The ET Now Global Business Summit (GBS) 2026 goes live today, bringing together some of the most influential voices in business and policy. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the summit, lending momentum to conversations taking place at a time when global economies face tightening financial conditions, technological disruption and geopolitical volatility.

The two-day summit will see participation from Union Ministers Chirag Paswan and Jyotiraditya Scindia, along with Chief Ministers Devendra Fadnavis and Nayab Singh Saini, who are expected to outline policy priorities spanning infrastructure, trade and industrial growth. H.E. Charles Michel, former Prime Minister of Belgium and former President of the European Council, will also address the summit, bringing a European geopolitical perspective to the discussions.

The summit will also feature Sir Martin Sorrell, Founder & Executive Chairman, S4 Capital; Renuka Jagtiani, Co-founder and Chairwoman of the Landmark Group; David Schwimmer, CEO of London Stock Exchange Group; Yann Le Pallec, President of S&P Global Ratings and Chairman of CRISIL; and Lim Ming Yan, Chairman of Changi Airport Group. A special address will also be delivered by H.M. Queen Rania Al Abdullah of Jordan.

Business and trade perspectives will be shared by H.E. Ambassador Lazar Comanescu, Secretary-General of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation Organization (BSEC); Anant Maheshwari, President and CEO (Global Regions), Honeywell; Akiko Okumura, Executive Vice President, Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO); Peyton Howell, CEO of Parexel; Mike Jatania, CEO of The Body Shop; and Kishore Moorjani, CEO, Alternatives and Private Funds, CapitaLand Investment.

Leading economists and policy thinkers such as Ann E. Harrison (former Dean, UC Berkeley Haas), Dr. Ajay Chhibber (former UN Assistant Secretary-General), Sergei Guriev (Dean, London Business School), Dr. Fabian Zuleeg (Chief Economist, European Policy Centre), Professor Klisman Murati, and Marianne Williamson will explore global economic trends and policy implications.

Innovation and emerging technologies will also feature prominently with speakers such as Mate Pencz (Founder & CEO, Loft), Ren Ito (Co-Founder & COO, Sakana AI), Pratik Gauri (Founder & CEO, 5ire), Ivana Bartoletti (VP, Global Chief Privacy & AI Governance Officer, Wipro), Deblina Sarkar (MIT professor and inventor), Dr. Jason Held (Founder & CEO, Saber Astronautics), and Neil Harbisson, the first legally recognised cyborg.

About ET Now Global Business Summit
The Times Group presents ET NOW Global Business Summit 2026 as a distinguished platform that has in the past hosted an illustrious array of personalities, both from India and around the world. This distinguished list includes luminaries such as Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the visionary Bill Gates from Microsoft, Brian Chesky of Airbnb, Arianna Huffington from Huffington Post Media Group, Dara Khosrowshahi, the leader of Uber, Reed Hastings representing Netflix, the innovative Steve Wozniak from Apple, renowned venture capitalist Guy Kawasaki, Anshula Kant from the World Bank Group, iconic actor Shah Rukh Khan, and the esteemed Economist and Nobel Laureate Paul Krugman, among other influential figures. The summit continues to be a nexus of unparalleled insights and global perspectives, bringing together the brightest minds to shape the future of business and innovation.

About ET Edge
ET Edge, an Initiative of The Times Group, is India’s largest conference and thought leadership company. Since its inception in 2015, ET Edge has been at the forefront of creating unique thought leadership initiatives with the objective to empower multiple sectors, industries, and segments by dispersing critical business knowledge through strategically developed specialised conferences and summits. ET Now Global Business Summit is among ET Edge’s flagship IPs, which strives to bring together visionaries and key global leaders through its enriched knowledge platforms to aid the symbiotic relationship between societies and businesses. Some of the other marque conference properties of ET Edge include (SDG) Sustainability Development Goals Summit, Supply Chain Summit, CX Summit, and Best Brands series.

• Three-day global conference bringing together diverse stakeholders

• All 17 UN SDGs to be addressed through panel discussions, keynote presentations, and masterclasses

• Expected participation of academicians, policymakers, NGO leaders, researchers, industry partners, and representatives from the Government 

Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University, is set to host the Manipal Global SDG Convergence – 2026 (MAGSCON-26), a landmark international conference dedicated to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The three-day event, scheduled from March 24-26, 2026, will be held at the Dr. TMA Pai Halls in Manipal.

