Finkurve Financial Services Limited, one of India’s leading tech-first gold loan NBFCs, raises  Rs. 50 crore through a Non-Convertible Debenture (NCD) issuance from Franklin Templeton to support its next phase of growth and business expansion. The funding is being executed in two tranches, with the first tranche of Rs. 24 crore successfully completed, while the second tranche will be completed in due course.

Aakash Jain, CFO, Finkurve Financial Services Limited (Arvog)

The capital raised will be utilised to accelerate the Company’s growth strategy by expanding its lending business, strengthening its operational footprint, enhancing its technology-driven platform, and deepening its presence across existing and new markets. The investment will also support business expansion, strengthen the Company’s capital base, and enable it to serve a larger customer base through innovative and accessible financial solutions.

This investment marks another significant milestone in Finkurve’s growth journey and builds on the Company’s previous successful fundraises. It reflects continued investor confidence in Finkurve’s strong business fundamentals, prudent risk management practices, and long-term growth strategy as the Company continues to scale its operations across India.

Commenting on the development, Aakash Jain, CFO, Finkurve Financial Services Limited (Arvog) stated, “Welcoming an institution of this stature is a strong endorsement of the trust we have built through consistent execution, prudent financial management, and a disciplined approach to lending. It reflects the strength of our platform, underpinned by robust governance, sound risk management, and a long-term value creation mindset.”

Further to its previously announced strategic partnership with Godrej Finance Limited (GFL), a subsidiary of Godrej Capital, Finkurve Financial Services Limited has operationalized the co-lending arrangement, enabling both entities to jointly offer gold loan products under the Reserve Bank of India’s co-lending framework. 

About Finkurve Financial Services Limited (Arvog)
Finkurve started its gold loan journey in FY21, Finkurve has since served over 50,000 customers through a network of 115+ branches across four states in Southern India. It’s slowly positioning itself as a leading gold loan NBFC. The Company also offers personal loans and SME loans, expanding its financial solutions through partnerships with fintech companies.

With a growing presence across India, Finkurve remains committed to providing accessible, technology-driven financial services to a broad customer base.
 
For more details, please visit www.arvog.com

As India accelerates its efforts to strengthen domestic manufacturing and reduce dependence on imports, the toy industry is emerging as one of the sectors witnessing significant transformation. Companies investing in large-scale local production are increasingly contributing to the country’s ambition of becoming a global manufacturing hub.
 

Mr Deepak Chaudhary, Chairperson, Urban Tots
 

Among them is Urban Tots, an Indian toy manufacturing company that has rapidly expanded its operations over the past five years. Operating from a 350,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Bhiwadi, Rajasthan, the company currently employs more than 450 people and manufactures a wide range of toys for the domestic market.
 

The company’s origins trace back to an observation made by entrepreneur Deepak Chaudhary, who noticed that the toys in his children’s collection were predominantly imported and carried labels from other countries. The realization highlighted India’s dependence on imported toys and eventually led to the establishment of Urban Tots.
 

Unlike many businesses that entered the category through imports, Urban Tots chose to invest in domestic manufacturing. Its manufacturing journey formally began with the Bhoomi Poojan of its facility on 14 August 2021. Developing large-scale production capabilities required investments in advanced machinery, workforce development and technical expertise.
 

To strengthen its manufacturing capabilities, the company’s founding team studied production technologies and factory operations in China before adapting those learnings to establish a modern manufacturing ecosystem in India focused on efficiency, precision and scalability.
 

Today, the facility operates with automated conveyor systems, Poka-Yoke quality mechanisms and production processes designed to reduce defects while ensuring consistent quality. Products are manufactured in compliance with internationally recognised safety standards, including EN71 and BIS certifications.
 

The company has also integrated sustainability and responsible manufacturing practices into its operations, focusing on reducing waste while improving productivity.
 

Urban Tots initially entered the market with role-play trolley products before expanding into multiple categories. The company is now a manufacturer of ride-on and battery-operated toys, including electric cars and tractors, along with infant products, sensory toys and educational learning kits aimed at supporting early childhood development.
 

Alongside manufacturing expansion, the company has developed a nationwide distribution network comprising thousands of dealers and retailers and has established its presence across major online marketplaces. In addition to its own consumer brand, Urban Tots also manufactures products for several established companies, supplying toys that reach households across India under different labels.
 

Industry observers note that India’s toy sector is entering a critical phase of growth. Increased domestic manufacturing capacity, stronger quality regulations and changing consumer preferences are gradually reshaping an industry that was once heavily dependent on imports.
 

