The Hon’ble Chief Minister of Gujarat, Shri Bhupendrabhai Patel, visited Namotsav at Sanskardham, the musical multimedia production that portrays the life and journey of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. The Hon’ble CM was accompanied by several distinguished dignitaries, including Cabinet Ministers Shri Kanubhai Desai, Shri Jitubhai Vaghani, award-winning filmmaker Ashutosh Gowariker and Shri Sanjay Jaju, Secretary, Information and Broadcasting.

Gujarat CM, Shri Bhupendrabhai Patel, Cabinet Ministers, Shri Kanubhai Desai, Shri Jitubhai Vaghani, and Filmmaker Ashutosh Gowariker, Grace Namotsav at Sanskardham

Well-known personalities from Gujarat and the Indian film industry were also present, including actress and model Namitha Vankawala, Reeva Rachchh, lead actress, Laalo, National Award-winning filmmaker Manish Saini, Viswanathan Ramaswamy, Founder and Director of Divo, producer Mallireddy Veerendra Chowdary and actress Avani.

Cabinet Ministers Shri Pradyumanbhai Vaja, Shri Kunwariji Bavaliya and Shri Nareshbhai Patel, and Ministers of State Shri Pravinbhai Mali, Shri Kamleshbhai Patel and Shri Swarupji Thakor were also present. Chief Whip – Gujarat Legislative Assembly, Shri Balkrishna Khanderao Shukla, too, joined the event.

The event was also graced by Dr RK Shah, Chairman, Sanskardham and Shri Mahendrabhai Bhatt, Vice-President, Sanskardham; award-winning filmmaker Ashutosh Gowariker, known for films like Lagaan and Swades, and Shri Ajaybhai Patel, Chairman, The Gujarat State Co-Operative Bank Ltd and The Ahmedabad District Co-Operative Bank Ltd, too, made their presence felt.

As the buzz around Namotsav continued to build, Day 3 at Sanskardham witnessed an overwhelming response from the attendees. The evening drew a large and diverse audience, including prominent names from the cooperative industry, leaders from the RSS and several senior IAS Officers.

Namotsav celebrated the remarkable journey of India’s Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, through artistic expression, vibrant performances, multimedia installations and the presence of eminent national leaders, led by renowned Gujarati artist Sairam Dave. 

Sanskardham stands on the ideological foundation of Sanskar, service, values and love for the nation. The institution gets its inspiration from the philosophy of Lakshmanrao Inamdar ji, fondly remembered across Gujarat as Vakil Saheb, who believed that divinity resides in the human conscience and that every individual is capable of imbibing values. When education is grounded in ethics and responsibility, it becomes a powerful force in shaping the nation’s future.

Guided by the National Education Policy 2020 and inspired by the core values of service and nationhood, Sanskardham’s educational institutions, Laxman Gyanpith School and Global Mission International School, are shaping learning environments where values become a way of life and childhood is given purposeful direction. These institutions reflect Sanskardham’s commitment to nurturing responsible, aware and grounded global citizens from an early age.

This vision extends into higher education through Anant National University, which is dedicated to training students to devise solutions for global problems. Other institutions under the Sanskardham umbrella include Anant School of Excellence, Sanskardham Drone Academy and Vijayi Bharat Foundation (VBF), each contributing uniquely to holistic education and skill development. VBF is committed to developing top sporting talent in India. Its world-class facilities and multi-disciplinary approach offer expert-led training and individualised support, enabling athletes to achieve success on both national and international stages. VBF’s uniqueness lies in integrating traditional Indian practices with modern sports science techniques and contributing to nation building through sports.

NAMTECH is a pioneering global institution driving innovation in the space of Technology transformation for Industry 4.0 and beyond. It’s the first Manufacturing Engineering and Technology (MET) school in India. It is at the forefront of India’s industrial transformation and deeply rooted within the national aspirations for Viksit Bharat 2047, Atmanirbhar Bharat, and Net Zero Bharat 2070. NAMTECH is committed to building purpose-driven techno-managers who apply technical expertise with ethical intent, societal awareness, and sustainable impact.

V-GREEN Charging Station Development India Private Limited and RoadGrid India Private Limited today announced a strategic collaboration to accelerate the deployment of fast electric vehicle charging stations (EVCS) across India. This collaboration strengthens the foundation for a robust, accessible, and future-ready charging ecosystem across the country.

