Hyderabad, March 14: The 25th edition of the annual R&D Showcase of the International Institute of Information Technology Hyderabad began on Saturday at the institute’s Gachibowli campus. The two-day flagship event, which concludes on Sunday, has grown into one of the most anticipated research exhibitions, bringing together researchers, industry leaders, policymakers and students to explore advances in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, algorithms, robotics and digital public infrastructure.

The R&D Showcase is the institute’s major annual exhibition where faculty and students present their latest research projects, prototypes and innovations to academia, industry and the public.

Themed “Trust in Technology – Security, Privacy and Transparency,” the event features over 400 research posters, demos and prototypes from 29 research centres, enabling visitors to interact directly with researchers and witness how fundamental research is translated into real-world applications.

The programme included spotlight sessions by the Centre for Security, Theory and Algorithmic Research (CSTAR) and the Cyber Manthan Centre (CMC), an inaugural keynote by Shivkumar Kalyanaraman, CEO of the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), and a panel discussion on “Building Trust in the Indian Cyberspace: Privacy, Security and Transparency in the Era of Emerging Technologies.”

Delivering the keynote address, Dr Kalyanaraman said the ANRF serves as India’s primary organisation for funding and supporting research, similar to the National Science Foundation in the United States. Established under the Anusandhan National Research Foundation Act, 2023, it replaces the earlier Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB).

He highlighted several funding opportunities for universities and colleges, noting that ANRF aims to strengthen India’s research ecosystem by supporting scientific and technological research across institutions. The foundation promotes collaboration between academia, industry and government, strengthens research culture in universities—particularly state universities—and supports high-impact research in fields such as artificial intelligence, space, healthcare, climate science and engineering.

Dr Kalyanaraman also shared plans for several upcoming mission-mode programmes under the MAHA (Mission for Advancement in High-Impact Areas) framework, including MAHA Drones, MAHA G, MAHA Water, and MAHA Leapfrog Demonstrators for Social Innovation. These initiatives aim to address national challenges through collaborative research involving universities, industry and government laboratories, focusing on areas such as drone technologies, next-generation communication systems including 6G, sustainable water management and socially impactful innovations in healthcare, energy and education.

Prof. Sandeep K. Shukla, Director of IIIT Hyderabad, said: “The R&D Showcase reflects the spirit of inquiry and innovation that drives IIIT Hyderabad. It is encouraging to see our researchers engaging with industry, policymakers and the wider public to translate research into meaningful societal impact.”

Emphasising the theme of the event, he added: “Technology shouldn’t control us; instead, we should control technology.”

A panel discussion on “Building Trust in the Indian Cyberspace: Privacy, Security and Transparency in the Era of Emerging Technologies” was moderated by Girish Varma of IIIT Hyderabad.

The panellists included: P. R. Lakshmi Eswari, Centre Head, Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), Hyderabad; Krishna Sastry Pendyala, Partner – Cybersecurity, Ernst & Young; Deepak Kumar, Director, Institute for Development and Research in Banking Technology; M. V. Panduranga Rao, Centre for Cryptography and Cybersecurity, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad

The discussion highlighted critical concerns around cybersecurity and digital trust. Dr Lakshmi Eswari noted that security is often treated as a secondary priority during product design, rather than being integrated from the outset. Prof. Panduranga Rao pointed to a significant shortage of skilled cybersecurity professionals and emphasised the gap between academic curricula and industry requirements.

Krishna Sastry Pendyala highlighted the scale of cybercrime in India, noting that financial losses from cyber threats run into tens of thousands of crores annually and that major breaches—such as the theft of hundreds of millions of medical records—raise serious concerns about data security and digital trust. The panel stressed the need for greater awareness, stronger cybersecurity frameworks, skilled manpower and a comprehensive national cybersecurity strategy.

Alongside exhibits in AI, robotics, data science and cybersecurity, the showcase hosted industry–research confluence sessions on themes such as Cybersecurity and Privacy in the AI Era and AI for Theory and Theory for AI, a startup showcase and an industry roundtable on Agentic AI.