The sector’s development aligns with broader changes taking place across India’s manufacturing landscape, where improving infrastructure, policy support and technology adoption are encouraging companies to compete in international markets while serving growing domestic demand.
 

According to Deepak Chaudhary, India’s strengths position it well for global competitiveness in toy manufacturing.
 

“India has every ingredient required to become a global toy manufacturing hub—entrepreneurship, engineering talent, manufacturing capability and an enormous domestic market. The next step is to build products that are recognised worldwide not because they are made in India, but because they represent quality, innovation and trust.”
 

Urban Tots’ growth reflects a wider trend of manufacturing-led expansion within the toy industry, where long-term investments in infrastructure, technology and workforce development are becoming increasingly important.
 

As India seeks to strengthen its position in global supply chains, companies such as Urban Tots are contributing to the country’s efforts to transition from a major toy import market to a competitive manufacturing and export destination.
 

About Urban Tots
Urban Tots is an Indian toy manufacturing company headquartered in Bhiwadi, Rajasthan. Operating from a 350,000-square-foot integrated manufacturing facility, the company designs and manufactures ride-on toys, battery-operated vehicles, educational toys, infant products and sensory toys. With a workforce of more than 450 employees, a nationwide distribution network and partnerships with leading retailers and brands, Urban Tots is committed to establishing India as a globally competitive hub for toy manufacturing through innovation, quality and sustainable manufacturing.

Do You Know ASG Eye Hospital, Utkarsh, Marwari Catalysts INKA, NPrep, Leapahead, UR Turms,Elara IVF, Dopahar, Sarathi Health Care, INTELIQUANT AI, Climekare,  Literom, Nostalgia Pages, Krimanshi, WorkAffair have emerged as national leaders in their respective sectors, others are rapidly expanding into international markets, proving that globally competitive companies are built from Jodhpur/ Tier-III city.

Jodhpur Emerges as One of India’s Fastest Growing Startup Hubs Marwari Catalysts’ plays a vital role in this Ecosystem

According to industry estimates and ecosystem stakeholders, startups founded from Jodhpur have collectively attracted investments exceeding Rs. 2,500 crore over the years. With increasing investor confidence, stronger institutional support and expanding access to domestic and international markets, ecosystem leaders believe the city’s startup community has the potential to attract Rs. 3,000–5,000 crore in cumulative investments over the coming years, creating thousands of high-quality jobs and contributing significantly to Rajasthan’s innovation economy.

Jodhpur Emerges as One of India’s Fastest Growing Startup Hubs Marwari Catalysts’ plays a vital role in this Ecosystem

Prominent institutions like IIT, NLU, AIIMS, MBM University, Rajasthan Agricultural University, Rajasthan Ayurveda University, FDDI etc are playing a vital role in this eco system. 

Known across the world for its majestic Mehrangarh Fort, rich cultural heritage and thriving handicrafts industry, Jodhpur is now earning recognition for a new identity—that of a rapidly emerging startup and innovation hub. Over the past few years, the Blue City has witnessed an unprecedented rise in entrepreneurial activity, with founders building globally competitive ventures, investors backing local innovation and educational institutions actively supporting research-led entrepreneurship.

The transformation has been driven by a collaborative ecosystem comprising academia, industry, investors, successful entrepreneurs and ecosystem enablers. Together, they have created an environment where aspiring founders can access mentorship, incubation, funding, strategic partnerships and global market opportunities without leaving their hometown.

One of the defining milestones in Jodhpur’s entrepreneurial journey came nearly six years ago when Marwari Catalysts became one of the pioneering organisations in Rajasthan.

To strengthen startup ecosystem development, laying the foundation for structured incubation, acceleration, mentoring and investor engagement in the region. This early intervention helped infuse a startup culture in Jodhpur and encouraged a new generation of young innovators to pursue entrepreneurship as a career.

Over the past six years, Marwari Catalysts has incubated, accelerated, mentored And supported more than 200 startups, providing them access to investors, experienced mentors, corporates, government initiatives and international business opportunities. Many of these ventures have successfully scaled their operations, generated employment and expanded beyond India.

Recognising that entrepreneurship flourishes through collaboration, Marwari Catalysts also established Startup Club Jodhpur, a community platform dedicated to aspiring founders, students and innovators. The club has organised eight founder meet-and-greet preincubation sessions, bringing together more than 500+ entrepreneurs for expert talks, networking opportunities, mentorship interactions and startup pitch presentations. The initiative has become an important platform for exchanging ideas, discovering opportunities and inspiring young entrepreneurs to launch new ventures.