Mr. Nguyen Nam Tien, CEO of V-Green India (left), and Mr. Deepesh Shrinath, CEO of RoadGrid India, at the signing ceremony

Under the partnership, RoadGrid will deploy fast charging stations at high-visibility and high-demand locations across India, including retail outlets operated by Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL), Smart Cities zones, and other strategic sites on a pan-India basis. This deployment supports V-GREEN’s objective of establishing a comprehensive, reliable, and high-performance EV charging network in the country.

V-GREEN will lead the ownership, software integration, and overall management of the charging ecosystem, while RoadGrid will support execution through site identification, local liaising, approvals management, coordination with stakeholders, and on-ground operations and maintenance support.

V-GREEN brings strong global experience in developing and operating large-scale EV charging infrastructure, while RoadGrid contributes deep local execution capabilities and market knowledge tailored to Indian conditions. Together, the companies aim to ensure faster rollout, high uptime, and a seamless charging experience across urban centres, highways, and emerging EV corridors.

The partnership reflects the shared commitment of V-GREEN and RoadGrid to support India’s energy transition by strengthening fast charging infrastructure, improving EV adoption readiness, and building long-term confidence among EV consumers. RoadGrid previously signed a strategic MOU with global EV manufacturer VinFast to develop 120 electric vehicle service workshops in India, further reinforcing the role of this collaboration in supporting VinFast’s growth.

V-GREEN was founded by VinFast founder Mr. Pham Nhat Vuong, with the goal of investing in and developing charging infrastructure systems to provide support for VinFast’s rapid global expansion, with India as one of the key markets. In Vietnam, V-GREEN has established its pioneering position and capabilities by operating approximately 150,000 charging ports nationwide and continuously partnering with multiple collaborators to expand its network.

About V-GREEN
V-GREEN, the Global EV Charging Station Development Company, was established by billionaire Pham Nhat Vuong, the founder of VinFast. The company is focused on building an extensive charging network for VinFast electric vehicles with more than 150,000 charging ports across Vietnam. V-GREEN has also established a presence in Indonesia and the Philippines, and is actively pursuing expansion into other promising international markets.

Guided by the mission “For a Green Future for Everyone,” V-GREEN envisions becoming a global pioneer in green infrastructure, offering smart, convenient, and flexible charging solutions. Learn more at www.vgreen.net.

About RoadGrid India Private Limited
RoadGrid is a technology company that is pioneering the development of Patented Universal EV Chargers, developing a cloud-based software to transform the experience of EV charging, and creating a charging station ecosystem to drive the growth of EV led clean mobility. Road Grid has the vision to make EV charging universal, ubiquitous and available to everyone everywhere, in India and Globally.

RoadGrid is on a mission to transform EV charging with technology and create the largest charging network of its kind in India and the world to achieve its vision.

InnovHer Builds Institutional-Grade Innovation from Jaipur, Clocks First Exit with 50%+ IRR in Just One Year.

24 Months of Entrepreneurial Innovation at InnovHer: Building Institutional-Grade Venture Outcomes from Jaipur

Jaipur, India – India’s startup ecosystem is at an inflection point. As capital becomes more selective and founders are increasingly evaluated on execution rather than vision alone, a new class of venture platforms is emerging—focused not on speed or scale optics, but on discipline, governance, and long-term value creation.

From a Tier-2 city, InnovHer has quietly positioned itself within this shift, demonstrating that institutional venture outcomes are no longer the exclusive domain of metro ecosystems.

In just two years of operations, InnovHer has built a credible venture creation and acceleration platform rooted in Jaipur-combining capital stewardship, founder readiness, and ecosystem infrastructure. Its recent milestone is particularly noteworthy: a first exit within one year, delivering an IRR of over 50%, an outcome that reinforces the platform’s thesis that disciplined venture building compounds faster than episodic acceleration.

Building from a Tier-2 City, by Design
Jaipur’s rise as an innovation hub has been gradual rather than headline-driven. While the city has long been known for education, culture, and enterprise, its startup ecosystem has historically lacked institutional venture builders capable of translating early-stage ambition into investor-grade companies.

InnovHer was founded to address this gap.

Rather than replicating metro-centric accelerator models, the platform adopted an institution-first approach-treating venture creation as infrastructure rather than programming. From the outset, InnovHer focused on embedding governance, execution rigor, and milestone-based capital deployment into its operating model.

