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Media Release – Goafest 2026 Champions ‘Reset for Growth’ with a Stellar Speaker Line-up

~ Conversations and discussions at Goafest 2026 will be anchored in the defining idea of‘The Big Reset for Growth’ ~

May 16, 2026; Mumbai, India: Setting the stage for one of the most promising editions of South Asia’s premier advertising, media and marketing festival, Goafest 2026 today presents a stellar line-up of speakers, industry visionaries, and entertainment personalities who will collectively champion discussions and conversations around the 19th edition’s theme ‘Reset for Growth’.

The three-day festival will reflect the theme through a series of sessions that will tackle key industry shifts like the impact and influence of artificial intelligence, dilemmas around data ownership, evolving media consumption, the emergence of new media platforms, the greater need for measurement, and the role of creativity in powering business growth. With 60 speakers across 20 sessions, Goafest 2026 ensures a thorough representation of key voices from across the advertising, media, marketing, technology, and business ecosystem.

Some of the most significant leaders expected to take the Goafest 2026 stage are Prasar Bharati’s Chairperson, Padma Shri Prasoon Joshi (Omnicom Advertising India),NITI Aayog’s Former Vice Chairman, Dr. Rajiv Kumar, Santosh Desai (Think9 Consumer Technologies), Advertising veteran Eugene Cheong (Euge Publishing), and Bollywood legend Rakesh Bedi.

Besides advertising and media industry leaders, this year Goafest will have a wider representation from the client ecosystem and brand custodians including Nikhil Sharma (Perfetti Van Melle, India), Aman Gupta (boAt), Rohit Kapoor (Swiggy), Chandan Mendiratta (Zepto), Veetika Deoras (IHCL), Tuhina Pandey (IBM), Tarun Bhagat (PepsiCo) Riya Joseph (Britannia Industries), Harsh Deep Chhabra (Godrej Consumer Products), Darshana Shah (Aditya Birla Capital), Prasun Kumar (MagicBricks), Punit Dharamsi (Association of Mutual Funds in India) Rajiv Dubey(Dabur India), Shubhranshu Singh (Marketing Leader & Ex CMO), Arpan Biswas (Ajio), Ajay Kakar (Adani) and Jahid Ahmed (HDFC Bank)among many more.

Leading the technology-led conversations are Satya Raghavan (Google India), Haran Ramachandran (Spotify), Neha Markanda (ShareChat). Ensuring entertainment is not amiss, Prince of Bhangra, Sukhbir Singh and Singer Neeti Mohan will also take the prestigious Goafest stage.

Bringing diverse themes into focus, Goafest will also witness sports personalities like the Indian Women’s Cricket Team, Harmanpreet Kaur, Entrepreneur and Sports Leader, Preeti Jhangiani; Parvinn Dabass (Pro Panja League), Former Indian National Football Team captain and goalkeeper Aditi Chauhan, Indian Kabaddi Player Rahul Chaudhari, Sameer Pathak, (Pickleball World Rankings) and Actor, Anchor, Author & Fitness Enthusiast, Mandira Bedi.

Mohit Joshi, Co-Chair of the Goafest 2026 Organising Committee and CEO, Havas Media Network India said,“We are witnessing a shift in consumer behaviour, new technology adoption and a lot more in India and worldwide. As the industry evolves, growth can only come from embracing fresh perspectives, cross-industry collaboration, and conversations that may seem tough in boardrooms. The breadth of perspectives through our speakers across all stages will surely mirror our industry’s dynamics while looking for opportunities that unlock growth.”

“The agenda this year reflects the urgent realities of our industry. ‘Reset for Growth’ isn’t just a theme; it is a call to action – one that has sparked stronger client participation than ever before. Over the three days, we will hear from voices across the entire ecosystem – from AI and data to storytelling and brand-building. GoaFest 2026 will not just be a platform for celebration, but also for meaningful dialogue, collaboration and future-shaping ideas.” added Rohit Ohri, Founder, Ohriginal & Member, GoaFest Advisory Committee

Scheduled to take place on May 20, 21 and 22, 2026 at Taj Cidade de Goa Horizon, Goafest 2026 festival will centre conversations around reinvention, with a strong focus on how brands, agencies and platforms must reimagine, refine, and rebuild in an increasingly complex technology-driven ecosystem.