A global platform for SDG-focused collaboration at MAGSCON-26

MAGSCON-26 aims to showcase and strengthen collective commitment to the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda by bringing together a diverse spectrum of global stakeholders. The conference is organised by the MAHE Quality Department and will feature academicians, policymakers, NGO leaders, community representatives, students, researchers, media professionals, industry partners, and government officials from India and across the globe.

The conference will include keynote presentations by distinguished leaders in higher education, sustainability and public policy, high-level expert panel discussions, masterclass sessions on global rankings and sustainability frameworks, and interactive forums covering all 17 SDGs. Participants will engage with thought leaders, explore real-world case studies through poster presentations, and develop pathways for impactful, evidence-based action.

The convergence is structured across three thematic tracks:

• Day 1 focuses on “Higher Education for a Sustainable Future” – driving climate action, biodiversity conservation, and coastal sustainability through the SDGs.

• Day 2 centres on “Higher Education Institutions: Catalysts for Sustainable Health” – advancing health and well-being, inclusive communities, and cultural vitality.

• Day 3 addresses “Shaping the Future of Higher Education for Sustainable Policy, Governance, Technology and Innovation” – reimagining policy frameworks, digital transformation, and innovation ecosystems to support long-term sustainable development.

Panel discussions will cover critical areas including reimagining higher education for inclusive, future-ready learning; climate action, biodiversity conservation and food security; health, well-being and community resilience; youth leadership, ethics and social innovation; CSR, sustainable technology, AI and innovation; and global partnerships and knowledge networks for accelerating the SDGs.

The conference has invited researchers, practitioners, policymakers, students, and civil society representatives to submit abstracts on interdisciplinary approaches and policy-relevant insights. The abstract submission deadline is February 16, 2026, with acceptance notifications on February 25, 2026. Early bird registration closes on March 5, 2026, with regular registration available until March 20, 2026.

Commenting on the significance of MAGSCON-26, Lt Gen (Dr) M D Venkatesh, VSM, (Retd), Vice Chancellor, MAHE, stated, “This convergence represents MAHE’s unwavering commitment to being a catalyst for sustainable transformation. As an Institution of Eminence (IoE) with students from over 60 countries, we have both the responsibility and the unique opportunity to convene global minds to co-create solutions that will shape a more equitable and sustainable future. MAGSCON-26 is not just a conference – it is a call to action for higher education institutions worldwide to lead the change we wish to see.”

Dr. Christopher Sudhakar, Director, Quality, MAHE, added, “The Sustainable Development Goals offer a universal framework to address the world’s most pressing challenges, and quality is the common thread that determines their impact. Through MAGSCON-26, we are creating a rigorous and dynamic platform that aligns academic excellence with measurable, real-world action. By convening researchers, policymakers, industry leaders, and community stakeholders, we aim to enable evidence-based dialogue, share quality-driven best practices, and build sustainable collaborations that deliver tangible outcomes. This is a defining moment for higher education to demonstrate its transformative power through quality, accountability, and impact.”

The event will feature networking opportunities during tea breaks, poster sessions, and dedicated interaction slots with partners and experts. A special experiential component includes a local visit to Hasta Shilpa Heritage Village and a gala dinner on Day 2 to foster informal collaboration and cultural exchange. The convergence will conclude with a valedictory session to capture key insights, commitments, and future directions.

MAGSCON-26 aspires to serve as a dynamic platform where higher education institutions and their partners build enduring collaborations and co-create solutions for an inclusive and sustainable future, enhancing MAHE’s visibility as a global leader in sustainability education and action.

Registration for MAGSCON-26 is now open. For more information about the conference, abstract submission, and registration details, please visit: conference.manipal.edu/MAGSCON2026

For detailed information on MAHE’s sustainability initiatives, please visit: sustainability.manipal.edu

Convener Contacts:

Dr. Vivek Pandi: vivek.pandi@manipal.edu | +91 820-29 22658
Mr. Srikant R. Gumaste: srikant.gumaste@manipal.edu | +91 820-29 23653 

SRM University-AP will hold a Special Convocation on February 14, 2026, to recognise and honour Dr Samir V Kamat, Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman, DRDO with the prestigious Honoris Causa degree. The university will honour Dr Kamat for his outstanding contributions to India’s self-reliance and technological strength in defence systems.

