10, Aug 2026
Malaysia Aviation Group Strengthens Safety and Fitness-for-Duty Framework
KLIA, Aug 10 – Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) is strengthening its safety and fitness-for-duty framework with enhanced drug screening measures across its airlines. As an immediate step, the Group has commenced mandatory drug screening for all Malaysia Airlines pilots and will conduct stricter screening for all active pilots, beyond industry practice. This swift response reflects the high level of concern with which MAG views the recent incident involving the detention of its pilot, as the Group maintains zero tolerance for any form of misconduct.
Captain Nasaruddin A. Bakar, President and Group Chief Executive Officer of MAG, said, “Operational safety and crew fitness for duty are non-negotiable at MAG. We take any breach of our safety standards seriously and have acted swiftly to enhance mandatory drug screening across our active pilots. While this isolated incident does not reflect the professionalism of the overwhelming majority of our employees, we will continue strengthening our safeguards to maintain the confidence of our passengers and stakeholders.”
Mandatory Pilot Drug Screening Underway
MAG has commenced the first phase of mandatory drug screening for all pilots across its airlines, beginning with all 1,260 Malaysia Airlines pilots. The screening is expected to be completed by 15 August 2026. Pilots who do not complete the screening by the stipulated date will not operate flights until they have been cleared in accordance with MAG’s procedures and regulatory requirements.
In addition, the Group will implement mandatory drug screening for all active pilots, complementing its existing random testing programme. The programme will subsequently be expanded to active cabin crew.
Detained Pilot Was Not Operating the Aircraft
MAG confirms that the individual concerned was a Second Officer travelling in the cockpit jump seat as an observer and was not the pilot flying the aircraft. The individual had also been off duty for two days preceding the incident. The aircraft was operated safely at all times by two qualified operating pilots. MAG views the actions of the individual as completely unacceptable and contrary to the professional standards expected of its personnel.
Existing Fitness-for-Duty Framework
The enhanced measures build on MAG’s existing fitness-for-duty framework, which includes pre-employment screening, Class 1 medical certification for pilots, recurrent training, periodic alcohol and drug testing, and mandatory pre-flight compliance checks covering licences, medical certification, training and recency requirements.
Before every flight, the set of operating pilots also complete the IMSAFER* assessment to evaluate each other’s physical and mental readiness for duty. This is complemented by Threat and Error Management (TEM) principles to identify and manage operational risks.
MAG also provides comprehensive wellbeing support through its Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) and the Malaysia Aviation Group Peer Support (MAPS) programme, a confidential, peer-led initiative that encourages early intervention and supports employee wellbeing.
MAG will continue working closely with aviation, enforcement and regulatory authorities to implement recommendations, strengthen preventive measures and ensure compliance with applicable regulatory requirements across its operations and the wider aviation ecosystem.
*IMSAFER is a pilot self-assessment checklist used before flight to evaluate fitness for duty. It stands for Illness, Medication, Stress, Alcohol, Fatigue, Emotion and Recency.
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- By Neel Achary
10, Aug 2026
Abhirath Sah Appointed General Manager of Le Méridien Mahabaleshwar Resort & Spa
Aug 10: Le Méridien Mahabaleshwar Resort & Spa welcomes Abhirath Sah as its new General Manager, bringing over 19 years of experience across hotel operations, sales, marketing, revenue management, and strategic leadership.
Abhirath brings a dynamic leadership journey across some of India’s leading hospitality brands, most recently serving as Director of Operations at Marriott Suites Pune. He previously spent nearly five years as Director of Sales & Marketing at JW Marriott Pune, with earlier leadership roles across The Westin Hyderabad, Sheraton Hyderabad, The Leela Palace Hotels & Resorts, Trident Chennai, Hyatt Hyderabad, and Carlson Hospitality Marketing India.
In his new role, Abhirath will lead the resort’s overall operations and strategic direction, with a focus on enhancing guest experiences, driving business performance, and strengthening Le Méridien Mahabaleshwar’s position as a leading hospitality destination.
With a diverse career spanning operations, sales, marketing and commercial leadership, Abhirath brings a well-rounded perspective to his new role, positioning him to lead the team and build on the resort’s strong foundation for continued growth.
