10, Feb 2026
SolveCon ’26 to Power India’s Next Generation of Youth Changemakers
Bengaluru, Feb 09 : Reap Benefit, a leading nonprofit building India’s largest movement of youth changemakers known as Solve Ninjas, will host the 10th edition of SolveCon on 21 February 2026 at PES University, Bengaluru. The national gathering will bring together over 1,500 young people and 80+ organisations, including Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies (RNP), Azim Premji University, and Teach For India, alongside practitioners from across sectors for a one-day, youth-led festival of action and learning. SolveCon 2026 will feature interactive spaces and creative experiences focused on civic action, climate, mental health, science, art, and community-led problem-solving. The event will also host renowned speakers such as Kailash Nadh, CTO, Zerodha, and Board Member, Rainmatter Foundation; Rohini Nilekani, Chairperson, RNP; Ashwini Hiremath, Founder, Wild Wild Women; and Deepak Dhananjaya, Organisation Coach, Psychotherapist, and Founder, Prabhava Institute of Inclusive Mental Health (PIIMH).
SolveCon ’26 marks the first national edition of SolveCon—an initiative that has grown over the past 18 months through nine editions across multiple cities. Built around three simple ideas—Connect, Learn, and Lead—the event is designed to help young people meet like-minded peers, try hands-on learning and real-world problem solving, and explore ways to step into leadership and action in their own communities. This edition also celebrates the shared journey of Reap Benefit and thousands of Solve Ninjas over the years, recognising young people who have consistently driven change in their cities and neighbourhoods.
Across nine previous editions, SolveCon has engaged close to 1,700 youth from Tier 1, 2, and 3 cities, hosted over 40 short, hands-on learning sessions, and enabled more than 40 young changemakers to publicly share their journeys in civic and climate action. Around 20 organisations—including funders, educators, and civic groups—have participated not as observers but as collaborators, creating interactive spaces, mentoring young participants, and sharing practical tools and experiences.
Speaking on the upcoming edition, Kuldeep Dantewadia, Co-Founder and CEO of Reap Benefit, said,
“SolveCon was born from what we were witnessing on the ground through Reap Benefit’s Solve Ninja programme. When young people are trusted to act, they deliver real outcomes—over 1.5 lakh youth have taken more than 1 lakh civic actions, initiated thousands of local campaigns, and built hundreds of community solutions across India. As this work grew, we realised that reports couldn’t fully capture what youth-led changemaking actually feels like. SolveCon was created to make that lived experience visible—bringing young people and the ecosystem together to learn by doing, act collectively, and see what becomes possible when the right conditions are created for youth leadership.”
For many participants, SolveCon becomes a starting point for continued civic and climate action helping them find peer networks, mentors, and pathways such as Reap Benefit’s Solve Ninja programme.
SolveCon ’26 will bring these experiences together through three core spaces:
- A Mela with interactive stalls and installations hosted by partner organisations and Solve Ninjas
- Short, hands-on learning sessions across themes such as civic action, climate, mental health, art, and science
- Addas, or small reflection circles focused on sharing lived experiences and peer learning
The event will close with a leadership forum and a collective cultural programme celebrating youth voices and creativity.
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- By Neel Achary
9, Feb 2026
20,000+ runners participated in the 8th Edition of Manipal Marathon, organized by Manipal Academy of Higher Education
Manipal, Feb 09: The 8th edition of the Manipal Marathon concluded successfully at KMC Greens, Manipal, on 8th February 2026, organized by Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institution of Eminence and Deemed to be University. Recognized as one of India’s largest student-led community fitness events, the marathon drew over 20,000 participants, including 100+ international athletes, competing across categories for a prize pool exceeding ₹25 lakhs.
Themed “Miles for a Greener Tomorrow Run for a Sustainable Future”, this edition reinforced MAHE’s commitment to environmental stewardship. The event aligned with ongoing sustainability initiatives, including tree plantation, biodiversity conservation, solar energy utilization, waste management, rainwater harvesting, and sustainable mobility, extending its impact beyond campus into the broader community.
