23, Aug 2026
Manipur CM Calls for Community Dialogue to Restore Peace and Boost Development
Imphal: Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh has stressed that lasting peace is essential for the state’s development and can be achieved only through constructive dialogue and greater understanding among different communities. Speaking at the inauguration of a mechanised parking facility in Imphal on August 22, the Chief Minister said communication between communities was crucial to overcoming divisions and restoring normalcy.
Singh underlined the close link between peace and economic and social progress, saying development would remain difficult unless stability and normalcy were restored across the state. He called for a positive approach and sustained engagement among communities to rebuild trust and create conditions for inclusive development.
The Chief Minister’s remarks come as efforts to promote reconciliation and normalcy continue in Manipur. In a separate event in Imphal, Singh felicitated sportspersons who represented the state at the 2026 Glasgow Commonwealth Games, including weightlifter Saikhom Mirabai Chanu. The government has increasingly highlighted dialogue, community outreach and reconciliation as important elements of its efforts to restore peace and strengthen the state’s development trajectory.
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- By Neel Achary
23, Aug 2026
Kerala Plans Round-the-Clock Specialist Care at District Hospitals
Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala government has announced plans to introduce round-the-clock specialist medical services at district and general hospitals across the state, with the initiative aimed at bringing advanced healthcare closer to people’s homes. The programme will cover key departments including general medicine, surgery, orthopaedics, paediatrics and gynaecology, with specialist treatment and surgeries also planned during night hours.
The first phase of the initiative is expected to be implemented within six months, with at least one hospital in every district selected initially before the programme is expanded to other government hospitals. The move is intended to improve access to specialist care at the local level and reduce the pressure on medical colleges, particularly for patients requiring treatment outside regular working hours.
The Health Department has appointed Dr Shinu K.S., Additional Director of its Administration and Training wing, as the Special Officer to coordinate implementation. The department will assess existing hospital infrastructure and determine requirements for doctors, nurses and paramedical personnel before deploying resources and undertaking necessary upgrades. The government expects the initiative to strengthen public healthcare delivery and make district hospitals more capable of handling specialised and emergency medical needs.
23, Aug 2026
National Space Day: PM Modi Hails India’s Space Rise, Highlights Gen Z Innovation
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday highlighted India’s rapid progress in the space sector on National Space Day, underlining the growing role of young Indians in developing new technologies. He said the country’s space journey is increasingly being driven by innovation, entrepreneurship and the confidence of its younger generation, with youth making their mark across science, technology, manufacturing, space and other emerging fields.
National Space Day is observed on August 23 to commemorate the successful landing of Chandrayaan-3 on the Moon in 2023, which made India the first country to land near the lunar south pole. India’s space ecosystem has expanded significantly in recent years following reforms that opened the sector to private companies and startups. According to the government, the number of registered space startups has grown to around 440 in 2026, while the country’s space economy has reached an estimated $9 billion.
The Prime Minister has also stressed that India’s young innovators can play a decisive role in taking the country towards global space leadership. Recent interactions with space entrepreneurs have focused on expanding the practical applications of space technology in agriculture, environmental management, livestock, disaster management and other areas affecting everyday life. The emphasis on Gen Z-led innovation reflects India’s broader ambition to move beyond being a consumer of advanced technologies and emerge as a major hub for their development.
23, Aug 2026
Kylie Jenner Carries Ahikoza by BRHAM at Malibu Wedding
Kylie Jenner has added her name to the growing celebrity following of Ahikoza by BRHAM, carrying the Indian luxury label’s signature Lilian bag, designed by founder Namrata Karad, at the Malibu wedding of NBA star Karl-Anthony Towns and Jordyn Woods.
Jenner paired the black satin Lilian with her vintage Roberto Cavalli halter gown for the August 15 nuptials, bringing the sculptural Indian-designed accessory into focus at one of the season’s most closely watched celebrity weddings.
The appearance marks another significant addition to the Lilian’s growing celebrity following. Before Jenner, the bag had been spotted with Jessica Alba, Lauren Sánchez Bezos and Cameron Diaz, while Ahikoza’s wider designs have found fans among an impressive roster of global and Indian stars, including Camila Cabello, Kate Hudson, Doja Cat, Alia Bhatt and Kareena Kapoor Khan.