“I am delighted to take on this new responsibility at Le Méridien Mahabaleshwar,” said Abhirath. “I look forward to working closely with the team to create memorable guest experiences, build on the property’s strengths, and drive sustainable growth.”
10, Aug 2026
TransNusa Launch High-Frequency, Twice-Daily Direct Flights Between Jakarta And Bangkok
TransNusa Strengthens ASEAN Footprint Via Strategic Partnerships
JAKARTA, Aug 10: TransNusa, the Asia-Pacific region’s pioneering Premium Service Carrier, has officially commenced its highly anticipated direct scheduled service connecting Jakarta, Indonesia, and Bangkok, Thailand. The inaugural flights took off today, injecting vital new capacity into one of Southeast Asia’s primary travel corridors with an unprecedented twice-daily flight schedule operating right from day one.
Datuk Bernard Francis, Group Chief Executive Officer of TransNusa, highlighted the strategic and economic importance of this event by saying, “Today’s launch of the Jakarta–Bangkok route represents a strategic move to meet the growing demand for leisure and business travel to Thailand from Indonesia.
“By launching with twice-daily services, we aim to provide greater flexibility for our customers while further strengthening connectivity, trade, and regional tourism ties between our two countries,” Datuk Bernard said, adding that the Jakarta–Bangkok route is historically one of the busiest in the region.
The new route marks a major milestone in TransNusa’s rapid international expansion, adding to its established network of regional routes including Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Perth, and Guangzhou. Operating from Soekarno-Hatta International Airport to Suvarnabhumi Airport, the daily services are operated by the airline’s modern fleet of Airbus A320 aircraft.
Redefining Regional Travel: Day-One High Frequency & Premium Comfort
Breaking away from standard industry practices that conservatively scale new international routes with three to four weekly flights, TransNusa is entering the Indonesian-Thai market with an aggressive twice-daily scheduled flight operation. The dual morning and afternoon schedules have been engineered to cater to corporate executives, digital nomads, and leisure tourists seeking absolute itinerary flexibility without forcing overnight layovers or long transits.
Strengthening ASEAN Foothold
In addition to introducing new practices, TransNusa Airlines also took a major step forward to boost air connectivity and tourism between Indonesia and Thailand by signing a milestone Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) on August 4. Datuk Francis signed the MoU alongside the Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool. This strategic partnership was also commemorated at the Indonesia–Thailand Business Forum in the presence of H.E. Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand, underscoring its high-level economic and bilateral significance.
In other aviation news: Sydney Airport welcomed 9.96 million passengers in Q2 2026, with strong growth across Asian routes — led by Guangzhou (up 50.5%), Hong Kong and Kuala Lumpur — helping offset softer demand on Middle East-linked services to Europe, while CEO Scott Charlton said the diversity of the airport’s network “reinforces Sydney Airport’s role as Australia’s busiest international gateway” amid record first-half traffic of 20.7 million passengers.
STRENGTHENING ASEAN FOOTPRINT… H.E. Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand commemorating the MoU signing with Datuk Francis and Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool
Commenting on the collaboration, Datuk Bernard Francis stated that the partnership represents a strategic step toward strengthening air connectivity while fostering tourism growth between the two nations.
“Thailand remains one of the most popular destinations for Indonesian travellers, and we see significant opportunities to further enhance accessibility and travel convenience through our expanding flight network,” Datuk Francis said.
“Through our collaboration with the TAT, we aim to introduce more promotional initiatives that encourage Indonesians to visit Thailand while delivering an easier, more comfortable, and more rewarding travel experience for our customers.” He said, adding that TransNusa was also confident that this partnership will further strengthen connectivity on the Jakarta–Bangkok and Bali–Phuket routes, while creating greater growth opportunities for tourism sectors in both countries.”
He added that the collaboration aligns with TransNusa’s commitment to continuously expand its international connectivity and support the growth of the ASEAN tourism industry through partnerships that deliver meaningful benefits for travellers.
Internationally Recognized Growth and Operational Success
This launch follows a period of historic growth and critical acclaim for the carrier. In May 2026, TransNusa made history by winning the prestigious “Top Airlines by Absolute Passenger Growth – Southeast Asia” award at the Changi Airline Awards 2026. Organised by Changi Airport Group, this accolade marked TransNusa as the first Indonesian airline to receive international validation for registering the highest passenger growth rate within Southeast Asia after just 17 months of operations at Singapore Changi Airport.
