Category Archives: News

Global partnership creates new pathway to master’s studies

DeGroote and SPJIMR launch flexible, coordinated learning opportunities for students.

MUMBAI, India, Sept. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — McMaster University’s DeGroote School of Business and Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan’s S.P. Jain Institute of Management & Research (SPJIMR) have established a new pathway that enables participants in SPJIMR’s Global Management Programme (GMP) to continue into DeGroote’s Master of Finance (MFin) or Master of Management in AI and Analytics (MMAIA).

“We are committed to creating flexible pathways for students that expand access to high-quality graduate education, and we are excited to collaborate with SPJIMR to bring this opportunity to life,” said Khaled Hassanein, Dean of the DeGroote School of Business. “Together, we are helping students build globally relevant skills and credentials recognized in both Indian and North American markets.”

“AI is reshaping the skills and capabilities that tomorrow’s leaders will need, making it essential for management education to connect business thinking with technology and data. This partnership with DeGroote creates a flexible pathway for our students to build that foundation at SPJIMR and deepen their expertise in AI and analytics or finance in a global environment,” said Varun Nagaraj, Dean, SPJIMR.

A coordinated pathway

Through this new initiative, DeGroote joins a GMP partner network spanning Europe, the U.K., the U.S.A. and Canada. Under the coordinated pathway, participants complete six months of study at SPJIMR’s Mumbai campus and then transfer one semester of coursework into their selected McMaster programme, reducing the overall length of study and creating a more flexible route to an internationally recognised graduate credential.

Students complete one of two GMP tracks at SPJIMR for the McMaster pathway. The first track focuses on digital transformation and AI and analytics, while the second track focuses on finance and fintech. McMaster has pre-approved the matching coursework for credit recognition and participants will graduate with dual alumni status at both institutions.

The pathway is designed to support students making significant decisions about their time, resources and career goals, while strengthening their preparation for graduate study. Joint online career workshops run while participants are still in Mumbai, covering résumé preparation for the Canadian market, professional narrative and interview practice. At McMaster, students have access to career services, internships, industry partner projects and available scholarships.

Candidates apply through a coordinated admissions process, with SPJIMR and McMaster assessing applicants under their own admission requirements. MMAIA students begin the GMP in January and start at McMaster in September while MFin students begin in June and start the following January.

This partnership builds on DeGroote’s focus on global collaboration and flexible pathways for learners, emphasising McMaster’s Bolder Together strategic plan commitment to align international partnerships with the university’s teaching and research strengths.

About DeGroote School of Business

The DeGroote School of Business at McMaster University is a leader in experiential business education and research, bringing together students, faculty and industry partners to tackle challenges facing today’s business leaders. As Canada’s leading experiential business school, DeGroote offers innovative undergraduate, graduate and executive programs that emphasise collaboration, analytics and leadership development.

AACSB-accredited, the school is committed to creating meaningful impact through research, partnerships and a forward‑thinking approach to business education. This is demonstrated through university rankings where McMaster University is ranked #1 in Canada for student services in the Maclean’s University Rankings 2026 and #4 in Canada in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026.

About SPJIMR

Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan’s S.P. Jain Institute of Management & Research (SPJIMR) is one of India’s leading postgraduate management institutes. It is recognised in the Financial Times Masters in Management 2026 ranking as the #26 business school globally and #2 in India and in the Financial Times Global MBA 2026 ranking as #74 business school globally for its PGPM programme. SPJIMR is also consistently ranked among India’s top business schools by leading publications, including Business Today, Fortune India, India Today, and MBAUniverse. It has also been recognised by the Positive Impact Rating as one of the world’s top five business schools for societal impact. Known for its innovative and socially conscious approach to management education, research, and community engagement, SPJIMR seeks to influence managerial practice and enable value-based growth for students, alumni, organisations, and society. The institute holds the international Triple Crown of accreditations from EQUIS, AACSB, and AMBA, placing it among a select group of business schools worldwide to hold all three accreditations.

Visit SPJIMR.org for more information.

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ONGC’s Mahanadi Basin Gas Find Marks Major Energy Milestone For Odisha, Says CM Majhi

Bhubaneswar, Sept. 23 (UDN): Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has described ONGC’s offshore natural gas discovery in the Mahanadi Basin as a landmark development that could strengthen the state’s energy sector and contribute to India’s push for greater energy self-reliance.

Reacting to the discovery on social media, the Chief Minister said the Mahanadi, long regarded as Odisha’s lifeline, is now poised to play a significant role in the country’s energy future through resources beneath its offshore basin.