The Special Convocation will be graced by Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal, Hon’ble Minister of State (I/C) for Law & Justice and Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs, Govt of India, as the Chief Guest. Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal, Hon’ble Minister will deliver the convocation address at the ceremony.

Dr Samir V Kamat, Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman, DRDO and Union Minister Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal will attend the Special Convocation at SRM AP

Founder Chancellor of SRM University-AP Dr T R Paarivendhar, Pro-Chancellor Dr P Sathyanarayanan, Vice Chancellor Prof. Ch Satish Kumar, Registrar Dr R Premkumar Members of Governing Body, Board of Management and Academic and Research Council will also attend the convocation ceremony where 7 Ph.D. scholars will be awarded their doctoral degrees.

Prof. Ch Satish Kumar, Vice Chancellor of SRM AP remarked that the Special Convocation is a celebration of excellence, leadership, and the enduring power of knowledge to transform society.

SRM University-AP is all set to host the grand occasion in the presence of its Deans, Directors, Faculty, Scholars and Staff. The special convocation at SRM AP marks an occasion to celebrate the academic excellence of the research scholars and celebrate and honour the contributions of the distinguished guests.

A multidisciplinary medical team at Kauvery Hospital, Tirunelveli, led by expert plastic surgeon, pediatrician, Anesthesiologist, and Critical care team successfully saved the life of an eight-year-old boy who sustained severe burn injuries in a fire accident at his home during a religious festival. The child sustained second- and third-degree burns involving nearly 22 per cent of his body surface area, affecting both thighs gluteal region and part of the abdomen.

Kauvery Hospital,Tirunelveli

The treatment was particularly challenging, as only a small portion of the thigh remained unburnt, from which skin had to be harvested and expanded to before being used to cover the burn wounds. In addition, managing pain was especially difficult given the young age of the child.

The child developed a serious infection and required nearly a month of treatment in the Intensive Care Unit, where a multidisciplinary team comprising plastic surgeons, critical care physician, pediatricians, anesthetists, and physiotherapists cared for him. Psychiatrist was also involved to provide counselling and help the child cope with and distract from pain during the recovery process. Discharged last week, the boy is now under medical follow-up and has begun to walk.

In her comments, Dr. E. Ramya, a specialist in cosmetic care and reconstructive plastic surgery, stated that the boy was brought to the hospital in a critical Burn injury. With burns covering approximately 22% of his body surface, ranging from second- to third-degree, the injuries were life threatening, particularly for an eight-year-old. Both thighs and a portion of the abdomen were affected, with full-thickness damage, leaving only a limited amount of skin available for reconstruction. Pain management posed a significant challenge, requiring extensive support from the anesthetists.

She added that, as is common in young burn patients, the boy developed a serious infection, which had to be treated with antibiotics. The recovery period was prolonged, lasting about a month. There was a considerable risk of functional disability due to potential contractures, a condition in which the limbs cannot fully stretch. However, the coordinated efforts of the multidisciplinary team ensured that this risk was successfully avoided.

Dr. Ramya emphasized the importance of avoiding open flames and exercising caution during festival celebrations involving firecrackers, especially for children. “Any burn, whether superficial or severe, is dangerous and requires immediate medical attention,” she said. “First aid should be administered by washing the affected area with running water, followed by prompt hospital care. The skin is a vital organ that protects our body and immune system, and damage to it can easily lead to infection.”

Challenges faces in the case :

1. Pain Management in pediatric case.

2. Body surface area in a child is less when compared to adult ; so even minor bone are considered to be very critical, because of risk of dehydration infection.

When potential earnings are generated in long-term investing, an investor has two options: withdraw them or reinvest them. This decision may be shaped by one’s changing income levels, liquidity needs, and evolving financial priorities. However, over time, this can impact how an investment develops.