This design choice has proven critical in a market where founders face increasing scrutiny around unit economics, compliance, and scalability-especially in Tier-2 regions.

Made by Women, Built for Durability
InnovHer is a woman-led platform, but more importantly, it is shaped by woman-led decision-making principles: execution clarity, accountability, and long-term thinking. Instead of positioning women as beneficiaries alone, InnovHer has embedded women across roles-as founders, mentors, investors, and ecosystem decision-makers.

This operating philosophy has influenced how risk is assessed, how capital is deployed, and how founders are supported. In an environment where hype-driven growth is increasingly penalised, this approach has translated into stronger governance and more resilient outcomes.

Numbers That Signal Institutional Credibility
Over the last two years, InnovHer’s ecosystem activity has translated into tangible outcomes that align with early-stage national benchmarks:

• Seed investments deployed: ₹65 lakhs across early-stage ventures

• Startups onboarded: 23 startups through structured acceleration and venture-building tracks

• Ventures built in-house: 4 ventures co-created with long-term equity ownership

• Co-investments enabled: ₹8 crore alongside investors and ecosystem partners

• Network created: 50+ venture capital firms, angels, and ecosystem enablers actively engaged

• National engagement: 100+ founders, investors, and leaders hosted in Jaipur from across India

• Mentorship & training: 50+ structured mentorship and capacity-building sessions delivered

• Exit milestone: First exit achieved within one year at 50%+ IRR

These figures are not positioned as scale metrics, but as credibility markers—demonstrating that Tier-2 platforms can generate investor-grade outcomes when built with discipline.

From Acceleration to Venture Creation
A defining characteristic of InnovHer’s model is its dual-engine structure. The platform operates both as:

• a venture studio, co-founding select ventures over multi-year horizons with embedded execution across product, GTM, finance, and governance; and

• a startup accelerator, working with external founders to impose execution discipline, capital readiness, and investor alignment.

This allows InnovHer to engage founders at different stages while maintaining accountability across the portfolio.

Every venture is evaluated through thesis alignment, stage gates, and decision-grade outputs—reducing narrative risk for investors and increasing clarity for founders.

Jaipur as a National Convergence Point
One of InnovHer’s most visible ecosystem impacts has been its ability to position Jaipur as a convening city for innovation dialogue. By hosting founders, investors, mentors, and ecosystem leaders from across India, InnovHer has helped shift the city’s role-from a regional participant to a national connector.

For Tier-2 cities, this kind of convergence is essential. It reduces founder isolation, attracts capital attention, and strengthens local confidence. InnovHer’s growing national network has played a key role in making Jaipur a credible stop on India’s startup map.

Capital Stewardship Over Capital Chasing
In a market correction cycle, InnovHer’s emphasis on capital stewardship has resonated strongly with investors—particularly family offices, operators, and strategic angels. Rather than chasing valuation spikes, the platform prioritises:

• milestone-linked capital deployment

• governance oversight and reporting cadence

• realistic exit thinking from early stages

The platform’s first exit, achieved within a year at a 50%+ IRR, is a direct outcome of this philosophy. It signals that disciplined early-stage execution can deliver liquidity faster than hype-driven scaling.

Why InnovHer’s Journey Matters
InnovHer’s progress is significant not just for Jaipur, but for India’s broader startup ecosystem. It demonstrates that:

• Tier-2 cities can host institutional-grade venture platforms

• Women-led leadership strengthens governance and execution outcomes

• Early exits and strong IRRs are possible outside metro clusters

• Venture creation, when treated as infrastructure, compounds faster than event-led ecosystems

As capital becomes more discerning, platforms that combine discipline, inclusion, and long-term thinking are likely to define the next phase of Indian entrepreneurship.

The Road Ahead

• Looking forward, InnovHer remains deliberately measured in its ambitions. The focus is on:

• deepening venture outcomes rather than expanding footprint prematurely

• strengthening co-investment pathways with aligned capital partners

• continuing to build Jaipur as a national innovation convergence point

• reinforcing women’s role as builders, investors, and ecosystem architects

Two years in, InnovHer is no longer an experiment. It is an operating venture creation platform—built from a Tier-2 city, made by women, and already delivering institutional outcomes.

For India’s evolving startup landscape, that may be one of the most important signals yet.