CM Hails Discovery As Step Towards Energy Self-Reliance

In a post on X, Majhi said the offshore gas find represents an important step towards unlocking Odisha’s energy potential and supporting India’s goal of becoming more self-reliant in the energy sector.

He described the discovery as a new chapter in the Mahanadi’s contribution to the state, saying that the river, which has sustained Odisha for centuries, now holds the potential to power future growth through offshore resources.

Discovery Made Off Konark Coast

The natural gas discovery was made by the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) on September 18 at the MN-DW18-1-H-D well (MDW-28), located about 43 kilometres off the Konark coast.

The well forms part of Samudra Manthan, ONGC’s deepwater exploration campaign launched on July 25 by Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Singh Puri.

Boost To Offshore Exploration

The discovery is expected to add momentum to offshore exploration efforts in the Mahanadi Basin, one of India’s key hydrocarbon-bearing regions along the eastern coast.

While further assessment will determine the commercial potential of the find, the development has been viewed as an encouraging outcome for ongoing exploration activities in Odisha’s offshore waters.

Khordha-Balangir Railway Project: Freight Locomotive Trial Run Reaches Charichhak

Bhubaneswar, Sept. 23 (UDN): The Khordha-Balangir railway project has moved closer to its next operational milestone with a successful trial run of a freight locomotive up to Charichhak, marking progress on the Purunakatak-Charichhak section.

 Representational Image 

The latest test run followed the completion of major track and infrastructure work in the area, with railway authorities now preparing for the next stage of inspection and clearance.

Locomotive Crosses Tunnel, Two Viaducts

A freight locomotive was operated on the newly completed stretch towards Charichhak at a speed of around 60 kmph during the trial.

The locomotive crossed two viaduct bridges and Tunnel No. 7 during the exercise, allowing railway officials to assess the condition and readiness of the track and associated infrastructure.

A subsequent trial was also conducted with a freight locomotive hauling several wagons. The tests were aimed at checking the operational readiness of the newly laid section before it proceeds to the formal safety assessment.

Charichhak Station Work In Final Phase

Following the completion of railway connectivity up to Boudh and Purunakatak, work is now progressing towards extending the operational section to Charichhak.

Construction work at Charichhak railway station and the connecting track is reportedly nearing completion. The remaining works are being taken up ahead of the required inspection and clearance procedures.

The latest trial run is being seen as another step towards completing the next segment of the long-awaited railway project.

Safety Inspection To Determine Next Step

The Purunakatak-Charichhak section is expected to undergo a safety inspection in the coming weeks.

The inspection will be an important stage before regular train operations can begin on the newly completed stretch. The commencement of passenger or other regular services will depend on the outcome of the inspection as well as completion of the mandatory formalities.

With track testing already underway and station construction nearing completion, railway authorities are working towards taking the Charichhak section to the next stage of commissioning.

Rockwell Automation Receives Eight Brandon Hall Group HCM Excellence Awards

India-based Gurukul leadership development program wins four Gold and four Silver honors in the 2026 Brandon Hall Group HCM Excellence Awards

NEW DELHI, Sept. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Rockwell Automation, Inc. (NYSE: ROK), the world’s largest company dedicated to industrial automation and digital transformation, announced that its India-based Gurukul leadership development program has received eight awards at the 2026 Brandon Hall Group HCM Excellence Awards^®. The program earned four Gold and four Silver awards, receiving recognition for all eight submissions entered across four disciplines.

In Learning & Development, the Gurukul program received three Gold awards for Best Competencies & Skill Development, Best Use of a Blended Learning Program and Best Learning Team. In Talent Management, the program earned two Silver awards for Best High Potential Development and Best Succession & Career Management. In Leadership Development, it received Gold for Best Unique or Innovative Leadership Development Program and Silver for Best Leadership Development Program. The program also earned Silver for Best Program for Upskilling Employees in the Future of Work discipline.

The Brandon Hall Group HCM Excellence Awards recognize organizations that successfully develop and deploy programs, strategies, technologies and solutions that deliver measurable business results and advance excellence in human capital management. Each submission is evaluated by an independent panel of Brandon Hall Group analysts, industry experts and experienced practitioners against criteria including business need, program design, innovation, adoption and organizational impact.