Addressing the enthusiastic crowd, Dr H S Ballal, Pro Chancellor, MAHE, remarked,
“The overwhelming response to the 8th edition of the Manipal Marathon demonstrates MAHE’s vision of fostering holistic development beyond academics. By bringing together over 20,000 runners, we are promoting fitness, wellness, environmental stewardship, and community engagement. What began as a student initiative has grown into one of India’s largest community fitness events, attracting participation from over 10 countries.”
Over 100 international athletes participated, representing countries such as Dubai, England, Ethiopia, Germany, Kenya, Japan, Malaysia, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and the USA, strengthening the marathon’s global profile. The scenic beachside route for the 42K runners provided a memorable experience, while the newly introduced 10K route, including the Manipal Hospice Respite Centre (MHRC), emphasized the marathon’s enduring focus on social impact.
The event was graced by dignitaries, including Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M D Venkatesh, VSM (Retd.), Vice Chancellor, along with Dr Sharath Rao, Pro Vice Chancellor (Health Sciences), Dr. Dilip G. Naik, Pro Vice Chancellor (Mangalore Campus), Dr Anand Venugopal, COO Operations, Dr Gopalakrishna Prabhu, Vice Chancellor, Sikkim Manipal University, and other MAHE officials.
In line with MAHE’s focus on equity and inclusivity, the marathon featured dedicated categories for differently-abled and visually challenged runners, with age-wise classification, receiving enthusiastic participation.
MAHE expressed its gratitude to the title sponsors including ICICI Bank, UNEXT, Deloitte, BOBCARD, and all partners whose support contributed to the success of Manipal Marathon 2026.
The names of winners across various categories are:
42K Fastest Male
1 Sathish Kumar
2 Sachin Poojari
3 Desye Endalew
42 Fastest Female
1 Senait Kefelegn Lesharge
2 Yenealem Ayano Buli
3 Neeti Kriplani
21K Fastest Male
1 Rijwan Ali
2 Shashwath Rajesh Poojary
3 Nalinakshan Kizhakkedath
21K Fastest Female
1 Bhawana Negi
2 Nandini G
3 Rutuja Patil
10K Fastest Male
1 Shivanand Chigari
2 Shreedhara SN
3 Mubarak R Dantali
10K Fastest Female
1 Shahin S Dharwad
2 Shreya Moodekallu
3 Chaithra TP
5K Fastest Male
1 Nagaraj Divate
2 Ranga
3 Manjunath Belurappanavar
5K Fastest Female
1 Nagini Nagini
2 HV Deeksha
3 Rekha B.P. Basappa Piroji
The event concluded with a vibrant post-run carnival by fitness enthusiasts and students, featuring music and interactive fitness and Zumba sessions to celebrate the Manipal Marathon.
9, Feb 2026
DPU School of Allied Health Sciences Partners with AREF to Boost Healthcare Skill Development
DPU School of Allied Health Sciences and AREF Announce Strategic Collaboration to Strengthen Healthcare Skill Development and Community Health Research
Feb 09: D.Y Patil University, School of Allied Health Sciences and Adiuvaret Research & Education Foundation (AREF) today announced a strategic collaboration aimed at advancing holistic healthcare education, enhancing skill-building capabilities, and fostering community-focused health initiatives across the allied health and healthcare management education sectors.
This partnership brings together the academic excellence of DPU School of Allied Health Sciences with AREF’s proven expertise in healthcare management learning, curriculum development, and educational support systems. The collaboration will focus on developing structured skill ecosystems in public health and biomedical research, interdisciplinary learning modules for community health, and research-driven models that address the evolving needs of students, educators, and communities.
Dr. Abhay Saraf, Director, DPU School of Allied Health Sciences, said,
“With AREF’s proven capabilities and our shared vision for holistic development, this partnership marks the beginning of a transformative journey that will reshape how students learn, engage, and contribute to society. Together, we aim to build future-ready skill ecosystems, encourage impactful research, and strengthen our community outreach initiatives. By uniting academic excellence with real-world application, I believe this collaboration will set new benchmarks in skill-building, interdisciplinary innovation, and sustainable community impact.”
Highlighting the significance of the partnership, Dr. Biranchi Jena, Director, AREF, said,
“Collaborating with DPU School of Allied Health Sciences is a tremendous opportunity to integrate our practical experience in health management education with a leading academic institution. Our shared commitment to quality, accessibility, and innovation positions us to create meaningful change. We look forward to co-creating programs, resources, and learning pathways that elevate student readiness and deliver long-term value to the communities we serve.”
