The Council of Architecture (COA) International Conference, SHAPE 2026: Sustainable Habitats and Architecture for the People and the Earth, successfully concluded at Chitkara University, Punjab, bringing together global leaders in architecture, urban planning, and sustainability for three days of academic exchange and policy dialogue on climate-responsive and people-centred built environments.
 

Members of the Council of Architecture with dignitaries at the International Conference SHAPE 2026 held at Chitkara University
 

Organised by the Council of Architecture, India, in collaboration with the Chitkara School of Planning and Architecture, Chitkara University, the international architecture conference was held from February 26 to February 28, 2026. The event convened leading architects, urbanists, policymakers, academicians, researchers, and students from across India and internationally, reinforcing India’s growing role in advancing sustainable architecture and urban futures.
 

SHAPE 2026 featured three keynote speakers and ten plenary speakers, along with specialised thematic sessions addressing critical global priorities, including climate-responsive architecture, sustainable urbanism, ecological design strategies, low-impact material innovation, community-centred development, and policy-driven architectural practice. Delegates and experts from South Africa, Norway, Switzerland, Germany, and the United States underscored the conference’s global significance and interdisciplinary scope.
 

Among the distinguished speakers, Prof. Ali A. Alraouf, Professor of Architecture and Urbanism at the University of California, Berkeley, USA, shared scholarly perspectives on contemporary urban transformation, contributing to deeper academic and professional discourse on sustainable habitats and resilient cities.
 

Delivering the Presidential Address, Dr. Abhay Purohit, President, Council of Architecture, emphasised the urgent need to integrate sustainability into architectural education and professional practice. He called for future architects and institutions to prioritise ecological responsibility, climate adaptation, and socially responsive design as central pillars of the profession.
 

The conference was also graced by Ar. Jayashree Deshpande, Director, COA–TRC, Pune, who highlighted the importance of research-driven architectural education in addressing complex environmental and societal challenges. As Convenor of SHAPE 2026, she outlined the conference’s academic vision and its alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). R. K. Oberoi, Registrar, Council of Architecture, was also present.
 

Highlighting the university’s commitment to sustainability and global academic engagement, Dr. Madhu Chitkara, Pro-Chancellor, Chitkara University, said, “At Chitkara University, we believe that sustainable habitats are not merely architectural outcomes but collective commitments to future generations. Hosting SHAPE 2026 reflects our commitment to advancing sustainable architectural education, fostering international academic collaboration, and enabling design innovation that serves both people and the planet.”
 

The conference hosted research paper presentations across five thematic tracks, with participation from 41 universities and academic institutions, strengthening interdisciplinary research and knowledge exchange in sustainable architecture and urban design. Best Paper Awards were presented in each thematic category, along with Certificates of Excellence recognising pre-conference academic contributions.
 

Held under the aegis of the Council of Architecture and hosted at Chitkara University’s Punjab campus, SHAPE 2026 concluded as a landmark international architecture conference in India, advancing dialogue on sustainable habitats, climate-responsive design, and the future of architectural education. The conference reaffirmed Chitkara University’s role as a global academic platform supporting research, innovation, and collaborative solutions for sustainable built environments.
 

About Chitkara University

Chitkara University is a UGC-recognised and NAAC-accredited private university in North India, with campuses in Punjab and Himachal Pradesh, offering career-oriented undergraduate and postgraduate programs in Engineering, Business, Healthcare, Pharmacy, Design, Architecture, Hospitality, and emerging technology fields. For students planning higher education, the University provides industry-aligned programs designed to combine academic excellence with practical exposure.
 

The curriculum emphasises experiential learning through internships, industry projects, research opportunities, and global collaborations, supported by modern infrastructure, advanced laboratories, industry mentorship, and skill-based training that strengthens student employability. Backed by 2,000+ campus recruiters and 300+ international academic and industry collaborations, students gain strong placement support, international exposure, academic exchange, and collaborative research opportunities.
 

Consistently ranked among leading institutions by national and global frameworks such as NIRF, QS World University Rankings, and Times Higher Education, the University maintains high academic rigour and industry relevance. With strong corporate partnerships and a focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and interdisciplinary learning, it prepares students for emerging career opportunities in India and abroad.
 

For more information visit www.chitkara.edu.in.

JK Cement Ltd., one of India’s leading cement manufacturers, today marked a significant milestone with the Bhavya Lokarpan of its state-of-the-art Grey Cement Grinding Unit in Buxar, Bihar. The facility was inaugurated by Shri Samrat Choudhary, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Bihar under the guidance of Shri Nitish Kumar, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Bihar and in the august presence of Dr. Dilip Kumar Jaiswal, Hon’ble Minister of Industries & Road Construction, Bihar and Dr. Nidhipati Singhania, Vice Chairman, JK Cement.
 

JK Cement facility inaugurated by Shri Samrat Choudhary, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Bihar and other key dignitaries 

The inauguration of the Buxar plant reflects JK Cement’s continued commitment to strengthening regional manufacturing capabilities and supporting Bihar’s growing infrastructure ambitions. Strategically located on the Patna–Buxar highway, the facility spans 100 acres and has a production capacity of 3 MTPA, enabling efficient and timely access to high-quality cement across Bihar and neighbouring regions.

On the occasion, Shri Samrat Choudhary, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Bihar said, “The inauguration of JK Cement’s Buxar plant is an important milestone for Bihar’s development. Such industrial investments create employment opportunities for local people and support the state’s infrastructure growth. I congratulate JK Cement for its vision and commitment to Bihar. Together, industry and the government can play a meaningful role in strengthening the state’s progress.”