In addition, last month, TransNusa TransNusa signed its first historic MoU with the Singapore Tourism Board, strengthening connectivity between Singapore and Indonesia.
Further bolstering its market confidence, TransNusa has successfully built a robust commercial ecosystem, growing to secure 19 international scheduled routes within two years of its 2024 brand relaunch. The carrier has repeatedly demonstrated high operational reliability across its expanding international footprint, recently scaling its prominent Bali-Perth route up to a record 21 times weekly flights due to surging traveller trust. In less than 16 months, TransNusa has become the second airline with the largest number of flights for this route.
Ticket Pricing Structures
To celebrate the route’s launch, TransNusa is offering all-inclusive, one-way introductory fares starting from:
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Indonesian Rupiah: 2,999,000
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Thai Baht: 6,098.45
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United States Dollar: 167.54
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Singapore Dollar: 224.50
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Australian Dollar: 252.99
Complete Daily Flight Schedules (Effective Today)
The twice-daily rotation provides ideal morning and evening options for passengers travelling in both directions. The first scheduled flight, 8B 381, will depart the Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Jakarta at 08.20 and arrive at the Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok at 11:45 while the second flight, 8B 385, departs Jakarta at 16.30 and arrives at Bangkok at 19.55.
The return flights from Bangkok, 8B 382 and 8B 386, will depart the Suvarnabhumi Airport at 12.30 and 20.40 respectively, arriving at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Jakarta at 15.55 and 00.05, respectively.
10, Aug 2026
STARTRADER Provides Update on Trustpilot Review Profiles
DUBAI, UAE, Aug. 10, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — STARTRADER is in ongoing discussions with Trustpilot about a proposed consolidation of its existing review profiles into a single listing. The matter remains under discussion, and no timeline for completion has been confirmed. STARTRADER confirms that the matter has no impact to date on its operations or client services.
As STARTRADER has expanded across multiple regions, separate Trustpilot profiles were established for different entities and markets over time. A single, consolidated profile would provide clients a clearer overarching view of STARTRADER’s customer feedback across regions.
Some clients may have noticed changes to STARTRADER’s Trustpilot presence, including to the displayed rating, review count, or review history. These changes are not related to the proposed consolidation exercise described above, or to STARTRADER’s trading platforms, products, or client support, all of which continue to operate as per normal.
STARTRADER will provide further updates as discussions with Trustpilot progress. Clients with questions in relation to this matter can reach out through STARTRADER’s client support channels.
About STARTRADER
STARTRADER is a global multi-asset broker empowering retail and institutional partners to access global markets through a range of platforms, including MetaTrader, STARTRADER APP, and STAR Copy. STARTRADER operates through entities licensed and regulated by authorities including CMA, ASIC, FSCA, FSA and FSC, combining strong governance with a client-first approach, serving both retail clients and partners with a commitment to transparency, reliability, and long-term growth.
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10, Aug 2026
India’s Next Innovators Take Centre Stage at Vande Bharatam
Ahmedabad, Aug 10: Vande Bharatam, the grassroots innovation and entrepreneurship initiative launched by Adani Group Chairman Mr Gautam Adani, has selected its inaugural cohort from more than 26,000 applications across India.
Vande Bharatam received applications from every State and Union Territory, with ideas spanning mobility, sustainability, technology, agriculture, defence, healthcare, manufacturing, education and other sectors. The cohort brings together innovators from varied regions, disciplines and backgrounds, united by the ambition to solve the nation’s problems, build nation-building enterprises and create nationwide impact.
Created on the premise that talent is everywhere, even when opportunity is not, Vande Bharatam aims to connect promising innovators with top mentors, industry leaders, visibility and opportunities, to turn ideas into meaningful enterprises. The initiative is built on Mr Adani’s deeply held belief in giving back to the country that gave him the opportunity to dream, build and grow, and in creating pathways for others to do the same.
Speaking on the launch of the first cohort, Mr Gautam Adani said: “When I look at these innovators, I see the possibilities of tomorrow’s Bharat. Talent has no city limits and opportunity should not have them either. Years from now, I hope we will look back at this first cohort and see among them the founders and innovators who went on to build enterprises that transformed Bharat. This is their initial chapter. And it is Vande Bharatam’s first chapter too.”