The partnership will further explore joint programs, research initiatives, field training, community engagement activities, and development of educational tools and materials. Both institutions aim to position the collaboration as a model for future academic-industry partnerships in India.
9, Feb 2026
PhysicsWallah Offers Free Doubt Support and Mock Preboards for Class 10 CBSE Students
PhysicsWallah Announces Free Doubt Resolution Support and Mock Preboards for Class 10 CBSE Students across India
Bengaluru, Feb 09: Education company PhysicsWallah (PW) announced a student support initiative aimed at assisting aspirants appearing for the Class 10 CBSE Board Exams in 2026. Students across the country can avail free doubt resolution and expert guidance. This initiative is not only open for PW students but any Class 10 student across the country. The initiative is designed to help reduce academic pressure during the exam season.
PW will also facilitate offline preboards in Science and Mathematics nationwide in an attempt to strengthen student readiness. These examinations will be conducted at PW’s physical centres like Vidyapeeth, Pathshala, and Tuition Centres to simulate real board exam conditions and help students improve proficiency and time-management skills under exam-day constraints.
Ankit Gupta, CEO of Vidyapeeth-Offline of PhysicsWallah (PW), said,
“Education should never be restricted by boundaries, especially when a student is preparing for a defining moment like the Board Exams. Many students lack immediate access to quality exam support and we know even a single unresolved doubt can cause stress. By opening our Vidyapeeth, Pathshala and Tuition centres to every student, regardless of whether they are enrolled with us or not, we are simply doing what is right for the student community. We want aspirants to feel supported, confident, and ready to perform to their full potential.”
Students across India can visit their nearest PW Vidyapeeth, Pathshala or Tuition Centre to obtain a Doubt Buster Pass, valid till the board exams, and book a slot for doubt resolution. Experienced faculty members will address specific queries, explain complex topics, and offer strategic guidance on answer-writing techniques. Students can clarify doubts across subjects including Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics and Biology, and also receive revision cards for the CBSE Class 10 syllabus to support their preparation.
Students can book a slot at their nearest centre for the Science exam scheduled on 1 February 2026 and the Mathematics exam scheduled on 8 February 2026 through the PW app.
The initiative is being rolled out through PhysicsWallah’s network of 192 tech-enabled Vidyapeeth and Pathshala centres located across 132 cities in India as of 30th September 2025.
6, Feb 2026
Amity University Hosts ICESBD’26 on Sustainable Entrepreneurship and Gig Innovation
New Delhi, Feb 6: Amity School of Business (ASB), Amity University Uttar Pradesh, successfully hosted the 4th Edition of the International Conference on Entrepreneurship and Sustainable Business Development (ICESBD’26). The conference centered on the theme: “Evolving Enterprises: Navigating GIG Innovation, Green Operations and Digital Relationship”, bringing together researchers, students, entrepreneurs, and policymakers to discuss innovative and sustainable business practices.
Conference Highlights:
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Keynote Addresses:
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Ms. Simin Askari, Chief Human Resource Officer, DS Group, emphasized the importance of sustainability, gig economy recognition, and digital transformation in today’s evolving business landscape.
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Ms. Saranya Pradhan, Head – Sustainability and Corporate Communication, McCain Foods, highlighted how sustainable practices, gig innovation, and digital relationships drive growth, customer loyalty, and long-term value creation.
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Mr. Santosh Sharma, Founder & CEO, Book My Jet, underlined how eco-friendly operations and leveraging global freelance talent foster innovation, cost efficiency, and enhanced customer engagement.
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Prof. (Dr.) Balvinder Shukla, Vice Chancellor, AUUP, stressed the synergy between entrepreneurship and sustainability as a key driver for economic growth while minimizing environmental impact.
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Panel Discussions & Workshops:
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Panel discussion on “Sustainable Innovation in the Gig Economy: Trends, Opportunities, and Challenges”.
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Paper presentations covering topics such as gig economy entrepreneurship, circular business models, digital relationship management, and resilience in entrepreneurial ecosystems.
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Research paper development workshop on crafting high-quality submissions for Scopus-indexed journals.