One of the highlights of the exhibition is an autonomous self-driving wheelchair, designed to enhance mobility for persons with disabilities. Equipped with 3D LiDAR for environmental perception and powered by Jetson Orin running ROS2, the wheelchair enables intelligent navigation with minimal user input. Advanced path planning and obstacle-avoidance systems allow safe and efficient movement in diverse environments.

Visitors also saw innovative robotics projects such as flapping-wing robots and spin drones, alongside architectural models demonstrating traditional earthquake-resilient housing systems such as Kath Kuni houses of Himachal Pradesh, Adobe houses of Rajasthan, and Ikra houses of Assam.

These models illustrate how traditional Indian architecture used local materials and ingenious construction techniques to build earthquake-resilient homes long before modern engineering technologies existed. Kath Kuni houses, for example, use alternating layers of wood and stone that absorb seismic shocks; Adobe structures rely on thick mud-brick walls that distribute stress; and Ikra houses use flexible bamboo frameworks that sway during earthquakes rather than collapse.

Sunday’s programme will feature Excitement of Research (ExOR), introducing visiting undergraduate students to research pathways, and a Faculty Futures Roundtable on research funding. The event will conclude with a patent felicitation ceremony at Research Street, recognising IIIT Hyderabad researchers for their innovation and intellectual property contributions. The institute has received over 70 patents.

Now in its 25th year, the R&D Showcase has evolved into one of the institute’s flagship platforms for presenting cutting-edge research and fostering collaboration between academia, industry and government

300 plus industries and students of several colleges are expected to visit and interact with students behind those research projects. 

Hyderabad, Mar 14th: Indian para–athlete Jyoti from Haryana delivered an outstanding performance by winning the Bronze Medal in Women’s Discus Throw (F57 category) at the New Delhi World Para Athletics Grand Prix 2026, held at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, New Delhi.

Competing against top international athletes, Jyoti showcased remarkable strength, technique, and determination to secure a podium finish in her classification at this prestigious global para–athletics event.

Jyoti is an athlete of the Aditya Mehta Foundation, which continues to support para-athletes in their pursuit of excellence at the international level.

This achievement marks a significant milestone in Jyoti’s sporting journey as she prepares for upcoming major competitions, including the Asian Para Games and the Paralympic Games.

The Aditya Mehta Foundation congratulates Jyoti on her remarkable accomplishment and expresses sincere gratitude to its valued supporters — Alcon, GMMCO, Invesco, and Flutter entertainment India — whose continued encouragement and support make such achievements possible.

March, 14th: L’Atelier 1664 continues its association with Lakmé Fashion Week 2026 in Mumbai, bringing its design-led cultural platform back to one of India’s most influential fashion stages.

Building on last year’s partnership, L’Atelier 1664 will once again celebrate the intersection of fashion, culture and contemporary lifestyle at Lakmé Fashion Week. As part of this season’s showcase, leading design house Abraham & Thakore will present a special runway collection in collaboration with L’Atelier 1664.

Titled “The Sari’torial,” the curated collection explores the meeting of structured tailoring and fluid drapes. Inspired by the dialogue between French ease and Indian craftsmanship, the collection reinterprets everyday silhouettes through refined detailing, signature textiles and a restrained palette accented with L’Atelier 1664’s distinctive house blue.

Beyond the runway presentation, L’Atelier 1664 will also host its signature lounge at Lakmé Fashion Week, creating an experiential space that reflects the platform’s blend of design, culture and contemporary lifestyle.

Speaking about the association, Partha Sarathi Jha, Vice President – Marketing, Carlsberg India, said: “Lakmé Fashion Week is one of the most important platforms for fashion and creative expression in India. Through L’Atelier 1664, we aim to celebrate this intersection of culture, design and contemporary lifestyle. We are excited to continue our association with Lakmé Fashion Week and collaborate with Abraham & Thakore to bring this vision to life on the runway.”

Commenting on the showcase, Abraham & Thakore add: With Sari’torial, we wanted to explore a conversation between French ease and Indian craftsmanship. Our collaboration with L’Atelier 1664 blends a relaxed French sensibility with the richness of Indian textiles—reinterpreting traditional crafts through a modern lens.