The Gurukul program was designed to prepare high-potential team leads for broader enterprise roles as Rockwell Automation India evolves into a strategic Global Capability Center. Developed with Chrysalis HRD Pvt Ltd., the nine-month program combined leadership assessments, experiential workshops, simulations, action learning projects, global mentoring and coaching to strengthen strategic thinking, commercial awareness and stakeholder influence. All 15 participants completed the leadership journey, with a participant satisfaction score of 4.9 out of 5. During the program, eight participants were promoted and three others transitioned into expanded or different roles, while manager feedback identified improvements in enterprise perspective, collaboration and leadership ownership.

“This recognition from Brandon Hall Group is a testament to Rockwell Automation India’s commitment to developing talent and creating a future-ready workforce. Through Gurukul, we have built a learning ecosystem that empowers employees to continuously grow, embrace new opportunities, and develop the leadership capabilities needed for tomorrow’s challenges. Winning eight awards across learning, talent management, leadership development, and future of work categories is an honor that reflects the impact of our people-first approach and the remarkable contributions of our teams,” said Abhishek Misra, Head Human Resources – India, Rockwell Automation.

“Every year, the HCM Excellence Awards remind us that innovation is ultimately about impact. The organizations recognized this year have demonstrated that great HR and learning strategies don’t just improve programs, they strengthen organizations, empower people and deliver measurable business results. We are honored to celebrate their achievements,” said Rachel Cooke, COO of Brandon Hall Group™ and HCM Excellence Awards^® Program Leader.

For more information about the awards, visit the official Brandon Hall Group announcement.

About Rockwell Automation: Rockwell Automation, Inc. (NYSE: ROK), is a global leader in industrial automation and digital transformation. We connect the imaginations of people with the potential of technology to expand what is humanly possible, making the world more productive and more sustainable. Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Rockwell Automation employs approximately 26,000 problem solvers dedicated to our customers in more than 100 countries as of fiscal year end 2025. To learn more about how we are bringing the Connected Enterprise^® to life across industrial enterprises, visit www.rockwellautomation.com.

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Sceye Supports SoftBank Corp. in World-First Demonstration of Laser Ranging by Tracking a HAPS from the Ground

SoftBank Corp.’s ground team tracked Sceye’s stratospheric platform in real time and continuously received reflected laser signals, advancing future free–space optical (FSO) communications between ground, stratosphere, and space

MORIARTY, N.M., Sept. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Sceye, a U.S. aerospace and material science company building High Altitude Platform Systems (HAPS) for stratospheric infrastructure, today announced the world-first stratospheric laser tracking demonstration. The demonstration was part of Sceye’s historic month-long ST1 flight and was conducted by SoftBank Corp. (TOKYO:9434, “SoftBank”) in collaboration with Hitotsubashi University and the National Institute of Polar Research (NIPR), with Sceye supporting the demonstration through the use of its HAPS platform. It aimed to examine how optical wireless communication equipment should be installed on a Sceye HAPS, as well as to collect data toward realizing future optical wireless communications between satellites, HAPS and the ground.

NIPR designed a corner cube reflector (CCR) for installation on a HAPS, and SoftBank developed a reflector assembly incorporating the CCR. Sceye installed and carried the CCR on the first-ever HAPS flight over Japan. For the ground-based equipment, the team built a compact, portable laser ranging system capable of tracking a HAPS, based on “Omni-SLR,” a compact satellite laser ranging system designed by Hitotsubashi University. 

Using the corner cube reflector installed on Sceye’s HAPS and the compact, portable laser ranging system deployed on the ground, the team directed laser pulses toward the platform as it operated in the stratosphere. The system successfully conducted real-time tracking of Sceye’s HAPS and continuously received laser signals reflected back to the ground.

“This demonstration shows what becomes possible when we establish a reliable layer of infrastructure in the stratosphere,” said Mikkel Vestergaard Frandsen, Founder and CEO of Sceye. “During a single mission, our first Service Test flight supported direct-to-device connectivity, edge computing, communications with drones, and now a world-first laser-ranging demonstration. The ability to connect ground, stratosphere, and space through optical links could fundamentally change how information moves securely around the world, and Sceye is proud to provide the platform helping make that future possible.”

The ability to acquire and track a moving HAPS with a highly directional laser beam is an important step toward future optical wireless communications. The data acquired, including the attenuation of light as it traveled through the atmosphere between the ground and the stratosphere, will help define operational requirements for optical communications technology to be installed and operated on Sceye’s HAPS.

Optical wireless communications are emerging as a next-generation technology for high-speed, high-capacity non-terrestrial networks connecting satellites, HAPS, and terrestrial infrastructure. Applications include the rapid transmission of Earth observation data, connectivity in underserved areas, restoration of communications following disasters, and low-latency intercontinental network links.