For an Indian-founded accessories label, the growing presence of Ahikoza across Hollywood red carpets, celebrity wardrobes and high-profile events is particularly notable. The brand’s designs have also appeared in films and television, contributing to its visibility beyond traditional fashion circles.
At the centre of that recognition is Karad’s distinctive design language. Ahikoza is known for its geometric forms, sculptural silhouettes and emphasis on craftsmanship rather than prominent logos. Karad has previously described her approach as creating handbags that can be recognised by design rather than by a loud logo.
The Lilian embodies that philosophy with its elongated, structured silhouette and restrained detailing. Its appeal among celebrities reflects a broader shift towards accessories that offer a strong design identity without relying on conspicuous branding.
Jenner’s latest appearance therefore adds another high-profile chapter to Ahikoza’s international journey. From Jessica Alba and Cameron Diaz to Lauren Sánchez Bezos, Camila Cabello, Kate Hudson, Doja Cat and now Kylie Jenner, the label is steadily building a celebrity ecosystem that spans Hollywood and Bollywood.
For Namrata Karad, each appearance reinforces the same proposition that has defined Ahikoza from the beginning: Indian design and craftsmanship can command a place on the global luxury stage through distinctive design, rather than simply through a recognisable logo.
23, Aug 2026
ACAE Annual Conference 2026 Brings Together 500+ Leaders to Re-Imagine Bengal’s Growth Story
Kolkata, Aug 23: The Association of Corporate Advisers & Executives (ACAE) successfully hosted its flagship Annual Conference 2026 at Taj Bengal, Kolkata, bringing together more than 500 policymakers, industry leaders, professionals, entrepreneurs, investors and corporate executives from across the country.
Held on the theme “Re-Imagining Bengal: Industry, Innovation & Infinite Possibilities,” the conference explored Bengal’s emerging opportunities across industry, investment, entrepreneurship, innovation and sustainable economic development, while reflecting on the state’s rich industrial legacy and its potential for a future-ready growth trajectory.
The conference featured an eminent gathering of policymakers, public representatives, industry leaders, financial experts and thought leaders, who shared perspectives on strengthening Bengal’s position as a preferred destination for investment, enterprise, innovation and sustainable development.
The distinguished speakers and panellists included Dr. Sukanta Majumdar, Hon’ble Union Minister of State for Education and Development of North Eastern Region, Government of India; CA. Rathindra Bose, Speaker, West Bengal Legislative Assembly; Dr. Swapan Dasgupta, Hon’ble Finance Minister, Government of West Bengal; Shri Tapas Roy, Hon’ble Minister for Industry, Commerce & Enterprises, Government of West Bengal; CA. (Dr.) Rajesh Kumar, MLA, Jagatdal Assembly Constituency, West Bengal and Former IPS Officer & DGP; CA. Anand Mohan Bajaj, Deputy Comptroller & Auditor General, Government of India; CA. Niraj Kr. Harodia, President of ACAE; CA. Mohit Bhuteria, General Secretary of ACAE; CA. Kamal Nayan Jain, Chairman of Annual Conference Committee; CA. Vasudeo Agarwal, Co-Chairperson of Annual Conference Committee; CA. Jinesh S Vanzara, Chairperson Press & Publicity of Annual Conference Committee; CA. Anup Kumar Luharuka, Co-Chairperson Press & Publicity of Annual Conference Committee & many other eminent personalities.
Speaking on the occasion, CA. Niraj Kumar Harodia, President, ACAE, said, “The overwhelming participation and diversity of perspectives at this year’s Annual Conference reaffirm our belief that Bengal stands at an important inflection point. Re-imagining Bengal is not merely about looking at what is possible, but about bringing together ideas, institutions, entrepreneurs and industry to turn those possibilities into meaningful outcomes. We hope the discussions at ACAE Annual Conference 2026 contribute towards building a more competitive, innovative, investment-friendly and future-ready Bengal.”
The conference provided a platform for meaningful dialogue on the opportunities and challenges before Bengal and emphasised the importance of collaboration between policymakers, industry, professionals and entrepreneurs in shaping the state’s next phase of economic growth.