A compound interest calculator helps you visualize the power of compounding

A compound interest calculator offers a structured way to examine this behaviour. By placing reinvestment and withdrawal scenarios side by side, it helps illustrate how potential outcomes may differ as time progresses. 

This approach may support understanding of how reinvestment interacts with time in a long-term investing context. Such tools may be used for comparison and illustration and not for predicting potential conclusions.

Reinvestment as a repeated choice
Reinvestment refers to allowing interest, dividends, or gains to remain invested instead of being withdrawn. In the short-term, this choice may not appear to alter much. Over longer periods, however, its influence may become more noticeable with each reinvestment cycle. This process may be particularly relevant in market-linked investments, where potential returns are uneven and distributed across cycles.

 
Compounding has the potential to be more effective when investments remain invested for longer durations. Discussion around compounding may revolve around consistency and on how it functions across extended periods, rather than on frequent action. 
Visualising reinvestment using a compound interest calculator.

Because compounding unfolds gradually, its effects may not be intuitive. A compound interest calculator may help translate this process into comparable figures.

For example, when earnings are withdrawn periodically, the investment may have less capital available for compounding, which can limit long-term growth. When earnings are reinvested instead, the base amount increases over time, allowing compounding to potentially accelerate the growth trajectory. Comparing these scenarios could help investors observe how reinvestment could influence potential outcomes, even when calculation assumptions remain unchanged.

Actual results may vary from the calculations as they’re only illustrative and not conclusive. Instead, they provide a way to explore how different behavioural choices may interact with time. 

The calculator is an aid, not a prediction tool. It may provide only an indicative picture. 

The power of compounding
The power of compounding describes how potential earnings, when retained, may generate additional potential income over time. As this process repeats, its effect might become more visible across longer periods, particularly when reinvestment remains uninterrupted.

In investment discussions, the power of compounding may commonly be associated with:

• Long-term equity investments.

• Retirement-focused planning.

• Regular investment approaches that place importance on discipline.

These associations arise because time and consistency play a central role in compounding. However, compounding does not operate independently of potential risk or market variability.

Compounding neither reduces uncertainty nor guarantee favourable outcomes. Market-linked investments remain subject to risks. However, the power of compounding gives investments the potential to grow significantly in the long run. 

How withdrawals influence the pattern
When potential earnings are withdrawn, part of the compounding process is interrupted. This does not suggest that withdrawals are inappropriate, as individual financial needs may vary across life stages. From a numerical perspective, however, withdrawals reduce the potential amount that remains available for future compounding.

A compound interest calculator may help compare scenarios with and without withdrawals. Over extended periods, even relatively modest interruptions may lead to noticeably different outcomes. These differences may become relatively clearer when viewed across longer horizons rather than shorter intervals.

The impact of withdrawals is therefore less about timing individual decisions and more about how frequently the compounding process is allowed to continue uninterrupted.

Conclusion
Reinvestment does not imply certainty of potential results. It represents a framework shaped by time, behaviour, and potential expectations. By understanding the power of compounding and using a compound interest calculator to visualise different scenarios, investors may gain insight into how repeated decisions might potentially accumulate over long horizons.

In some cases, the decision to reinvest may not feel significant at the moment it is made. Over longer periods, its effects may become more visible as potential outcomes gradually take shape, without requiring relatively frequent intervention.

Mutual Fund investments are subject to market risks, read all scheme related documents carefully.

To commemorate World Cancer Day, Kauvery Hospital Tirunelveli and Sarah Tucker Women’s College jointly organized a massive awareness program today to emphasize the importance of cancer prevention and early detection.

Youth Red Cross Students and Kauvery hospital joined forces to organize a World Cancer Day awareness programme in Tirunelveli

The highlight of the event took place at the Sarah Tucker College grounds 650 Youth Red Cross students forming a massive human ribbon to symbolize cancer awareness. This visual formation served as a powerful symbol of solidarity and a collective pledge to raise awareness about oncology care and healthy lifestyle choices.

Participating in the event, Dr.S.FELICIA GLADYS, Principal of Sarah Tucker College for Women, stated that such awareness programmes play a vital role in educating students and are essential for the well-being of society.

