sharing, and collaboration across the working group meetings.

He highlighted that IN-SPACe, in coordination with BIS, represents India in ISO plenary and working group discussions, contributing to the adoption and localisation of global standards as Indian Standards. He also urged stakeholders to actively engage in the workshop and share inputs to strengthen the evolving framework for space systems standardisation.

Findability Sciences to Host Innovision ’26, Enterprise AI Summit in Boston

• The flagship Enterprise AI Summit makes its U.S. debut, convening global business leaders to confront the widening gap between AI ambition and real-world business impact.

Findability Sciences today announced Innovision ’26, its flagship Enterprise AI Summit and Global AI Awards, to be held on April 30, 2026, in Boston, Massachusetts. This marks the event’s first-ever U.S. edition. An invitation-only gathering, Innovision ’26 will bring together senior enterprise leaders from across North America, Europe, and Asia for a curated day of leadership conversations, applied AI strategy, and peer recognition centered on one urgent question: how do you actually make AI work inside a complex, real-world enterprise?

THE PROBLEM THIS SUMMIT IS BUILT TO SOLVE

Most enterprise leaders today no longer need to be convinced that AI matters. The debate has moved. The challenge now is execution: how to operationalize AI at scale, industrialize it across functions, and translate it into measurable business outcomes rather than impressive pilot programs that never graduate to production.

That is the gap Innovision ’26 is designed to close. Not the awareness gap. Not the technology gap. The execution gap, which is where most enterprise AI investments stall, and where the difference between leaders and laggards is being decided right now.

“Businesses today are not navigating ordinary change. They are dealing with disruption that is structural, continuous, and unforgiving. The real divide is no longer between those who know AI matters and those who don’t. It is between those who talk about AI and those who have made it part of how they think, decide, operate, and lead. Innovision ’26 is built for the people who understand that urgency and are ready to do something about it.”
— Anand Mahurkar, Founder and CEO, Findability Sciences

WHAT ATTENDEES CAN EXPECT

Innovision ’26 opens with two keynote sessions that set the strategic and creative frame for the day. Matthias Funke of IBM Corporate Strategy will present IBM’s perspective on why enterprise AI initiatives stall and what it takes to move from experimentation to industrialization. Seth Goldenberg, founder of Curiosity & Co., will explore how design thinking and radical curiosity equip organizations with the leadership mindset needed to close the execution gap. Together, the sessions make the case that sustainable AI advantage requires not just the right technology, but the right culture, the right talent posture, and relentless execution discipline.

The summit will also feature practitioner-led sessions, peer networking, and the Global AI Awards, recognizing organizations and leaders who have moved beyond promise to demonstrated, measurable impact.

“Leaders are no longer asking whether AI matters. They are asking how to make it work inside the real complexity of their business, across legacy systems, competing priorities, and organizational inertia. Innovision ’26 is a practical, strategic forum for that exact challenge: moving from intent to impact, and from enthusiasm to repeatable, scalable outcomes.”
— Balaji Krishnamoorthy, Executive Vice President, Findability Sciences

CO-SPONSORS

Innovision ’26 is co-sponsored by IBM Research, Pantaleon, SB Telecom America, Relevance Labs, Stomata Labs, and Worcester Polytechnic Institute, bringing together a cross-industry ecosystem united around the future of enterprise AI.

ABOUT FINDABILITY SCIENCES

Findability Sciences is a global enterprise AI company that helps organizations transform data into predictions, insights, and intelligent workflows that drive measurable business outcomes. Recognized by Fortune as one of America’s Most Innovative Companies in both 2023 and 2024, and ranked among the Inc. 5000 fastest-growing companies, Findability Sciences brings deep expertise in enterprise AI, forecasting, agentic workflows, and industry-specific transformation. The company works with organizations across manufacturing, financial services, retail, telecom, and government to operationalize AI with speed, accountability, and demonstrable ROI.

Website: findability.ai

Telangana IT Minister Inaugurates Elan & nVision 2026, South India’s Largest Techno-Cultural Fest at IIT Hyderabad

Highlights

• Festival kickoff: Elan & nVision 2026 at IIT Hyderabad marks the 17th edition of South India’s largest student-run techno-cultural festival.
• Scale: Over 30,000 students participate across three days of technology competitions, innovation showcases, and cultural performances.
• Headliners & summit: Shri Mohit Chauhan performs; debut of nVisionX’26 Tech Summit focused on Sustainability and Green Energy.