Selected through a multi-stage evaluation process, the first cohort will take part in Vande Bharatam Immersive Week, featuring mentorship sessions, interactions with business leaders, entrepreneurs and experts, and successive rounds of evaluation. The program will culminate in the Vande Bharatam Grand Finale on 14 August, where outstanding innovators will be recognised and presented with the Vande Bharatam Trophy.
Vande Bharatam is designed as more than a competition. Its longer-term ambition is to build a national platform that discovers ideas earlier and gives innovators beyond India’s traditional entrepreneurial centres access to people and institutions that can accelerate their journeys.
10, Aug 2026
Landis+Gyr Expands Edge Applications Ecosystem with Two New Digital Innovators to Power Next-Generation Intelligent Grid
Future Grid and OTS join Landis+Gyr’s open Edge ecosystem to accelerate real-time distribution grid intelligence and innovation across Australia.
SYDNEY, Aug. 10, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Landis+Gyr (SIX: LAND) today expanded its Edge Application (App) Ecosystem in Australia, adding Future Grid and Operational Technology Solutions (OTS) as new partners. The additions strengthen Landis+Gyr’s open global ecosystem, bringing new edge applications to market that enhance real-time intelligence and network reliability.
Landis+Gyr’s Edge App Ecosystem is an open, scalable platform that brings the simplicity and speed of an app-driven model to utilities, enabling real-time optimisation at the grid edge.
As distributed energy resources (DER) adoption accelerates, utilities face unprecedented grid complexity and require real-time visibility to make faster, more informed operational decisions while maintaining reliability.
Landis+Gyr’s platform addresses this challenge by providing a shared foundation for edge intelligence, enabling utilities to extend operational capabilities through best-of-breed applications and analytics.
The ecosystem enables developers to deliver advanced analytics, operational optimisation and customer engagement applications within a secure, utility-grade environment, supporting predictive, data-driven decision-making.
Applications developed within Landis+Gyr’s Edge App ecosystem can be deployed across utilities using the company’s industry-leading Revelo® grid sensing platform, accelerating innovation and expanding intelligent grid capabilities at scale.
Landis+Gyr, Senior Vice President David Maclean, APAC said, “This is intelligent energy, delivered, empowering utilities to unlock greater value from data and build more resilient, future-ready networks.
Innovation at the edge should be simple, scalable, and impactful. Today, our Edge Apps Ecosystem enables utilities to rapidly adopt new applications and unlock AI-driven insights.
We are excited to welcome Future Grid and OTS to our global ecosystem, bringing a growing portfolio of applications to utilities and enabling real-time intelligence and innovation at the edge.”
New Partners Unlocking Next Generation Intelligent Insights
Future Grid is the leading SaaS platform that enables LV distribution networks to be managed seamlessly in real time – powered by advanced grid intelligence technology and AI-optimized analytics that transform massive quantities of data into a clear risk matrix of actions, used across globally by grid operators and utilities from compliance, field crews, grid planning to control rooms.
Operational Technology Solutions (OTS) brings deep expertise in data analytics, edge sensors, and real-time systems, enabling utilities to harness large-scale data, automate insights, and accelerate digital transformation. The company works with leading utilities to deliver advanced analytics capabilities that support the next generation of intelligent grid operations.
Future Grid and OTS join Landis+Gyr’s global ecosystem of application partners, including Sense, Mitsubishi Electric and more, bringing a growing portfolio of proven applications to utilities, ready to deploy and scale at the edge.
As the energy transition accelerates, Landis+Gyr continues to expand its intelligent ecosystem by working closely with utilities and partners to co-create edge solutions that are open and deliver real impact.
David Maclean added “The future of energy is collaborative, built on shared innovation, open platforms, and a collective commitment to shaping a more intelligent, connected, and resilient grid.”