Living with chronic knee pain can affect every aspect of life. Simple tasks—like standing for a few minutes, taking a short walk, climbing a flight of stairs, or even getting out of bed—start to feel like challenges. For many, the pain gradually reduces mobility, impacts confidence, and limits independence. As the condition worsens, people often begin to avoid social activities, exercise, and travel, further affecting their physical and emotional well-being. Thankfully, advancements in orthopedic technology are offering renewed hope. Robotic-assisted knee replacement is emerging as a breakthrough solution that delivers greater precision, faster recovery, and longer-lasting results.

Dr. C Vivekananda Reddy, Senior Consultant – Orthopedic & Joint Replacement Surgeon at Apollo Hospital, Nellore

Traditional knee replacement surgery has been a reliable treatment for decades, helping millions regain mobility. However, robotic technology elevates the procedure by bringing a new level of accuracy and personalization. One of the most common misconceptions about robotic surgery is that a robot performs the operation on its own. In reality, the surgeon remains fully in control throughout the procedure. The robotic system acts as a highly sophisticated tool, enhancing the surgeon’s accuracy by providing real-time feedback, detailed mapping, and precise bone preparation.

The process begins well before the surgery. Patients undergo a comprehensive 3D scan of the knee, enabling the surgeon to analyse bone structure, joint alignment, and soft tissues. This information helps create a customised surgical plan that is tailored to the patient’s unique anatomy. Such individualized planning reduces the chances of implant misalignment—a key factor determining long-term success and the natural feel of the knee after recovery.

During the operation, the robotic system guides the surgeon with sub-millimetre precision. It ensures only the damaged bone is removed while healthy tissues and ligaments are preserved. This minimally invasive approach leads to significantly less pain, reduced swelling, and minimal blood loss. As a result, patients often find themselves walking the same day, with many returning to normal activities far sooner than with conventional techniques.

Despite the clear benefits, concerns and myths about robotic-assisted knee replacement still persist. Some believe it is experimental, but the technology has been safely used around the world for several years. Others assume it is only suitable for older patients; however, younger individuals with arthritis or injury-related knee deterioration also benefit greatly. Robotic precision supports improved implant longevity, making it ideal for patients who wish to stay active for many years.

“Robotic knee replacement takes away much of the guesswork and brings consistent precision to every step of the surgery,” says Dr. C Vivekananda Reddy, Senior Consultant – Orthopedic & Joint Replacement Surgeon at Apollo Hospital, Nellore. “Patients recover faster, move more freely, and feel more confident in their new joints.”

For individuals struggling with persistent knee pain, robotic-assisted knee replacement offers a promising path toward restored mobility and a more active, pain-free future.

A hernia may seem like a small bulge at first, but for many people, it gradually turns into discomfort, pain, and limitations in daily activities. Whether it appears in the groin, abdomen, or near a previous surgical site, a hernia doesn’t resolve on its own. Over time, it can worsen and even lead to complications if left untreated. Fortunately, modern medicine has transformed the way hernias are treated. Today, laparoscopic and other minimally invasive procedures offer patients a safer, faster, and more comfortable recovery compared to traditional open surgery.

Hernia Specialist, Dr Vijin V – MBBS, MS, FMAS, FPCM (USA ), FMAS, FICRS – Laparoscopic & Robotic Surgeon

A hernia happens when an internal organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the muscle. Common types include inguinal (groin), umbilical (navel), femoral, and incisional hernias. Symptoms often start with a visible bulge, heaviness, or pain—especially when lifting, coughing, or standing for long periods. While early stages may seem manageable, delaying treatment can lead to the hernia enlarging or becoming strangulated, a serious condition requiring emergency care.

For decades, open surgery was the standard treatment. Although effective, it involved a larger incision, longer hospital stay, and a more extended recovery. Today, laparoscopic hernia repair has become the preferred option for many patients due to its precision and minimally invasive approach.

Laparoscopic surgery is performed through tiny keyhole incisions rather than a large cut. Using advanced instruments and a high-definition camera, the surgeon repairs the hernia from inside the abdominal wall. The magnified view allows for exceptional clarity, accuracy, and careful handling of tissues. A surgical mesh is typically placed to reinforce the weakened area, reducing the risk of recurrence.