Today, Jodhpur’s entrepreneurial landscape spans a wide spectrum of sectors including education, healthcare, financial services, artificial intelligence, climate technology, enterprise software, manufacturing, consumer brands and media. The city’s success is reflected in the growing number of startups and enterprises that have built nationally and internationally recognised businesses from Jodhpur.

Speaking about the city’s transformation, Sushil Sharma, Chairman, Marwari Catalysts Group, Executive Director, BRICS CCI, Convenor, ESC Rajasthan Chapter and also Co-Chair Startup Vertical, Rotary District 3053 (2026–27) said, “Six years ago, very few people associated Jodhpur with startups. Today, the city has become a vibrant centre of entrepreneurship where founders are building companies that are solving real-world problems and attracting national as well as international attention. Our association with Startup India, the development of Startup Club Jodhpur and our continuous efforts to connect founders with investors, mentors and global markets have helped create an ecosystem where innovation can flourish. We believe the next decade belongs to Tier-II and Tier-III cities, and Jodhpur is well positioned to become one of India’s leading startup destinations.”

Gaurav Parulkar, CEO, IIT Jodhpur Technology Innovation and Start-up Center (IITJ-TISC), said, “The success of any startup ecosystem depends on strong collaboration between academia, research, innovators and industry. Jodhpur has made significant progress in this direction. Organisations like Marwari Catalysts have played an important role in bridging innovators with mentors, investors and markets, enabling startups to commercialise technologies and build sustainable businesses.”

Professor (Dr.) Govind Sahay Shukla, Vice Chancellor, Dr. S.N. Rajasthan Ayurveda University, said, “Innovation today extends beyond information technology. Healthcare, Ayurveda, biotechnology and wellness are witnessing rapid entrepreneurial growth. The evolving startup ecosystem in Jodhpur is encouraging researchers, students and professionals to transform scientific knowledge into impactful enterprises. Such collaborations are essential for creating sustainable economic development while preserving India’s traditional knowledge systems.”

Vipul Kochar, President, MBM Alumni Association, said, “Jodhpur has always produced outstanding engineers, technologists and professionals. What has changed over the past few years is the availability of an ecosystem that empowers them to become entrepreneurs. The combined efforts of educational institutions, alumni networks, investors and organisations like Marwari Catalysts have created an environment where young innovators have the confidence and support to build companies from Rajasthan with global aspirations.”

Industry experts believe Jodhpur’s remarkable entrepreneurial journey demonstrates the immense potential of India’s Tier-II and Tier-III cities. With continued collaboration between academia, government, investors, industry and ecosystem enablers, the city is steadily emerging as one of North-West India’s most influential innovation centres.

As India enters the next phase of its startup revolution, Jodhpur is increasingly being recognised as a model for regional innovation-led development—showing how visionary leadership, institutional collaboration and community-driven entrepreneurship can transform a heritage city into a globally connected startup hub.

India’s digital entertainment ecosystem is entering a new phase. While streaming platforms, short-form videos, and social media continue to dominate screen time, consumers are increasingly looking for experiences that go beyond passive viewing. Today, entertainment is becoming more interactive, allowing users to participate, compete, and connect with others in real time.
 

 From Passive to Play, India’s shift to interactive entertainment
 

This shift is transforming the country’s gaming landscape. According to Niko Partners, India’s gamer base is expected to surpass 700 million gamers by 2028, making it one of the world’s fastest-growing gaming markets. At the same time, affordable smartphones, low-cost mobile data, and expanding 5G connectivity have made online multiplayer gaming more accessible than ever before. Together, these factors are reshaping how Indians engage with digital entertainment.
 

Interactive Entertainment is Becoming the New Normal

Over the past decade, India’s digital entertainment journey has evolved rapidly. Consumers first embraced video-on-demand platforms, followed by creator-led content on social media. Today, another evolution is underway as users increasingly prefer experiences that encourage participation instead of passive consumption.
 

Interactive entertainment gives users an active role. Rather than simply watching content, people can compete with others, collaborate in real time, and become part of a larger digital community. This growing preference reflects a broader behavioural shift, particularly among younger audiences who increasingly value engagement over observation.
 

As a result, multiplayer gaming has emerged as one of the fastest-growing forms of entertainment, offering users an experience that combines competition, communication, and connection.
 

Social Games are Redefining Digital Engagement

The growing popularity of social games reflects changing consumer expectations. Modern users seek entertainment that fits seamlessly into their daily routines while providing meaningful interaction.
 