About Landis+Gyr
Landis+Gyr is a global energy technology leader delivering intelligent solutions that connect devices, data, and decisions across the grid. Our mission is to accelerate the energy evolution through purposeful innovation and trusted partnerships. Trusted by more than 2,000 utilities worldwide, we transform traditional infrastructure into intelligent, networked systems that provide real-time grid visibility and control. With these insights, electric, gas and water utilities can anticipate demand, optimize operations, and deliver energy that is more reliable, resilient, accessible, safe, and sustainable. For more information, please visit our website www.landisgyr.com
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9, Aug 2026
CCTV+: Int’l Congress of Basic Science opens in Beijing
BEIJING, Aug. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The 2026 International Congress of Basic Science (ICBS) opened in Beijing on Sunday, drawing more than 1,000 participants, including scientists, researchers and young scholars from both China and abroad.
Under the theme “Advancing Basic Science for Humanity,” the two-week event will host over 500 academic sessions covering all branches and interdisciplinary directions of basic science, along with frontier topics such as generative large-model reasoning, computer vision, human-computer interaction and quantum information.
Top international scientists will deliver lectures on basic science and frontier science award reports to share the latest global breakthroughs and promote multidisciplinary collaborative innovation.
A diverse range of events will also be held during the congress, including high-level academic dialogues, youth engagement activities, and cultural and scientific exchange programs.
The high-level academic dialogues will feature “Mathematics Night,” “Physics Night,” and “Engineering Night,” bringing together Fields Medal and Turing Award recipients to discuss frontier trends.
The newly launched Women Scientists Forum will invite outstanding female researchers to share their career experiences and discuss opportunities and challenges in scientific research, aiming to inspire more female scholars to scale new heights in science.
The congress will also host a Basic Science and AI Forum for in-depth discussions on core bottlenecks and future breakthrough paths in AI theory, as well as industry trends.
In addition, the event will feature “Tsinghua Day,” which will invite world-leading mathematicians and physicists to Tsinghua University for dialogues with young students, encouraging them to engage in basic science and explore the unknown.
During the congress, an “Explore Huairou” tour will be held to invite global experts to visit Huairou Science City, the International Conference Resort, the Mutianyu Great Wall, the Great Wall International Animation Valley and Doctor’s Farm.
The tour will offer international scholars a firsthand look at the innovation vitality and research ecosystem of the comprehensive national science center, as well as the ecological charm and cultural heritage of Huairou.
It will also demonstrate how science and technology are empowering rural revitalization, showcasing Huairou’s achievements and high-quality development as a world-class strategic science and technology integration demonstration zone.
This year marks the fourth year of the ICBS being held in Beijing. It is co-hosted by the Beijing Municipal Government, the Ministry of Science and Technology, the China Association for Science and Technology, and the International Consortium of Chinese Mathematicians.
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8, Aug 2026
Chandigarh University Researchers Granted Patent for Attendance-Based Health Monitoring System to Monitor Three Vital Health Parameters
Students and Employees to benefit with regular monitoring of mental & physical health
CHANDIGARH, India, Aug. 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — A team of researchers at Chandigarh University has developed an attendance-based health monitoring system which integrates biometric attendance authentication with real-time physiological health monitoring. The system simultaneously measures multiple vital health parameters including body temperature, heart rate and blood pressure on a single device during biometric attendance.
This innovative health monitoring system, developed by Chandigarh University Researchers, Dr Vikas Wasson, Professor CSE & Director (Engineering Foundations), Dr Sachin Kalsi, Associate Professor (Mechanical Engineering) and Head-Academic Operations (E-Governance) along with three CU students Rishabh Raj, Paras Gupta, Vikas Sharma has been granted a patent by the Indian Patent Office in 2026.
Prof Wasson said the invention addresses a growing societal concern where students and employees often work or study for long hours under intense academic and professional pressure, while neglecting their physical well-being. “In today’s highly competitive world, students and working professionals pursue their academic, career and organisational goals, many times at the cost of their health. But long working hours, stress, irregular routines and inadequate attention to well-being gradually affects an individual’s physical and emotional health. We live in an age surrounded by intelligent technology, yet most attendance systems do not pay attention to the well-being of the person. This invention is an attempt to bridge that gap by integrating health monitoring into an activity that people already perform every day. By monitoring vital health parameters, the system can support the early identification of unusual health trends, thereby contributing to healthier workplaces and educational institutions,” he said.