Through this continued partnership with Lakmé Fashion Week, L’Atelier 1664 further strengthens its engagement with fashion, design and contemporary culture in India.

Pic Credit: Pexel

Selecting the right health insurer is one of the most important decisions you can make for your family’s well-being. With healthcare costs rising and insurance options expanding, it’s crucial to choose a provider that offers reliable coverage, excellent support, and smooth access to medical care. In 2026, several real-world factors can help you assess which health insurer is truly trustworthy.

1. Check the Network of Hospitals

A good health insurer should have an extensive network of hospitals in your city and across the country. Verify whether your preferred hospitals, both for emergencies and routine treatments, are included. A wide network ensures you have access to quality care without hassle or delays.

2. Cashless Facility

Cashless hospitalization is one of the most sought-after benefits. Check if the insurer provides cashless treatment options at network hospitals. This feature allows you to receive care without upfront payments, easing financial stress during medical emergencies.

3. Customer Support

Reliable insurers offer responsive customer support to assist with claims, policy details, and emergency guidance. Look for companies that provide multiple communication channels, including phone, chat, and mobile apps, so help is available whenever needed.

4. Claim Settlement Record

Research the insurer’s claim settlement ratio and customer reviews. High settlement ratios indicate a smooth and transparent claims process, while low ratios may signal delays or frequent disputes.

5. Coverage and Inclusions

Compare policies for coverage details, including hospitalization, pre-existing conditions, day-care procedures, and critical illness benefits. A trustworthy insurer clearly outlines what is included and excludes hidden clauses.

6. Flexibility and Portability

Choose a health insurer that allows policy portability, enabling you to switch plans without losing benefits. Flexible policies that accommodate changing health needs over time provide long-term security.

7. Premium Transparency

Ensure that premiums are transparent and aligned with the coverage offered. Avoid insurers who offer low initial premiums but have high deductibles or hidden charges.

8. Reviews and Recommendations

Check online reviews and ask for recommendations from family, friends, or healthcare providers. Real-world experiences often reveal strengths and weaknesses of insurers that official brochures may not highlight.

9. Value-Added Services

Many insurers now offer additional services such as teleconsultations, health check-ups, wellness programs, and mental health support. These value-added services can improve your overall healthcare experience and support preventive care.

Top Health Insurers to Consider in 2026

Some trusted health insurers in India in 2026 include HDFC ERGO Health Insurance, ICICI Lombard General Insurance, Max Bupa Health Insurance, Star Health and Allied Insurance, and Aditya Birla Health Insurance. These companies are known for extensive hospital networks, reliable cashless facilities, and high customer satisfaction.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a health insurer is not just about the cheapest premium—it’s about trust, reliability, and seamless support when you need it most. By evaluating hospital networks, cashless facilities, claim records, coverage, and real-world customer experiences, you can select a health insurer that gives you peace of mind and financial security in 2026 and beyond.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will celebrate cricketing excellence at the Naman Awards 2026, scheduled for Sunday, 15 March 2026, in New Delhi. The annual ceremony recognises outstanding contributions across international, domestic, and age-group cricket while honouring individuals who have shaped the growth of the sport in India.

This year, Roger Binny and Rahul Dravid will be conferred with the Col. C. K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award, the BCCI’s highest honour for outstanding service to Indian cricket. Mithali Raj will receive the BCCI Lifetime Achievement Award for Women, recognising her extraordinary impact on the growth and global stature of women’s cricket in India.

A key member of India’s historic 1983 World Cup-winning team, Roger Binny played a pivotal role as the tournament’s highest wicket-taker and later contributed as coach, national selector, and BCCI President from 2022 to 2025. His decades-long dedication to Indian cricket across playing, mentoring, and administrative roles makes him a fitting recipient of this top honour.

Rahul Dravid, celebrated for his technical mastery, resilience, and leadership, accumulated over 24,000 international runs and played a central role in India’s batting line-up for more than a decade. Post-retirement, he has shaped India’s cricketing future as Head of Cricket at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) and through mentoring youth teams, including guiding the Under-19 squad to ICC tournament victories.