The conference also featured Shri Mukul Kanitkar, Author & Thinker; Ms. Monika Halan, Author & Financial Educator; Shri Umesh Chowdhary, Vice Chairman, Managing Director & CEO, Titagarh Rail Systems Limited; Shri Mehul Mohanka, Managing Director, Tega Industries Limited; Shri Utsav Parekh, Chairman, Nexome Capital Markets Ltd; Shri Partha Pratim Sengupta, Managing Director, Bandhan Bank; CA. Veni Thapar, Independent Director, Bandhan Bank; Shri Sudhir Kedia, Investment Banker; CA. (Dr.) Debashis Mitra, Past President, ICAI; and Ms. Avanne Dubash, Television Anchor (Ex ET Now, Times Group).
The deliberations also highlighted the need to leverage Bengal’s strategic advantages, human capital, entrepreneurial ecosystem and industrial capabilities while embracing new-age sectors, innovation and technology.
The successful conclusion of the Annual Conference 2026 marks another significant milestone in ACAE’s continued endeavour to promote professional excellence, knowledge sharing, leadership and constructive engagement with the corporate and business community.
23, Aug 2026
Amit Shah Reviews Security Preparedness Along Siliguri Corridor
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has reviewed the security preparedness of the strategically important Siliguri Corridor, with senior officials from the Centre and West Bengal participating in discussions on strengthening security, infrastructure and border management in the region.
The high-level meeting brought together representatives from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Army, Border Security Force, Sashastra Seema Bal and Railway Protection Force, along with the Chief Secretary and Director General of Police of West Bengal. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also attended the meeting.
A key presentation was made by the Multi Agency Centre’s Standing Focus Group on Siliguri Corridor, outlining the progress achieved so far and recommending additional measures to reinforce the security architecture around the corridor.
Shah also examined the status of major infrastructure projects being implemented in the region, particularly those considered important from a national security perspective. He called for pending works to be completed within defined timelines, stressing that infrastructure development and security preparedness must progress together.
The meeting also considered issues concerning foreign-linked activities, demographic shifts, illegal immigration and border management. Shah reiterated the Centre’s commitment to strengthening the Siliguri Corridor and ensuring that its security remains robust.
Emphasising a comprehensive approach to border management, the Home Minister called for the effective implementation of the government’s “quadrangular approach” to border security. He asked all agencies involved to work in close coordination and expand their operational presence across the corridor.
Shah directed agencies to establish more institutions and facilities in the region to increase their footprint. He also reviewed the protection of vital installations located along the corridor and instructed authorities to implement all necessary measures to safeguard critical assets.
The Home Minister further called for stronger action against encroachments and illegal immigration in the Siliguri Corridor. The directions underline the government’s focus on combining physical security, infrastructure development, institutional presence and effective border management.
During the meeting, Shah also suggested that the West Bengal government explore the possibility of establishing additional Sainik Schools in North Bengal. He also called for an increase in the number of senior-level NCC cadets in the region as part of efforts to strengthen youth engagement and national preparedness.
Shah urged the state government to further develop the Civil Defence and Home Guards network in the Siliguri Corridor. The measures discussed at the meeting reflect a broader effort to reinforce security coordination and institutional capacity in a region of critical strategic importance to India.
22, Aug 2026
India, Mauritius Deepen Energy Partnership with Long-Term Fuel Supply Agreement
New Delhi, August 22, 2026: India and Mauritius have taken steps to strengthen bilateral energy cooperation following an official visit by Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas Shri Hardeep Singh Puri to Mauritius from August 20 to 21. The visit resulted in agreements aimed at ensuring reliable petroleum supplies to Mauritius while expanding cooperation in oil, gas and biofuels.
During the visit, Shri Puri met Mauritius Prime Minister Dr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam on August 20. In their presence, India and Mauritius exchanged a Government-to-Government Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on oil and gas cooperation. A separate five-year Sales and Purchase Agreement was signed between Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) and the State Trading Corporation (STC) of Mauritius for the supply of petroleum products.
Under the long-term agreement, IOCL will meet Mauritius’ entire import requirement for Motor Spirit (MS), High Speed Diesel (HSD) and Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF). The arrangement is expected to provide Mauritius with greater certainty of supply and reduce its exposure to international price volatility. It also represents one of the first long-term overseas supply arrangements by an Indian public-sector oil marketing company outside South Asia in recent years.