Prof Kalsi said the invention provides a practical solution for integrating daily attendance management with preventive healthcare monitoring. “Since attendance recording is a mandatory activity in most organizations and educational institutions, the system enables routine health assessment without requiring additional effort from users. It also supports digital health record management by maintaining authenticated historical health data, which can be useful for health trend analysis, occupational safety, and institutional health management,” he said.
“In addition, the system reduces the dependence on wearable monitoring devices by embedding health monitoring directly into the attendance process, making it cost-effective and scalable for large organizations. Overall, the invention contributes to the advancement of smart healthcare infrastructure by combining biometric authentication, real-time physiological monitoring, automated health assessment, and institutional alert mechanisms into a single integrated platform, thereby promoting proactive healthcare, improving safety, and supporting the development of intelligent workplaces and smart educational campuses,” he added.
Prof Wasson said, “Almost every day, millions of us walk up to a biometric machine — in schools, colleges, coaching centres, and offices. Rather than only recording who showed up, the enhanced biometric sensor also reads three vital signs — blood pressure, body temperature, and heart rate. In one effortless gesture that people already perform every single day, the machine begins to understand not just whether a person is present, but how they truly are on the inside,”.
Prof Kalsi said, “A single stressful morning — a frantic rush to reach office on time — can spike anyone’s heart rate and blood pressure. So the system never judges a person on one reading. Instead, it monitors each individual over a seven-day period to learn their personal, normal baseline. Only a genuine, sustained deviation from that baseline is treated as meaningful. Crucially, the readings are never displayed on the screen, because a person confronted with alarming numbers may panic and worsen their own condition. Instead, the weekly data will flow confidentially to the Human Resource team. If someone’s pattern shifts in a concerning way, the HR department can take timely action to provide required medical help,” he added.
Prof Wasson said sensors for blood pressure, temperature, and heart rate all exist today but as separate instruments and have not traditionally been integrated into a single attendance device that millions use at their workplace daily. “The true novelty here is integration: fusing quiet health monitoring into routine biometric attendance, so that emotional and physical distress can be detected early, within the natural rhythm of everyday life, without asking anyone to do a single extra thing. The mission is stated plainly, and it is deeply human: to save lives. By transforming a mundane daily habit into a compassionate early-warning system, this invention aims to build calmer classrooms, healthier workplaces, and — above all — a world where far fewer families are left to grieve the people they love most,” he added.
Congratulating Chandigarh University researchers for getting the patent for attendance based health monitoring system, Deepinder Singh Sandhu, Senior Managing Director, Chandigarh University said, “This achievement reflects the strong research and innovation eco-system at Chandigarh University to support research excellence and intellectual property generation for advancement of technology. Chandigarh University’s students and faculty members have filed more than 6,100 patents out of which 5800 patents have been published and 260 patents have been granted. Chandigarh University is ranked number one as a single institution in India for filing highest number of patents. CU’s 44 faculty members featured in Stanford University–Elsevier list of the world’s top 2% scientists. The range of research activities at Chandigarh University is wide-ranging and profound. University scholars conduct research in practically every domain, and pursue to develop human knowledge through investigation, invention, and understanding. Chandigarh University is recognized as Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (SIRO) by the Union Ministry of Science and Technology’s Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR) for promoting and advancing the research. To amplify research, Chandigarh University has dedicated an annual budget of Rs 15 Crore for research and has also 60 Research Centres and 15 Centres of Excellence. CU’s research initiatives are further strengthened by 67 projects funded by the corporate sector and government bodies with Rs 90 Crore,”.
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: https://www.cuchd.in/
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8, Aug 2026
12 Value-Added Courses at Chandigarh University Uttar Pradesh, AI, Business Analytics & More to Boost Student Skills
Artificial Intelligence, Business Analytics, Design Thinking and IoT to enhance employment opportunities for students
LUCKNOW, India, Aug. 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Chandigarh University Uttar Pradesh has integrated 12 value-added courses into its academic curriculum. These credit-based courses aim to equip students with additional skills alongside their degree, addressing demands in both the current job market and higher education. Artificial Intelligence, Business Analytics, Design Thinking and IoT will now become part of regular curriculum for students.