“Tracking a HAPS from the ground with a highly directional laser is like trying to keep a laser pointer centered on a moving coin ten miles away, through an atmosphere that is constantly shifting the beam,” said Johnny Truong, Chief Technology Officer at Sceye. “The system had to locate the platform, precisely direct each laser pulse toward it, and continuously receive the reflected signals at the same location on the ground as the HAPS moved through the stratosphere. Successfully doing that demonstrates the precision required to build future optical links between ground, stratosphere, and space.”

The demonstration was completed as part of Sceye’s recent ST1 flight, which launched from New Mexico on August 9 and traveled nearly 30,000 km on a round-trip journey in the stratosphere to Japan and back. The mission lasted 30 days and included operating over Japan for over seven days. While over Japan, Sceye and SoftBank proved direct-to-device connectivity to unmodified devices through SoftBank’s core network, including text messaging, voice calls, internet access, and video streaming. Testing also included emergency communications, HAPS-based communications with drones, and edge computing performed directly aboard the platform.

About Sceye

Founded in 2014, Sceye (pronounced “sky”) is an aerospace company dedicated to advancing stratospheric infrastructure to connect people and protect the planet. Sceye leads the High Altitude Platform Systems (HAPS) industry, focusing on universal connectivity, climate monitoring, natural resource management, and disaster prevention.

press@sceye.com

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Bharat Taxi Launched In Uttar Pradesh With Zero-Commission Model, Rs 5 Lakh Security Cover

Lucknow, Sept. 23: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday launched Bharat Taxi in the state, announcing a zero-commission model for taxi, two-wheeler and three-wheeler drivers along with social security measures of up to Rs 5 lakh.

 Representational image 

The service was launched in Lucknow, Gorakhpur, Varanasi and Prayagraj. The Chief Minister also launched the Mukhyamantri Krishak Samriddhi Yojana, under which the interest rate on loans provided through the Uttar Pradesh Cooperative Rural Development Bank has been reduced from 11% to 6%.

Drivers To Operate Without Commission

Under the Bharat Taxi model, drivers, referred to as Saarthis, can register with the cooperative-led platform without paying a commission on rides. The model is designed to allow drivers to retain their fare earnings, in line with Bharat Taxi’s nationwide zero-commission structure.

The platform also provides access to social security benefits. The Ministry of Cooperation has said Bharat Taxi Saarthis can be linked to e-Shram and access health and insurance-related benefits, including medical treatment and accident cover.

Speaking at the launch, Yogi said taxi, two-wheeler and three-wheeler drivers had traditionally received limited attention and said the new model would provide them with greater social security.

Memoranda of understanding were also signed with institutions including Lucknow Airport, Lucknow Metro and Lucknow Police to facilitate Bharat Taxi’s operations.

Push For Rural Transport Network

Yogi asked Uttar Pradesh Transport Minister Dayashankar Singh to explore extending the Bharat Taxi model to rural bus services.

He said such services could expand transportation options in rural areas while creating employment opportunities for young people.

Referring to the Prayagraj Mahakumbh 2025, the Chief Minister said motorcycle-based transport services had helped ferry devotees between the Sangam, railway station and airport during the event.

Farmer Loan Rate Cut To 6%

The Chief Minister also launched the Mukhyamantri Krishak Samriddhi Yojana, highlighting the reduction in the interest rate on loans issued through the Uttar Pradesh Cooperative Rural Development Bank.

The rate has been brought down from 11% to 6%, according to the state government’s announcement.

Yogi also said the interest-free cash credit limit available to Primary Agricultural Cooperative Societies (PACS) had been raised from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 15 lakh.

He further said 54 lakh new members had joined the cooperative sector and that efforts were underway to strengthen cooperative banking and digital services for farmers.

New Digital Platforms Unveiled

During the programme, the Mukhyamantri Krishak Samriddhi Portal app, UPCDC and mobile applications related to fertiliser services and cooperative data management were launched.

The platforms are intended to improve access to cooperative services and strengthen digital systems for the delivery of agricultural inputs and other services.

Yogi also handed over Bharat Taxi share certificates to five Saarthis and loan sanction letters to five beneficiaries of the farmer scheme.

The launch was formally marked by a flag-off ceremony attended by Yogi Adityanath, Union Minister of State for Cooperation and Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol and other officials.