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NEXT GEN – INNOVATE EXPO 2026:
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The conference featured an exhibition of 29 start-ups and businesses founded by young entrepreneurs, showcasing sustainable, digital, and disruptive innovations.
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Dr. Sujata Khandai, Director – ASB, said,
“Entrepreneurs are increasingly integrating eco-friendly products, renewable energy, and ethical supply chains into their business models. ICESBD’26 provides a platform for thought leaders and innovators to share insights, inspire students, and explore transformative strategies for sustainable entrepreneurship.”
ICESBD’26 reinforced Amity University’s commitment to nurturing future-ready entrepreneurs, emphasizing sustainability, innovation, and digital transformation as cornerstones for the next generation of business leaders.
6, Feb 2026
IIT Patna’s Certificate Program in Generative AI for Professionals Shows Strong Multi-Batch Success
Feb 6: The Certificate Program in Generative AI for Professionals at IIT Patna continues to demonstrate strong momentum, marked by high enrolments, consistent learner trust, and impressive satisfaction scores across multiple cohorts. The programme has emerged as a preferred choice for working professionals seeking industry-aligned, hands-on education in generative artificial intelligence.
The first batch of the programme, conducted from May 2025 to November 2025, successfully concluded with an enrolment of 190 professionals and achieved an outstanding CSAT score of 4.5 out of 5 across all modules. Building on this success, the second batch (August 31 to February 28) witnessed a significant rise in participation, enrolling 308 professionals and securing a CSAT score of 4.2 out of 5. Cohort 2 is currently progressing through the Web App Building module and is on track for successful completion in February 2026.
The programme’s growing appeal is further reflected in Batch 4, which commenced in January 2026 and has already enrolled 288 professionals. This sustained demand underscores the relevance of the curriculum and the increasing need for practical, job-ready Generative AI skills in today’s evolving technology landscape.
Commenting on the programme’s success, an IIT Patna representative said,
“The continued success of this programme reflects both consistency in delivery and a strong alignment with industry requirements. Our Generative AI curriculum is designed to equip working professionals with hands-on experience to solve real-world problems using advanced AI tools and techniques.”
Batch 4 of the programme is currently underway, and applications for Batch 5 are open until 15 March 2026. The programme continues to focus on providing practical, industry-relevant training aimed at enhancing employability and preparing professionals for future-ready careers in artificial intelligence.
With its robust structure, high learner satisfaction, and growing enrolment figures, IIT Patna’s Certificate Program in Generative AI for Professionals is fast establishing itself as a benchmark in advanced AI education in India.
5, Feb 2026
Students from India Achieve Results in Outstanding Cambridge Learner Awards
Cambridge University Press & Assessment (Cambridge) today announced the winners of the Outstanding Cambridge Learner Awards (OCLA) in India, recognising exceptional academic performance by secondary school students in the November 2024, March 2025, and June 2025 Cambridge examination series.
A total of 227 students from India have been honoured for outstanding achievement in Cambridge IGCSE™, International AS & A Level examinations, including 86 students who secured the highest marks in the world and 107 students who achieved the highest marks in India in a single subject. In addition, 72 students were recognised from the November 2024 examination series, while 155 students received awards from the March and June 2025 series.
The awards highlight India’s strong performance in core academic disciplines, with 85% of ‘Top in the World’ awardees excelling in Mathematics, Science, and English. Cambridge also noted a growing interest among Indian learners in foreign languages such as Spanish, German, French, Chinese, and Arabic at the AS & A Level stages.
The Outstanding Cambridge Learner Awards programme celebrates student excellence across more than 40 countries worldwide, recognising learners who demonstrate exceptional academic ability, critical thinking, and subject mastery. Cambridge qualifications are globally recognised and highly valued by leading universities and employers for preparing students to succeed in higher education and beyond.
Commenting on the achievement, Vinay Sharma, Regional Director, South Asia – International Education, Cambridge, said, “Cambridge learners are at the heart of everything we do. We are proud to celebrate the outstanding achievements of learners from India, whose success reflects exceptional academic ability, dedication, and perseverance. These awards recognise the highest levels of performance worldwide and honour not only learners, but also the vital support of their teachers and parents. As part of the University of Cambridge, we deliver qualifications that are trusted globally and equip learners with the skills and confidence to pursue their future ambitions.”
