4, Jun 2025
World Environment Day 2025: India’s Real Estate Sector Anchors the Green Transition

enviroment

As the world observes World Environment Day with the theme “Ending Plastic Pollution,” the conversation around sustainability has moved beyond policy to on-ground transformation—and the real estate sector is emerging as a critical driver of this change.

With over 430 million tonnes of plastic produced each year globally, and a significant portion ending up in landfills and oceans, industries across the board are being challenged to rethink their impact. Among them, real estate holds a unique position, contributing close to 40% of global carbon emissions, but also possessing the power to reverse that trend through sustainable development.

India, one of the fastest-growing real estate markets in the world, has an even greater responsibility. As the country prepares to urbanize over 400 million people by 2050, the infrastructure being built today will define the carbon footprint of tomorrow. This puts Indian developers at the heart of the climate conversation.

Encouragingly, many have already begun integrating green building practices, embracing certifications like IGBC (Indian Green Building Council) and EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies), while also committing to nature-positive urbanism.

According to Knight Frank India, more than 35% of new real estate launches in 2024 were green-certified, a sharp rise from just 12% in 2020.

Among the notable voices driving this transformation is Signature Global, one of India’s leading real estate brands. Known for its focus on mid-income and premium housing, the company has placed sustainability at the core of its operations.

Mr. Lalit Aggarwal, Co-founder & Vice-Chairman of Signature Global, said “Green has been our priority and focus since inception. In 2025, we are intensifying our Go Green vision by planting 25,000 trees across Gurugram and across our project sites. Most of our developments are either IGBC or EDGE certified. Sustainability is not an afterthought—it’s embedded in our design, planning and execution. As developers, we have a responsibility to build not just for the present, but for the planet.”

Signature Global’s roadmap includes the integration of smart water and energy management systems, use of rainwater harvesting as standard infrastructure, and a commitment to reducing plastic and construction waste across all project sites. The company has also aligned its practices with India’s national climate goals and global ESG frameworks, reinforcing its position as a green-first developer.

Globally, the real estate sector is undergoing a shift. A recent McKinsey study confirmed that companies actively adopting ESG practices not only contribute to climate resilience but also enjoy higher long-term returns and investor confidence. The built environment, according to the International Energy Agency, holds the potential to deliver more than 20% of the emissions reductions needed to keep global warming below 1.5°C. As a result, countries are now framing urban development not just as an economic priority, but as a climate mission.

Mr. Ashok Kapur, Chairman, Krishna Group and Krisumi Corporation, said, “The real estate sector bears a significant responsibility towards the environment, particularly as India’s housing segment accounts for over 30 percent of greenhouse gas emissions. This makes it imperative to embrace practices that support development while fostering sustainable living. As the nation advances towards its goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2070, every industry, including real estate, must play a proactive role in shaping a greener future.”

“At Krisumi, sustainability is at the core of our philosophy. Our projects are meticulously designed with eco-friendly features and sustainable architectural principles to minimise environmental impact. This commitment not only nurtures ecological balance but also enhances the overall living experience for our residents,” Mr. Kapur added.

India’s broader vision for the future includes transitioning towards net-zero emissions by 2070, with the real estate and infrastructure sectors playing a defining role. Policy support, such as FAR incentives for green buildings, fast-track environmental clearances, and increasing access to green finance, are helping accelerate this shift. States like Maharashtra, Haryana, and Gujarat are leading the charge with progressive frameworks that reward sustainable construction.

Looking ahead, the green transformation of India’s real estate sector will be shaped by four major trends: wider adoption of climate-linked real estate financing instruments, the use of AI and data analytics in building energy management, incorporation of biodiversity corridors within large-scale projects, and the circular use of materials through modular construction and recycling.

As the world calls for urgent action to end plastic pollution and reduce emissions, India’s real estate sector has begun to redefine its role—from being a source of environmental pressure to becoming a core part of the solution. World Environment Day 2025 is not just a reminder of the challenges, but a recognition of the opportunities to build better.