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Raghavpat Singhania, Managing Director, JK Cement, said, “The inauguration of our Buxar plant is a proud moment for JK Cement and a meaningful step towards supporting Bihar’s infrastructure and industrial growth. We are honoured that the Bhavya Lokarpan of this facility has been carried out by the Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Bihar, Shri Samrat Choudhary. This facility reflects our long-term commitment to being a trusted partner in the state’s development journey. We are confident that the Buxar unit will play an important role in enabling the next phase of growth for both Bihar and JK Cement.”
 

JK Cement’s Buxar Plant Inaugurated in a Bhavya Lokarpan Ceremony
 

The Buxar unit is expected to enhance cement availability for infrastructure, housing, and commercial projects while also contributing to local economic development through direct and indirect employment generation and by fostering ancillary industries in the region. JK Cement had previously entered the Bihar market through supplies from its Prayagraj facility. With the commissioning of the Buxar plant, the company will now be able to serve the state through localized manufacturing, enabling faster delivery timelines and improved service responsiveness.

Sharing his views, Mr. Madhavkrishna Singhania, Joint Managing Director & CEO, JK Cement, added, “Bihar is a high-potential market with strong infrastructure momentum, and the Buxar facility brings us closer to the evolving needs of the region. Local manufacturing will allow us to serve customers more effectively while supporting infrastructure projects that are critical to the state’s development. We see this as a long-term investment in Bihar’s progress and a step towards creating sustainable value for the communities we operate in.”

Developed with an investment of approximately Rs. 500 crore, the project commenced construction in March 2025 and represents a significant step towards strengthening the industrial ecosystem in Bihar.

About JK Cement Ltd.

JK Cement Ltd. is among India’s top manufacturers of Grey and White Cement, and home-building solutions globally. For over five decades, JKCement has contributed to India’s infrastructure through product quality, customer focus, and technology leadership, beginning with its flagship grey cement unit in Nimbahera, Rajasthan, in May 1975. 

The Company’s Grey Cement capacity is 31.26 MTPA, making it a leading manufacturer with a strong presence across 15 states, especially in Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh. With a total White Cement and Wall Putty Capacity of 3.05 MTPA, JK White Cement is sold in 36 countries around the globe. 

The Company has a strong international presence with two subsidiaries, JK Cement Works Fujairah FZC and JK White Cement (Africa) Ltd. In 2023, JKCement launched JKMaxx Paints, offering wall, wood, and metal finishes. In the same year, JKCement expanded into construction chemicals with JK Profix, a waterproofing line, and also entered the Ready-Mix Concrete segment with JK Super Concrete, serving Delhi NCR and set for nationwide growth.

For more information, please visit JK Cement: www.jkcement.com.

The IESA Technovation Awards, the most prestigious recognition in India’s Electronics System Design & Manufacturing (ESDM) and semiconductor industry, once again took centre stage at the IESA Vision Summit 2026 at The Leela Bhartiya City Convention Centre, Bengaluru on 25^th – 26^th February, 2026. Bringing together the brightest minds from industry, government, Start Up’s and academia, the two-day summit — themed “Design to Manufacturing: Synergy of Product, Production and Skill” — signalled a decisive shift in India’s ambition to becoming a Product Nation.
 

Technovation Awards 2026 at the IESA Vision Summit celebrated innovation across Start-Ups, MSME, Enterprise, and Skilling categories
 

Congratulating to this year’s Technovation Award winners for their exceptional contributions to strengthening India’s semiconductor and electronics ecosystem, Mr. Ashok Chandak, President, IESA said, “The winners achievements represent the innovation depth, entrepreneurial spirit, and execution excellence that are shaping India’s technology future. By spotlighting excellence across the semiconductor and ESDM value chain, these awards continue to set new benchmarks for technology leadership and ecosystem impact in India.”
 

“Over the years, the Technovation Awards have evolved in step with the rapid transformation of India’s electronics and semiconductor landscape. The categories now span Startups, MSMEs, Enterprise & Services, Techno-Visionary Leaders, and Skilling & Academia — reflecting the full spectrum of innovation, manufacturing strength, global delivery capability, and talent development that defines our ecosystem,” he added.
 

The 2026 edition of the awards was supported by Applied Materials and Infineon which underscored strong industry backing for innovation and ecosystem development.
 

At the IESA Vision Summit 2026, the prestigious Technovation Awards recognised outstanding leaders and innovators :

• Dr. Sarabhai Award presented to Mr. B. V. Naidu, Chairman, Karnataka Digital Economy Mission (KDEM), in recognition of his distinguished contributions spanning over three decades to the advancement of innovation, skill development, policy formulation, and industry growth — and his instrumental role in building a robust ESDM ecosystem that has firmly established Brand India on the global stage.

• Distinguished category the TechnoVisionary Awards, honoured Shri Amitesh Kumar Sinha, CEO, India Semiconductor Mission and Additional Secretary MeitY (TechnoVisionary – Public Service); Mr. Swapnil Jain, Co-Founder, Ather Energy (TechnoVisionary – Industry); and Dr. Debabrata Das, Director, IIIT Bangalore (Techno Mentor).