View the complete agenda on https://www.goafest.com/agenda

Register for via https://goafestreg.tecogis.com/MasterClassApp/masterclass

For more details on delegate passes, sponsor line-up and complete speaker list, visit www.goafest.com

May 16, 2026
Former Agriculture student receives Honorary Doctorate from his University

Hyderabad’s Agri entrepreneur, who created new export categories for India honoured by UAS Bengaluru

Hyderabad, May 16, 2026: In a rare and significant recognition, the University of Agricultural Sciences Bangalore conferred an Honorary Doctorate on its former student, Hyderabad-based agripreneur Dr GVK Naidu, Founder and Managing Director of Sam Agritech, during its 60th Convocation Ceremony.

UAS is India’s premier agricultural university and among the country’s oldest institutions dedicated to agricultural education, research and extension. Thaawarchand Gehlot, Governor and Chancellor of the University of Agricultural Sciences, presided over the function and formally presented the Doctorate.

The honour is considered exceptional, as agricultural universities seldom confer honorary doctorates upon their own alumni. It recognises Dr Naidu’s pioneering contribution to India’s fresh produce export sector and his role in transforming agricultural innovation into globally competitive business models.

Responding to the recognition, Dr Naidu said, “I never imagined that the university where I once studied would one day honour me with a doctorate. This recognition belongs to the farmers, employees, and partners who have been part of this journey.”

Founded in 1996, Sam Agritech has emerged as one of India’s leading integrated exporters of fresh and value-added produce. The company has played a key role in developing new export categories from India, including fresh pomegranate arils, fresh-cut coconut chunks, fresh figs, dried arils, and ready-to-eat fruit segments.

In recent years, the company has also diversified into high-value crops such as Hass avocado cultivation, blueberry initiatives, and almond processing, aligning with evolving global demand trends and expanding India’s horticulture footprint.

Sam Agritech operates a fully integrated farm-to-market ecosystem across South India, including nurseries, captive farms, high-care processing facilities, and international marketing networks. It is also recognised for establishing multi-locational high-care processing units near cultivation zones, enhancing product freshness and food safety.

The company adheres to global standards, including HACCP, ISO, Global GAP, BRC, US FDA, SMETA, and Fair Trade certifications, and has made a notable social impact, with over 90 per cent of its workforce comprising women in rural processing operations.

Industry observers describe the honour as recognition of the growing importance of value addition, innovation, and market-linked agriculture in India’s agri sector.-

May 16, 2026
XLRI Jamshedpur announces the Second Batch of Public Policy & Sustainable Leadership (PPSL)

Jamshedpur, India: Building on the successful launch of its pioneering executive education initiative in public policy and leadership, XLRI – Xavier School of Management has commenced admissions for the second batch of its flagship Public Policy & Sustainable Leadership (PPSL) programme.

Launched in collaboration with the Department of Personnel & Training (DoPT), Government of India, PPSL, the one-year hybrid executive programme, has emerged as a distinctive interdisciplinary platform bringing together policymakers, administrators, academicians, development professionals, sustainability practitioners, professionals from private sector under one academic ecosystem. One of the unique elements of the programme is the eclectic class mix comprising of both government sponsored candidates and self-sponsored candidates.

The inaugural cohort includes officers from the Government of India (IAS, IPS, IFoS and State Civil Service officers) and various state governments, senior professionals from UN Women, PSI India, Council on Energy, Environment & Water (CEEW), PCI India, IBM Research Labs, and academicians from public administration institutes.

