Archives 2025

Mumbai / Bangalore, 27th Feb 2025 – Bengaluru GAFX, India’s premier AVGC-XR Conference (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics, and Extended Reality) organized by the Ministry of ITBT, Karnataka, will take place from February 27th to March 1st, 2025 at Hotel Lalit Ashok, Bengaluru.

With a focus on fostering innovation, facilitating knowledge-sharing, and encouraging strategic collaborations, the GAFX 2025 reinforces Bengaluru’s position as the world’s #1 hub for AVGC-XR and a driving force behind India’s global leadership in immersive media and entertainment. With an anticipated attendance of over 20,000, doubling past editions, this year’s event is poised to be the most influential gathering for creators, developers, investors, studios, and enthusiasts from across the AVGC-XR ecosystem.

The theme for GAFX 2025 is the “Future of Immersion: EXPERIENCE. EXPLORE. DISRUPT.” This underscores the event’s commitment to furthering the frontiers of creativity and technology. Attendees will experience the power of immersive technologies in storytelling, from real-time rendering breakthroughs to the transformative potential of virtual and augmented reality.

“The Government of Karnataka acts as an enabler for the digital media industry, fostering the full spectrum from skills & education to studios from startups to global leaders, that leverage the state’s innovation ecosystem. We see our role as an accelerator, fostering the fusion of human creativity with AI tools in ways that will transform this sector. At Bengaluru GAFX 2025, we proudly showcase India’s finest, talent and investment candidates that make this event AVGC-XR’s seminal platform in visual immersion, disruption, and storytelling.” said Shri Priyank Kharge, Hon’ble Minister for the Departments of Electronics, IT, and Bt, and Rural Development & Panchayat Raj, Government of Karnataka.

Like all new technology industries, the AVGC-XR landscape is evolving beyond traditional formats, embracing experiential engagement that is redefining how stories are produced and consumed. GAFX 2025 will explore this shift, focusing on innovation and new business models that will shape the future of entertainment. This year’s edition promises several firsts – a public-access expo and creative zone, immersive conference sessions with world leaders, an innovation zone, investor connect, and the live finals of an esports national tournament.

“Karnataka provides the most fertile ground for innovation in AVGC-XR, fostering talent, businesses, and acceleration in storytelling and technology IP. Our 16-year-old AVGC policy has taken India global, delivering award-winning success. Bengaluru GAFX is our annual testament to this leadership. This year features funding opportunities for startups and IP creators, global showcase of AVGC XR cutting-edge work, and nationwide collaboration showcasing how arts and sciences converge to drive the future of immersive technology.” said Dr. Ekroop Caur, Secretary, Department of Electronics, IT, Bt, Science & Technology, Government of Karnataka.

“At Bengaluru GAFX, ABAI has curated a cross-platform presentation that depicts the New Canvas of Imagination in AVGC. GAFX 2025 unfolds trends in AI-driven visual arts and cognitive sciences which are transforming ideas into immersive experiences. From generative art to interactive narratives, creators now craft stories dynamically, engaging audiences in ways never before possible. At GAFX, ABAI shall present multiple venues, pathbreaking presentations, 50 amazing pitch sessions, and an India expo with national participation across technology and representatives from over 12 states. This will be the biggest single show across every facet of future intelligence redefining storytelling.” said Mr. Biren Ghose, Chairman of Bengaluru GAFX and President ABAI.

William J. O’Neil wasn’t just an investor; he was a market visionary. As the founder of Investor’s Business Daily, he developed an investment strategy that combined fundamental and technical analysis, setting him apart from his contemporaries. His CAN SLIM methodology became one of the most effective stock-picking systems, identifying high-growth stocks before they peaked. Unlike traditional investors who relied solely on valuation metrics, O’Neil recognized that the market rewards momentum, strong earnings growth, and institutional accumulation. His research firm, William O’Neil + Co., continues to refine these principles, providing proprietary analytics and quantitative strategies to investors worldwide.

In India, O’Neil Capital Management applies these methodologies to navigate emerging market dynamics, leveraging data science and systematic investing to generate superior returns. As financial markets become increasingly complex, O’Neil’s approach remains relevant, helping investors sidestep common pitfalls that often lead to costly mistakes.

Misjudging Market Cycles and Ignoring Broader Trends

One of the most common investing errors is underestimating the importance of market cycles. Many investors believe they can predict market movements based on news headlines or gut instincts, but O’Neil’s research proves otherwise. He found that successful investors do not attempt to outguess the market; they follow objective indicators such as market breadth, volume trends, and institutional buying activity.