Elan & nVision 2026, the 17th edition of IIT Hyderabad’s flagship techno-cultural festival and South India’s largest student-run fest, was inaugurated today in the Institute by the Hon’ble Minister for Information Technology, Government of Telangana, Sri D. Sridhar Babu. The three-day festival, being held from January 9 to 11, 2026 brings together over 30,000 Students, Innovators, Artists, and Young Entrepreneurs from across the country, featuring high-impact technology competitions, innovation showcases, cultural performances and thought-provoking dialogues that reflect IIT Hyderabad’s vibrant student ecosystem.

Addressing the gathering, the Hon’ble Minister Sri D. Sridhar Babu said:

“______________________________”

A Celebration of Technology, Culture and Youthful Innovation, guided by this year’s powerful theme, “The Last Ronin,” Elan & nVision 2026 symbolises resilience, independence and the relentless pursuit of excellence—values that resonate deeply with India’s next generation of innovators and leaders. The theme reflects the spirit of standing strong, forging new paths, and blending creativity with purpose.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof. B S Murty, Director, IIT Hyderabad, said: “Elan & nVision embodies the spirit of IIT Hyderabad—where technology, creativity and culture come together to shape responsible innovators. The festival provides a platform for students to think beyond classrooms, collaborate across disciplines, and transform ideas into impactful solutions, aligned with our ethos of Inventing and Innovating in Technology for Humanity. This event happening subsequent to Innovation Day, first-ever Inter-IIT UG Innovation Meet (RISE 2026) conducted in our Institute very recently”

 

The inauguration ceremony featured a vibrant cultural programme, including a Kuchipudi dance performance by Nrityangana, Guinness World Records holders, celebrating India’s rich cultural heritage alongside contemporary student creativity.

High-Energy Competitions and Star Performances: Elan & nVision 2026 features an extensive lineup of technical competitions and innovation challenges:

• Tech competitions: Robotics contests, Hackathons, Enigma CTF, Design challenges.
• Hands-on workshops: Electric Vehicles, Generative AI, Robotics, and Cybersecurity.
• Outcomes: Engage with emerging technologies and real-world problem-solving for students from IITs and other institutions.

The cultural segment includes competitions in Dance, Music, Drama, Fine Arts and Literature, along with immersive performances by IIT Hyderabad’s student clubs and visiting college teams.

Adding star power to the celebrations, renowned Bollywood playback singer Shri Mohit Chauhan will headline the festival’s musical evenings, along with performances by Mr. Pranav Sharma, Mr. Anuj Rehan, Ms DJ Tasha, Ms. Shreya Baruah, The Deccan Project and Rapper Shivam, offering a dynamic mix of Bollywood, Indie, Electronic and Hip-Hop music.

nVisionX’26: A new tech summit on sustainability

A major highlight this year is the launch of nVisionX’26, a first-of-its-kind technology summit under Elan & nVision, scheduled for January 10, 2026. Focused on “Sustainability and Green Energy,” the summit brings together experts, innovators and young technologists to discuss solutions for Climate Change, Clean Energy and Sustainable Development—reinforcing IIT Hyderabad’s leadership in socially relevant innovation.

With thousands of participants, cutting-edge competitions, cultural showcases and knowledge-driven dialogues, Elan & nVision 2026 once again positions IIT Hyderabad as a national hub where technology meets creativity, and ideas evolve into impact.

About Elan & nVision

Elan & nVision is the annual techno-cultural festival of IIT Hyderabad, now in its 17th edition, and is widely recognised as South India’s largest student-run festival. The fest uniquely integrates technology (nVision) and culture (Elan), offering platforms across Engineering, Innovation, Arts and Performance. Over the years, it has grown into a landmark event in the Indian collegiate calendar.

For updates, follow Elan & nVision on Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Facebook.

For more details, visit: https://elan.org.in/

About IIT Hyderabad:

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 secured 46 positions by 31 faculties in the Global Top 2% Scientists World list 2025 released by Stanford University (SU) in collaboration with Elsevier 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 5,700+ Students (PG+PhD Students accounting for about 60%), IITH has a strong research focus with 5260+ R&D Projects worth of Rs. 1650+ Cr (Rs. 335+ Cr funding in 2024-25, i.e. Rs. 1+ Cr per Faculty, one of the largest per capita funding among IITs), 12,890+ Publications, 2,48,580+ Citations, 154 h-index, 710+ Patents (249 Patents in 2025, making it 0.74 patents per faculty), and about 335+ Start-ups (that have generated 1100+ jobs with a revenue of Rs. 1500+ Cr). 