4, Jun 2025
TVS Motor Company Begins a New Era in Indian Motorsport as Official Provider of Race-Tuned Machines to Independent Teams at INMRC 2025

Chandigarh, June 4, 2025: In a landmark moment for Indian motorsports, TVS Motor Company has become the official race machine provider for the National Championship Pro Stock 200 class at the 2025 Indian National Motorcycle Racing Championship (INMRC), which is scheduled from 6-8th June at MIC, Chennai. This marks the first time in the history of Indian motorsports that a brand has been entrusted to design, develop, and provide race-tuned motorcycles specifically for the National Championship, reaffirming TVS Motor’s leadership and commitment to racing excellence. This breakthrough paves the way to democratize two-wheeler racing, making it easier and more affordable for independent racers to participate, reflecting FMSCI and MMSC’s vision of expanding competitive motorsport.

TVS Racing_INMRC 2025

The National Championship Pro Stock 200 at INMRC 2025 is a new and exciting format introduced by the MIC to elevate competition and support independent racing teams. As part of this development, TVSM will provide race-tuned TVS Apache GP200R motorcycles to independent teams, who will engage their racers to compete in this championship class. Additionally, PETRONAS TVS Racing team will provide complete technical support and machine service and maintenance to ensure peak performance throughout the season. With 20 years of TVS Apache’s racing heritage behind it, this milestone marks a powerful step forward in Indian motorsports. The selection process for participating teams and racers was recently concluded at the Madras International Circuit on May 28, 2025. Seven teams and twelve racers have been selected for this dynamic new class.

Vimal Sumbly, Head – Premium Business, TVS Motor Company said, “At TVS Motor Company, our racing DNA drives us to innovate and lead from the front. We are proud to be the first two-wheeler manufacturer in Indian motorsport history to provide race-tuned machines to independent teams for the National Championship. This landmark development, supported by the vision of the Madras International Circuit makes it easier and more affordable for independent teams to participate and compete at the highest level. This year holds even greater significance as we mark two decades of our flagship performance brand, the TVS Apache – a true embodiment of our ‘Track to Road’ philosophy. As we charge into the new season, we aim not just to race, but to raise the bar for motorsports in India once again.”

SPECIFICATIONS OF THE RACE-TUNED TVS APACHE GP200R

The race-tuned TVS Apache GP200R is engineered for performance and agility, delivering significantly enhanced output and handling. It features:

· Cubic Capacity: 200 cc

· Bike Weight: 105 kg

· Maximum Power: 40% increase over stock engine

· Top Speed: 155+ kph

Key highlights of the race-tuned TVS Apache GP200R include:

· Modified cylinder head for higher volumetric efficiency, high lift camshaft, high compression ratio, advanced ECU with closed-loop control, quickshifter and data logging capabilities, fine-tuned induction and exhaust system.

· Adjustable front and rear suspension, aerodynamic bodywork, lighter racing wheels, aluminum subframe, and higher braking power.

PETRONAS TVS RACING TEAM FOR INMRC 2025 PRO STOCK 300-400CC CLASS

With legendary 11-time national champion Jagan Kumar retired from competitive racing, he will continue to serve as a rider coach for the PETRONAS TVS Racing team. Joining the team this year are two young and skilled racers, Rakshith Dave and Alwin Sundar. They will be joined by ARRC ace rider Sarthak Chavan, along with top performer, Chirant V and the first ever Indian rider to participate as a wildcard entry in world Moto3, KY Ahamed. The team is focused on achieving peak performance and continuing TVS Racing’s legacy of excellence in this competitive class.

BIKE MODIFICATIONS FOR THE 300-400CC CLASS

For the 2025 season, the Pro Stock 300-400cc race bikes will benefit from several enhancements, including engine refinement based on the 2024 season learnings, planned new aerodynamic bodywork from mid-season, and modifications to the rear suspension to enhance handling and performance.