Market timing is often misunderstood. Investors who enter positions without considering macro trends risk getting caught in unfavorable conditions. O’Neil emphasized that recognizing when the market is in an uptrend or downtrend is critical. Those who ignore market cycles often buy at the top or sell at the bottom, missing out on long-term gains.

Holding Onto Losing Stocks and Failing to Cut Losses

Psychology plays a powerful role in investment decisions, and one of the biggest emotional pitfalls is holding onto losing stocks for too long. Investors often struggle to admit mistakes, hoping that a declining stock will eventually recover. O’Neil’s rule was clear: cut losses at 7-8% to protect capital.

His research found that the biggest stock market winners emerged from disciplined decision-making rather than wishful thinking. Instead of averaging down on a failing investment, the better approach is to reallocate funds to stronger opportunities. Losing trades is part of investing, but allowing them to spiral into significant portfolio damage is entirely avoidable.

Chasing Cheap Stocks Instead of Strong Performers
A pervasive myth in investing is that low-priced stocks offer better value. Many retail investors gravitate toward stocks that appear “cheap,” expecting them to rebound. However, O’Neil’s research revealed that true market leaders were often stocks making new highs, not new lows.

Valuation metrics alone do not determine stock performance. Companies with strong earnings growth, increasing institutional ownership, and solid technical patterns tend to generate superior returns. Betting on struggling companies simply because they are priced lower is a speculative approach, not an investment strategy.

Ignoring Institutional Activity and Market Leaders

Retail investors often operate in isolation, failing to track where institutional money is flowing. O’Neil emphasized that mutual funds, hedge funds, and large investors significantly influence stock prices. When these institutions accumulate a stock over time, it signals long-term confidence in its potential.

Stocks with increasing institutional ownership tend to outperform because they have sustained demand. Conversely, stocks witnessing heavy insider selling or declining institutional interest often face headwinds. Investors who align their strategies with institutional movements can increase their odds of success.

Overlooking Earnings Growth as a Leading Indicator

O’Neil’s research, covering over a century of stock market performance, highlighted a critical pattern: leading stocks exhibit strong earnings growth before their price surges. His data showed that companies with earnings per share (EPS) growth of at least 25% year-over-year were far more likely to become long-term winners.

Investors often make the mistake of ignoring earnings growth, focusing instead on speculative stocks with no clear profitability trajectory. The reality is that earnings are the single most important driver of stock performance. Companies with accelerating earnings and expanding profit margins tend to reward shareholders over time, while those with stagnant growth often struggle.

Mismanaging Diversification: Too Much or Too Little
Diversification is often misunderstood. While spreading investments across different assets can mitigate risk, over-diversification can dilute returns. O’Neil argued that investors should focus on quality over quantity—owning too many stocks makes it difficult to manage a portfolio effectively.

His strategy favored a concentrated approach, investing in 5-10 high-quality stocks rather than dozens of mediocre performers. The key is to balance risk and reward—owning too few stocks can increase volatility, but over-diversification leads to an inability to generate meaningful returns.

Buying Stocks at the Wrong Time and Ignoring Technical Patterns
Even the best stock can be a bad investment if purchased at the wrong time. Many investors rush into stocks without considering whether they are at an ideal entry point. O’Neil found that the most successful investors waited for confirmation signals—technical patterns like the cup-with-handle or breakouts on strong volume—before initiating positions.

Buying stocks during periods of excessive optimism often leads to disappointing results. Instead, investors should look for proper buy points, ensuring that momentum and demand support their entry. Ignoring timing and technical indicators increases the risk of buying stocks just before they pull back.

A Data-Backed Strategy for Long-Term Success
William O’Neil’s investment philosophy was not built on speculation but on the meticulous study of stock market history. By analyzing over 100 years of market data, he identified repeatable patterns that separate successful investors from those who struggle.

His principles have been institutionalized through O’Neil Capital Management, where proprietary research, quantitative strategies, and algorithmic modeling continue to refine investment decision-making. In India, where markets are rapidly evolving, his methodologies offer a structured approach to identifying high-growth opportunities and mitigating risk.

Investing is not about achieving perfection; it’s about maximizing probabilities while minimizing mistakes. O’Neil’s guiding principle remains as relevant today as ever: “The whole secret to winning in the stock market is to lose the least amount possible when you’re wrong.” The sooner investors adopt this mindset, the better positioned they are for sustained financial success.