Unlike traditional single-player experiences, multiplayer free-to-play games create dynamic environments where every session is unique because real players influence every outcome. Features such as live matchmaking, leaderboards, in-game communication, and community-driven experiences have transformed gaming into a highly social activity.
 

The appeal extends beyond competition. Whether reconnecting with friends after work, playing with family members across different cities, or participating in quick multiplayer sessions during a commute, users increasingly view gaming as a way to stay socially connected while being entertained.
 

This evolution has also changed how developers approach game design. Instead of focusing solely on graphics or complex gameplay mechanics, many platforms now prioritise accessibility, shorter play sessions, and seamless multiplayer experiences.
 

Ludo Continues to Find New Life in the Digital Era

Few games illustrate this transformation better than Ludo. For generations, the classic board game has been a staple of Indian households, bringing families and friends together during holidays and social gatherings. Today, digital platforms have successfully adapted that familiar experience for smartphones.
 

The game’s simple mechanics, combined with real-time multiplayer functionality, have helped introduce millions of users to online gaming. Because players already understand the rules, they can immediately participate without navigating a steep learning curve.
 

Digital innovation has also expanded the way people experience Ludo. Faster formats, strategy-oriented gameplay, and real-time competition have enabled the game to remain relevant for today’s mobile-first generation while preserving the nostalgia that has made it a household favourite for decades.
 

Technology is Fueling India’s Social Gaming Growth

India’s improving digital infrastructure continues to support the rapid expansion of interactive gaming. Faster internet speeds, lower latency, cloud computing, and widespread smartphone adoption have significantly enhanced multiplayer experiences.
 

The rollout of networks is expected to further improve gameplay quality by reducing lag and enabling smoother real-time interactions. At the same time, artificial intelligence and advanced matchmaking technologies are helping developers deliver more personalised and engaging gaming experiences.
 

These technological advancements are not only improving accessibility but are also encouraging more users from Tier II and Tier III cities to participate in multiplayer gaming, further expanding India’s digital entertainment ecosystem.
 

Platforms are Responding to Changing Consumer Preferences

As user expectations evolve, gaming platforms are adapting their offerings to deliver faster, more engaging, and socially connected experiences.
 

Zupee is among the free-to-play platforms reflecting this broader industry trend. By reimagining Ludo through strategy-driven, skill-based formats designed for shorter play sessions, the platform aligns with the growing demand for interactive entertainment that fits modern lifestyles. Rather than replacing a familiar game, such innovations demonstrate how traditional formats can evolve alongside changing consumer behaviour.
 

Looking Ahead

The future of digital entertainment in India is expected to become increasingly interactive. As technology advances and consumer behaviour continues to evolve, multiplayer experiences will likely play a larger role in how people connect, compete, and spend their leisure time.
 

Classic games like Ludo demonstrate that innovation does not always require reinventing familiar experiences. Instead, by combining cultural familiarity with modern technology, they continue to attract new audiences while remaining relevant for existing ones.
 

As India’s gaming ecosystem continues to mature, the rise of social games signals more than a technological shift – it reflects changing consumer preferences, evolving entertainment habits, and the growing importance of real-time digital interaction in everyday life.

KLAY, India’s leading early childhood education and care provider, today announced the appointment of Abhishek Joshi as Chief Executive Officer. A proven builder of some of India’s most trusted consumer brands, Abhishek takes charge at a defining moment for the education industry, as India places the early years of a child’s life at the very centre of its national education agenda.
 

Abhishek Joshi, Chief Executive Officer, KLAY (Founding Years Learning Solutions)
 

Abhishek’s mandate is clear and ambitious: to establish KLAY as the definitive early childhood ecosystem in India, to deepen the brand’s integrated proposition across learning, care, and parenting partnership, and to widen access to high-quality early education for families nationwide. The goal is not incremental growth, but to set the standard for what early childhood can and should be in India.
 

This ambition is grounded in simple and settled truth: nearly 90% of a child’s brain develops before the age of six. The curiosity, confidence, and character formed in these years shape everything that follows. KLAY’s belief is that getting the early years right is not childcare, it is the foundation for life.
 

Abhishek brings over two decades of experience scaling some of India’s best-known consumer businesses. He has held senior leadership roles at Licious, Jubilant FoodWorks (Domino’s India), Hindustan Unilever (HUL), and GCMMF (Amul), with a track record across business transformation, category building, and customer-centric growth. Known for a transformational leadership style, he is passionate about building purpose-driven organisations and high-performing teams. He is an alumnus of the Institute of Rural Management Anand (IRMA), where he earned a PGDM in Sales & Marketing, and holds a B.Tech from Govind Ballabh Pant University. Outside work, he is a fitness enthusiast who enjoys trekking, surfing, and travel, and values time with his family.
 