These value-added courses are being conducted across various fields involving Applied Sciences, Business, Liberal Arts & Behavioral Sciences, and Computer Science Engineering. Incorporated as credit-based courses within the academic programme, they enable students to develop interdisciplinary knowledge and professional skills alongside their regular studies.
A key feature of these courses is that they focus not only on technical subjects but also give equal importance to business, society, environment, leadership and moral values. Chandigarh University Uttar Pradesh believes that today’s students need not only subject-specific knowledge but also multidimensional thinking and problem-solving capabilities.
The curriculum includes subjects such as AI in Biotechnology, Biotechnology Entrepreneurship, Spreadsheet Modeling & Business Analytics, Design Thinking & Creativity for Innovation, Foundation in Business Analytics, Public Governance & Systems Management, Introduction to Sustainable Development Goals, Managing Societal Concerns, Power & Politics in Organisations, Psychology & AI, Understanding Society Through a Sociological Lens, and Fundamentals of IoT. Through these courses, students get opportunities to better understand the relationship between technology and society.
According to Chandigarh University, the objective of these value-added courses is not merely to teach additional subjects, but also to develop capabilities in innovation, entrepreneurship, digital literacy, critical thinking, leadership, communication, problem-solving and social responsibility among students. The curriculum has been designed in alignment with National Education Policy 2020 principles, which emphasize multidisciplinary and experiential learning.
The duration of these courses ranges from 30 to 60 hours, with each course carrying 2 to 4 academic credits. Teaching is primarily conducted through offline classrooms. Additionally, students learn through interactive lectures, case studies, group discussions, practical demonstrations, project-based learning, seminars and expert talks. This ensures a focus not only on theoretical knowledge but also on practical application.
Chandigarh University Uttar Pradesh has made these value-added courses part of the academic curriculum. As per the programme, several courses are mandatory for students, ensuring every learner acquires additional professional and interdisciplinary skills alongside their main subject. This will strengthen students’ employability and prepare for future challenges.
These courses have been developed by experienced faculty members considering current industry trends and academic requirements. During the programme, guest lectures, seminars, projects and workshops by industry and academic experts are also included. This provides students with opportunities to understand emerging technologies, business practices, sustainability and social issues from a practical perspective.
The curriculum covers subjects like Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things (IoT), Business Analytics, Spreadsheet Modeling, Design Thinking, Entrepreneurship, Sustainable Development Goals, Public Governance, Psychology, Sociology, Leadership and Ethical Decision Making. Special attention is also given to professional skills such as communication, collaboration, teamwork and social responsibility.
Students from the first batch at Chandigarh University Uttar Pradesh has successfully completed these courses, while the next batch is currently studying. Students enrolled in these programmes have participated in interdisciplinary projects, innovation challenges, research activities, internships, entrepreneurship and community engagement programmes. This has resulted in improvements in their analytical ability, creative thinking, leadership skills and confidence.
On this occasion, Prof. Dr. T.P. Singh, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Chandigarh University Uttar Pradesh, said, “In the coming times, we will expand the number and scope of value-added courses. New interdisciplinary courses will be crafted by keeping emerging technologies, evolving industry needs and global academic trends in mind. The curriculum will be reviewed periodically to ensure students continue to receive future-ready learning opportunities”.
Chandigarh University Uttar Pradesh is committed to providing quality higher education with a focus on innovation, research and industry collaboration. The university offers diverse undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral programmes across multiple disciplines with emphasis on experiential learning and skill development.
About Chandigarh University Uttar Pradesh (Lucknow)
Envisioned to foster a culture of sustainability and empower future global leaders, Chandigarh University, Uttar Pradesh, immerses 21st-century learners in a personalised and experiential learning experience, integrating an AI-powered academic model and a multidimensional, futuristic perspective on education. Our Uttar Pradesh campus carries forward the venerable legacy of more than a decade of Chandigarh University, Punjab, which has established itself as India’s No. 1 Private University and a torchbearer of groundbreaking pedagogy and research-driven innovation. The AI-augmented new campus offers a broad spectrum of industry-driven futuristic academic programs encompassing data-driven insights, virtual reality experiences, real-world simulations, corporate mentorship, international perspective, interdisciplinary research, cultivation of entrepreneurial spirit, and professional competencies.