One of the major benefits of laparoscopic repair is reduced postoperative pain. Since the incisions are small and muscle layers are not extensively cut, patients experience significantly less discomfort. Individuals are able to walk within hours of surgery and return to routine activities much sooner than with open surgery. Recovery is smoother, and the risk of wound infections or complications is lower.

Cosmetic outcomes are also better, as the tiny incisions leave minimal scarring. This makes laparoscopic procedures particularly appealing to younger patients or those concerned about visible marks. Another distinct advantage is faster return to work—a crucial factor for individuals with active lifestyles or physically demanding jobs.

Laparoscopic surgery is especially beneficial in cases of bilateral hernias (on both sides) or recurrent hernias, offering superior visibility and repair without the need for multiple incisions. Many surgeons also recommend it for patients seeking quicker rehabilitation and reduced long-term discomfort.

While laparoscopic hernia repair has become widely popular, the success of the procedure depends largely on the surgeon’s expertise and the quality of the mesh. With ongoing advancements in surgical tools, imaging, and mesh technology, minimally invasive hernia repair continues to evolve, offering even greater safety and outcomes.

Hernia specialist Dr. Vijin V, Senior consultant – Laparoscopic and Robotic Surgeon at Neyyar Medicity Hospital, Trivandrum and visiting consultant at Sree Ramakrishna Mission Hospital & SP Wellfort Hospital says, “Hernia surgery today is no longer about prolonged pain or extended recovery. With minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques, we are able to treat hernias with greater precision, minimal tissue damage, and faster rehabilitation. Most patients are surprised by how quickly they can resume normal activities. The focus is not just on repairing the hernia, but on restoring comfort, confidence, and quality of life with durable, long-term results.”

For anyone living with a hernia, exploring modern laparoscopic options can be a life-changing decision. With shorter recovery times, less pain, and excellent long-term results, minimally invasive surgery is redefining hernia treatment and helping patients return to their daily lives with confidence and ease.

V-GREEN and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) announced collaboration partnership towards jointly setting up EVCS at HPCL fuel stations in different markets. V-GREEN will leverage HPCL’s fuel station network to develop electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, thereby enhancing EV users’ experience, accelerating the electrification of transportation in India, and establishing a solid foundation for the long-term development of VinFast and HP e-Charge brands in this market.

Mr. Nguyen Nam Tien, CEO of V-GREEN India (left), and Mr. Kushal Kumar Banerjee, CGM – Retail Strategy & BD, HPCL, at the signing ceremony

HPCL is one of India’s largest state-owned oil and gas corporations, operating over 24,400 Retail Outlets nationwide and running over 5,300 Electric Vehicle Charging Stations under HP e-Charge brand.

The agreement holds strategic significance as India accelerates its transition toward green transportation. HPvinfaCL’s existing Retail Outlet footprint provides a strong platform for accelerated EV charging infrastructure deployment and seamless nationwide expansion.

V-GREEN Global Charging Station Development Company, Vietnam was founded by VinFast founder, Mr. Pham Nhat Vuong, with the goal of investing in and developing charging infrastructure systems to provide support for VinFast’s rapid global expansion, with India as one of its key markets. In Vietnam, V-GREEN has established its pioneering position and capabilities by operating approximately 150,000 charging ports nationwide and continuously partnering with multiple collaborators to expand its network.

The cooperation with HPCL represents the next step in the collective efforts of V-GREEN, VinFast and their partners in India to build a comprehensive EV ecosystem encompassing manufacturing, charging infrastructure, after-sales services, and battery recycling. This is regarded as an important foundation for realizing the goal of widespread electric vehicle adoption and promoting sustainable transportation in the world’s third largest automotive market.

About V-GREEN

V-GREEN, the Global EV Charging Station Development Company, was established by billionaire Pham Nhat Vuong, the founder of VinFast. The company is focused on building an extensive charging network for VinFast electric vehicles with more than 150,000 charging ports across Vietnam. V-GREEN has also established a presence in Indonesia and the Philippines, and is actively pursuing expansion into other promising international markets.

Guided by the mission “For a Green Future for Everyone,” V-GREEN envisions becoming a global pioneer in green infrastructure, offering smart, convenient, and flexible charging solutions.

Learn more at vgreen.net

About Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited

Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) is a Maharatna Central Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Government of India. It is engaged in the refining, distribution and marketing of petroleum products and operates an extensive network of refineries, terminals, pipelines and over 24,400 retail outlets across India. HPCL is committed to innovation, sustainability and customer service, and is actively expanding its footprint in emerging sectors such as electric mobility and renewable energy.