In addition to recognising top academic performers, the awards also celebrate High Achievement winners in subjects with lower candidature in India, as well as students who achieved the highest cumulative marks across multiple subjects, having outperformed thousands of candidates globally.
The awards ceremony was attended by representatives from two UK Russell Group university branch campuses in India, both of which announced exclusive scholarship opportunities for award recipients.
University of York Mumbai, a campus of the University of York, UK, announced three scholarships for Outstanding Cambridge Learner Award recipients seeking admission in the 2026–27 academic year. Each scholarship will offer a full waiver of tuition fees for the first year of study and will be available for the following undergraduate programmes:
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BSc (Honours) Computer Science
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BSc (Honours) Economics
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BA (Honours) Business of the Creative Industries
Similarly, University of Liverpool Bengaluru, a campus of the University of Liverpool, UK, announced that Cambridge International A Level students who are OCLA recipients will be considered for five University of Liverpool Bengaluru–Cambridge Scholarship Awards starting in 2026. These scholarships will offer a tuition fee reduction for the first year of study, subject to meeting entry requirements.
The Cambridge Scholarship Awards reaffirm the universities’ commitment to recognising academic excellence and supporting high-achieving Cambridge learners in their pursuit of global higher education opportunities.
3, Feb 2026
CFTI Fast-Tracks School Development Initiatives Pre FY-End
Mumbai, Maharashtra, Feb 03: With the March 31 financial year-end approaching, the Centre for Transforming India (CFTI) has rolled out a set of education-focused initiatives across schools in Mumbai and rural regions to support the timely utilisation of unspent CSR funds. These projects are designed for execution within short timelines and aim to address persistent gaps in school infrastructure, access to learning resources, and student mobility—key factors impacting attendance and learning outcomes in government and rural schools.
The initiative spans a wide range of school development and education support interventions that can be implemented within FY-end timelines. These include student mobility support such as bicycle distribution for girls; provision of academic kits and scholarships; digital learning enablement through tablets and computer installations; classroom and furniture upgrades; drinking water and sanitation improvements; and the development of sports and physical education infrastructure in rural schools.
CFTI brings significant on-ground implementation experience, having previously executed similar initiatives across multiple states. This includes the distribution of over 35,000 bicycles, award of more than 1,300 scholarships covering students from early education to postgraduate levels, and deployment of over 800 tablets and 100 computers to improve digital access. Infrastructure interventions have included upgrades to more than 90 classrooms, donation of over 1,200 benches across Maharashtra, Bihar, Vizag, and Pondicherry, installation of 34 RO water purifiers, integrated upgrades across 144 schools, and the development of sports facilities in select rural locations.
Commenting on the initiative, Amit Deshpande, Chief Operating Officer, Centre for Transforming India (CFTI), said,
“As the financial year draws to a close, CSR teams often face time and execution constraints. Having projects that are implementation-ready enables CSR funds to be deployed within the reporting cycle while addressing specific, on-the-ground needs of schools and students.”
Through an approach centred on execution readiness, monitoring, and transparent reporting, CFTI partners with corporates to deliver education projects within the financial year, with the objective of converting CSR allocations into clearly defined and measurable outcomes at the school and community level.
3, Feb 2026
St. Joseph’s School Celebrates 25 Glorious Years with Spectacular AgLumina Festival
Feb 3: St. Joseph’s School, Asmangadh Palace, Malakpet, Hyderabad, celebrated its Silver Jubilee Annual Cultural Festival, AgLumina — Illuminating Talent, Celebrating Excellence, at GSR Conventions, Hasthinapuram. The two-day festival stood as a fitting reflection of the institution’s legacy built over 25 years of dedicated service.
The programme commenced on Saturday, 31st January, 2026 with a welcome address by the Principal, Mrs. U. A. Sundari, who briefly outlined the significance of the Silver Jubilee celebrations and the school’s journey over the years. The Chief Guest for the day was Dr. K. S. Jawahar Reddy, IAS (Retd.), Chief Secretary (Retd.), Government of Andhra Pradesh, who addressed the gathering and appreciated the school’s consistent academic and co-curricular growth. The event was also graced by the presence of Shri M. Anil Kumar, IRS, Principal Chief Commissioner of Income Tax, AP & Telangana Region.