OVER FOUR DECADES OF RACING DNA

For over 43 years, TVS Racing has been at the forefront of Indian motorsports, continuously pushing the boundaries of racing excellence. This commitment to innovation and performance extends beyond the racetrack into TVS Motor Company’s flagship motorcycle brand—TVS Apache, which celebrates 20 years of engineering excellence this year. The TVS Apache series embodies TVS Racing’s ‘Track to Road’ philosophy, integrating race-derived technology into high-performance motorcycles. Spanning 160cc, 180cc, 200cc, and 310cc models, the lineup features segment-first innovations, from ride-by-wire technology to race-tuned fuel injection.

With over 400,000 riders in the Apache Owners Group (AOG), TVS Apache has built a passionate global community, bringing the thrill of racing to streets and track enthusiasts alike. As it enters its next chapter, TVS Apache remains dedicated to offering cutting-edge performance, redefining what it means to ride with power and precision.

4, Jun 2025
Rishikesh’s Rakesh Kumar Wins SOG Grandmaster Series (North & East Zone), Honoured at City Ceremony

Rishikesh, June 4th, 2025: In the recently held SOG Grandmasters Series Championship, Rakesh Kumar from Rishikesh has secured the title of Indian Rummy Grandmaster for the North & East Zone. Kumar’s remarkable achievement was celebrated at a special city ceremony, in the presence of Rishikesh Mayor Shambhu Paswan.

The event was also graced by distinguished guests, including Gaurav Dhyanchand- Tournament Director, SOG Grandmasters Series, President of the Dhyanchand Foundation, and the grandson of hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand and former Air Force officer and hockey player D.P. Raturi.

Rishikesh’s Rakesh Kumar Wins SOG Grandmaster

The SOG Grandmasters Series, organised by the Skillhub Online Games Federation (SOGF), drew over 1,50,000 participants from across India, making it one of the largest skill-based gaming events in the country. The two-day championship, hosted at the Hyatt Regency, Gurugram from April 29 to 30, featured elite competitions in chess, chess for the blind, and rummy, spotlighting India’s rising talent in mind sports.

SOGF is proud to celebrate Rakesh Kumar’s success, which not only brings honour to the region but also inspires a new generation of players to pursue excellence in mind sports.

The SOG Grandmasters Series is recognised for its innovative “phygital” approach, blending physical and digital formats to make mind sports more accessible and inclusive. The championship reflects a broader movement to elevate skill-based games into recognised, competitive disciplines, with India’s sports industry projected to reach $130 billion by 2030.

The initiative was started by Adv. Nandan Jha, Founder of SOGF, with their tech platform partner Rummy Culture.

4, Jun 2025
Traffic Police Visits TAS, Teach Students About Road Safety

road

– Police organised activities for students and demonstrated traffic rules in a fun way

– The assembly area was converted into a miniature road simulator with various traffic

The students of The Academy School (TAS), Pune, learned important road safety lessons from the Pune Traffic Police. Notably, the activity was organised for students from Nursery to Grade II.

An activity was organised at the TAS campus, wherein official uniformed traffic police officials visited the school to give an orientation and teach road safety to students. The TAS management and officials teamed up to convert the school assembly area into a miniature traffic simulator with roads, traffic signals, zebra crossings, and signage, among other props.

The activity was organised to help students understand the basics of road safety in an age-appropriate and fun way. Officials gave simple demonstrations and taught them traffic rules, such as using pedestrian crossings, traffic signals, basic signage reading, and wearing seat belts and helmets.

“The activity is a part of the daily routine that will stay with them all their lives. It is important to teach them in a way that is not just theoretical but also practical. It was an activity where students had fun and learn simultaneously. Not only did the students listen and watch the demonstrations, but they also participated in the activities that gave a hands-on learning experience,” said Dr. Maithili Tambe, CEO of TAS.

4, Jun 2025
Waaree Energies Named 2025 ‘Top Performer’ in Global PV Module Reliability by Kiwa PVEL

New Delhi | June 04, 2025: Waaree Energies Limited, India’s largest solar module manufacturer and a fast-growing global clean energy solutions provider, has been recognized as a ‘Top Performer’ in the 2025 PV Module Reliability Scorecard by Kiwa PVEL, the leading independent lab for photovoltaic (PV) reliability benchmarking worldwide.