The broader oil and gas MoU establishes an institutional framework for continued cooperation between the two countries. It covers petroleum product supplies, capacity building and training for Mauritian officials, as well as collaboration in biofuels. The agreements are intended to reinforce the longstanding energy relationship between India and Mauritius and create opportunities for deeper technical and commercial cooperation.
During his visit, Shri Puri held bilateral discussions with Mauritius’ Minister of Energy and Public Utilities Patrick Gervais Assirvaden, Minister of Commerce and Consumer Protection John Michaël Tzoun Sao Yeung Sik Yuen, and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade Dhananjay Ramful. He also attended the groundbreaking ceremony for a 27.5 thousand metric tonne (TMT) bunker marine fuel storage facility being developed by India Oil (Mauritius) Ltd. at Mer Rouge in Port Louis.
The agreements further enhance India’s position as a reliable energy partner in the Indian Ocean region. With 23 refineries and annual refined petroleum product output of around 267 million tonnes (MMT), India has emerged as a major global refining centre and a net exporter of refined petroleum products. The country already supplies petroleum products to neighbouring countries including Nepal and Bhutan, and has continued to meet its regional supply commitments despite disruptions arising from the West Asia crisis.
Biofuels form another important component of the strengthened partnership. Mauritius is a founding member of the Global Biofuels Alliance (GBA), an initiative launched during India’s G20 Presidency. The GBA Secretariat has been working with Mauritius’ Ministry of Energy and Public Utilities on a Biofuels Country Landscape Policy framework to support the country’s energy transition.
Shri Puri and Minister Assirvaden jointly witnessed the launch of the Biofuels Country Landscape Policy framework on August 21. The initiative is expected to provide a foundation for Mauritius to explore the wider use of biofuels while benefiting from knowledge sharing, research, training and technical cooperation with India.
The latest agreements are expected to give a new dimension to India-Mauritius energy relations, positioning India as a dependable long-term fuel supplier while expanding cooperation in emerging areas such as biofuels and strengthening India’s strategic and economic engagement across the Indian Ocean.
22, Aug 2026
57th IFFI Preparations Reviewed at First Steering Committee Meeting in New Delhi
New Delhi, August 22, 2026: Preparations for the 57th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) were reviewed at the first meeting of the festival’s Steering Committee, held on August 21 at Kartavya Bhawan-2, New Delhi. The meeting was chaired by Dr. L. Murugan, Minister of State for Information & Broadcasting, and focused on strengthening the festival’s international profile and ensuring a high-quality experience for filmmakers, delegates and cinema enthusiasts.
The 57th edition of IFFI is scheduled to take place in Goa from November 20 to 28, 2026. During the meeting, Dr. Murugan outlined the Government’s vision of making the festival a stronger platform for young students, emerging filmmakers and lesser-known creative professionals. He stressed the need to provide new talent with opportunities to showcase their work, interact with established personalities and build connections with the international film community.
The Minister also highlighted the role of the creative sector in India’s economic growth, noting that the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, under the leadership of Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, is pursuing initiatives aimed at expanding the country’s Orange Economy. He called for greater emphasis on masterclasses, mentorship programmes and structured interactions with experienced filmmakers, alongside efforts to showcase the breadth and diversity of Indian cinema.
International engagement emerged as another key focus of the meeting. The Steering Committee discussed efforts to bring acclaimed films, filmmakers, artists and creative professionals from different parts of the world to IFFI. The festival is being positioned not only as a celebration of cinema but also as a platform for professional networking, creative collaboration and cultural exchange between Indian and international film communities.
Dr. Murugan also acknowledged the contribution of the Government of Goa to IFFI’s continued development and recalled the role of former Goa Chief Minister late Shri Manohar Parrikar in establishing the state as an important destination for international cinema. He appreciated Chief Minister Shri Pramod Sawant for his continued support in strengthening the festival and its arrangements.
Secretary, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Shri Chanchal Kumar, said IFFI should serve as a flagship platform for India’s expanding creative economy and promote stronger collaboration between domestic and international creative communities. He also stressed the importance of providing a seamless and professionally managed experience for filmmakers, delegates, guests and cinephiles attending the festival.
During the meeting, NFDC Managing Director Shri Prakash Magdum presented an overview of preparations and initiatives planned for the 57th edition. Festival Director and filmmaker Shri Ashutosh Gowariker welcomed the committee’s recommendations, particularly those relating to masterclasses, opportunities for young filmmakers, selection of outstanding films and participation by leading creative personalities from India and abroad.