India to Host Global AI Research Symposium in February 2026

India will host the Research Symposium on AI and Its Impact on 18 February 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, as a flagship prelude to the India-AI Impact Summit 2026 (scheduled for 19–20 February).

• Global Participation: Researchers and practitioners from India, the Global South, and beyond will convene to present frontier work on AI’s societal and economic impact.
• Plenary Sessions: High-level dialogues featuring eminent Indian and international researchers.
• International Research Showcase: Short talks by globally recognized AI scholars.
• Global South Showcase: Poster presentations spotlighting innovative research from developing regions, especially by students and collaborative groups.
• Submission Call: Researchers whose papers appeared at top AI conferences in 2024 or 2025 are invited to submit poster proposals by 31 October 2025. Final posters are due 5 January 2026. Details: impact.indiaai.gov.in/research-symposium

Strategic Vision

The symposium aims to bridge research, policy, and practice—advancing India’s vision of AI for All, AI for Good, and AI for the World. It will help shape a collaborative roadmap for responsible, inclusive, and impactful AI development.

What is Global AI Research Symposium

The Global AI Research Symposium, officially titled the Research Symposium on AI and Its Impact, is a high-profile, interdisciplinary event hosted by the Government of India on 18 February 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. It serves as the flagship research prelude to the India-AI Impact Summit 2026 (19–20 February).

Purpose

To convene leading researchers, especially from India and the Global South, to:

• Present frontier work on AI’s societal and economic impact
• Exchange methods, evidence, and ideas
• Forge collaborations between research, policy, and practic

HCLTech Strengthens Industry-Academia Collaboration through Campus Connect at GL Bajaj Institute of Technology and Management

HCLTech, a leading global technology company, held its flagship Campus Connect event, HCLTech Talks at GL Bajaj Institute of Technology and Management in Greater Noida. Over 600 engineering students attended a session on the future of software engineering, exploring new trends and career paths.

The initiative reflects HCLTech’s commitment to fostering innovation and talent in academic settings. Since its launch in January 2025, the HCLTech Talks – Campus Connect Program has reached over 7,000 students across India, engaging them through a dynamic blend of virtual and on-campus sessions. Monthly virtual Tech Talks have connected with more than 1,500 engineering colleges, while live, in-person events have enabled over 3,000 students to interact directly with industry leaders on technology and career topics.

The session at GL Bajaj Institute of Technology and Management was led by Dr. Himanshu Tagra, SDU Head, ERS at HCLTech, who discussed the impact of generative AI (GenAI) on software development.

“Today’s students are not just preparing for the future—they’re actively shaping it. I see a generation deeply curious about emerging technologies like Generative AI and eager to understand their real-world impact. As GenAI continues to transform industries such as retail and healthcare, it’s essential for aspiring engineers to stay agile and evolve alongside these advancements. Success in this dynamic landscape will be anchored in strong technical foundations, self-driven learning, and an openness to continuous change,” said Himanshu Tagra.

"The HCLTech Talks session provided our students with valuable insights into the future of software engineering and the evolving role of GenAI in development. It was heartening to see our students engage so actively, asking thoughtful questions and drawing connections between academic concepts and industry applications. We are grateful to HCLTech for facilitating this dialogue and look forward to more such impactful sessions that inspire and empower our learners," said Prof. Manju Khatri, Director Training and Placement at GL Bajaj Institute of Technology & Management.

HCLTech offers programs such as HCLTech Talks, which aim to provide young individuals with skills, industry knowledge and collaborative learning opportunities relevant to the digital economy.

NABARD Brings GI-Tagged Handloom Treasures to Mumbai for National Handloom Day

On the occasion of National Handloom Day 2025, NABARD will host a two-day Exhibition-cum-Sale on 7th and 8th August 2025 at its Head Office premises in Bandra-Kurla Complex, Mumbai.

The event will feature 15 curated stalls, showcasing India’s diverse handloom traditions and providing artisans a direct platform to display and sell their exquisite creations to the public. This initiative celebrates the craftsmanship of NABARD-supported weavers while offering visitors a vibrant glimpse into the country’s rich weaving heritage.

A wide range of traditional products from across India, including Kutch embroidery & Tangaliya from Gujarat; Banarasi Sarees, Mirzapur Carpets & Durries, Muzzaffarnagar Feather Handloom & Baghpat handloom from Uttar Pradesh; Ambala Handlooms from Haryana; Batik Print & Maheswar Sarees from Madhya Pradesh; Jodhpur Bandej from Rajasthan; Pochampally Ikkat from Telangana; Paithani Sarees from Maharashtra; Mulberry and Tassar Silk from Bihar; Jamdani & Kantha Sarees from West Bengal, among others will be available for sale.