This prestigious recognition highlights Waaree’s relentless focus on technological excellence, product durability, and customer trust—affirming its leadership in delivering high-efficiency, field-tested solar modules that meet and exceed global performance standards.

The Scorecard is based on the results of Kiwa PVEL’s rigorous Product Qualification Program (PQP)—a comprehensive suite of accelerated stress tests including Thermal Cycling, Damp Heat, Mechanical Stress Sequence, and Potential Induced Degradation (PID), all designed to replicate decades of real-world field conditions. Waaree’s consistent performance across these benchmarks positions it among the most reliable module manufacturers globally.

“As we evolve from a manufacturing-centric company to a global provider of integrated clean energy solutions, this recognition from Kiwa PVEL reinforces our commitment to quality, innovation, and long-term performance,” said Dr. Amit Paithankar, Whole-time Director and CEO, Waaree Energies Limited.
“Being named a Top Performer reflects the deep trust our customers place in our products—and our responsibility to lead the energy transition with solutions that are not only efficient but built to endure.”

“We are pleased to announce that Waaree Energies has once again been named a Top Performer in the PV Module Reliability Scorecard,” said Tristan Erion-Lorico, VP of Sales and Marketing at Kiwa PVEL. “Having at least one model type listed as a Top Performer in each of the seven test categories underscores a strong commitment to quality in engineering and manufacturing.”

As Waaree continues to expand its global footprint—from advanced module manufacturing to turnkey utility-scale solutions—this recognition further cements its role as a technology-driven and customer-trusted leader in the renewable energy sector.

4, Jun 2025
upGrad and Liverpool John Moores University Conclude Graduation Ceremony; Learners from 14 Countries Participate

New Delhi/Mumbai, June 4, 2025: upGrad, one of Asia’s largest integrated skilling and forever learning majors, has successfully concluded its first global graduation ceremony in partnership with the UK’s leading Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) and Liverpool Business School (LBS).

 Held in Bengaluru and facilitated by upGrad, the ceremony celebrated the program completion of 2483 learners, with 250+ attending offline and the rest joining virtually through upGrad’s YouTube channel.

 The graduating cohort included learners from the university-led Masters of Science (MSc.) in Data Science, MSc in Machine Learning & AI, MSc in Computer Science, and Masters of Business Administration (MBA) programs, representing 14 countries, including India, the USA, UAE, Canada, Singapore, among others. In India, the learners largely came from Mumbai, Delhi NCR, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, and Pune. The split comprised approximately 32% MBA learners, 30% from the MSc. in Data Science program, 26% from MSc. in Machine Learning, and 12% from MSc. in Computer Science.

Upguard

 The event witnessed the esteemed presence of senior dignitaries from Liverpool John Moores University and upGrad, including Professor Timothy Nichol, Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Faculty of Society and Culture, LJMU; Mrs Jacqui Wright, Senior International Partnerships Manager, LJMU; Mr Ronnie Screwvala, Co-Founder & Chairperson, upGrad; and Mr Rohit Sharma, President – Consumer Business, upGrad, along with other senior leadership.

 “LJMU’s partnership with upGrad reflects the University’s commitment to putting students at the heart, being inclusive and creating impact at scale, leveraging the power of technology. I commend the spirit of perseverance demonstrated by all those who are graduating today in successfully managing professional commitments and family life along with the demands of graduate study. We are committed to making world-class technical and business education accessible through our partnership with upGrad”, commented Professor Timothy Nichol, Pro-Vice Chancellor, Faculty of Society and Culture, LJMU.

 “Our learning systems have evolved; today’s graduation is more than a ceremony, it’s a powerful reminder of how education can transcend borders and time zones”, said Rohit Sharma – President, Consumer Business, upGrad. “With learners joining from Vietnam to the USA, and India to Dubai, we’re proud to have built a robust tech-led ecosystem that’s democratising education and accelerating global career mobility. Upskilling is no longer episodic, it’s a global-first movement reshaping how individuals and universities scale across geographies. This ceremony hosts the next-gen leaders who believe in learning, unlearning, and relearning”.