The Secretary, Information and Public Relations Department, Government of Goa, briefed the committee on preparations being undertaken by the state and assured that necessary arrangements would be completed in time. Members of the Steering Committee also stressed the need for sustained coordination between the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, NFDC, the Government of Goa and other stakeholders to ensure the successful conduct of the festival.
The meeting was attended by senior officials, filmmakers and members of the Steering Committee, including Shri Chanchal Kumar, Shri Ashutosh Gowariker, Shri Prakash Magdum, and representatives and noted personalities such as Bhavna Kher, Ram Sampath, Aparna Purohit, Prerna Singh, Namitha, Suhasini Maniratnam, Abhishek Jain, Santosh Sivan, Gaurav Banerjee, Aditya Bhat, Prashant Chothani and Dharam Gulati. The committee expressed confidence that the 57th IFFI would further strengthen its position as an international platform for cinema, creativity, cultural exchange and global collaboration.
22, Aug 2026
NBA Releases Rs.2.82 Crore to States, UTs and ICAR Institute Under Biodiversity Benefit-Sharing Mechanism
New Delhi, August 22, 2026: The National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) has released ₹2.82 crore under India’s Access and Benefit-Sharing (ABS) framework, directing funds towards biodiversity conservation, sustainable resource use and community-oriented activities. The latest disbursement includes ₹2.80 crore for 27 State Biodiversity Boards (SBBs) and three Union Territory Biodiversity Councils (UTBCs), along with ₹2.01 lakh for the ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (ICAR-IIHR), Karnataka.
The funds have been generated from ABS payments linked to the commercial use of India’s biological resources. NBA received ₹2.94 crore from Advanta Enterprises Ltd., formerly UPL Limited, for the utilisation of genetic resources associated with several horticultural hybrids, including eight cauliflower hybrids, five hot pepper hybrids, five okra hybrids and six tomato hybrids. Since the biological resources had been obtained through the acquisition of another company and could not be linked to specific farmers, communities or a single geographical origin, an expert committee was constituted to recommend an appropriate benefit-sharing mechanism.
Based on the committee’s recommendations approved by the NBA, ₹2.80 crore has now been distributed among states and UTs. The allocation was determined with reference to the cultivation of the relevant horticultural crops across different parts of the country. Gujarat received the highest allocation at ₹44.59 lakh, followed by West Bengal with ₹41.24 lakh and Madhya Pradesh with ₹32.73 lakh. Odisha received ₹32.57 lakh, while Bihar was allocated ₹30.86 lakh. Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra were among the other major recipients.
The State Biodiversity Boards and UT Biodiversity Councils are expected to use the funds for a range of biodiversity-related initiatives. These include updating and documenting People’s Biodiversity Registers, conserving biological resources in natural and controlled settings, restoring degraded ecosystems, strengthening Biodiversity Heritage Sites, building the capacity of Biodiversity Management Committees and supporting livelihood opportunities for local communities. The recipient bodies are required to submit utilisation certificates and expenditure statements within one year.
In a separate transaction, the NBA received ₹7.15 lakh from Sumitomo Chemical India Ltd., Mumbai, formerly Excel Crop Care, as ABS payment for access to two microbial strains developed at ICAR-IIHR: Pseudomonas fluorescens 1% WP (strain IIHR-Pf-2) and Trichoderma harzianum 1% WP (strain IIHR-Th-2). As these biological resources originated from a public research institution and were used for research and commercial purposes, 30% of the ABS amount, equivalent to ₹2.01 lakh, is being transferred to ICAR-IIHR. The institute will utilise the funds for repository maintenance, research, biodiversity surveys, taxonomy capacity building and conservation activities.
The latest release forms part of the NBA’s broader effort to strengthen implementation of the Biological Diversity Act, 2002, and ensure that economic benefits generated through the use of biological resources are channelled towards conservation, sustainable utilisation and socio-economic development. According to the NBA, cumulative ABS disbursements have now reached ₹185 crore, equivalent to about USD 19.34 million.
The initiative also supports India’s international commitments under the Convention on Biological Diversity and the Nagoya Protocol on Access and Benefit-Sharing. It is aligned with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, particularly Target 13, which promotes fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the utilisation of genetic resources and relevant digital sequence information.