Visitors can purchase GI-tagged handloom products directly from artisan groups, ensuring authenticity and fair value.

As part of its annual tradition, NABARD celebrates National Handloom Day across all its Regional Offices and Head Office (Mumbai), reinforcing its dedication to empowering weavers and preserving India’s handloom legacy.

Observed annually on 7th August, National Handloom Day commemorates the launch of the Swadeshi Movement in 1905, celebrating the spirit of self-reliance and honouring the invaluable contributions of India’s weavers to the nation’s cultural fabric.

Quantum India Bengaluru 2025: Karnataka Launches Visionary Quantum Roadmap in Presence of Top Ministers and Global Experts

• India’s First Global Quantum Event Inaugurated in Bengaluru
• Nobel Laureates honoured at inaugural event
• Pancharatnam Prize Announced for Quantum Breakthroughs
• Karnataka aims for $20B quantum economy by 2035
• Karnataka Launches Strategic Quantum Roadmap
• Quantum Hardware Zone planned near Bengaluru
• Quantum City to unify innovation and industry, Incentives for indigenous quantum tech manufacturing
• State Quantum Mission to steer development with High-level Task Force for sector governance
• Karnataka Launches Strategic Quantum Roadmap

Bengaluru witnessed a historic milestone today with the inauguration of the first edition of Quantum India Bengaluru 2025, India’s first international event dedicated to the fast-evolving world of quantum science and technology. The summit was inaugurated by Shri Siddaramaiah, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Karnataka, alongside Shri D.K. Shivakumar, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka. The event brought together Nobel Laureates, renowned researchers, industry stakeholders, policymakers, and quantum startups on a shared platform for the first time. Participants from various countries including Denmark, Australia, UK, USA, France, Germany, Netherlands, Israel and Switzerland were part of the event.

The Karnataka Quantum Roadmap unveiled at the Quantum India Bengaluru (QIB) 2025 in the presence of (from L to R) Prof. Arindam Ghosh, Professor, IISc & QIB 2025 Conference Chair; Dr. Ekroop Caur , IAS, Secretary, Department of Electronics, IT, Bt, and S&T, Government of Karnataka (GoK); Dr. Shalini Rajneesh , IAS, Chief Secretary, GoK; Dr. M.C. Sudhakar, Hon'ble Minister for Higher Education, GoK; Shri Krishna Byregowda, Hon’ble Minister for Revenue, Member of the Legislative Assembly, Byatarayanapura Assembly Constituency, GoK; Shri N.S. Boseraju , Hon’ble Minister for Minor Irrigation and Science & Technology, GoK; Shri Siddaramaiah, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Karnataka; M.B. Patil, Hon'ble Minister for Large and Medium, Industries and Infrastructure Development, GoK; Shri Priyank Kharge , Hon'ble Minister for Rural Development and Panchayat Raj and IT & Bt, GoK; Shri Sadashiva Prabhu B , IAS Director, Department of Science & Technology, Managing Director, Karnataka Science and Technology Promotion Society (KSTePS), GoK; Ms. Smitha Vishveshwara , Professor, Department of Physics, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, US, and Prof. Akshay Naik, Professor, IISc & QIB 2025 Conference Co-Chair, held at Hotel Hilton, Manyata Tech Park, Bengaluru on 31st July 2025.

Organized by the Karnataka Science and Technology Promotion Society (KSTePS), Department of Science & Technology, Government of Karnataka, in collaboration with IISc Quantum Technology Initiative (IQTI), QIB 2025 aims to position India as a global leader in the Quantum Age.

The distinguished gathering included Shri N.S. Boseraju, Hon’ble Minister for Minor Irrigation and Science & Technology, Government of Karnataka; Shri M.B. Patil, Hon'ble Minister for Large and Medium, Industries and Infrastructure Development,, Government of Karnataka; Shri Krishna Byregowda, Hon’ble Minister for Revenue, Member of the Legislative Assembly, Byatarayanapura Assembly Constituency, Govt. of Karnataka; Shri Priyank Kharge, Hon'ble Minister for Rural Development and Panchayat Raj and IT & Bt, Government of Karnataka; Dr. M.C. Sudhakar, Hon'ble Minister for Higher Education, Government of Karnataka; Prof. Duncan Haldane, Princeton University, USA, (2016 Nobel Laureate); Prof. David Gross, UCSB, USA, (2004 Nobel Laureate); Ms. Smitha Vishveshwara, Professor, Department of Physics, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, US; Dr. Ekroop Caur, IAS, Secretary, Department of Electronics, IT, Bt, and S&T, Government of Karnataka; Prof. Arindam Ghosh, Professor, IISc & QIB 2025 Conference Chair; Prof. Akshay Naik, Professor, IISc & QIB 2025 Conference Co-Chair; and Shri Sadashiva Prabhu B, IAS Director, Department of Science & Technology, Managing Director, Karnataka Science and Technology Promotion Society (KSTePS), Government of Karnataka.