Mithali Raj, one of the greatest women cricketers in history, has inspired generations with her skill, leadership, and contribution to India’s success on the global stage. The award recognises her transformative impact on women’s cricket in the country.

The Naman Awards 2026 will honour these legends for their enduring contributions to Indian cricket, celebrating careers marked by excellence, leadership, and lasting influence.

Pic Credit: Pexel

Amid escalating tensions in the Middle East following the US-Israel conflict, Indian-flagged LPG tankers have successfully navigated the Strait of Hormuz with the support of the Indian Navy. The LPG tanker Shivalik has crossed the strait safely, while the second vessel, Nanda Devi, has also exited the strategically important shipping route without incident.

Government sources confirmed that Shivalik is currently being escorted by Indian naval ships and is expected to reach an Indian port, likely Mumbai or Kandla, within the next two days. The tanker has reached open waters and is sailing securely under naval guidance.

The Nanda Devi, carrying over 46,000 metric tonnes of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), is a critical component of India’s energy supply chain. Both vessels are being closely monitored by Indian naval assets to ensure safe passage through the sensitive waters of the Strait of Hormuz.

This development follows high-level discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian regarding the uninterrupted flow of goods and energy in the region.

Iran’s Ambassador to India, Mohammad Fathali, confirmed that Indian ships could expect safe passage through the strait, emphasizing the longstanding regional ties between India and Iran. “India is our friend. We believe that Iran and India share common interests in the region,” Fathali said, highlighting Iran’s willingness to facilitate transit for Indian vessels amid the crisis.

The statements come after Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht-Ravanchi noted that Tehran had allowed ships from certain countries to pass through the Strait of Hormuz. The strait remains one of the world’s most critical shipping lanes, handling around 20 percent of global oil and gas exports.

India’s Ministry of Ports and Shipping confirmed that the number of Indian-flagged vessels in the Persian Gulf remains at 28, with all ships and crew being actively monitored for safety and security.

The safe transit of Shivalik and Nanda Devi underscores India’s commitment to maintaining energy supply lines and safeguarding its maritime assets amid regional instability.

Air India and Air India Express will operate a combined 80 scheduled and non-scheduled flights to and from the West Asia region on 14 March, the airline group announced.

The airlines will continue their regular services to Jeddah and Muscat. On this day, a total of 10 flights are scheduled to Jeddah, while Air India Express will operate 8 flights to Muscat.

As part of the schedule, Air India will fly one round-trip from Delhi and two round-trips from Mumbai to Jeddah. Air India Express will operate one round-trip each from Kozhikode and Mangaluru to Jeddah.

These operations aim to maintain seamless connectivity between India and key West Asian destinations, serving both regular travelers and those on additional non-scheduled flights.

Pic Credit: Pexel

A new medical innovation called the “growing implant” is transforming the treatment of bone cancer in children. The technique allows surgeons to remove cancer-affected bone while preserving the limb and enabling it to grow normally, improving long-term mobility and quality of life.

Bone cancers such as osteosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma often affect children and adolescents. Traditional treatments sometimes required amputating the limb or resulted in permanent differences in leg length, creating long-term physical and emotional challenges. Growing implants now offer a more effective solution.

How the Growing Implant Works

The growing implant, also called an expandable prosthesis, is placed after the tumor is removed. Unlike standard implants, it can lengthen gradually as the child grows. Many modern implants use magnetic technology, allowing doctors to extend the device during routine hospital visits without additional surgery.

The gradual lengthening helps muscles, joints, and tissues adjust naturally, reducing pain and complications compared with older surgical methods.

Benefits for Patients

The implant offers several advantages:

• Preserves the limb and improves mobility

• Reduces the need for repeated surgeries

• Maintains balanced limb growth

• Supports long-term function and quality of life

Lengthening procedures usually take only 15–20 minutes, allowing children to return to normal activities quickly.

Future Developments

While implants can be costly and occasionally require revision surgeries, advances in 3D printing, imaging, and customized surgical planning are improving their precision and durability.

Growing implants are helping doctors focus on both curing cancer and ensuring children can lead active, independent lives after treatment. This innovation provides families facing bone cancer with renewed hope for survival and a better quality of life.