The 180 hours programme has been carefully designed to accommodate working professionals through a hybrid delivery format combining two short immersive campus residencies with interactive online sessions held on Sundays. It offers a multidisciplinary curriculum covering public policy, public finance, public management, public systems, governance, sustainability, leadership, stakeholder engagement, business strategies & non-market strategies and emerging developmental challenges.

Speaking about the programme’s relevance and impact, Prof. Kalyan Bhaskar, Associate Professor, XLRI and Programme Director of PPSL, stated:

“The PPSL programme reflects XLRI’s larger vision of creating responsible leadership at the intersection of public policy, governance, civil society and public value creation. The diversity of the participants enriches classroom discussions, peer learning and enables meaningful dialogue between administration, academia, development sector and industry.”

With increasing complexities in public policy, governance, sustainability transitions and public administration, the programme aims to create a new generation of leaders capable of designing inclusive, ethical and evidence-driven solutions for society.

The second batch is expected to further strengthen the programme’s relevance by fostering collaborative learning among officers, practitioners and professionals working across public systems and developmental institutions.

The last date for application is 18th August 2026. The program commences on 18th September 2026 with the inaugural campus component at XLRI Jamshedpur.

More details about the programme, eligibility and admissions are available at the XLRI website. Link: https://application-portal.xlri.ac.in/ppsl

May 16, 2026
Gig Workers Call Nationwide 5-Hour Shutdown, Demand Rs 20 Per Km

New Delhi, May 16 (BNP): Gig workers associated with app-based transport and delivery platforms have announced a five-hour nationwide shutdown demanding better wages, social security benefits and a minimum payment of Rs 20 per kilometre.

Representational image

The protest call, supported by several gig workers’ unions and associations, is expected to affect app-based cab services, food delivery operations and logistics services in major cities across the country.

Worker representatives alleged that rising fuel prices, increasing maintenance expenses and reduced incentive structures have significantly impacted their earnings in recent months. They claimed that despite rising operational costs, the per-trip payments offered by aggregator platforms remain inadequate.

Among the key demands raised by the workers are a guaranteed minimum fare of Rs 20 per kilometre, fuel compensation, insurance coverage, social security benefits and transparent payment policies.

Union leaders said the temporary shutdown is intended to draw attention to the financial challenges faced by lakhs of gig workers who depend on app-based services for their livelihood. They also urged the central and state governments to frame comprehensive welfare policies for workers in the gig economy sector.

Meanwhile, commuters and customers in several metropolitan cities may face inconvenience during the protest period due to reduced availability of ride-hailing and delivery services.

Several aggregator companies are yet to issue detailed responses regarding the shutdown call and the demands raised by workers.

May 16, 2026

Gland Pharma Reports Record Revenues and Profitability

Hyderabad, May 16: Gland Pharma Limited, an injectable-focused pharmaceutical company, announced its financial results for the fourth quarter and year ended March 31, 2026.

Commenting on the results Mr. Srinivas Sadu, Executive Chairman of Gland Pharma, stated, “Our strong FY26 performance, reflected in consolidated revenue growth of 14.5% and an adjusted EBITDA margin of 26%, underscores the progress we are making across the businesses including Cenexi. The 38% adjusted EBITDA margin of base business has been supported by robust growth in the CDMO segment, alongside new product launches and improved profitability across our existing portfolio, driven by ongoing cost-efficiency initiatives. We remain confident in sustaining this momentum, supported by a pipeline of complex product launches and the continued ramp-up of CDMO partnerships.”