Dr. Monisha (Consultant General Surgeon): In her keynote address, she stated, “Awareness is the first and most crucial step toward a cure. Most cancers are treatable if detected early through regular screenings and lifestyle modifications.”

Dr. K. Lakshmanan (Medical Administrator): Welcomed the gathering and spoke about the advanced, high-quality cancer treatments available at Kauvery Hospital, reaffirming their commitment to serving the Tirunelveli community.

The program’s success was ensured by the seamless coordination of Mr. P. Varaimuthu (Unit Head), Mr. Abdul Riyaz (Marketing Manager) and Youth Red Cross. The event concluded with a strong message of hope, successfully inspiring the student community to become ambassadors for health and cancer awareness.

Hisense, a global leader in consumer electronics and home appliances, today inaugurated its first manufacturing facility in India through a joint venture with Epack Manufacturing Technologies Private Limited (EMTPL), a wholly owned subsidiary of Epack Durable Limited (EDL), at Sri City, Andhra Pradesh. This landmark development marks a significant milestone in Hisense’s India growth journey and underscores the company’s long-term commitment to the Government of India’s Make in India initiative.

Located within EDL’s industrial park at Sri City, the newly built and commissioned Hisense (EMTPL) manufacturing facility spans a 10-acre campus and is situated alongside EDL’s existing ODM manufacturing plant. Developed with an investment exceeding USD 30 million, the state-of-the-art facility represents a major step in Hisense’s localisation strategy for India and will commence commercial production from February 2026 onwards. Once fully operational, the plant will exclusively manufacture Room Air Conditioners for Hisense India, accounting for 100% of the brand’s RAC output in the country and significantly enhancing Hisense’s local manufacturing and supply chain capabilities.

Leaders at the inauguration (L to R): Mr. Pankaj Rana; Dr. Ravindra Reddy; Mr. Ismail Al Hurani; Mr. Bajrang Bothra; and Mr. Hanson Wu

With pilot production already underway, the Sri City facility is being developed in a phased manner. Phase 1 is dedicated to Room Air Conditioners and will manufacture Hisense’s flagship and global AC portfolio, including the F-Series, Eco Series, Intelli Perla Series, and the upcoming Intelli Pro Series. The initial installed capacity for Phase 1 stands at 0.75 million RAC units annually.

Phase 2, scheduled to commence in Q2 FY27, will expand the plant’s manufacturing capabilities to include washing machines across top-load and front-load categories. Phase 3, planned for Q3 FY27, will further extend production to LED televisions.

Currently employing around 500 people, the plant is expected to generate employment for nearly 1,500 professionals over the next 12–24 months, with immediate recruitment underway across functions such as supply chain, finance, administration, technicians, and skilled manufacturing roles.

The facility will cater to both domestic and export markets, enabling faster distribution, improved supply-chain responsiveness, and reduced dependence on imports. Sri City has emerged as one of India’s leading integrated manufacturing SEZs, hosting several global and domestic companies across electronics, automotive, and industrial sectors, making it a key hub for large-scale manufacturing and exports. Local manufacturing at the facility will also enhance cost efficiency and support more competitive pricing in India’s fast-growing consumer durables market.

Commenting on the inauguration, Pankaj Rana, CEO, Hisense India, said “The new facility represents a pivotal step in Hisense’s evolution in India. Sri City allows us to strengthen our local production capabilities while aligning closely with the Make in India mission. This plant enables us to deepen control over quality, cost, and supply chains, while creating a strong platform to scale operations and customize products for Indian consumers. It reinforces our intent to build a locally rooted, manufacturing-led organisation in India.” 

Congratulating Hisense India, Ajay Singhania, Managing Director & CEO at Epack Durable, said “We at Epack Durable are proud to have partnered with Hisense India on its first manufacturing venture in India.  This facility is a strong embodiment of the collaboration between Hisense’s technology and Epack Durable’s technical expertise in consumer durables.  Adhering to global manufacturing standards, this facility will showcase India’s production capabilities and strengthen the country’s position as a preferred partner for global cos planning long-term expansion.”

Prior to this investment, Hisense India operated through an import-led and partner-supported manufacturing model. The Sri City facility marks the company’s transition towards a fully integrated local manufacturing presence, laying a strong foundation for future expansion, subject to market demand and business performance.