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8, Aug 2026
Mahamandleshwar Gita Manishi Swami Shri Gyananand Ji Maharaj Enlightens Chandigarh University Students with Timeless Teachings of Bhagavad Gita
Bhagavad Gita Can Help Gen Z Deal with Tension, Stress, Depression in Today’s Competitive World, says Mahamandleshwar Gita Manishi Swami Shri Gyananand Ji Maharaj at Chandigarh University
CHANDIGARH, India, Aug. 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — “Bhagavad Gita is not merely a religious text but a way of life. It’s a logical, practical, universal and scientific way of life. As Gita addresses every problem and offers solutions for them all, this epic scripture can help Gen Z in dealing with the tension, stress, and even depression in today’s competitive world,” said Mahamandleshwar Gita Manishi Swami Shri Gyananand Ji Maharaj, during a transformative dialogue with Gen Z students on ‘Gita clarity, purpose and courageous action for a changing world’ at Chandigarh University on August 7th.
This interactive dialogue, organized the Department of Student Welfare’s ‘Centre of Student Wellbeing’, covered wide range of topics including ‘purpose in uncertain times’, ‘calm under pressure’, ‘ambition with inner balance’, ‘duty, freedom and ethical action’, and ‘meaningful living in the modern world’. This dialogue was attended by Swami Shri Gyananand Ji Maharaj as Chief Guest along with other dignitaries including Prof (Dr) RS Bawa, Advisor to the Chancellor of Chandigarh University.
In his spiritual address to students, Swami Shri Gyananand Ji Maharaj said that anxiety about the future overpowers the present and weakens our willpower. Giving example of shooter Manu Baker, who credited Bhagavad Gita’s teaching that one should focus on karma, not on the outcome of the karma for her success in winning two medals at the Paris Olympics, he said Gita can help students in dealing with the tension, stress, and even depression in today’s competitive world.
“That is why the Gita says ‘do not turn the future into a source of anxiety, focus on the present’. What happens next is not in your hands and you should concentrate only on present. Keeping the teachings of Bhagavad Gita in mind, nothing is impossible. Gen Z should set a good example in life and become a shining example for others yourself,” Swami Shri Gyananand Ji Maharaj said.
He said for concentration and confidence, youngsters should dedicate a few minutes each day to meditation. “Meditation isn’t solely about religious faith, think of it like charging your mobile phone. You plug it in daily to connect it to a power source, it charges up and then powers you through the entire day. This is particularly relevant for today’s students, as they inhabit a different world—one heavily influenced by social media—which often distances them from reality. With the rise of AI and social media these days, the primary need is the ‘courage to choose wisely’. You must make choices regarding social media with awareness—specifically, being aware of what is truly beneficial for you at this stage of life. Consider it like a ladder which can take you upward but if you do not tread carefully, your foot might slip, and it could cause you to fall,” Swami Shri Gyananand Ji Maharaj said.
On the question of how the Gen Z should strike a balance between their freedom and responsibility, Swami Shri Gyananand Ji Maharaj said that unrestricted freedom shouldn’t become a license to do whatever one whimsically desires.
“Freedom without responsibility or discipline, is harmful. It won’t earn you respect. Freedom is a good thing, but if freedom is leading a person towards pub culture, drug addiction or wrong circle of friends, then it is a bad thing. Therefore, embrace freedom, but keep your focus on responsibility,” he said.
Answering queries during the interactive session, Swami Shri Gyananand Ji Maharaj said, “One must learn from past mistakes without letting his or her mind become so disheartened that it closes off future paths. Life is incredibly precious; do not call your life into question just because of a single shortcoming. There is so much more to life—keep making good decision.”
Earlier in his welcome address, Prof (Dr) RS Bawa, Advisor to the Chancellor of Chandigarh University said, “Chandigarh University was established in 2012 with the resolve to become not merely a center of education, but a powerful medium for upholding Indian culture and moral values, and for nation-building. The University aims to mold young individuals who understand their responsibilities toward society and the nation. Much like Indian culture itself, values such as human dignity, empathy, humility, and generosity form the foundation of every activity at Chandigarh University. The University has set numerous new benchmarks in the fields of academic excellence, research, sports, cultural activities, and placements. The essence of life lies in having the courage to make wise choices; if you make the right choice, no challenge can stop you from moving forward.”
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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