 The graduation ceremony witnessed multiple learners sharing their success journeys and highlighting how upGrad’s international academic partnerships have enabled impactful career transitions including role switches, promotions, or new job opportunities across sectors.

 “I always dreamed of higher education but felt overwhelmed deciding. Enrolling in the MBA program from Liverpool Business School, powered by upGrad became the turning point I needed – balancing studies with a full-time job and self-doubt was tough but incredibly rewarding as I’ve now transitioned from being a Commercial Analyst into a more impactful role as Assistant Commercial Manager at a leading gaming tech services company in Hyderabad. As someone new to online learning, I was surprised by how personal and supportive the experience felt, thanks to constant guidance from all mentors and faculty at LJMU”, said an upGrad learner Neelam Rajpurohit, from the graduating cohort.

 upGrad solidifies its position as a global category creator in outcome-driven higher-ed and skilling programs with a strong global alumni network in Data, Tech, and Management, enabling a powerful, cross-border peer-to-peer career ecosystem.

3, Jun 2025
Gateway Forays Into McLeodganj, Himachal Pradesh

Chandigarh, June 3, 2025: Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, today announced the signing of a Gateway hotel in McLeodganj, Himachal Pradesh. This is a brownfield project.

GATEWAY FORAYS INTO MCLEODGANJ, HIMACHAL PRADESH

Ms. Suma Venkatesh, Executive Vice President – Real Estate & Development, IHCL, said, “This signing is in line with IHCL’s strategy of strengthening its presence in Himachal Pradesh across key leisure destinations like Shimla, Manali, Dharamshala, Naldhera, and Sirmaur among others. McLeodganj with its cultural richness is attracting both domestic and international tourists. We are delighted to partner with Mcleo Times Square for this project.”

The 65-key Gateway McLeodganj, Himachal Pradesh is strategically located just a short walk from the Dalai Lama Temple, the official residence of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama and Namgyal Monastery. Close to the heart of the town, it is also steps away from the bustling McLeodganj market. Perched on a cliff, it offers sweeping views of surrounding valleys and snow-capped peaks. The hotel will feature an all-day dining restaurant, a bar, meeting rooms, a fitness centre and spa.

Mr. Rahul Pathania, Mcleo Times Square, said, “We are excited to partner with IHCL to bring the Gateway brand to McLeodganj. This collaboration will offer guests an authentic yet contemporary hospitality experience in this vibrant destination.”

Nestled in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, McLeodganj with its blend of monasteries, scenic landscapes, and vibrant local markets, attracts spiritual seekers, trekkers, and cultural enthusiasts alike.

With this addition, IHCL will have 13 hotels in Himachal Pradesh with 8 under development.

3, Jun 2025
JioStar Adds More Star Power to its TATA IPL FINAL Presentation as Aamir Khan Joins the Team

Chandigarh, June 3, 2025: As the highly anticipated TATA IPL Final approaches, JioStar announced Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan will join its presentation on June 3. Aamir Khan, who is a known avid cricket lover, will appear on Star Sports and JioHotstar along with Genelia D’Souza and the cast of his upcoming film, Sitaare Zameen Par, during the pre-shows of the Final of TATA IPL 2025. In addition, the renowned actor is also all set to swap his role in front of a film camera for a commentary mic as he will also step into the commentary box to call the summit clash on June 3.

Fans can expect their favourite movie star to not only make his match predictions, analyze the game, and commentate alongside JioStar’s world-class panel of former TATA IPL champions and legends, but also get involved with some cricket action himself and entertain viewers.

jio star

Speaking ahead of joining JioStar’s TATA IPL Play-offs presentation, Aamir Khan said, “Nothing matches the energy and stakes of the TATA IPL Final and I’m quite excited to be at JioStar’s studio for this crucial game. Personally, I think this match is going to be a cracker, and I’m looking forward to commentating.”