Odisha Records 2,915 Registered Startups, Over 3,000 Applications Received

Bhubaneswar, Sept. 23 (UDN): Odisha has recognised 2,915 startups so far, while another 3,091 applications have been received from entrepreneurs seeking startup registration in the state, MSME Minister Gokulananda Mallik informed the Assembly on Wednesday.

The minister provided the figures in a written reply to a question raised by MLA Pabitra Saunta.

13 Nodal Agencies, 42 Incubators Supporting Startups

According to Mallik, the state government is working with 13 nodal agencies involved in the evaluation and other processes related to startups.

The government is also coordinating with 42 incubators that provide entrepreneurs with incubation, mentorship and other forms of institutional support.

Registered startups can access assistance under several schemes, including the Monthly Allowance Grant (MAG), Product Development and Marketing Assistance (PDMA), Need Based Assistance (NBA) and subsidised incubation facilities.

714 Startups Receive Incentives

The MSME Minister said 714 startups have received incentives under various government schemes so far.

To further strengthen business support, the state has 45 mentors available to guide entrepreneurs and provide consultancy on business-related matters.

The support framework is aimed at helping startups with areas such as product development, marketing, incubation and business guidance.

33 MSMEs Established In Koraput

The minister also informed the Assembly that 33 micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) have been established in Koraput district.

The figures were shared during the ongoing Assembly session while responding to questions on startup registrations, institutional support and the growth of MSMEs in Odisha.

Chandigarh University CSE student Utkarsh develops AI-based hospital & patient care automation startup ‘Medoc’

‘Medoc’ forges tie-ups with 98 hospitals across 5 states and attaining valuation of Rs 22 cr in 4 years

CHANDIGARH, India, Sept. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — To streamline hospital operations and improve healthcare delivery across India, Chandigarh University student entrepreneur Utkarsh Luthra has built Medoc Health, an AI-driven health tech venture focused on hospital automation and smarter healthcare management. The startup’s solutions have now been adopted by 98 hospitals across five states across the country, helping healthcare institutions automate their routine processes, improved coordination across departments and bringing hospital records, clinical workflows and patient information closer to the ward, where healthcare delivery actually happens.

By moving beyond basic front-desk digitization, Medoc Health is helping hospitals streamline day-to-day processes, reduce administrative bottlenecks and give clinical teams faster access to critical information, saving valuable time and improving overall efficiency. Its AI-led automation also has the potential to lower operational costs, optimise the use of hospital resources and improve revenue by enabling hospitals to handle processes more efficiently and serve patients more effectively.

The venture was incubated and nurtured through the Chandigarh University Technology Business Incubator (CU-TBI) that has now achieved a substantial business traction with a current valuation of ₹22 crore and annual revenue of ₹1.26 crore (2025-26). Incubation support, expert mentorship, research and technology infrastructure, academic flexibility, industry exposure, networking opportunities and access to funding and business support have helped the student-led venture develop its products and take it to the market.

Medoc is funded under Startup India mission and received a seed funding of Rs 10 lakhs from NIT Jalandhar, is in talks to raise another Rs 50 lakhs from them besides the startup also received Rs 50 lakhs from an angel investor.

Medoc Health is focused particularly on Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, where hospitals often operate with limited IT infrastructure, unreliable connectivity and continued dependence on paper records. The company has built an integrated healthcare platform that brings hospital management, clinical documentation, diagnostics, insurance, patient records and communication tools into a unified healthcare system.

While explaining the idea behind Medoc Health and its solutions, Utkarsh Luthra, Founder and CEO, Medoc Health and alumnus of Chandigarh University (BE CSE student) said, “During the COVID-19 pandemic, both hospitals and patients faced significant challenges as healthcare systems came under immense strain. The absence of streamlined SOPs often resulted in delays and made hospital processes more difficult and costly. I saw the need for a technology-driven solution that could save time, streamline operations and offer a cost-effective approach for hospitals, particularly across Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities. The aim was to democratize access to efficient hospital and patient-care automation, making these solutions accessible beyond major urban centres.”

Luthra added, “We have designed Medoc specifically for the realities of Indian healthcare, particularly in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, where hospitals often work with limited IT infrastructure and budgets. Our objective is to make hospital automation more accessible and cost-effective without compromising on functionality. A conventional automation system for a 100-bed hospital can cost around ₹8 to ₹10 lakh, whereas we have developed a solution that can bring the cost down to around ₹3 lakh, reducing the hospital automation cost upto 60 per cent. Our software is also offline-first, so essential work can continue even when internet connectivity is unreliable, and our solutions support 12 Indian languages. We have developed hardware to capture prescriptions, reports and clinical notes that are still created on paper. By reducing repetitive administrative work and streamlining workflows, our solutions can help healthcare staff work more efficiently, reduce errors and spend more time on patient care. The objective is not to replace doctors or nurses with technology, but to give them affordable tools that make their work more efficient and allow hospitals to improve productivity and grow their revenues.”