Dr. Rajamani Vijayaraghavan, Associate Professor, Dept. of Condensed Matter Physics & Materials Science, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), Mumbai, was felicitated in the presence of (from L to R) Prof. Arindam Ghosh, Professor, IISc & QIB 2025 Conference Chair; Dr. Shalini Rajneesh, IAS, Chief Secretary, GoK; Dr. Ekroop Caur, IAS, Secretary, Dept. of Electronics, IT, Bt, and S&T, GoK; Shri N.S. Boseraju, Hon’ble Minister for Minor Irrigation and Science & Technology, GoK; Dr. M.C. Sudhakar, Hon'ble Minister for Higher Education, GoK; Shri Krishna Byregowda, Hon’ble Minister for Revenue, Member of the Legislative Assembly, Byatarayanapura Assembly Constituency, GoK; Siddaramaiah, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Karnataka; Sadashiva Prabhu B, IAS Director, Dept. of Science & Technology, Managing Director, Karnataka Science and Technology Promotion Society (KSTePS), GoK; M.B. Patil, Hon'ble Minister for Large and Medium, Industries and Infrastructure Development, GoK; and Shri Priyank Kharge, Hon'ble Minister for Rural Development and Panchayat Raj and IT & Bt, GoK at Quantum India Bengaluru (QIB) 2025, held at Hotel Hilton, Manyata Tech Park, Bengaluru on 31st July 2025.

A key highlight of the event was the announcement of the ‘Karnataka Quantum Roadmap,’ outlining the State’s strategic vision for quantum leadership. Built on five pillars of Talent, R&D, Infrastructure, Industry Enablement and Global Partnerships, the roadmap adopts a phased, outcome-driven approach and focuses on aligning academia with industry, scaling indigenous hardware capabilities and building a robust startup ecosystem.

The Government of Karnataka announced the prestigious Pancharatnam Prize for Excellence in Quantum Science and Technology, named in honour of the eminent Indian physicist S. Pancharatnam. Renowned for his groundbreaking discovery of the geometric phase, now a cornerstone of modern quantum technologies, Pancharatnam conducted his pioneering research at the University of Mysore and the Raman Research Institute in Bengaluru. This prize has instituted to recognize Indian nationals whose work bridges fundamental quantum science and real-world applications, and the award carries a citation and a cash prize of ₹2 lakhs.

A special moment was the felicitation of the two Nobel Laureates, Prof. Duncan Haldane, Princeton University, USA, (2016 Nobel Laureate); Prof. David Gross, UCSB, USA, (2004 Nobel Laureate).

Shri Siddaramaiah, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Karnataka stated in his inaugural address, “Quantum technology represents a strategic frontier with the potential to fundamentally transform how global industries solve their most complex challenges. It is not just the future, it is the force that will redefine Karnataka’s capabilities in healthcare, education, energy, infrastructure, and cybersecurity. The Government of Karnataka is fully committed to positioning the state at the forefront of this quantum revolution. Our focus is on the indigenization of quantum technologies and on establishing Karnataka as a global exporter of quantum solutions, unlocking innovations that were once thought to be out of reach.”

Adding to this, Shri D.K. Shivakumar, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister, expressed, “Quantum India Bengaluru reflects our deep commitment to shaping the future of science and technology. Karnataka is proud to be at the forefront of India’s quantum journey—bringing together global researchers, startups, investors, and institutions. We envision Bengaluru evolving into the world’s first ‘Quantum City,’ where research, talent, and industry converge. Our efforts begin in the classroom, with quantum education entering schools and universities to prepare the next generation. This revolution must be inclusive, and Karnataka is committed to building a robust ecosystem through research parks, startup hubs, and strong policy support.”