As part of its energy transition strategy and capability to pivot as per Market demand and support cleaner form of energy, HPCL is actively diversifying into alternate energy sources with a strong focus on electric mobility. The company is expanding its EV charging infrastructure across the country, including highway corridors and urban centres. HPCL aims to support India’s shift towards cleaner transportation while enhancing customer convenience and sustainability. HPCL currently has a network of over 5,300 EV Charging Stations under HP e-Charge brand and more than 150 Battery Swapping Stations across the country.

UniAcoustic has been awarded the “Most Innovative Products” honour at FOAID Mumbai 2025, India’s foremost Festival of Architecture and Interior Design. This recognition marks the brand’s second consecutive industry accolade in 2025, following its win at ORGATEC India earlier this year, underscoring UniAcoustic’s growing influence on the future of acoustic design in India.

Team UniAcoustic receiving the Most Innovative Products Award at FOAID 2025

The FOAID recognition reflects direct appreciation from the architecture and interior design community. UniAcoustic’s showcase drew strong engagement from leading architects, designers, consultants, and industry stalwarts — many of whom personally visited the booth to experience the products, material innovations, and design language firsthand.

What set UniAcoustic apart was not just performance, but the introduction of acoustic designs the industry has not seen before — solutions that challenge the traditional perception of acoustics as purely functional elements. The brand’s systems were widely appreciated for their ability to seamlessly integrate into architectural narratives, offering visual richness, depth, and material expression without revealing their acoustic core.

A central reason for this distinction lies in UniAcoustic’s patented Virtual Material Technology (VMT), which enables hyper-realistic, lifelike surface expressions on high-performance acoustic substrates. VMT allows designers to achieve the visual richness of natural and architectural materials while eliminating the instability, maintenance challenges, and environmental impact associated with conventional finishes — making it a sustainable alternative to material-heavy design approaches.

Sustainability remains a key pillar of UniAcoustic’s innovation philosophy. The brand’s products are engineered to reduce material waste, extend lifecycle performance, and support healthier indoor environments through low-emission surfaces. All systems comply with stringent global standards including EPD Certification, ISO 354, ISO 11654, EN 13501-1, ASTM E84, and E1/VOC, ensuring alignment with WELL, LEED, and IGBC frameworks.

The award also recognises UniAcoustic’s solutions-led approach, where acoustics are not treated as afterthoughts but as integral components of spatial design — whether for workplaces, hospitality environments, retail spaces, educational institutions, residential projects, or large public buildings. With sound absorption values reaching NRC 0.95, the brand delivers performance that is both measurable and experiential.

In India, UniAcoustic’s innovative acoustic systems have already been deployed across several landmark projects for leading organisations including HDFC, SwissRe, Avalara, IBM, Coco-Cola, AstraZeneca, Accenture, NPCI etc reflecting strong client confidence in the brand’s design-led and performance-driven approach.

“Receiving this recognition at FOAID — a platform defined by design leadership — is especially meaningful,” said Mr. Shabir Rajkotwala, Managing Director, UniAcoustic. “It reflects how the industry is responding to acoustic solutions that are expressive, responsible, and genuinely innovative. Our focus remains on empowering architects and designers with materials that expand creative freedom while meeting the highest performance and sustainability benchmarks.”

As part of a Great Place to Work®–certified organisation, UniAcoustic also reflects a culture rooted in people-centric values, long-term thinking, and continuous improvement — principles that directly influence how its products are conceived, engineered, and delivered.

With sustained recognition across two of India’s most influential design platforms, UniAcoustic continues to set new benchmarks for what acoustic products can be — visually, technically, and responsibly — shaping more human-centric, high-performing, and future-ready environments across India and beyond.

About UniAcoustic
UniAcoustic is shaping a new direction for acoustic design in India with its commitment to design-first thinking, sustainability, and patented next-generation technologies. Through its strategic collaboration with Vicoustic, the brand brings globally recognised expertise to introduce unique, never-seen-before acoustic solutions tailored for modern Indian spaces. With strong technical support, customisation capabilities, and a solutions-led approach, UniAcoustic delivers high-performance systems that enhance comfort, aesthetics, and overall spatial experience—offering architects and designers a refined balance of functional excellence and visual sophistication.