Commenting on the appointment, Sandeep Reddy, Chairman, Founding Years Learning Solutions, said, “India is at an inflection point in how it thinks about the early years. The science is settled – what happens before a child turns six shapes the rest of their life. Our ambition is to make world-class early childhood education the norm, not the privilege, for Indian families. Abhishek has spent his career building brands that millions of Indians trust, and scaling them without ever compromising on quality. That is precisely the leadership KLAY needs to take its mission to its next chapter.”
 

Speaking about his appointment, Abhishek Joshi, Chief Executive Officer, KLAY (Founding Years Learning Solutions), said, “Few things matter more than how a child experiences the first years of life. KLAY has earned something rare – the deep, daily trust of parents. I am joining to build on that trust and widen our impact: to ensure that more children across India begin life with the strongest possible foundation, and that more parents have a partner they can count on through their parenting journey. This is a mission worth giving the best years of one’s career to.”
 

This appointment marks an important milestone for KLAY as it accelerates its mission to deliver high-quality early childhood education and care for families across India.

About KLAY (Founding Years Learning Solutions)

KLAY is India’s leading chain of preschools and daycare centres, trusted by over 80,000 families to give their children the best possible start in life. Founded in 2011, KLAY creates safe, nurturing, and engaging environments where children learn and grow, supported by passionate facilitators, modern infrastructure, and a proven pedagogy. As a trusted parenting partner to leading Fortune 500 organisations, KLAY brings together learning, care, and family support into a single, integrated proposition. The institution operates 180+ self-managed centres across 20+ cities in India, backed by 500+ corporate partnerships and a workforce of 3,500+ dedicated professionals – building the foundation for life, one child at a time.

SRM University-AP, Amaravati continues to strengthen its position at the forefront of research and scientific innovation across critical domains of science, technology, and the humanities. 26 faculty members were awarded prestigious grants from DST, ANRF, ICMR, NBHM, and other national bodies, reinforcing the university’s growing research leadership.

Vice Chancellor Ch Satish Kumar and SRM AP leadership, along with prestigious research grant recipients

Since January 2026, SRM AP researchers have secured 24 sponsored research projects and consultancy projects worth Rs. 13.71 crores from prestigious funding agencies, including the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Sree Ramakrishna Paramahamsa Translational Research Grant, and the National Board for Higher Mathematics (NBHM).

The funded projects span a diverse range of disciplines, including advanced materials & devices, bioscience for human health, waste-to-wealth, and literature and mathematics. The research project on genomic surveillance-driven phage therapy received Rs. 1.76 crores, the highest funding among the projects on the list, while the Indo-French project on plasmid-mediated phage resistance secured Rs. 99.9 lakhs.

Vice Chancellor Prof. Ch Satish Kumar congratulated the faculty members and research teams for their outstanding achievement in advancing high-quality research. He stated, “The success of our faculty in securing competitive research grants is a testament to the vibrant research culture that we continue to nurture at SRM University-AP. I am confident that these projects will lead to impactful discoveries, strengthen collaborations with leading institutions, create opportunities for our students, and contribute meaningfully to society.” He also encouraged the research cohort to now work towards securing major international research grants.

Deans of the schools of Engineering and Sciences, Liberal Arts, and Business Studies also expressed appreciation to the Principal Investigators, Co-Principal Investigators, and their research cohort for their dedication, perseverance, and commitment that drove this monumental achievement. 

This accomplishment highlights the university’s strong commitment to advancing impactful interdisciplinary research. SRM University-AP remains focused on nurturing a robust research culture, strengthening its research infrastructure and faculty capabilities to pursue funded projects that advance national priorities and global innovation.

Reinforcing its commitment to transforming Ayurveda into a globally accepted evidence-based healthcare system, Dr. SHREEVARMA’s Wellness Pvt. Ltd. has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with SRM Institute of Science and Technology (SRMIST) to collaborate on scientific research, education, innovation, and product development in Ayurveda, phytomedicine, preventive healthcare, and integrative medicine.