Consolidated Financial Performance

Particulars	Q4 FY26	Q4 FY25	YoY	Q3 FY26	QoQ	FY26	FY25	YoY
Revenue from operations	17,428	14,249	22%	16,954	3%	64,307	56,165	14%
Gross Profit ⁽¹⁾	11,515	9,370	23%	11,187	3%	41,877	35,261	19%
Gross Profit margin (%)	66%	66%		66%		65%	63%
EBITDA ⁽²⁾	5,130	3,475	48%	4,349	18%	16,295	12,689	28%
EBITDA margin (%) ⁽³⁾	29%	24%		26%		25%	23%
Adj. EBITDA ⁽⁴⁾	5,244	3,475	51%	4,490	17%	16,826	12,689	33%
Adj. EBITDA margin (%)	30%	24%		26%		26%	23%
Adj. PBT ⁽⁵⁾	5,058	2,883	75%	3,865	31%	14,889	10,627	40%
Adj. PBT margin (%)	29%	20%		23%		23%	19%
Adj. PAT ⁽⁶⁾	3,667	1,865	97%	2,797	31%	10,455	6,985	50%
Adj. PAT margin (%)	21%	13%		16%		16%	12%

1. Gross Profit = Revenue from Operations – Materials consumed; 2. EBITDA = Profit before tax plus finance expense plus depreciation and amortization expense excluding other income.

3. EBITDA margin = EBITDA / Revenue from operations; 4.Adj. EBITDA = EBITDA plus Employee stock option compensation expenses and one-off GST-related expenses. 5. Adj. PBT = PBT before exceptional items which is the one-time impact due to new wage code. 6. Adj. PAT = Adj. PBT minus equivalent taxes.

Financial Highlights:

Quarterly revenue increased by 22% year-on-year; Full year FY26 revenues increased by 14.5%
Quarterly R&D investments stood at ₹ 506 million; Full year FY26 R&D investment was ₹ 2,230 million
Quarterly adj. EBITDA increased by 51% year-on-year; Full year FY26 adj. EBITDA increased by 33%
Quarterly adj. EBITDA margin stood at 30%; Full year FY26 adj. EBITDA margin was at 26%
Quarterly adj. PAT increased by 97% year-on-year; Full year FY26 adj. PAT increased by 50%
Quarterly adj. PAT margin increased by ~795 bps year-on-year; Full year FY26 adj. PAT margin increased by ~380 bps
CDMO business contributed 46% of revenues and grew by 36% year-on-year in Q4FY26
CDMO business contributed 46% of revenues and grew by 28% year-on-year in FY26

Consolidated Market Wise Performance

Particulars	Q4 FY26	Q4 FY25	YoY	Q3 FY26	QoQ	FY26	FY25	YoY
USA	9,807	7,918	24%	8,685	13%	34,214	30,387	13%
Europe	3,814	2,801	36%	4,071	-6%	14,035	10,470	34%
Canada, Australia and New Zealand (Other Core Markets)	588	601	-2%	454	30%	2,269	2,021	12%
India	670	525	28%	744	-10%	2,672	2,487	7%
Rest of the world	2,549	2,404	6%	3,000	-15%	11,117	10,800	3%
TOTAL	17,428	14,249	22%	16,954	3%	64,307	56,165	14%

Base Business (Gland) Financial Performance

Particulars	Q4 FY26	Q4 FY25	YoY	Q3 FY26	QoQ	FY26	FY25	YoY
Revenue from operations	12,648	10,332	22%	11,790	7%	45,613	41,248	11%
Gross Profit ⁽¹⁾	7,800	6,280	24%	7,147	9%	27,662	23,943	16%
Gross Profit margin (%)	62%	61%		61%		61%	58%
EBITDA ⁽²⁾	5,084	3,954	29%	4,201	21%	16,632	14,451	15%
EBITDA margin (%) ⁽³⁾	40%	38%		36%		36%	35%
Adj. EBITDA ⁽⁴⁾	5,198	3,954	31%	4,342	20%	17,163	14,451	19%
Adj. EBITDA margin (%)	41%	38%		37%		38%	35%
Adj. PBT ⁽⁵⁾	5,663	3,924	44%	4,382	29%	17,808	14,607	22%
Adj. PBT margin (%)	45%	38%		37%		39%	35%
Adj. PAT ⁽⁶⁾	4,211	2,913	45%	3,274	29%	13,232	10,868	22%
Adj. PAT margin (%)	33%	28%		28%		29%	26%

1. Gross Profit = Revenue from Operations – Materials consumed; 2. EBITDA = Profit before tax plus finance expense plus depreciation and amortization expense excluding other income.