Luthra added, “Medoc Health is built around a simple observation of a hospital’s most important work that happens in the ward but much of the technology available today is focused on the front desk. We wanted to build a system where the record is created and updated where care is actually happening. Our platform connects hospital operations, doctors, nurses, diagnostics, insurance and patients so that information does not remain trapped in separate systems or paper files. This reduces repetitive paperwork, helps healthcare workers access information faster and gives patients a more connected experience.”

“Medoc has developed nine integrated products covering different stages of hospital operations and patient care. Its hospital management platform, Axon, helps hospitals handle outpatient and inpatient services, billing, inventory, pharmacy, human resources and finance. DocAssist supports doctors with clinical documentation and prescriptions, while Monarcs uses AI to analyse medical images and diagnostic information and flag findings that may require clinical attention. The company’s other solutions address insurance, compliance, communication and frontline healthcare. Medoc One helps automate insurance and cashless claim processes, while Medoc Care assists hospitals with compliance and accreditation-related documentation. Medoc Call’s patient-facing application enables users to maintain digital health records containing prescriptions, reports, vitals, vaccinations and allergies,” added Luthra.

One of the startup’s distinctive innovations is Medoc Sync that captures handwritten prescriptions, laboratory reports and clinical notes, including handwritten prescriptions in multiple Indian languages.

Hospital administrators can manage operations through a unified system rather than multiple disconnected software platforms. Doctors can spend less time preparing routine documentation while nurses and frontline workers can record information digitally at the point of care.

According to Medoc, its radiology technology can pre-screen X-rays, CT scans and MRIs for more than 40 findings, while its diagnostics engine can interpret more than 60 diagnostic panels. Such tools can help flag information for clinical review and reduce some of the routine workload associated with analysing and documenting patient information.

Medoc’s emphasis on smaller cities is central to its larger healthcare vision. The company says its technology is designed for hospitals that may not have dedicated IT teams or the resources to install and manage multiple expensive systems. Offline functionality, multilingual support and its ability to digitise paper records are intended to make technology adoption easier for healthcare providers serving semi-urban and rural populations.

The startup has also followed a ground-level approach to product development, working with hospital administrators, doctors and healthcare professionals to understand actual hospital workflows. Its current team profile highlights 14 clinicians advising the company and more than 400 hours of field observations, helping the team build products around practical challenges rather than simply adapting conventional software to healthcare.

About Chandigarh University

Chandigarh University is a NAAC A+ Grade University and QS World Ranked University. This autonomous educational institution is approved by UGC and is located near Chandigarh in the state of Punjab. It is the youngest university in India and the only private university in Punjab to be honoured with A+ Grade by NAAC (National Assessment and Accreditation Council). CU offers more than 109 UG and PG programs in the field of engineering, management, pharmacy, law, architecture, journalism, animation, hotel management, commerce, and others. It has been awarded as The University with Best Placements by WCRC.

Website address: https://www.cuchd.in/

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Noto Group Adds Senior Partners Kirsty Schofield and Cody Johns to Expand Global Consumer Practice

LEEDS, England, Sept. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Noto Group, an executive search and leadership advisory firm serving consumer brands across North America and Europe, today announced the addition of Kirsty Schofield and Cody Johns as Senior Partners.

The appointments expand Noto Group’s expertise and strengthen the firm’s ability to support clients through growth, transformation, and strategic change. “Cody and Kirsty bring highly complementary experience, deep consumer sector expertise, and a genuine connection to how we work,” said Sara Spirko, Managing Partner of Noto Group. “Both understand that finding the right leader starts with gaining full context including the desired outcomes beneath the hiring need. That perspective, combined with rigorous assessment and close client partnership, is central to how we approach every search.”

Kirsty Schofield Strengthens International Practice

Based in the UK, Schofield brings 15 years of executive search experience and will help grow Noto Group’s fashion, lifestyle, beauty, and wellness practices. She joins Senior Partner John Copeland in expanding the firm’s international reach, leveraging her network across Europe, Asia, and North America.