The 108th Annual Conference of the Indian Economic Association (IEA) concluded successfully at VELS Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies (VISTAS), Chennai, reaffirming the critical role of economists in shaping India’s growth trajectory amid evolving global and domestic challenges. Held from 27 to 29 December 2025, the three-day national conference brought together over 1,500 delegates from more than 400 higher education institutions across India, along with eminent economists, policymakers, and international scholars, making it one of the largest academic gatherings of economists in the country.

The 4th Kautilya Award of the Indian Economic Association was conferred upon Dr. Ishari K. Ganesh, Chairman of the VELS Groups

The conference was inaugurated by Prof. S. Mahendra Dev, Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory Council, and concluded with the valedictory address by Thiru R. N. Ravi, Hon’ble Governor of Tamil Nadu.

Inaugural Session: Reform, Resilience and Growth
In his inaugural address, Prof. S. Mahendra Dev emphasised that investment and exports remain the key drivers of India’s economic growth, supported by structural reforms such as GST, income tax and customs reforms, and a flexible monetary policy framework. Highlighting the importance of women’s workforce participation, urbanisation, ease of doing business, and reducing inequalities in education and healthcare, he stated that India’s economy is resilient and well-positioned to significantly increase its share of global GDP in the coming decades.

During the inaugural session, the National Stock Exchange (NSE) conferred the Best Thesis Award on Prof. Nynika Dhugal of IIT Bombay for her research on Mandatory Corporate Social Responsibility, along with a cash prize of Rs. 50,000.

Eminent Voices on India’s Economic Roadmap
The inaugural ceremony was graced by several distinguished economists and academic leaders, including Dr. C. Rangarajan, Former Chairman, Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory Council; Dr. Kaushik Basu, Professor, Cornell University, USA; Dr. G. Viswanathan, Patron, IEA and Founder-Chancellor, VIT; Prof. A. D. N. Bajpai, President, IEA; Prof. Ravindra K. Bhrame, General Secretary, IEA; Prof. Jothi Murugan, Conference President, IEA and Pro-Chancellor, VISTAS; Dr. Ishari K. Ganesh, Chairman, VELS Group of Institutions & Companies and Chief Patron, IEA; and Thiru C. V. Ganesan, Hon’ble Minister for Labour Welfare & Skill Development, Government of Tamil Nadu.

Addressing the gathering, Thiru C. V. Ganesan highlighted Tamil Nadu’s 11.9% growth rate, ranking first in industrial growth. He noted that private educational institutions such as VELS and VIT have contributed to the creation of nearly 2.97 lakh jobs, and that women’s workforce participation in Tamil Nadu stands at 43%, among the highest in India, underscoring the role of education and employment as engines of economic growth.

Dr. C. Rangarajan spoke on India’s vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047, with a targeted per capita income of USD 18,000, while Dr. Kaushik Basu called upon the IEA to proactively equip economists to respond to rapid technological transformations and global economic shifts.

Valedictory Address: Inclusive Growth and Social Capital
Delivering the valedictory address, Thiru R. N. Ravi, Hon’ble Governor of Tamil Nadu, stated, “Senior citizens are not liabilities; they are valuable assets of the nation.”

Highlighting inclusive economic initiatives, he noted that the Mudra Scheme has benefited 52 lakh people, with Rs. 3.25 lakh crore disbursed in Tamil Nadu alone. He observed that India has been the fastest-growing major economy since 2021, has lifted 25 crore people out of poverty, and now ranks among the top three startup ecosystems globally, reflecting the strength of India’s inclusive development model.

Kautilya Award and Academic Leadership
At the valedictory session, the 4th Kautilya Award of the Indian Economic Association was conferred upon Dr. Ishari K. Ganesh, Chairman, VELS Group of Institutions & Companies and Founder-Chancellor, VISTAS, in recognition of his exemplary leadership and contributions to education and nation-building. It was also announced that the Dr. Ishari K. Ganesh Endowment Lecture will be instituted from the next edition of the IEA Annual Conference.

Dr. G. Viswanathan emphasised that the Indian Economic Association should serve as an advisory body to governments, particularly in education and economic development, while Prof. A. D. N. Bajpai noted that with over 13,000 members, the IEA is among India’s oldest and most influential academic bodies.