NEW DELHI, 27 Feb 2025 – Omaxe Chowk, in collaboration with OCPR Entertainment, hosted the spectacular “Riders Ki Baraat”, bringing together over 800 bikers for a thrilling ride across the city. The event was a unique fusion of adventure, fashion, and entertainment, capturing the vibrant spirit of Delhi.

The ride kicked off from The Omaxe State – Dwarka and concluded at Omaxe Chowk, with bikers dressed in vibrant wedding attire and stylish jackets, adding a cultural flair to the procession.

The event was graced by celebrity judge Siddesh Jadhav, a renowned pageant expert, and Richa Vihaan, a celebrated pageant winner and fashion icon. Other notable attendees included Fashion Rider Divya Sandhu, Simple Arora, and Jaideep Singh.

Leading fashion brands such as Koskii, Manyavar, White Hanger, Chhabra 555, Surya, Odhni, and Perfume Point showcased their latest collections, adding to the grandeur of the event.

The celebration featured an array of exciting activities, including wedding-themed games, fashion walks, and dance performances. Winners were announced amidst an electrifying DJ session, followed by a lucky draw and live band performances.

Jatin Goel, Executive Director, Omaxe Group, said, “Riders Ki Baraat was a unique and thrilling experience. We are committed to curating innovative events that blend entertainment with modern retail, making Omaxe Chowk a premier destination for immersive experiences.”

Ropar, 27th February 2025: Ambuja Manovikas Kendra (AMK), a dedicated education institution for children with special needs in Ropar, Punjab, commemorated its 25th anniversary on Wednesday with a vibrant and heartfelt celebration. The youthful event was infused with an atmosphere of joy, laughter, and exuberance, as students, parents, and supporters gathered to honor the school’s remarkable journey of 25 years and unwavering commitment to service.

Founded in 1999 under the visionary leadership of the late Mr. Suresh Neotia, Ex-Chairman of Ambuja Foundation, Ambuja Manovikas Kendra (AMK) began as a modest school in Ropar. Today, it has expanded into a grand around 3 acres that offers a comprehensive range of services tailored to students with special needs. The institution provides early intervention, special education, therapeutic support, sensory integration rooms, aquatic therapy, home-based rehabilitation, life skills training, vocational courses, and skill development initiatives for the students and their families. Over the last 25 years, AMK has positively impacted the lives of more than 500 differently-abled children and adults, empowering them through specialized programs designed to foster their growth and rehabilitation.

The Guest of honor for the event was Mr. Gurvinder Singh Bahra, Chairman and Chancellor, of Rayat Bahra University. Other dignitaries present at the event were officials from Ambuja Cements, Dr. R.S. Parmar, Ms. Pearl Tiwari- CEO, of Ambuja Foundation, and Mr. Chandrakant Kumbhani- COO, of Ambuja Foundation along with supporters and parents who have been instrumental in AMK’s growth.

During the celebration, the students showcased their incredible talents, delivering powerful performances that addressed social issues and celebrated friendship, while also thrilling the audience with an energetic dance display. The senior students further captivated the crowd with a unique fashion show, featuring creative outfits that added an extra layer of excitement to the event.

Talking about Ambuja Manovikas Kendra, Ms Pearl Tiwari, CEO, of Ambuja Foundation, said, “Ambuja Foundation is committed to the development of all segments of society and it fills us with immense satisfaction and joy witnessing these children sing, dance, present and seem so confident and independent. Through Ambuja Manovikas Kendra, we have been empowering children with special needs for the past 25 years, helping them acquire essential life skills and fostering their journey toward self-reliance.”

It is a moment of pride for AMK to show off that in the past 21 years, 10 students have represented India at the World Special Summer and Winter Olympics winning 14 medals for the country. They have been felicitated at the national and state level for their achievements. AMK’s Youth with Special Needs have also set up their enterprises in rakhi and diya making. All these students were felicitated by the dignitaries during the celebration.

Delhi, 27 Feb 2025: Paras Health is pleased to announce the elevation of Mr. Vineet Aggarwal to Group Chief Operating Officer (GCOO), effective immediately. Previously serving as Chief Information Officer (CIO), he brings extensive experience and strong leadership to his new role.

Since joining Paras Health in September 2021, Mr. Vineet Aggarwal has demonstrated exceptional leadership and played a crucial role in driving key operational and strategic initiatives across various departments. His innovative approach to digital transformation, patient engagement, and business process optimization has significantly contributed to the company’s growth.