From L to R: Dr. SHREEVARMA, Founder-Chairman, Dr. SHREEVARMA’s Wellness Pvt. Ltd.; Prof. S. Ponnuaamy, Registrar, SRMIST

The partnership marks a significant milestone in Dr. SHREEVARMA’s Vision 2030, a long-term mission to build an integrated healthcare ecosystem where traditional wisdom is strengthened through modern science, innovation, education, entrepreneurship, and community wellness. The collaboration will be spearheaded by the Interdisciplinary Institute of Indian System of Medicine (IIISM) under the Directorate of Research at SRMIST, bringing together academic excellence and clinical expertise to generate globally relevant scientific evidence for Ayurveda.

Speaking on the occasion, Acharya Dr. SHREEVARMA, Founder-Chairman, Dr. SHREEVARMA’s Wellness Pvt. Ltd., said, “Healthcare is entering a new era where prevention, lifestyle medicine, and scientific validation will play a defining role in improving human health. Ayurveda embodies centuries of knowledge that remains highly relevant today. Our responsibility is to preserve this invaluable heritage while validating it through rigorous scientific research. Our collaboration with SRM Institute of Science and Technology is a significant milestone in Dr. SHREEVARMA’s Vision 2030 to build an integrated healthcare ecosystem where research, education, innovation, entrepreneurship, and community wellness come together to improve lives and shape a healthier future for generations to come.”

Building the Future of Scientific Ayurveda
Driven by the growing global demand for preventive healthcare, personalised medicine, and holistic wellness, Dr. SHREEVARMA’s Wellness has been actively working to bridge the gap between classical Ayurvedic knowledge and modern scientific validation. Through this partnership with SRMIST, the organisation aims to establish a robust research ecosystem that will generate high-quality scientific evidence, strengthen the credibility of Ayurveda, and contribute to its wider global acceptance. The collaboration will focus on preserving the authenticity of traditional Ayurvedic principles while validating their safety, efficacy, and therapeutic value through interdisciplinary scientific research.

Research and Innovation Focus
Under the partnership, Dr. SHREEVARMA’s Wellness and SRMIST will jointly undertake multidisciplinary research in scientific validation of Ayurvedic formulations, phytochemical and analytical research, herbal drug standardisation, product innovation and formulation development, clinical pharmacology, lifestyle medicine, preventive healthcare, healthy ageing and longevity, integrative healthcare models, and clinical documentation for evidence generation.The collaboration will also create opportunities for student internships, doctoral and post-doctoral research, faculty development, professional education, skill development programmes, and industry-academia knowledge exchange, enabling research outcomes to translate into practical healthcare solutions.

Advancing Vision 2030
The collaboration further strengthens Dr. SHREEVARMA’s Vision 2030, which seeks to establish a comprehensive healthcare ecosystem encompassing scientific research, integrative clinical care, preventive healthcare, education, herbal innovation, entrepreneurship, and community wellness. By combining Dr. SHREEVARMA’s Wellness’ expertise in Ayurveda with SRM Institute of Science and Technology’s multidisciplinary research capabilities, the partnership aims to develop globally relevant healthcare solutions while positioning India as a leader in evidence-based Ayurveda and integrative healthcare.

About Dr. SHREEVARMA’s Wellness
Dr. SHREEVARMA’s Wellness is an integrated healthcare organisation dedicated to advancing preventive healthcare through Ayurveda, lifestyle medicine, scientific research, education, and community engagement.

Under Dr. SHREEVARMA’s Vision 2030, the organisation is building a multidisciplinary healthcare ecosystem focused on Integrative clinical care, Scientific research, Preventive healthcare, Healthcare education, Community wellness, Herbal product innovation, Healthcare entrepreneurship and Leadership development.

Its key initiatives include ACE Foundation, ACEVEDA, PCR Herbals, and AYUSHPRENEUR, each contributing to research, innovation, education, and the advancement of evidence-based traditional healthcare.

About Acharya Dr. SHREEVARMA
Acharya Dr. SHREEVARMA is an Ayurveda physician, researcher, educator, wellness entrepreneur, and Founder-Chairman of Dr. SHREEVARMA’s Wellness. Through Vision 2030, he is leading initiatives in preventive healthcare, scientific research, healthcare education, wellness entrepreneurship, and community health, with the objective of building sustainable healthcare systems rooted in India’s traditional medical heritage.

About SRM Institute of Science and Technology
SRM Institute of Science and Technology (SRMIST) is one of India’s leading multidisciplinary universities, recognised for excellence in higher education, research, innovation, and international collaboration.

Through its Interdisciplinary Institute of Indian System of Medicine (IIISM) under the Directorate of Research, SRMIST is committed to advancing scientific research that integrates traditional systems of medicine with modern healthcare science, supporting innovation and evidence generation in integrative medicine.