Fans can catch the coverage of the TATA IPL Final on June 3 and watch Aamir Khan in action on air, only on Star Sports Network and JioHotstar.

3, Jun 2025
IIM Bangalore hosts roundtable on Purple Economy

3 June, 2025, Bengaluru: Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIMB) hosted a Purple Economy dialogue themed ‘Unlocking $18 Trillion in Global Opportunity’, where leaders from diverse industries gathered to explore the intersection of disability accessibility and the transformative potential of disability-related products and services for the broader economy, this afternoon. Specifically, the discussion highlighted how products and services that centre accessibility can reshape markets, enhance innovation pipelines, and deliver sustainable value across the value chain spectrum.

iimb

IIM Bangalore, an institution committed to inclusive excellence, ensured that the event itself was fully accessible, with sign language interpreters and real-time text display. In his message, Prof. Rishikesha T. Krishnan, Director, IIM Bangalore, said IIMB was excited about the concept of the purple economy and added that the Institute, which is committed to inclusion, would love to be part of this growing economy.

In her welcome address, Dr. Mukta Kulkarni, Dean of Academic Programmes and Professor in the OBHRM area at IIMB, acknowledged Dr. Meenu Bhambhani, who was instrumental in setting up IIMB’s Inclusion Chair, EnAble India and Ms. Shanti Raghavan for the collaboration. Prof. Mukta Kulkarni, whose scholarship has shaped global conversations on accessibility and workplace inclusion, said: “Accessibility isn’t just a disability issue – it is a social and economic opportunity. For example, investing in accessible public transportation and walkways doesn’t only serve persons with disabilities; it also supports parents with strollers, ageing populations, and workers with temporary injuries. Inclusive design or accessibility increases civic engagement, broadens the customer base for local businesses, reduces long-term public costs, and strengthens the overall economy.”

Ms Shanti Raghavan, Founder, EnAble India, explained the origins of the purple economy. “Over the past 25 years, EnAble India has recognized and demonstrated the intrinsic value of every individual. Today, 81% of the population we serve are economically independent and contribute significantly to household incomes. We now want to shift the narrative for the active taxpayers, innovators, entrepreneurs, and nation builders we work with, and we want to scale with a sense of urgency. There has been a fantastic rights movement that has taken us along , but we realise that we have to move from rights-based to value-based,” she said.

According to Ms Shanti Raghavan, when society, markets, and governments align, more can be achieved. “We are now focused on addressing the economic angle, where there is a 5-10 per cent GDP loss when value is not seen in people with disability. The general population needs to see the double multiplier effect – Products and services designed for persons with disabilities often benefit and create opportunity for all. This is the new economy. There are 1 billion people with disabilities across the world.” Sharing the example of the eyewear industry, she pointed out that without proper eyewear and corrective lenses, most people would be considered persons with disability. “Today, spectacles are normalized, and eyewear is a $170 billion industry.” Ms. Raghavan also shared EnAble India’s recent collaboration with Namma Yatri, Bengaluru’s ride-hailing platform, to make the platform “purple-aware.” Through this partnership, drivers are trained to engage effectively with customers with disabilities, supported by short instructional videos that become available the moment a purple ride is booked.

Dr. Vasanthi Srinivasan, Chairperson, IIMBx and Professor in the OBHRM area at IIMB, spoke about the potential of the purple economy.

Dipesh Sutariya, a Co-Founder and CEO of EnAble India Encouraged individuals and organizations to take the purple-aware pledge and become ambassadors of inclusion by actively spreading awareness. “Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL) was the first to sign up and set up a free-of-cost sensory room in Terminal 2 along with accessibility enhanced areas; NDTV is making the purple-aware pledge viral, Lowe Lintas made a 30-second video on the untapped potential of the purple economy for NDTV; Rameswaram Café at BIAL’s Terminal 1, opposite Gate 34, is accessible to persons in wheelchairs – a total of 18 organisations signed up in a week of us launching the purple economy movement. We can create momentum by celebrating such efforts.” He also outlines future directions with the creation of purple capital through impact funds, and purple insurance to address long standing gaps in insurance coverage for persons with disabilities.