About Hisense
Hisense India is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hisense Group, a global leader in consumer electronics and home appliances. The brand offers a wide range of products, including televisions, air conditioners, refrigerators, and washing machines. Present in over 160 countries, Hisense has maintained the No. 1 global position in the 100-inch-and-above TV segment for consecutive years (Omdia 2023–Q3 2025). As the Origin of RGB MiniLED, Hisense continues to lead next-generation RGB MiniLED innovation. As the official sponsor of the FIFA World Cup 2026™, Hisense is committed to global sports partnerships as a way to connect with audiences worldwide. In February 2026, Hisense inaugurated its first manufacturing facility in India at Sri City, Andhra Pradesh, reinforcing its commitment to local manufacturing under the Make in India. The brand is rapidly expanding its offline presence in India through strong retail partnerships and customer-centric services.

Website: www.hisense-india.com.

In a landmark moment for higher education in India, Chitkara University inaugurated the world’s second LinkedIn Experience Zone, setting a new benchmark in industry–academia collaboration and AI-powered career readiness.

Inaugurating LinkedIn Experience Zone with LinkedIn India Head of Education Ms. Saba Karim & our dynamic Campus Ambassadors—empowering students to build professional identities

The Experience Zone was inaugurated in the distinguished presence of Ms. Saba Karim, Head of Education, LinkedIn India, and Ms. Vibha Adlakha, Head of Customer Success and talent solutions, India & Japan, alongside the leadership of Chitkara University.

Conceptualised as an AI-enabled, immersive, role-play driven hub, the LinkedIn Experience Zone transforms campus learning into real-world career preparation. The space empowers students to build compelling professional identities, strengthen networking capabilities, and engage confidently with global career opportunities. Through interactive simulations and LinkedIn’s advanced AI tools, students gain hands-on exposure to interview preparation, personal branding, and strategic career development.

A special highlight of the ceremony was the felicitation of LinkedIn Campus Ambassadors, recognised for championing digital professionalism and cultivating a culture of career excellence across the University.

Speaking at the inauguration, Dr. Madhu Chitkara, Pro-Chancellor, Chitkara University, said, “The inauguration of the LinkedIn Experience Zone is a significant step in our journey of redefining career preparedness in higher education. At Chitkara University, we believe education must extend beyond classrooms into real-world relevance. With this initiative we are confident that our students, when they graduate, will not just have a degree but emerge as confident individuals with the digital confidence, global perspective, and professional agility needed to thrive in an interconnected world.”

Ms. Saba Karim, Head of Education, LinkedIn India, remarked, “LinkedIn’s mission is to create economic opportunity for every member of the global workforce. The Experience Zone at Chitkara University brings that mission to life by blending technology, industry insight, and experiential learning. By giving students access to AI-powered tools and immersive career simulations, we are enabling them to build authentic professional brands and unlock opportunities at scale.”

The launch of the LinkedIn Experience Zone reinforces Chitkara University’s commitment to integrating innovation, technology, and industry engagement into the academic ecosystem. It stands as a powerful testament to the University’s vision of nurturing globally competent, future-ready graduates prepared to thrive in an evolving world of work.

About Chitkara University
Chitkara University, ranked No. 1* in India and recognised among the Best** colleges in the country, is distinguished for its unwavering commitment to academic excellence, cutting-edge research, and innovation across diverse disciplines. Dedicated to nurturing the leaders of tomorrow, the University offers a comprehensive portfolio of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and values required to thrive in a rapidly evolving global landscape. Located near Chandigarh and consistently achieving top positions in national and international rankings, Chitkara University delivers industry-driven curricula, world-class faculty, and state-of-the-art infrastructure. With access to 2,000+ recruiters and strong global partnerships, the University empowers students to build successful careers in India and around the world.

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

¹*As per Times Higher Education (THE) Subject Rankings 2026: ranked No. 1 in India for Education Studies.

²**”Best colleges” reflects performance across disciplines, including a No. 5 ranking in India for Engineering in the Times Higher Education (THE) Subject Rankings 2026, along with consistent national and global rankings, academic reputation, and graduate outcomes.