• Technovation Awards, chosen through nominations and evaluated by a jury panel recognised Mr. Rajesh N. Gupta, CEO, MOSart Semiconductors (Start-up – Electronics); Mr. Dipanjan Gope, CEO, SimYog Technology (Start-up – Semiconductor); Mr. Sairanjan Mishra, CEO, H2LOOP AI Pvt. Ltd. (Start-up – IP); Mr. Ashutosh Shrikant Bhabhe, Director & CEO, IN14Silicon Solutions (Start-up – Services); Mr. Basavaraj Nagaraju, CEO, RV-SKILLS Center for Emerging Technologies (Skilling – Finishing School); Prof. Sanket Goel, Birla Chair Professor & Head, CREST, BITS Pilani (Skilling – University); Mr. Abhra Bagchi, CMO, FermionIC Design Pvt. Ltd. (MSME/SME – Semiconductor Products & IP Development); Mr. Taninder Sijher, VP Engineering, Sandisk India Device Design Centre (Enterprise – Multinational); and Dr. G. Sivakumar, Senior Principal Scientist, CSIR-NAL (Enterprise – India);
   

“As the country’s semiconductor market is projected to exceed $100 billion by 2030, the Technovation Awards play a critical role in recognising those translating policy vision into a tangible industry impact. We are so much prouder in celebrating innovation, design excellence, ecosystem leadership, and talent development, the awards reinforce India’s journey toward becoming a globally competitive semiconductor and electronics powerhouse,” Mr. Ashok Chandak further added.
 

Instituted in 2008 by the India Electronics and Semiconductor Association, the awards have grown into one of the most respected honours celebrating excellence, innovation, and transformative contributions across India’s semiconductor and electronics ecosystem.
 

About IESA
IESA is India’s premier industry body for ESDM & Intelligent Electronics. Our main objective is to establish India as a leading global hub for electronics manufacturing and design. We work with government ministries, industry players, and academic institutions to facilitate the comprehensive implementation of the Program for Development of Semiconductor and Display Ecosystem. Our team of renowned experts in semiconductor and display technologies is committed to promoting technology solutions that positively impact the lives of 1.3 billion Indians.
 

For more information, visit: www.iesaonline.org | www.iesa-visionsummit.com.

In a grand celebration attended by Delhi’s elite, leading fashion connoisseurs, and members of the city’s luxury community, the much-anticipated premium leather footwear brand, The Italian Shoes Co., officially unveiled its brand new store in South Extension II, New Delhi, marking a significant milestone in its strategic expansion into the Indian luxury retail market.
 

Commanding presence, Suave Energy, Refined Style, Pushpit, Varun and Gaurav
 

Rooted in a rich Italian heritage, the brand is globally recognised for its handcrafted premium leather and meticulous craftsmanship. More than just a footwear label, The Italian Shoes Company represents a complete luxury leather experience under one roof. Showcasing premium leather of the highest quality across categories, the brand brings together Italian craftsmanship, refined European design sensibilities, and precision manufacturing crafted in India.

From impeccably designed men’s and women’s footwear to bags, wallets, belts, trolleys, and luxury accessories, the collection showcases an exceptional range of footwear and accessories that blend timeless European elegance with contemporary sophistication, With over 7,000+ exclusive designs across categories, every creation reflects a deep commitment to detail, from precision stitching and expertly engineered sole construction to refined finishing techniques. ensuring each piece stands as a testament to class, durability, comfort, and style.

Talking about the brand, Mohit Sharma, Co-Founder and well known Indian cricketer, said, “Excellence has always been close to my heart, whether on the field or in business. With The Italian Shoes Company, our vision is to bring world-class Italian craftsmanship and uncompromising quality to India. India has not witnessed this level of comprehensive luxury leather craftsmanship under a single roof before. The Italian Shoes Company is here to set a new benchmark, delivering global standards of premiumness, class, and design sophistication to India’s luxury market.”

Having established a strong online presence, the brand has garnered a loyal global following and is a celebrity-favourite, worn by notable personalities across fashion and entertainment circles. With its entry into the retail space, the label aims to bring authentic European luxury closer to discerning Indian consumers.

The Delhi launch signals the beginning of an ambitious growth journey in India. Following the successful launches in Mohali and now New Delhi, the brand is set to open additional stores in Gurugram and Amritsar next month, further strengthening its footprint across North India.

Sharing his vision for the Indian market, Co-Founder Gaurav Bhatia stated, “We are thrilled to bring this rich Italian legacy to India. With plans to open 8 stores in 2026 and expand to 40 stores by 2027, this expansion is a testament to our confidence in India’s rapidly growing luxury market. Our vision is to elevate India’s luxury footwear experience with craftsmanship that stands the test of time.”

Located in the heart of South Extension II, the new store offers an immersive retail experience that reflects the brand’s European aesthetic- elegant, refined, and unmistakably premium. The launch evening was marked by style, sophistication, and a strong statement of intent: redefining luxury leather goods for the Indian market.

With its uncompromising dedication to quality, design, innovation and heritage, the brand is poised to redefine India’s luxury leather footwear & accessories segment.

Over 1200 alumni of NITK Surathkal, who are in leadership roles at global companies, startups and investment communities gathered at the 5th edition of NITKonnect’26 organised by the Institute’s Alumni Association. The event included keynotes from industry leaders, and 37 CXO panels with over 110 speakers on a variety of topics. The “Inspiring Founders’ Panel” showcased 60+ startups and discussions about innovations, AI, and scaling for the world. An MOU was signed between NITK Suarthkal, Bhive (leading Coworking Space Provider) and NITK Alumni Association to provide free co-working space for aspiring student entrepreneurs of the institute. Vision 2035 of NITK Alumni Association was unveiled by Director Prof B Ravi and Prof Prasanna Belur Dean Alumni & Corporate Relations. The event concluded with NITK Awards celebrating excellence and innovation by alumni.