The celebrations continued on Sunday, 1 February 2026 with the blessings of Rev. Msgr. Yeruva Balashowreddy, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Hyderabad.
The Chief Guest for the day was Prof. Dr. V. Balakista Reddy, Chairman, Telangana Higher Education Council (TGCHE).
Mrs. Dhatri Reddy, IAS, CEO, Ratan Tata Innovation Hub, Government of Andhra Pradesh, and an alumna of St. Joseph’s School, attended as Guest of Honour.
The event gained further distinction through the gracious attendance of Shri T. Vijay Kumar Reddy, Indian Information Service (IIS), eminent civil servant and distinguished administrator, and U Alexander Reddy, Secretary, St. Anthony’s Education Society, across both days of the celebration. Parent representatives of the School Cabinet were also invited as the special guests on the occasion.
Students from various classes presented cultural performances spread across the two days. A special highlight of the programme was the dance drama by the students of Grade 9, “A Vision That Became a Legacy,” tracing the journey of the founder and the growth of the institution from its inception to its present standing. Gold medals were awarded to the school’s ICSE Board Examination 2025 toppers and class wise proficiency winners, acknowledging their scholastic achievements.
The Silver Jubilee Annual Cultural Festival, AgLumina, concluded on a high note, embodying the event’s motto of illuminating talent and celebrating excellence. As gold medals gleamed under the lights and applause echoed for the students’ stellar performances, the event not only honoured 25 years of transformative education but also inspired a new generation to carry forward this illustrious legacy with pride and passion.
2, Feb 2026
India’s New University Townships and NID Expansion Set to Bridge Education-Industry Gap
Fr. Nelson A. D’Silva, S.J., Acting Director – XLRI Delhi-NCR
The plan to develop five University Townships along India’s major industrial and logistics corridors is a transformative step toward bridging the gap between education and industry. These townships are not mere clusters of buildings; they are integrated ecosystems where universities, research hubs, and skill centers coexist with residential spaces.
By colocating academia and industry, we create a living laboratory where learning is informed by real-world industrial challenges. The introduction of a ‘challenge route’ to guide States is particularly innovative—it encourages the creation of high-performance hubs rather than just additional infrastructure. This initiative ensures that graduates are ready to step directly from campus into leadership roles in India’s emerging sectors.
Mr. Kanwal Jeet Jawa, President – DESDS (DJIME)
Placing University Townships adjacent to industrial and logistics hubs is a pragmatic approach to skill development. True mastery comes from learning in proximity to real-world operations, not in isolation. By integrating universities, skill centers, and research labs with industrial corridors, we establish a continuous pipeline of professionals attuned to India’s industry needs from day one.
The ‘challenge route’ is a forward-thinking measure, compelling States to focus on building sustainable ecosystems rather than just opening institutes. Students and mentors living and working near industrial hubs ensures a workforce that is genuinely industry-ready, transforming India from a nation of job seekers into a nation of skilled practitioners and innovators.
Mr. Avik Chattopadhyay, Chairperson, XADM & Founder, INDEA
The establishment of a new NID in Eastern India is a landmark move toward democratizing access to world-class design education. For too long, top-tier design opportunities were limited by geography; this initiative invites talent from every corner of the country to contribute to a nationwide creative renaissance.
Beyond addressing regional imbalances, this initiative fuels India’s growing demand for visual content—from digital media to immersive experiences. By linking education directly to enterprise via the new standing committee, we shift from producing mere stylists to nurturing problem solvers capable of driving Atmanirbhar innovation. This is about cultivating design as a national capability—transforming students into founders, creators, and value generators for tomorrow.
Pathikrit Dasgupta , Co-Founder,SabPaisa
By prioritizing AI and digital innovation, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has outlined a roadmap for the next phase of India’s fintech revolution. At SabPaisa, we interpret this mandate as a call to action to make financial technologies more accessible than ever. We are committed to translating this national vision into practical solutions—building AI-ready, partner-first platforms that remove operational bottlenecks and drive tangible business value. This is a growth-oriented budget, and it fuels our resolve to empower Indian enterprises.