The Government of Karnataka announced the ambitious vision for 2035 to create a $20 billion quantum advantage-driven economy, potentially contributing a major share of India’s quantum tech output. As a part of this vision, the Government has undertaken several pioneering initiatives to lead India’s quantum revolution. Karnataka has established India’s first dedicated Quantum Research Park at IISc Bengaluru, with ₹48 crore sanctioned for its Phase-2 expansion. To bolster indigenous capabilities, the state is developing a Quantum Hardware Manufacturing Zone around Bengaluru—providing plug-and-play infrastructure and incentives for companies building critical components such as cryostats and quantum chips.

Further advancing this vision, the government is planning a first-of-its-kind 'Quantum City' near Bengaluru—a world-class innovation cluster integrating research, advanced manufacturing, education, startups, and government initiatives under one roof. To ensure focused governance, a dedicated State Quantum Mission is being instituted, guided by a high-level Quantum Technology Task Force under the Department of Science & Technology. This task force will bring together leading minds from academia, industry, government, and defense to set strategic goals and drive coordinated action across the sector.

Shri N.S. Boseraju, Hon’ble Minister for Minor Irrigation and Science & Technology, Government of Karnataka said, “It is indeed a privilege for Karnataka to host Quantum India Bengaluru 2025, in the International Year of Quantum, as declared by the United Nations. Under the guidance of our Hon’ble Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister, Karnataka is taking focused steps to build a future-ready quantum ecosystem. Our Quantum Roadmap outlines a clear, phased strategy. We are committed to supporting cutting-edge research, attracting world-class quantum companies and nurturing deep-tech startups through dedicated policies and funding. As India steps into the quantum age, Karnataka is proud to lead from the front.”

The two-day Summit is expected to witness participation of 1000+ Delegates, 70+ Speakers across 25+ Sessions, 20+ Exhibitors, 40 Poster Presenters, and 2000+ attendees from 10+ Countries.

The International Conference under the theme, ‘Building a Quantum Ecosystem: Qubits to Society’, will centre around five key focus areas- Quantum Computing; Finance & AI; Quantum Peripherals & Hardware; Quantum in Healthcare, Security; and in Society & Art.  The Summit will feature an exceptional lineup of sessions and engagements. Highlight of the Conference are the keynote lectures to be delivered by the Nobel Laureates- Prof. Duncan Haldane and Prof. David Gross, as well as Prof. Tommaso Calarco, European Union Quantum Flagship, & Director of the Institute of Quantum Control PGI-8, Germany, Prof. Andrea C Ferrari, University of Cambridge, UK, and Prof. Subir Sachdev of the Harvard University, USA. They will be joined by a host of quantum pioneers as speakers and panelists.

In addition to the insightful sessions, the event will also host Closed-door Roundtable Meetings with Ministers, Policy makers, renowned Researchers & Scientists, Academicians, Students and special invitees. There is a dedicated Exhibition showcasing cutting-edge technologies and solutions from startups, research institution, and quantum hardware companies.

A special highlight of the summit is the Quantum Poster Showcase, where students, PhD scholars and researchers will present their work to a global audience and the best posters will be awarded at the valedictory.

QIB 2025 will also host Startup Pitch Fest powered by TiE Bangalore, a platform for deeptech and quantum startups to connect with VCs and Investors and Compete for exciting prize money and possibly funding opportunities, as well as network with global experts, research institutions. 

About Karnataka Science and Technology Promotion Society (KSTePS):

Karnataka Science and Technology Promotion Society (KSTePS) is an initiative of the Government of Karnataka to promote and support science, technology, and innovation in the state. It works closely with academic institutions, industries, and government bodies to drive research, policy formulation, and technology adoption. KSTePS plays a key role in implementing Karnataka’s science and technology policies and fostering collaborations in emerging fields like quantum technologies, AI, and nanotechnology. It also organizes conferences, innovation programs, and funding initiatives to boost the state's R&D ecosystem. As a strategic enabler, KSTePS is instrumental in positioning Karnataka as a global leader in cutting-edge scientific advancements.

The IISc Quantum Technology Initiative (IQTI):

The IISc Quantum Technology Initiative (IQTI) is a dedicated research program at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, focused on advancing quantum science and engineering. It brings together experts in physics, computer science, and electrical engineering to drive innovation in quantum computing, quantum communication, and quantum sensing. IQTI aims to develop indigenous quantum technologies, support startups, and collaborate with industry to accelerate commercialization. The initiative plays a crucial role in India's National Quantum Mission, positioning IISc as a leading hub for quantum research. Through interdisciplinary projects and global partnerships, IQTI is shaping the future of quantum technology in India.