(L-R) Niranjan Mahabalappa, President of NITK Surathkal Alumni Association, Prof. Ravi B, Director of NITK Surathkal and Prof Prasanna Belur, Dean Alumni & Corporate Relations

Over 350 founders, 200 C-level executives, 100 angel investors and 60 startups, made this meet one of the largest innovation events hosted by a global alumni network in India. The summit exhibited the caliber, reach, and entrepreneurial power of NITK alumni across industry, globally.

Prof. Ravi B, Director of NITK Surathkal, said, “We are proud of NITK alumni who have set high standards for professionalism and success in a variety of fields ranging from manufacturing and sports to defense and public service. Their stories are inspiring and their experiences are valuable for the next generation. I am sure every alumnus will directly or indirectly contribute to building the future of Bharat.”

Shri Niranjan Mahabalappa, Global President of NITK Alumni Association said, “NITKonnect’26 is a strategic business aggregation of alumni – a mechanism through which founders, investors, technologists, and business leaders, who have shared values, come together to help provide direction for the next phase of growth of India.”

The day-long event featured keynotes by Ajay Prabhu, Vice Chairman Quest Global and Saumya Swain, Chairman of RT Energy. Under the banner of “Innovate in Bharat, Scale for the World,” the summit explored India’s transformation into a global powerhouse across AI sovereignty, clean energy, and self-reliant space tech. From the “EV Pivot” and FinTech 2030 to the evolution of the “Factory of the Future,” the sessions dissected how capital and conviction are driving India from a plus-one to the one. By bridging the gap between enterprise SaaS, digital infrastructure, and the new consumer playbook, the event will define the next decade of growth, culminating in a Founders’ Panel on scaling with integrity and redefining the future of work.

About NITK
National Institute of Technology Karnataka (NITK), Surathkal is one of India’s premier engineering institutions, established in 1960 and recognized as an Institute of National Importance. Known for its strong academic rigor, cutting-edge research, and industry-linked innovation, NITK offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs across engineering, science, and management disciplines. The institute is renowned for its high-quality faculty, state- of-the-art laboratories, vibrant research culture, and global collaborations. With a coastal campus located along the Arabian Sea, NITK consistently ranks among India’s top engineering institutions and is a key contributor to technological advancement, social impact initiatives, and Nation-building.

About NITKonnect
NITK Surathkal Alumni Association is a global network of 45,000 alumni. NITKonnect is its largest annual alumni summit attracting over 1200+ entrepreneurs, professionals, investors, operators and enablers under one roof to connect, synergise and co-create the next wave of impactful enterprises.

For decades, Bengaluru’s real estate story has been dominated by the idea of spectacle. Luxury meant tall glass towers, sprawling clubhouses, and long lists of amenities that often looked better in brochures than they worked in real life. Homes were marketed as lifestyle statements, not living environments.
 

Ventara by Amberstone: An 8-acre, scientifically designed community off Sarjapur Road featuring 11ft ceilings and abundant open space. (Photo: Courtesy of Amberstone)
 

But in recent years, something has shifted. The pandemic years sharpened people’s sense of what really matters inside the four walls they inhabit. Suddenly, natural light, ventilation, and green surroundings felt less like “extras” and more like essentials. As the city expands eastward toward Sarjapur and Whitefield, or northward toward the airport corridor, buyers are asking harder questions: Does this home support my health? Does it give me flexibility as my life changes? Does it belong to a community, not just a complex?
 

The Changing Priorities of Buyers

Research confirms this recalibration. JLL’s 2021 Homebuyer Preference Survey found that while proximity to schools and workplaces remains important, buyers are now placing equal or greater emphasis on healthcare access and green spaces. It’s not just about convenience anymore; it’s about resilience and well-being.
 

Other studies echo the same theme. A global review of residential design showed that both professionals and residents rated natural light and ventilation as the top contributors to comfort – ahead of entertainment spaces or luxury add-ons. In India’s urban metros, sustainability, wellness, and energy efficiency have moved from being “nice to haves” to genuine differentiators. A Colliers-KPMG analysis highlighted how environmental consciousness now drives buying decisions even at the premium and luxury levels, a finding reinforced by recent reports that high-net-worth individuals increasingly prefer sustainable, wellness-led homes over sheer showmanship.
 

From Spectacle to Substance

This shift is reshaping how developers approach design. The older model-stacking hundreds of apartments with shared walls and identical layouts, feels out of step with what today’s aspirational families, senior couples, and young professionals are seeking.
 

The new model emphasizes space, flexibility, and community. Buyers are less impressed by rooftop infinity pools they’ll rarely use; they’re looking for homes that allow them to work remotely, raise children, host parents, or simply step outside without feeling hemmed in.
 

Amberstone integrates modern lifestyle luxuries-swimming pools, a clubhouse, fitness facilities, and more, yet these are not the sole markers of value. What sets the community apart is how these amenities coexist with expansive layouts, low-density planning, and abundant green cover. In other words, spectacle and substance are not in competition here; they are designed to complement one another.
 

The Case of Ventara

Take Ventara, Amberstone’s upcoming residential community off Sarjapur Road. Spread across eight acres, it does not try to overwhelm with vertical scale. Instead, it introduces a low-density plan where apartments feel closer to villas in proportion. Each home is built with 11-foot ceilings-a small design decision with a big impact on daylight, airflow, and the perception of openness.
 