Reinforcing its position as one of India’s emerging leaders in medical education, healthcare innovation, and research, Vels Medical College & Hospital, a constituent institution of Vels Institute of Science, Technology and Advanced Studies (VISTAS), successfully organized MED-AI Summit 2026 – Innovation to Impact, an International Conference on Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare, from 25 to 27 June 2026 at its campus in Tiruvallur, Tamil Nadu.

Dr. Preethaa Ganesh, inaugurates MED-AI Summit 2026 at VMCH along with Dr. Sujoy Kar

Held under the visionary leadership of Dr. Ishari K. Ganesh, Founder & Chancellor, VISTAS, the three-day international summit brought together leading clinicians, medical researchers, academicians, healthcare professionals, AI experts, technologists, policymakers, and industry leaders from India and abroad to explore how Artificial Intelligence is transforming the future of healthcare.

The conference served as a global knowledge-sharing platform, focusing on AI-powered diagnostics, digital healthcare, predictive analytics, clinical decision support systems, precision medicine, intelligent medical education, biomedical research, and next-gzzeneration healthcare technologies. Through keynote lectures, scientific sessions, panel discussions, workshops, oral presentations, poster sessions, and networking opportunities, participants gained valuable insights into the rapidly evolving landscape of AI-enabled healthcare.

The inaugural ceremony was presided over by Dr. Preethaa Ganesh, Vice President – Vels Group of Institutions, with Dr. Sujoy Kar, Chief Medical Information Officer & Vice President, Apollo Hospitals, serving as the Chief Guest.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Sujoy Kar, Chief Medical Information Officer & Vice President, Apollo Hospitals, appreciated the visionary initiatives of Dr. Ishari K. Ganesh, Founder & Chancellor, VISTAS, particularly the institution’s commitment to providing free medical treatment to nearly 200 villagers in the surrounding communities through its healthcare outreach programmes.

Emphasizing the future of medicine, Dr. Kar remarked that “Doctors must lead Artificial Intelligence, not be led by it.” He urged young medical professionals to learn both the language of medicine and the language of AI, enabling them to harness technology responsibly for better patient care.

He further encouraged students and faculty to devote more time to active research, innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration, stating that research will be the driving force behind the next generation of healthcare advancements.

Expressing his enthusiasm for future collaborations, Dr. Kar said, “Apollo Hospitals looks forward to working closely with VELS. Together, we can strengthen research, innovation, and AI-driven healthcare for the benefit of society.”

Distinguished dignitaries present included Dr. S. Asokan, Chief Executive Officer, GEM Hospitals, Chennai; Dr. Kumudha Lingaraj, Dean, Vels Medical College & Hospital; Dr. Prince J. Samuel, Vice Principal (Academics); Dr. Maignana Kumar, Vice Principal (Accreditations); and Dr. Vijayashree R., Professor & Head, Department of Pathology and Organizing Chairperson, MED-AI Summit 2026. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from senior faculty members, researchers, healthcare professionals, students, and delegates representing premier institutions across the country.

Adding significant international value to the summit were globally acclaimed experts including Dr. Waqar M. Naqvi, Founder & Research Lead, AD Vivum Education & Research, Doha, Qatar, and Dr. Priyah Prathaban, Associate Professor, Faculty of Medicine, AIMST University, Malaysia.

The conference also featured an impressive lineup of distinguished national experts including Dr. T. V. Geetha (Anna University, Chennai), Dr. Kalavathy Moses S. (SIMS Hospital, Chennai), Dr. C. N. Srinivas (Sukraa Software Solutions), Dr. Madhuvanthi Mohan (Rajan Eye Care, Chennai), Dr. S. Asokan (GEM Hospitals), Dr. Sudha Jasmine Rajan (Christian Medical College, Vellore), Dr. D. C. Mathangi (Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai), Dr. S. Rajendiran (Sri Devaraj Urs Academy of Higher Education and Research, Kolar), and Mr. Venkata Phanidhar Nelluri, who shared their expertise on AI applications in surgery, pathology, ophthalmology, laboratory medicine, medical education, biomedical research, and critical care.

The summit witnessed exceptional participation throughout all three days. The pre-conference hands-on workshops conducted on 25 June 2026 attracted 333 participants across seven clinical departments, highlighting the growing interest in AI-driven clinical learning.

The scientific conference held on 26 and 27 June 2026 recorded 447 delegates each day, comprising faculty members, undergraduate and postgraduate students, clinicians, researchers, healthcare professionals, and industry representatives from leading medical colleges, hospitals, universities, and research institutions across India.