A founding member and shareholder of PartnerWise, Schofield built a senior-level search practice serving leading consumer brands across functions and markets. She advises boards, CEOs, and executive teams on critical appointments, combining Hogan certification and assessment expertise with a strong understanding of the leadership required to drive growth, transformation, and long-term performance.

“Throughout my career, I’ve been drawn to organizations and leaders building something meaningful,” said Schofield. “Noto Group’s consumer focus, values, and proven Sure Hire process really resonate with me. I’m excited to work with our clients as they make important leadership decisions and shape the future of their brands.”

“I’ve known Kirsty for a while and have tremendous respect for the practice she has built,” said John Copeland, Senior Partner at Noto Group. “I’m thrilled to work alongside her as we extend Noto Group’s reach with top leaders and consumer brands around the world.”

Cody Johns Returns to Her Executive Recruiting Roots

Johns has nearly two decades of experience in executive search, talent strategy, and organizational transformation. She joins Noto Group after more than 14 years at Nike, most recently as Director, Talent Business Partner, advising VP and SVP leaders on succession planning, organizational capability, and leadership hiring across Sales, Direct to Consumer, Design, and Product. She also played a key role in a major realignment that moved more than 2,000 employees into a new operating model in fewer than 90 days.

Previously, Johns served as Nike’s Executive Sourcing Director, helping scale the company’s executive sourcing capabilities, and earlier led executive recruiting across Product Management, Merchandising, and Product Creation.

Johns’ move to Noto Group marks a full-circle moment. Notowitz gave her her first opportunity in executive recruiting at Generator Group, the search firm he founded before Noto Group. She later built on that foundation through senior talent roles at Adidas and Nike.

“It’s been rewarding to watch Cody build an exceptional career,” said Notowitz. “She returns with a rare combination of executive recruiting expertise and firsthand experience advising leaders inside a global organization on talent, succession, and organizational transformation.”

“I’ve followed Noto Group’s growth and have always respected its commitment to helping great companies make consequential leadership decisions,” said Johns. “Having seen those decisions from both inside organizations and as a search professional, bringing that perspective to Noto Group feels like a natural next chapter.”

Johns will advise clients on executive search, leadership selection, and talent strategy, with a focus on fitness and sporting goods, fashion, wellness, and beauty sectors.

Expanding Noto Group’s Consumer Leadership Platform

“Kirsty and Cody strengthen our firm in distinct but highly complementary ways,” Notowitz added. “Kirsty brings extensive international search experience and deep relationships across global consumer markets, while Cody brings firsthand experience inside a world-class consumer organization. Together, they broaden our ability to help founders, CEOs, boards, and investors build leadership teams equipped to grow, evolve, and endure.”



For more information, visit: https://www.notogroup.com/post/noto-group-adds-senior-partners-kirsty-schofield-and-cody-johns-to-expand-global-consumer-practice 

About Noto Group

Noto Group is a global executive search and leadership advisory firm that helps consumer brands recruit, select, and prepare exceptional leaders for critical roles, often during periods of growth, transformation, turnaround, or strategic change.

Founded in 2009, the firm specializes in C-suite, VP, and Director-level search across sporting goods, outdoor, apparel, footwear, CPG, food and beverage, fashion, lifestyle, beauty, personal care, travel, and hospitality. With offices across the U.S. and UK, Noto Group combines the high-touch service of a boutique firm with the reach and assessment capabilities of the larger global search firms.

Noto Group is a Certified B Corporation since 2013 and a member of 1% for the Planet.

Visit www.notogroup.com to learn more.

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Kigen Automotive eSIM first to achieve GSMA eSA certification, bringing latest SGP.32 security to connected vehicle OEMs for long-life fleets

With the industry’s first eSA-certified eSIMs supporting the latest SGP.32 v1.3, Kigen delivers automotive-grade security, giving OEMs a common architecture for developing connected fleets – plus an implementation and tools to prepare for PQC readiness

CAMBRIDGE, England, Sept. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Kigen, a global leader in eSIM and iSIM technology, has achieved GSMA eUICC Security Assurance (eSA) certification for its new Automotive eSIMs, the industry’s first eSA-certified eSIM supporting SGP.32 v1.3, GSMA’s latest IoT eSIM (eUICC) specification. The certification combines Kigen’s eSIM OS with Infineon’s TEGRION™ SLI22 automotive security controller, giving connected-vehicle OEMs and Tier-1s a secure, standards-current platform built for fleets that must stay secure for a decade-plus.