The development also resists the temptation of building amenities for show. Its 60+ features are rooted in actual living needs: coworking lounges for hybrid workers, cricket pitches and play areas for children, jogging and cycling tracks for fitness, a temple for quiet reflection, and even a pet park for families with four-legged members. In an era where many urban residents complain about “vertical anonymity,” Ventara seeks to recreate the fabric of a neighborhood-where recreation, wellness, and community interaction overlap.
 

Why This Matters Now

Bengaluru’s homebuyers are increasingly multi-generational. Millennials are purchasing not just for themselves but with parents in mind. Senior couples want low-maintenance but not isolating homes. Single professionals want investment stability with flexibility to rent. For all of them, a balance of privacy, wellness, and connectivity has become the real measure of value.
 

Developments like Ventara demonstrate that luxury in 2026 is less about being the tallest or flashiest, and more about being attuned to life as it is actually lived. As real estate becomes an investment not only of money but of health and future security, such design philosophies are likely to define the next decade of urban housing.
 

Looking Ahead

The trajectory is clear. As environmental concerns, hybrid working, and wellness continue to reshape lifestyle choices, homebuyers will gravitate toward communities that provide breathing space, both literally and figuratively. Bengaluru, long known for its tech-driven growth, is also emerging as a laboratory for this new model of residential design.
 

Amberstone, with its focus on sustainable density, meaningful amenities, and design that respects human scale, positions itself as part of that evolution. In a market still crowded with glossy towers, it offers a reminder: the best homes are not those that shine the brightest, but those that breathe, belong, and endure.

The India Electronics and Semiconductor Association (IESA), in a landmark collaboration with GlobalFoundries (GF) India, one of the world’s largest feature-rich semiconductor foundries, NXP Semiconductors, a global leader in secure connectivity solutions, and the Inter Institutional Inclusive Innovations Center (i4C) as Hackathon event partner, today announced the winners of the highly anticipated DeepTech Hackathon Grand Finale at the prestigious IESA Vision Summit 2026.

Chennai Institute of Technology’s ALL-GIRLS  team wins at DeepTech Hackathon, takes home Rs. 1,00,000

A Platform Built for the Next Generation of Innovators

India has earned global recognition for its deep semiconductor design talent. As the nation now accelerates toward chip manufacturing, the imperative is clear — India must expand its capabilities across the entire semiconductor value chain to build a truly self-reliant ecosystem.

The IESA Vision Summit 2026 concluded with the DeepTech Hackathon Grand Finale, spotlighting cutting-edge semiconductor talent and Edge AI innovation

The ‘DeepTech Hackathon’ was conceived as a high-impact platform to catalyse this transition — identifying, nurturing, and fast-tracking breakthrough innovations and cultivating a future-ready talent pipeline in India. Bringing together some of India’s brightest engineering minds, the hackathon challenged participants to develop cutting-edge solutions leveraging AI-enabled EDA workflows for “Edge AI based Defect Classification System for Semiconductor Images”, reinforcing India’s readiness for design-led manufacturing and deep-tech leadership.  

The competition drew exceptional engagement from the country’s engineering community, attracting 911 teams across 359 colleges — culminating in 532 high-quality idea submissions that underwent a rigorous, multi-stage evaluation process. The Grand Finale, held at the IESA Vision Summit 2026 — the most influential gathering of India’s electronics and semiconductor leadership — brought together 10 finalist teams who had successfully navigated rigorous qualification rounds, mentorship sessions, and technical evaluations conducted in collaboration with industry experts from GlobalFoundries and NXP Semiconductors.

Commenting on the Mega Finale, Mr. Ashok Chandak, President, IESA and SEMI India, said, “India’s semiconductor ecosystem is at a decisive inflection point. While the India Semiconductor Mission is unlocking unprecedented investments, the true multiplier lies in talent and deep-tech innovation. This Hackathon showcases the depth of India’s semiconductor capability and the power of young engineers to solve complex challenges.”

“The momentum in AI and semiconductors is inseparable. As we build next-generation chips, we must also build responsible, human-centric AI systems aligned with the Prime Minister’s vision of MANAV — ethical, inclusive, and globally competitive. Today’s winners are not just award recipients; they represent the new face of India’s design and technology leadership. We congratulate them and thank our partners who are nurturing this innovation ecosystem that will power India’s next wave of startups, IP creation, and global impact.” Chandak added.

“GF is committed to building differentiated solutions for the semiconductor industry and our customers. Our leading foundry presence in India enables us to contribute towards building a strong tech ecosystem with our industry partners and educational institutes. The hackathon at the IESA Vision summit is a perfect platform for young talent to nurture industry-ready skills while solving real world problems using semiconductor chip design, manufacturing and AI techniques. It is inspiring to see the critical thinking, curiosity and depth of technical knowledge demonstrated by the students. I look forward to welcoming this talent to the growing semiconductor ecosystem in India and GF in particular in the coming years,” said, Jitendra Chaddah (JC), Vice President and India Country Head, GlobalFoundries.

Hitesh Garg, Vice President and India Managing Director, NXP Semiconductors added, “The DeepTech Hackathon comes at a pivotal moment as India accelerates its semiconductor and AI ambitions. This initiative reflects the kind of industry–academia collaboration that is essential to building India’s next wave of deep‑tech and manufacturing innovation. What stands out in this challenge—bringing together defect detection, Edge AI, and real fab‑level problem‑solving—is how closely it mirrors the demands of modern intelligent manufacturing. At NXP, we are proud to support platforms that strengthen India’s semiconductor and AI capabilities, especially as the industry faces a growing need for system design engineers who can integrate hardware, software, and AI into scalable, real‑world solutions. The ingenuity and technical depth demonstrated by these young engineers reaffirm that India is not just participating in the global shift toward advanced AI‑driven systems, but is strongly positioned to lead it.”