22, Aug 2026
Chandigarh University Hosts Global Architectural Voices to Deliberate on Technology, Heritage and Future of Architecture
Leading Architects Deliberate Artificial Intelligence, Emerging Technologies & the Future of Architecture
CHANDIGARH, India, Aug. 22, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Aimed at transforming industry–academia engagement from dialogue into tangible collaboration, the 4th International Conference on Trends in Architecture and Construction (ICTAC 2026) was inaugurated today at Chandigarh University, bringing leading architects, academicians, researchers, industry professionals and scholars onto a single platform to deliberate on the future of architecture and construction.
The conference set the stage for new industry partnerships, architecture and research consultancy, professional knowledge exchange and stronger industry exposure for future architects. Organised by the University Institute of Architecture (UIA), Chandigarh University, the two-day hybrid conference is being held on August 20 and 21, 2026 at Chandigarh University.
The inaugural day brought together eminent voices from the field of architectural education, research and professional practice, including Prof. Jayshree Deshpande, Director of the Council of Architecture – Training & Research Centre (COA-TRC) as Chief Guest, Yatin Pandya, Founder & Principal Architect, Footprints EARTH, Ahmedabad, Manmohan Khanna, Founder & Principal Architect, KMA Architecture and Chairman-IIA, Chandigarh Chapter as Guest of Honours, Prof. (Dr.) Vikas Rai Bhatnagar, Group Vice Chancellor, Prof. Dr R Jagdeesh Kannan, Pro Vice Chancellor-Academic Affairs, Chandigarh University among other dignitaries.
Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Jayashree Deshpande, Director of the Council of Architecture – Training & Research Centre (COA-TRC) said, “AI and other emerging technologies are a blessing because they can help us to think and design better. Architecture today deals with projects which are immense in scale, and it is not possible for an architect to do everything single-handedly. We must therefore learn to collaborate with engineers, planners, policymakers, consultants and specialists and technology can enable us to work together more effectively.”
Deshpande added, “We are entering an extraordinary phase of technological change, with artificial intelligence, digital twins, generative design, robotics and data-driven planning transforming the way we conceive, design and construct our buildings and cities. But technology should remain a means and not become the mission. Technology must be used to improve the quality of human life, to create spaces, cities and communities that are stronger, more resilient, inclusive and connected. Technology is smart, but the human should be wiser. If we learn to use technology properly, we can create wise cities that are technologically advanced but emotionally connected. This is particularly important as we work towards the vision of Viksit Bharat. Our young professionals should engage with the various initiatives of the Government of India and utilize the opportunities available to contribute to the development of the country. Ultimately, our responsibility as architects is not simply to create iconic buildings, but to create places where people feel safe, included, inspired and at home. If technology can help us achieve that, then it has truly served society and contributed to the larger vision of a Viksit Bharat.”
Yatin Pandya, Founder & Principal Architect, Footprints EARTH, Ahmedabad said, “Architecture is not merely about buildings or forms; it is about the experience, emotion and impact we create. Trends may come and go, but what is truly appropriate and meaningful can remain timeless. As architects, we must observe, understand and foresee the implications of even the smallest design decisions, because our responsibility extends beyond an individual client to the larger community and the future of our planet.”
Manmohan Khanna, Founder & Principal Architect, KMA Architecture said, “Chandigarh University has the potential to become one of the leading institutions in the country and the world and the students here are fortunate to be part of that journey. Students are our future and together we must work towards building the finest professionals for the country.”
A key thrust of ICTAC 2026 is its emphasis on creating concrete mechanisms for sustained industry–academia engagement. The inaugural day also featured the opening of the Heritage Exhibition – ‘Pehchan 2.0’, placing India’s architectural heritage within the wider discourse on identity, conservation and contemporary architectural practice.
The programme further witnessed the unveiling of the ICTAC Inaugural Board and the release of the Abstract Book, followed by paper presentations. The research presentations provided scholars and participants with a platform to share emerging ideas, studies and perspectives in architecture and construction.
The second day of the conference will feature the Industry Colloquium, comprising plenary sessions and high-level panel discussions with distinguished experts from academia, government and industry. A major highlight will be the signing of an MoU between UIA and Walia Creative Architects, creating a formal avenue for closer engagement between academic and professional practice.
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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