Moses Chowdari Gorrepati, COO of EnAble India, shared anecdotes from his personal life to show why a purple economy matters. For instance, he spoke of how a family friend in his village in Andhra Pradesh, a tailor by profession, actually shut his shop and lost business for many days in order to accompany Moses and his mother to an eye hospital in New Delhi. “There is a need to ensure that opportunities are created, not lost, when enabling persons with disability. There is a clear need for purple services, and we, as persons with disability, are valuable customers.”

Dr. Meenu Bhambhani, now Head of CSR in a financial services company, spoke of the “12 significant years” she spent with Mphasis as Head of CSR, talked of her association with IIMB in the area of inclusion. She described IIMB as “a model institution when it comes to accessibility”. Speaking of her work with Uber Access and Uber Assist, Dr. Meenu Bhambhani described the challenges and opportunities that ‘samaj-sarkar-bazaar’ threw up. “We saw how ride-hiring apps would become the order of the day, and we got 50 accessible vehicles at certain price points and at certain locations to make the partnership with Uber happen. It took us two-and-a-half years to get permission from the Regional Transport Office. We provided proof of concept to Samaj-Sarkar and Bazaar. Unfortunately, COVID-19 happened, and today we don’t know where those 50 vehicles are! The biggest learning for us is that unless these vehicles come from the manufacturers themselves, the initiative will not gain the momentum it deserves.”

3, Jun 2025
MBCC 2025 at IIT Mandi: A Landmark gathering of visionaries to scientifically explore and apply Indian knowledge systems for societal transformation

Mandi, June 2025 —Mind Brain Consciousness Conference 2025 (MBCC 2025) will be held at IIT Mandi from June 4 to 7. At the heart of this annual gathering lies the Indian Knowledge System (IKS)—a profound, holistic framework that integrates ancient wisdom with contemporary inquiry. This conference brings together researchers from diverse fields such as neuroscience, cognitive science, psychology, Indian philosophy, and Vedantic theology, to engage in meaningful deliberation on the nature of mind, brain, and consciousness from multiple perspectives. These deliberations are not only important for mental well-being, they will impact all fields of study including environment, agriculture, healthcare, innovation and creative leadership.

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar will grace the conference as a visionary speaker. The event will feature keynote addresses by Prof. Shrinivasa Varakhedi (Vice Chancellor of the Central Sanskrit University), Professor Gautam Desiraju (IISc), one of the highest cited Indian scientists, Prof. Roumiana Tsenkova, Kobe University, Japan, Dr. B N Gangadhar, Chairman, National Medical Commission and Former Director, NIMHANS and Bhakti Rasamrita Swami, a Bhakti-vedantist.

IIT Mandi Campus

The conference is being curated by the center of Indian Knowledge Systems for Mental Health Application (IKSMHA) at IIT Mandi.

Panel discussions featuring leaders and experts in diverse fields from around the world will address “Indian Knowledge Systems shaping the science of cognitive matter” and “Nurturing civilizational consciousness for national transformation”.

Special sessions feature Prof. Chayan Nandi on consciousness biomarkers, Dr. Amit Sethi on brain dynamics and cognition, and Prof. Ajay Chaturvedi, offering a systems perspective on economy and civilizational transitions.

What sets MBCC apart is its outcome-oriented design — bringing together investors, judges, students, and innovators in a space where ideas are meant to translate into action. Highlights include student business plans on the Kullhad Economy, a fresh production-driven model rooted in Indic values.

IIT Mandi Director Prof Laxmidhar Behera notes, “MBCC 2025 reflects our commitment to shaping ideas that matter — where tradition informs innovation and transformation.” MBCC 2025 promises to be a crucible of purpose-driven collaboration — inviting scholars, practitioners, and seekers into a space of lasting impact.

The conference is being chaired by Prof. Laxmidhar Behera (IIT Mandi), Dr. Anirban Chakraborty (National Institute of Materials Science, Japan), and Prof. Ganpati Ramanath (Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, USA, and Uppsala University, Sweden).