The Winners

Each winning team demonstrated exceptional command of AI enabled semiconductor design principles, systems thinking, and solution viability. A distinguished panel of jury shortlisted the top three winners at the Mega Finale — with the top spot claimed by an all-girls team from Chennai Institute of Technology.

Winning team – Chennai Institute of Technology, honored with prize money of Rs. 1,00,000

1st Runner-Up- Ramco Institute of Technology, honored with prize money of Rs. 60,000

2nd Runner-Up- IIT Indore, honored with prize money of Rs. 40,000. 

Manipal Tata Medical College (MTMC), Jamshedpur, a premier constituent unit of the Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), was privileged to host the Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, at its campus recently. The Presidential visit underscores a pivotal moment for the advancement of medical education and healthcare infrastructure within the state of Jharkhand.
 

Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu at Manipal Tata Medical College (MTMC), Jamshedpur, a premier constituent unit of the Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE)
 

The Hon’ble President was received with a warm welcome by dignitaries including:

• Shri Santosh Kumar Gangwar, Hon’ble Governor of Jharkhand

• Shri Irfan Ansari, Hon’ble Minister, Ministry of Health, Medical Education and Family Welfare, Jharkhand

• Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M.D. Venkatesh, VSM (Retd.), Vice Chancellor, MAHE

• Shri Somnath Das, Group President, Manipal Education & Medical Group (MEMG)

• Shri D.B. Sundara Ramam, Vice President, Corporate Services, Tata Steel Ltd.
   

The visit commenced with the Hon’ble President group photographs with the Faculty, Management and Students, followed by MIYAZAKI MANGO sapling plantation.
 

In his welcome address at T.M.A Pai Hall, the Vice Chancellor referred to the significant policy change by Government of India in 2019 which led to the establishment of first ever Private Private Consortium model medical college named Manipal Tata Medical College (MTMC). Tata Steel Ltd. has provided its Tata Main Hospital as teaching Hospital. The first batch of 150 MBBS students commenced from the academic year 2020-21 which is now due to pass out in March 2026. Referring to MAHE’s legacy, the VC mentioned specifically on the role of Dr. Ramdas M. Pai, Chancellor, MAHE & Dr. Ranjan Pai, President MAHE Trust. He highlighted about Manipal’s role in medical health care system by establishing first Private Medical College in 1953 followed by first Public Private Medical college in Sikkim.
 

The VC concluded with thanking the Hon’ble President on behalf of entire MAHE family for having spared her valuable time to be present with us today. 
 

During the interaction with the students, Smt. Purnima Hembram (2^nd year student) expressed her strong resolve to complete her studies notwithstanding the fact that she is married with three children and a family to support. She belongs to a village in Jharkhand but her parents and family continuously encouraged her to complete her studies and become a doctor to enable her to work in the rural areas for the health care of the downtrodden.
 

The Hon’ble President expressed her admiration for all the students and highlighted the resolve of Smt. Purnima and appealed to the MTMC and its entire student community to adopt Purnima’s resolve as a role model. Hon’ble President lauded the legacy of Manipal Group which led to MTMC formation which has earned its reputation in the region in just six years. She specifically expressed the fact that she felt completely at home while being in the MTMC Campus.

• The new app from Thinking Hats Tech Solutions Pvt Ltd integrates AI-driven analysis, budgeting tools, and financial goal tracking into one secure digital ecosystem-

Chennai-based two-year old startup Fintastics is rapidly gaining traction in India’s personal finance tech space, tapping into the country’s rising demand for smarter digital money management solutions. At a time when financial discipline is becoming central to personal growth and long-term stability, the startup is positioning its platform as a financial life-changing innovation, a next-generation expense manager and budgeting app designed to help individuals and families seamlessly track income, control spending, and cultivate sustainable savings habits in an increasingly digital economy.

Fintastics 

Developed by Thinking Hats Tech Solutions Pvt Ltd, Fintastics integrates expense tracking, goal-based savings, AI-driven insights, and secure transaction monitoring into one unified platform, aiming to make financial clarity accessible to India’s digital-first generation.

According to Mouli Shankar, Founder of Thinking Hats Tech Solutions Pvt. Ltd., “Our mission is to transform the way people manage money. We believe financial clarity leads to financial confidence and that confidence changes lives. We envision Fintastics as a catalyst for stronger financial awareness, responsible money management and lasting abundance through transparent guidance, consistent and long-term support, across Indian households. Designed for the digital generation, the app offers a clean and intuitive interface that makes tracking income, expenses, and savings effortless for students, professionals, and families alike. With secure SMS-based transaction detection (enabled only with user permission) and strong security and encryption standards, we ensure both convenience and complete data protection. By helping individuals build disciplined money habits, reduce unnecessary expenses, and achieve long-term financial stability, we aim to contribute to a financially stronger India.”

“Currently available for Android and iOS users, Fintastics will continue to evolve with regular updates and AI-driven enhancements in the future.” he added.