.Financial Highlights:

Quarterly revenue increased by 22% year-on-year; Full year FY26 revenues increased by 11%
Quarterly adj. EBITDA increased by 31% year-on-year; Full year FY26 adj. EBITDA increased by 19%
Quarterly adj. EBITDA margin stood at 41%; Full year FY26 adj. EBITDA margin was at 38%
Quarterly adj. PAT increased by 45% year-on-year; Full year FY26 adj. PAT increased by 22%
Quarterly adj. PAT margin stood at 33%; Full year FY26 adj. PAT margin was at 29%
CDMO business contributed 25% of revenues and grew by 65% year-on-year in Q4FY26
CDMO business contributed 23% of revenues and grew by 33% year-on-year in FY26

Base Business (Gland) Market Wise Performance

Particulars	Q4 FY26	Q4 FY25	YoY	Q3 FY26	QoQ	FY26	FY25	YoY
USA	9,716	7,714	26%	8,290	17%	33,181	29,766	11%
Europe	462	402	15%	593	-22%	1,883	1,555	21%
Canada, Australia and New Zealand (Other Core Markets)	332	437

May 16, 2026

MAHE’s 33rd Convocation in Mangaluru Heralds New Beginnings for Students; Unveils India’s Future Pathfinders

Mangaluru, May 16: Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University, successfully hosted its 33rd Convocation in Mangaluru today, setting its graduating students on the path towards building rewarding careers.

The convocation ceremony was held at the Dr TMA Pai International Convention Centre, M G Road, Mangaluru. The ceremony brought together an eclectic gathering that included graduates, faculty members, university leadership, parents, dignitaries, and guests in celebration of academic excellence, perseverance, and new beginnings.

This year, a total of 1258 students graduated in undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programmes. Of these, 576 students attended the convocation ceremonies in person. The prestigious Dr. TMA Pai Gold Medal was conferred on three outstanding students from various constituent institutions of MAHE – Mr. Navallpreet Singh Bhamra, MCODS Manipal (BDS), Ms. Adeeba Ali, MCODS, Mangalore (BDS), and Ms. Chaitra Shenoy U, Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore (MBBS batch of 2021-22).

Dr H S Ballal, Pro Chancellor, MAHE, conferred the degrees. Addressing the audience, Dr Ballal said, “As we celebrate the achievements of our graduating students, we also reflect on the remarkable journey of MAHE, from its visionary beginnings under the leadership of Dr TMA Pai to becoming a globally engaged Institution of Eminence with a presence across India and beyond. Over the decades, MAHE has remained committed to academic excellence, research, innovation, sustainability, and industry-aligned learning. Today, with strong global collaborations, advancements in areas such as artificial intelligence in healthcare, and an expanding digital education ecosystem reaching learners across countries, MAHE continues to nurture future-ready professionals equipped to lead with competence, integrity, and compassion.

At MAHE, we believe education must evolve continuously to meet the aspirations of a changing world while remaining rooted in strong values and social responsibility. Our sustained investments in multidisciplinary learning, research excellence, global partnerships, and sustainable infrastructure reflect this commitment. As our graduates step into the next phase of their journeys, I encourage them to embrace lifelong learning, lead with empathy and purpose, and contribute meaningfully towards building a more inclusive, innovative, and progressive society.”

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Sharath K. Rao, Vice Chancellor, MAHE, reminded the students of the guiding beliefs of the institution, saying, “MAHE continues to strengthen its position as a globally engaged university driven by academic rigour, research excellence, innovation, and interdisciplinary learning. Our graduates are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and mindset required to navigate the evolving demands of the professional world and emerge as future-ready leaders.”