India’s Global Economic Trajectory
Prof. Jothi Murugan observed that India is currently the fourth-largest economy in the world and is expected to overtake Germany by 2027–28, stressing the need to address agricultural distress, graduate skill gaps, MSME credit expansion, and innovation through incubation centres and effective policy implementation.

About VELS Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies (VISTAS)
VELS Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies (VISTAS), Chennai, is a premier Deemed-to-be University and a proud constituent of the VELS Group of Institutions. Conferred Deemed University status by the Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD), Government of India, and supported by the VAELS Trust, VISTAS is committed to transforming students into competent professionals and responsible citizens by nurturing the right blend of Knowledge, Skills and Attitude (KSA), with a strong focus on nation-building and social responsibility.

Established in 2008, VISTAS offers 100+ undergraduate, postgraduate and Ph.D. programmes across disciplines including Medicine, Engineering, Nursing, Allied Health Sciences, Pharmacy, Commerce, Law, Mass Communication, Maritime Studies, Education, Physiotherapy, Computer Science, Basic Sciences and Life Sciences. All programmes are recognised by UGC, AICTE, NMC, INC, PCI, BCI, DGS and NCTE.

With over 18,000 students and 1,000+ experienced faculty members, VISTAS holds NAAC A++ accreditation with Category I status, UGC 12(B) status, 11 NBA-accredited programmes, and is ranked in the 101–150 band in the NIRF 2024 Rankings, with its School of Pharmaceutical Sciences ranked 47th nationally. Known for its industry-relevant curriculum, strong placement record, and research-driven ecosystem, VELS University (VISTAS) continues to emerge as a leading centre of academic excellence and innovation in India.

For more details kindly visit www.vistas.ac.in

Limelight Diamonds, India’s no.1 lab-grown diamond jewellery brand, announces a major expansion into in-house diamond growing & manufacturing capabilities. This marks a significant milestone in the company’s journey and its commitment to building Limelight as the largest LGD jewellery brand from India to the world. This integration significantly reduces dependency on third-party suppliers, strengthens cost control, and enables faster product launches, exclusive collaborations, and consistent quality across all consumer touchpoints.

Limelight Lab Grown Diamonds store exterior and interior

The fresh capital will be deployed towards accelerating retail expansion, strengthening design possibilities and cementing Limelight’s leadership in the next phase of category growth.

Founded with the vision of fulfilling India’s diamond dream without compromising on design, quality, or values, Limelight has played a pioneering role in shaping India’s lab-grown diamond jewellery market. Today, it stands as the largest and most trusted brand in the segment, supported by a rapidly expanding exclusive retail network and growing consumer advocacy.

As interest in the lab-grown diamond sector increases and more players enter the category, Limelight’s early investments in supply-chain integration and brand-building initiatives place it in a strong position as one of the well-capitalised companies capable of scaling responsibly.

“This capital raise and vertical integration mark a defining moment in Limelight’s growth journey,” said Pooja Madhavan, Founder and MD, Limelight Lab Grown Diamonds. “It enables an end-to-end control across the value chain offering enhanced transparency, traceability and technological innovations. This will strengthen our business, and equip us to scale responsibly while continuing to deliver superior quality and value to our customers. By providing a “rocks to retail” offering to consumers, we are not just growing the brand; we are building the foundation for the future of fine jewellery in India and globally.”

Limelight’s growth strategy remains firmly rooted in responsible luxury with an aggressive growth plan of reaching 200 stores by 2027. By combining science, design innovation, and ethical practices, the brand continues to appeal to a new generation of consumers seeking transparency, sustainability, and fulfilling their design aspiration.

About Limelight Lab Grown Diamonds

Headquartered in Mumbai, Limelight Diamonds is India’s largest and most trusted lab-grown diamond jewellery brand, specialising in pure CVD lab-grown diamonds. Limelight has been a pioneer in building the lab-grown diamond category in India, offering consumers exceptional brilliance, purity and contemporary design.

Over the past few years, the brand has witnessed rapid nationwide expansion and today boasts the widest retail footprint for lab-grown diamond jewellery in India, with 50+ exclusive brand outlets and 40+ shop-in-shop formats across 45+ cities. Limelight’s collections span solitaires, everyday fine jewellery and statement pieces, catering to modern Indian consumers. With a strong focus on retail excellence, design innovation and consumer education, Limelight continues to lead the growth of the lab-grown diamond jewellery segment in India.

For more information, visit www.limelightdiamonds.com.