MED-AI Summit 2026 featured seven pre-conference workshops, nine scientific sessions, the prestigious Velan Oration Lecture, oral and poster presentations, award-winning research paper sessions, panel discussions, and collaborative networking opportunities, making it one of the most comprehensive AI-focused healthcare conferences hosted by a medical institution in the region.

During the conference, speakers emphasized that Artificial Intelligence is rapidly reshaping modern medicine by improving diagnostic accuracy, strengthening clinical decision-making, enhancing patient outcomes, accelerating medical research, and transforming healthcare delivery. They also underscored the importance of ethical, responsible, and evidence-based integration of AI technologies to complement clinical expertise while maintaining patient safety and trust.

Speaking about the significance of the summit, the organizers reiterated that Vels Medical College & Hospital remains committed to creating an ecosystem that promotes innovation, interdisciplinary research, technology-enabled medical education, and collaborative healthcare solutions. The institution continues to invest in academic excellence while preparing future healthcare professionals to lead in the era of digital medicine and Artificial Intelligence.

MED-AI Summit 2026 stands as yet another milestone in the journey of Vels Medical College & Hospital towards becoming a nationally and internationally recognized centre for medical education, clinical excellence, healthcare innovation, and cutting-edge research. By bringing together globally renowned experts, leading academicians, clinicians, researchers, students, and industry pioneers, the summit has strengthened Vels Medical College & Hospital’s reputation as a destination for transformative medical learning and AI-driven healthcare innovation, paving the way for future collaborations that will shape the next generation of intelligent heaalthcare.

For more details please visit : velsmedicalcollege.com.

Truecaller, the leading global communications platform, today announced a strategic partnership with Route Mobile, a Proximus Global company and a leading provider of cloud communications and digital engagement solutions, to expand the reach of its Business Messaging platform. The collaboration aims to help enterprises connect more effectively with their customers through interactive & trusted messaging.

Truecaller and Route Mobile Announce Partnership to Strengthen Global Business Messaging

As part of the partnership, Route Mobile will enable access to Truecaller Business Messaging, empowering enterprises to deliver secure, reliable, and trusted communication at scale. Communication is at the core of every business, and this collaboration aims to make customer interactions more seamless, secure, and effective.

Priyam Bose, Global Head, GTM, Truecaller, said, “This partnership marks a significant step in expanding our global footprint by enabling more businesses to connect with their customers through trusted and highly contextual messaging. It will help drive broader platform adoption and create new strategic opportunities to better serve enterprise customers through Route Mobile’s extensive and well-established global network.”

Tushar Agnihotri, CEO, Route Mobile, said, “We are delighted to partner with Truecaller to bring advanced business messaging solutions to enterprises globally. By combining our robust CPaaS infrastructure with Truecaller’s extensive user reach and rich media messaging, we are enabling brands to communicate more effectively, build trusted interactions, and engage customers in a more meaningful way. This collaboration supports secure, reliable communication at scale, helping businesses strengthen customer engagement and improve campaign effectiveness.”

The partnership aims to enhance user engagement by enabling businesses to reach more than 500 million monthly active users globally on Truecaller with contextual, immersive, rich-media messages that seamlessly integrate images, documents, and videos.

The platform offers both one-way and two-way communication capabilities, with a broad range of functionalities, including verified business messaging, hyperlinks for actionability, smart-priority sticky notifications, and read receipts. These capabilities are designed to help businesses improve customer interactions and engagement.

About Truecaller
Truecaller is an essential part of everyday communication for over 500 million active users worldwide, with more than one billion downloads since launch and 68 billion spam and fraud calls identified in 2025 alone. The company is headquartered in Stockholm and has been publicly listed on Nasdaq Stockholm since October 2021.

About Proximus Global
Proximus Global, combining the strengths of Telesign, BICS, and Route Mobile, is transforming the future of communications and digital identity. Together, our solutions fuel innovation across the world’s largest companies and emerging brands. Our unrivaled global reach empowers businesses to create engaging experiences with built-in fraud protection across the entire customer lifecycle. Our comprehensive suite of solutions – from our super network for voice, messaging, and data, to 5G and IoT; and from verification and intelligence to CPaaS for personalized omnichannel engagement – enables businesses and communities to thrive. Reaching over 5 billion subscribers, securing more than 180 billion transactions annually, and connecting 1,000+ destinations, we honor our commitment to connect, protect, and engage everyone, everywhere. For more information, visit www.proximusglobal.com.