Providing an overview of MAHE, Dr Rao said, “Sustainability is a core priority for MAHE, reflected in our transition towards renewable energy and continued investments in sustainable infrastructure. At the same time, we are strengthening our research ecosystem, with a focus on areas such as artificial intelligence in healthcare, ensuring our work remains relevant and impactful to society.”

“MAHE continues to strengthen its research and innovation ecosystem, supported by sustained external funding and a strong publication base. We are particularly focused on emerging areas such as artificial intelligence in healthcare, where our efforts are aligned to address real-world challenges and contribute meaningfully to societal needs,” he added.

The event was graced by Prof. (Dr.) Sudeep Gupta, Director, Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai, as the Chief Guest and Dr M. Shantharam Shetty, Pro Chancellor, NITTE (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, as the Guest of Honour.

Delivering the Convocation address, Prof. (Dr) Gupta highlighted India’s rapid transformation into “Vikasit Bharat”. With life expectancy more than doubling since independence to 72 years today, he projected a future where India’s GDP and per capita income will quadruple by 2047. “What institutions like MAHE and Tata Memorial do today will determine what India will be in 2050,” he noted, urging graduates to drive a new “Wealth of Nations” built not on gold, but on the mastery of quantum computing, artificial intelligence, and innovative healthcare delivery.

Beyond economic growth, his address focused on the unique, irreplaceable virtues of human healers in an era increasingly dominated by technology. Prof Gupta called on graduates to embrace “epistemic humility”—the moral commitment to truth and the courage to admit “I know not” when facing the inherent uncertainties of medicine. Contrasting human empathy with AI algorithms that may provide “imaginary” explanations. He reminded the Class of 2026 that their true power lies in the ability to connect with patients’ fears and their hopes.

Guest of Honour Dr M. Shantharam Shetty, Pro Chancellor, NITTE (Deemed to be University), also spoke on the occasion. Addressing the students, he said, “The success story you have scripted so far will be your guiding light henceforth. I urge you to be responsible citizens of our nation and carry forward the rich legacy of MAHE that you have inherited. I must also thank MAHE for its tireless efforts to churn out rich talents year after year so that not only as an individual, but also our society as a whole benefits from the cutting-edge knowledge.”

Dr Narayana Sabhahit, Pro Vice Chancellor – Technology & Science, Dr P. Giridhar Kini, Registrar, and Dr Vinod V Thomas, Registrar Evaluation, graced the event with their esteemed presence.

Welcoming the gathering, Dr Dilip G Naik, Pro Vice Chancellor, MAHE Mangalore Campus, said: “Today is not only about recognising academic achievements, but also about celebrating the friendships, shared experiences, and enduring connections formed along the way. As our graduates move ahead, they carry the strength of a global MAHE network and a lifelong bond with their alma mater.”

Dr B Unnikrishnan, Dean of Kasturba Medical College (KMC), Mangalore, introduced the Chief Guest and Dr Anil Bhat, Dean of KMC Manipal, introduced the guest of honour. Dr Ashita Uppoor, Dean, MCODS, Mangalore, proposed the vote of thanks.

May 16, 2026
L&T Partners France-based Exail for Indian Navy’s Unmanned Mine Counter Measure Suite

Chandigarh, May 16: L&T has entered a strategic collaboration with France-based Exail to deliver an advanced Unmanned Mine Counter-Measure (MCM) Suite for the Indian Navy’s Mine Counter Measure Vessels (MCMVs) programme.

L&T and Exail will together provide the Indian Navy with a state-of-the-art Unmanned MCM Suite, incorporating autonomous and remotely operated systems designed to detect, classify, identify and neutralise naval mines in a safe, stand-off manner.

L&T, as the prime contractor, will offer the Unmanned MCM Suite to all shipyards participating in Indian Navy’s upcoming programme for 12 Mine Counter Measure Vessels. Exail will serve as the technology partner.

The partnership will enable the delivery of Exail’s globally proven MCM technologies, already in operation with several navies worldwide and validated through extensive real-world deployments. The collaboration represents a major step towards strengthening India’s mine countermeasure capabilities, enhancing maritime security and reinforcing Indo-French defence cooperation, while building a robust and self-reliant naval defence manufacturing ecosystem in India.