Fintastics goes far beyond traditional expense tracking apps by offering a complete financial ecosystem tailored for modern lifestyles. The Features of the app include:

• AI Insights (Finney AI) – Personalized spending analysis and smart suggestions

• Smart Expense Tracking – Instantly record daily income and expenses

• Simple & Custom Budgets – Plan monthly or category-wise budgets

• Passbook View – Track all accounts in one unified dashboard

• Financial Goals – Set, monitor, and achieve savings targets

• Due & EMI Reminders – Never miss important payments

• Advanced Financial Reports – Clear analytics for better decisions

• Family Sharing Model – Transparent household budget monitoring

• Rewards & Achievements – Recognition for disciplined financial habits

Fintastics Introducing a New Business Model

Finbudy – The Face of Fintastics:
A nationwide network of district ambassadors promoting Fintastics services and financial awareness. Strengthening local presence and improving service reach across India.

www.earn100save10.club (Build Disciplined Financial Habits & Awareness)
A community-driven savings initiative focused on creating disciplined financial habits and encouraging consistent saving. Encouraging collective growth and long-term financial security.

Upcoming Innovations

Fintastics continues to evolve with powerful upcoming features designed to elevate personal financial management. According to Thinking Hats Tech Solutions Pvt Ltd, the next phase of innovation will introduce smarter collaboration and predictive intelligence for users.

Split Sharing – Easily split and track shared expenses among friends, roommates, or groups with clarity and transparency.

Advanced Family Sharing – Enhanced multi-member access with improved visibility for household financial monitoring.

Fin Astro – A unique projection model that analyses three months of financial data to forecast trends, spending patterns, and potential savings opportunities.

These upcoming enhancements are designed to deliver predictive financial intelligence and collaborative money management that will empower users with deeper insights and smarter control over their financial future.

Privacy-First & Secure by Design

Fintastics follows strict privacy and encryption standards to protect user data.

Disclaimer:
Fintastics does not connect to real-time banking systems and does not request or store users’ banking usernames or passwords. All financial data entered remains under the user’s control, ensuring complete transparency and security.

For Further information, please visit fintastics.ai or call +91 8892783333

At Thinking Hats Tech Solutions Pvt Ltd

The India Electronics & Semiconductor Association (IESA), the nation’s premier industry body for the Electronics System Design and Manufacturing (ESDM) sector, today inaugurated the IESA Vision Summit 2026 at The Leela Bhartiya City Convention Centre, Bengaluru on 25^th February, 2026. Bringing together the brightest minds from industry, government, and academia, the two-day summit — themed “Design to Manufacturing: Synergy of Product, Production and Skill” — signalled a decisive shift in India’s ambition to becoming a Product Nation.

Shaping the future – IESA President Mr. Ashok Chandak (extreme left) inaugurates IESA Vision Summit 2026 alongside esteemed government dignitaries and industry leaders

The inauguration ceremony was addressed by a distinguished assembly of government leaders, industry luminaries, and stalwarts including Shri. Amitesh Kumar Sinha, (CEO, India Semiconductor Mission and Additional Secretary MeitY), Shri. Manish Chadha (JS, Ministry of Commerce & Industry, GoI), Dr. M M Tripathi (DG-NIELIT), Shri. Rahul Sharanappa, (IAS, Director, Deptt of ITBT, GoK), His Excellency, Ewout de Wit, Consul General, Embassy of Netherlands, Ajit Manocha, President, SEMI, Gilroy Mathew (CEO, UST), Mr Ashok Chandak, President, IESA, Ruchir Dixit, IESA Chairperson, VP & Country Manager Siemens EDA, Prof Tummala Rao, IDSPS and Emiretus Prof Georgia Tech, Advisor ISM.

A Theme That Defines a Movement

The 2026 edition’s theme — Design to Manufacturing: Synergy of Product, Production and Skill — captures what industry leaders describe as the most critical challenge and opportunity facing India’s electronics sector today: bridging the gap between world-class chip and product design capabilities and scalable, high-quality domestic manufacturing.

“India has already demonstrated global leadership in semiconductor design. The next step is clear — we must complete the value chain. We must Create, build, and manufacture world-class products at scale, with uncompromising quality and a deeply skilled workforce to sustain that growth.

India has the engineering talent to power the world. What we now need is the resolve to innovate boldly, the discipline to manufacture competitively, and the foresight to skill our people continuously — not just for India, but for the global technology ecosystem,” said Mr. Ashok Chandak, President, IESA, in his inaugural address.

“The IESA Vision Summit has, over the years, grown into far more than a conference — it has become a “national convergence platform” where ideas, partnerships, policy, innovation, and execution come together to drive real impact. This summit brings together “industry leaders, government policymakers, global investors, start-up innovators, academia, and ecosystem partners” — all united by a shared purpose: “to transform India into a global hub for semiconductor design, manufacturing, and innovation”, commented Mr. Ruchir Dixit, Chairperson IESA.

“India’s electronics manufacturing has grown sixfold in eleven years — a foundation built on policy conviction, industry trust, and global partnership. As we advance into the next phase of our semiconductor mission, we do so with a long-term resolve. India is working on designing various AI applications. Under NSM, Ministry of Electronics and IT is working on design and development of infrastructure that is required for AI. In ISM 2.0, support for design, Manufacturing and packaging will continue and will further expand for semiconductor ecosystem development. Research and Development (R&D) in cutting edge technologies and skilling will also be the key focus areas. India Semiconductor Mission is not only a government initiative, this is a journey of all stakeholders with a resolve to build a resilient, trusted, and future-ready supply chain that brings stability not just to one nation, but to the world,” said Shri. Amitesh Kumar Sinha, CEO & Additional Secretary, ISM, MeitY addressing the summit.  