As cars and two-wheeled vehicles rapidly transition to highly intelligent, regulated, and software-defined mobility assets, the new Kigen Automotive eSIM is certified across the TEGRION™ SLx22 chip family, creating a three-product portfolio spanning Automotive (SLI22), Consumer (SLC22, supporting latest SGP.22 v2.7), and Industrial IoT (SLM22, supporting SGP.32 v1.3). All three share the same OS and hardware platform, development tools, and management stack, helping automotive manufacturers use the same security platform across infotainment, telematics, and headless vehicle systems. This reduces fragmentation, speeds development, and makes it easier for the same OEM to expand across multiple connected cars, passenger transport, and industrial vehicle fleets.

Kigen’s implementation supports SGP.32 v1.3 enhancements, published in May 2026, including direct and indirect profile downloads, digital activation codes, and emergency profile handling relevant to connected vehicles. Early visibility into the latest enhancements to eSIM standards reduces the risk of architectural obsolescence for OEMs and operators, allowing architectures qualified today to remain relevant over long program timelines.

Post-quantum cryptography (PQC) is increasingly important for connected vehicles, where long service lives make hardware replacement impractical. Although PQC is not yet part of the GSMA specifications, Kigen can support OEMs having implemented hybrid key encapsulation that combines classical and quantum-safe algorithms on the same platform. OEMs can test end-to-end PQC-resistant communications using Kigen’s C-SDK development suite and test eSIM samples to prepare for long-term security against emerging quantum threats.

The certification builds on Kigen’s established eSA-certified IoT eSIMs and Consumer eSIMs that introduced eSIM OS secure updates for compliance to EU Cybersecurity Resilience Act (EU CRA), certified six months prior.

“Vehicles are becoming long-lived software platforms, so their connectivity trust anchor must remain secure and manageable long after production,” said Vincent Korstanje, CEO, Kigen. “Kigen’s new eSA-certified Automotive eSIMs give car manufacturers a secure path from factory provisioning to global fleet operation while preserving freedom to evolve connectivity throughout the vehicle lifetime. Given the market maturity of our eIM, the time to achieve this certification demonstrates the deep collaboration of Kigen’s product, engineering, certification, and operations teams with technology and ecosystem partners.”

“Kigen has played a key role in shaping the evolution of eSIM for IoT, including through Dr Saïd Gharout’s leadership of the GSMA eSIM Technical Working Group,” said Gloria Trujillo, eSIM Technical Director, GSMA. “This latest achievement, with the industry’s first eSA-certified eSIMs supporting SGP.32 v1.3, is an important step in translating GSMA eSIM IoT specifications into secure, interoperable technology for the next generation of connected IoT and vehicle fleets.”

“Congratulations to Kigen on the industry’s first GSMA eSA certification to the latest SGP.32 enhanced specifications for automotive eSIMs,” said Katherine Diao, Head of IoT and Automotive Industry, China Mobile International. “China Mobile International is pleased to partner with Kigen to introduce SGP.32-based security solutions to Chinese automakers, supporting global deployment, CRA-aligned processes, and reliable connectivity for vehicles designed for long service life.”

Kigen’s full eSIM stack assurance spans GSMA SAS-UP (manufacturing) and SAS-SM (subscription management) certification, plus hosted Kigen eIM remote management. Kigen Automotive eSIMs interoperate with 20+ network providers that are ready for digital activation, with 60+ “Secure with Kigen” IoT modules, and are supported by global connectivity partnerships, including China Mobile International, helping OEMs simplify deployment across international vehicle markets. Kigen will join GSMA interoperability testing in October with its certified IoT eSIMs and eIM solution.

Kigen Automotive eSIMs will be available for OEM sampling in the ETSI MFF2 package from October 2026. Request samples and the Kigen IoT eSIM Starter Kit at https://kigen.com/contact/ 

About Kigen

Kigen is the forerunner in GSMA-certified eSIM and Remote SIM Provisioning security solutions, empowering networks and manufacturers, including top 10% in industrial critical sectors, to scale cellular IoT and achieve compliance for new cybersecurity mandates. Our award-winning eSIM technology delivers intelligence on the SIM, supporting AI-era network functionality, with proven interoperability across leading chipsets and modules for faster time to market. Backed by Arm, SoftBank Vision Fund 2, and SBI Group, Kigen is consistently recognized for innovation and earned a spot on the coveted The Sunday Times 100Tech – UK’s fastest growing private tech companies list. Learn more at https://kigen.com/

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