Aligned with the Government of India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India initiatives, the programme will incorporate strong local industrial collaboration and capability development.

Commenting on the development, Arun Ramchandani, Senior VP & Head -Precision Engineering & Systems, L&T, said: “This partnership brings together L&T, with its extensive defence products legacy and maritime capabilities, and Exail, a global leader in unmanned maritime systems and mine warfare technologies. Exail contributes decades of proven operational expertise, while L&T leverages its strengths in defence engineering, indigenous manufacturing, complex system integration and lifecycle support”.

Jérôme Bendell, CEO – Maritime Systems Business Line, Exail, said: “We are proud to partner with L&T on this strategic programme for the Indian Navy. Beyond delivering a proven unmanned mine countermeasures capability, this collaboration also reflects a shared ambition to supp rt the long-term development of sovereign unmanned maritime systems in India. By combining Exail’s operational expertise with L&T’s strong industrial and integration capabilities, we see significant potential to contribute to the local development and production of next-generation naval drones and autonomous mission systems”.

May 16, 2026
Yogi govt’s AI vision gains new momentum, Lucknow emerges as a growing hub of technology and innovation

New Delhi, May 16: Under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Uttar Pradesh is rapidly emerging as one of the country’s largest hubs for technology and AI innovation. In line with this vision, more than 50 IAS officers and senior administrators from across India participated in the ‘AI Transformation Conclave 2026’ held in Lucknow on Friday.

During the conclave, a high-level capacity-building workshop on the theme ‘The AI-Powered Public Administrator: Competencies for a New Era of Governance’ was conducted by Dr. Subi Chaturvedi, founder of NIHIT and Sherpa of Working Group-7 of the India-US CEO Forum.

Dr. Subi Chaturvedi said, “Uttar Pradesh, especially Lucknow, is emerging as the most suitable center for AI innovation in India. Earlier known for its culture and heritage, the city is now building a new identity as a hub of innovation under the current government’s leadership.”

She added, “With companies like InMobi launching deep-tech operations in the state, a new ecosystem of governance, research, talent, digital infrastructure, and entrepreneurship is taking shape in Uttar Pradesh.”
The conclave also featured extensive discussions on the Uttar Pradesh government’s ambitious AI policy and technology vision.

Recently, the country’s first AI City was approved in Lucknow’s Vrindavan Yojana at a cost of ₹368 crore, while a special budget allocation of ₹225 crore has been made for the UP AI Mission.

On this occasion, Manoj Kumar Singh, Chief Executive Officer of the State Transformation Commission, stated that Uttar Pradesh is moving towards becoming a national model for AI transformation in government functioning, which will further accelerate the state’s goal of becoming a trillion-dollar economy.

Principal Secretary of the IT and Electronics Department, Alok Kumar, said, “The government is fully committed to building robust infrastructure for emerging technologies such as AI, quantum computing, and deep-tech innovations.”
Special provisions for the UP AI Mission, AI City, and other emerging technologies have been included in the recent budget.

The conclave also witnessed detailed discussions on the role of AI in the AI ecosystem, cybersecurity, digital governance, MSMEs, startups, and citizen-centric services.

Referring to the ‘MANAV’ framework presented by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Dr. Chaturvedi emphasized ethical, accountable, accessible, and human-centric AI. She said, “Inclusive growth and a trustworthy technological future can only be achieved through safe and human-friendly AI.”

The NIHIT platform is an important initiative operating under the India-US CEO Forum, supported by InMobi, Mastercard, and Tata Sons. It functions as a knowledge-sharing platform aimed at strengthening innovation, startups, MSMEs, cybersecurity, and global supply chains between India and the United States.