“Back when I stood up at San Francisco and predicted a $1 trillion semiconductor industry by 2030, I wasn’t thinking big enough. We’re already at $1 trillion — not by 2030, but as of today if we take in account the chips being designed and manufactured in-house by hyperscalers and major system companies-the industry has already crossed that threshold. So today, I’m putting a new stake in the ground: $2 trillion by 2035. That’s not a hope. That’s a strategic projection grounded in where this industry is heading — driven by AI, advanced packaging, and the insatiable demand for compute at every layer of the technology stack. We’ve surprised ourselves before. We’ll do it again. Prime Minister Modi invoked Moore’s Law at one of our SEMICONs, calling for India’s semiconductor industry likewise to grow exponentially now that the stars are aligned. The government has done its part. Now it’s up to the people of India to step up,” said Mr. Ajit Manocha, CEO and President, SEMI at the inauguration.

“The vision of sand-to-silicon ecosystems reflects India’s focus on building an integrated semiconductor ecosystem. We already have strong global leadership in chip design, with several global semiconductor companies operating design centers in India, contributing significantly to global chip design talent and innovation. Global trends indicate that the semiconductor value chains are becoming increasingly diversified and resilience-oriented. Nations are seeking trusted partners for manufacturing, design, packaging, and components. Through the strategic trade agreements, market access negotiations and export promotion frameworks, we are expanding opportunities for India’s electronics and semiconductor industry in the global markets. Our objective is not just participation, but leadership in targeted segments of the global electronics trade ecosystem,” said Shri. Manish Chadha, Joint Secretary Ministry of Commerce and Industry at his inaugural address.

“Karnataka isn’t just participating in India’s electronics revolution — we’re leading it. From being the first TCC in the ESDM space in 1985, to contributing 46% of national electronics sales, hosting 500+ R&D centers, 100+ chip design centers, and global giants – our story is one of pioneering leadership. Our policies — from the Karnataka ESDM Policy to being the first state with a dedicated GCC Policy — reflect our unwavering commitment to growth. The IESA Vision Summit is the ideal platform to amplify this story to the world,” said, Shri Rahul Sharanappa Sankanur, IAS, Director, Dept. of E, IT and Bt, GoK; Managing Director, KITS

“The electronics and semiconductor sector is perhaps the clearest example of what coordinated national intent can truly achieve. In over three decades of my association with this industry, I have never witnessed such an extraordinary alignment of vision and execution — with multiple central ministries, including MeitY, the Ministry of Commerce, and the Department of Science & Technology, working in sync with nine proactive state governments and industries under harmonized electronics and semiconductor policies. At IESA, our responsibility is to ensure that industry, academia, and government move forward in formation — aligned in purpose, speed, and direction.

‘Design to Manufacturing’ is not merely a theme; it is a strategic national imperative. India is positioning itself to be a Product Nation, a Production Nation, and a Skills Nation. And this summit marks the moment we confidently declare that ambition to the world,” continued Mr. Ashok Chandak, President, IESA.

The most Impactful development at the IESA Vision Summit, the official formation of IDSPS (Indian Design, Semiconductors, Packaging and Systems) — was announced as a dedicated division under IESA, marking a significant milestone for India’s semiconductor R&D landscape. The division, formed with active participation from industries and Institutes will be led by Dr. Prof. Rao Tummala, appointed as CEO of the division and is envisioned to build a long-term R&D for manufacturing technology needs spanning 3, 5, and even 10 years ahead into the future — with ambitions that extend well beyond national boundaries to create global impact.

Other highlights:

One of the most significant highlights of this year’s summit included Grand Finale of the IESA DeepTech Hackathon 2026, a national competition (having 900+ registrations) that challenged India’s brightest engineering minds to build practical, industry-ready solutions in the country’s most strategically critical technology domains.

The summit also set the stage for one of the most anticipated traditions in India’s ESDM calendar — the IESA Technovation Awards 2026, the sector’s most prestigious recognition since their institution in 2008.

The Vision Summit 2026 set a landmark gathering by bringing together over 1,500 delegates alone on the 1^st day for a dynamic exchange of ideas and innovation. Featuring 30+ keynote addresses and 7 insightful panel discussions, the summit showcased 100+ booths. The vibrant Startup Zone and dedicated skilling workshops enlightened aspiring students from top engineering colleges. Along with a State Pavilion, Technovation Awards, Startup Mitra Sessions, Hackathon challenges and product launches the large-scale ecosystem exhibition offered unparalleled opportunities for networking, collaboration, and business development across the ESDM sector.

About IESA Vision Summit

The IESA Vision Summit is India’s foremost annual event for the Electronics System Design and Manufacturing sector, organized by the India Electronics & Semiconductor Association (IESA). Each year, the summit brings together thousands of industry leaders, policymakers, innovators, startups, and academics to shape the strategic direction of India’s ESDM ecosystem. The 2026 edition is being held on February 25–26, 2026, at The Leela Bhartiya City Convention Centre, Bengaluru.

About IESA

The India Electronics & Semiconductor Association (IESA) is India’s premier industry body for ESDM and Intelligent Electronics. Working at the intersection of government policy, industry, and academia, IESA’s mission is to establish India as a leading global hub for electronics manufacturing and design — and to harness the power of technology to positively impact the lives of over a billion Indians.

For more information, visit: www.iesaonline.org | www.iesa-visionsummit.com