May 16, 2026
Rupee Breaches 96-Mark for First Time, Hits Historic Low Against Dollar

Mumbai, May 15 (BNP): The Indian Rupee plunged to a historic low on Friday, breaching the 96-mark for the first time against the US Dollar amid rising crude oil prices, a stronger American currency and escalating geopolitical tensions in West Asia.

The domestic currency touched an all-time low of 96.14 during intra-day trade in the interbank foreign exchange market, falling 50 paise from its previous close of 95.64 on Thursday. The rupee had opened at 95.86 before slipping further during the trading session.

Forex traders attributed the sharp decline to growing global uncertainty, particularly the intensifying Iran-Israel conflict and concerns over possible disruptions in crude oil supply through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.

Market experts said investors are increasingly moving towards the US Dollar as a safe-haven asset amid fears of geopolitical instability and volatile energy prices. Rising crude oil costs have also added pressure on the Indian currency, as India remains heavily dependent on oil imports.

According to analysts, the rupee has emerged as one of the worst-performing Asian currencies this year, registering a decline of over six per cent so far in 2026.

Financial observers warned that a prolonged weakness in the rupee could increase import costs, fuel inflationary pressure and impact domestic fuel prices in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, the Reserve Bank of India is expected to closely monitor the foreign exchange market to maintain stability.

May 16, 2026
Sayaji Hotels Expands into Sikkim with Launch of Effotel by Sayaji, Gangtok

Gangtok, May 15 : Sayaji Hotels announces the launch of Effotel by Sayaji, Gangtok, marking its entry into one of India’s most captivating hill destinations. Set in the serene neighbourhood of Tathangchen, near the iconic Ridge Park, the hotel offers a refined stay experience in a city where mist-covered mountains, vibrant culture, and spiritual calm come together seamlessly.

Perched at an altitude of approximately 1,650 metres, Gangtok, Sikkim’s capital, is often described as a “jewel of the Eastern Himalayas” and is known for its sweeping views of Mt Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest peak. From winding mountain roads and lush valleys to monasteries, lakes, and bustling promenades, the city presents a rare balance of natural beauty and urban charm.

Strategically located just minutes from the Ridge and within easy reach of MG Marg, the city’s lively pedestrian boulevard, Effotel by Sayaji places guests at the centre of Gangtok’s cultural and social landscape. The Ridge Park itself, lined with Himalayan flora and scenic walkways, is a beloved local landmark, offering panoramic views and a tranquil escape in the heart of the city.

Designed for the modern traveller, the hotel features 32 thoughtfully appointed rooms, including Deluxe King, Deluxe Twin, and a spacious Suite. Each space reflects a clean, contemporary aesthetic paired with functionality, making it ideal for both leisure travellers exploring the region and business guests seeking a comfortable retreat in the hills. At the heart of the dining experience is The Cube, the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant, serving a multi-cuisine menu in a relaxed, contemporary setting perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Speaking on the launch, Rajendra Joshi (Associate General Manager) from Sayaji Hotels said,

“We are delighted to bring the Effotel by Sayaji experience to Gangtok, a destination that continues to grow in prominence among both leisure and experiential travellers. With this launch, we aim to offer a smart, comfortable, and well-connected stay option that complements the city’s unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Gangtok represents an exciting addition to our expanding footprint in emerging leisure markets across India.”

Sharing his thoughts on the opening, Sangay Tenzing Norbu (Managing director), owner of the property, added,

“We are proud to introduce Effotel by Sayaji to Gangtok, a city that holds immense potential as a year-round travel destination. This hotel has been envisioned as a space that reflects the region’s warmth and spirit while delivering the quality and consistency for which Sayaji is known. We look forward to welcoming guests and being a part of their Gangtok experience.”

Conveniently accessible, the hotel is located approximately 130 km from Bagdogra Airport and 120 km from New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, offering connectivity while maintaining the charm of a quiet hillside retreat.

With this launch, Sayaji Hotels continues its expansion into high-potential leisure destinations, reinforcing its commitment to delivering smart, stylish hospitality experiences tailored to today’s evolving traveller.

May 15, 2026