Mr. Aggarwal has consistently demonstrated visionary leadership in spearheading key initiatives that have driven both operational excellence and enhanced organizational outcomes. His strategic and visionary approach to leadership has been instrumental in advancing the company’s broader goals and fosters a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement, positioning the organization for long-term success.

With over 22 years of experience in industries such as Healthcare, Pharma, Manufacturing, Media & Entertainment, Telecom, and IT/ITES, Mr. Aggarwal brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the Group COO role. His ability to align business strategy with operational needs, combined with his collaborative approach, will be instrumental as Paras Health continues to evolve and expand.

Dr. Dharminder Nagar, Managing Director at Paras Health, commented, “We are thrilled to elevate Vineet to the role of Group Chief Operating Officer. His leadership and strategic insights have been invaluable to Paras Health, and we are confident that his expertise will help us continue to drive innovation and operational excellence in the years to come.”

Mr. Vineet said, “I am super delighted to take on this new role and to continue contributing to Paras Health’s growth and success. It has been an incredible journey working alongside such a talented and dedicated team. I look forward to furthering our strategic vision, driving innovation, and ensuring that we continue to create lasting value as we move forward together.”

Bengaluru, 27th February 2025: Kinetic Green Energy and Power Solutions Limited, a pioneer in electric vehicles in India, has unveiled a new television campaign for the E-Luna. Rooted in the nostalgia of the famous and timeless ‘Chal Meri Luna’ tagline, this campaign brings a fresh perspective to sustainable mobility while reinforcing the brand’s commitment to innovation and personal transportation.

Just like its predecessor it was conceived as an affordable, practical, and fuel-efficient two-wheeler for Indians, enabling them with the freedom of hassle-free personal transportation, the E-Luna embodies the same attributes but is now powered by electricity and modern top-tier technology. The E-Luna, an all-electric two-wheeler, is designed to meet the evolving needs of both urban and rural India, offering an eco-friendly, durable, and cost-effective mobility solution.

Given that the E-Luna is an all-electric two-wheeler, the key attributes highlighted in this campaign include its impressive long-distance range on a single charge of its batter, its versatility as an everyday commuting solution, and its robust load-carrying capacity, making it ideal for Indian roads and operating conditions. The campaign emphasizes the environmental advantages of electric vehicles (EVs) while positioning the E-Luna as a smart and versatile solution for both urban and rural mobility requirements.

At the core of the E-Luna is its impressive long-range capability, delivering up to 110 km on a single charge, with a 2.3 kWh battery capacity. Powered by a high-performance BLDC mid-mount motor with a 2.2 kW peak capacity, the E-Luna achieves a top speed of 50 km/h, making it perfectly suited for inter-city and semi-urban traffic conditions. Its IP-67-rated battery, motor, and controller ensure durability, making it resistant to water and dust ingress for enhanced performance across diverse terrains and weather conditions prevalent in India.

Further, the E-Luna features a sturdy dual-tubular, high-strength steel chassis, enhancing durability and stability while adding a contemporary aesthetic reminiscent of premium motorcycles. Designed for multifunctionality, it boasts a 150 kg payload capacity, making it ideal for both personal commuting and business applications, including last-mile delivery services.

Smart technology integrations in the E-Luna include a CAN-enabled communications protocol, digital instrumentation with real-time ‘Distance to Empty’ indicators, and multiple riding modes for optimized range efficiency. Safety and convenience features include a combi-braking system, telescopic front suspension, large 16-inch wheels for superior stability, a USB charging port, a detachable rear seat for enhanced flexibility, and a side stand sensor for added peace of mind for the rider.

The E-Luna is 100% designed, engineered, and manufactured in India, strengthening Kinetic Green’s vision of democratizing EV adoption in the country. It offers a cost-effective, and green emission-free riding experience, catering to individuals and enterprises alike. With its advanced technology, innovative design, and multi-utility functionality, the E-Luna has set a new benchmark in the electric two-wheeler segment, combining efficiency, performance, and sustainability.

Speaking on the occasion Ms. Sulajja Firodia Motwani, Founder and CEO, of Kinetic Green said, “This campaign is a celebration of the illustrious Luna legacy while positioning the E-Luna as the future of personal mobility. The E-Luna is more than just an electric two-wheeler; it is a statement of progress, sustainability, and innovation. Designed for the modern Indian consumer, it combines efficiency, durability, and affordability, making it an ideal choice for both urban and rural usage. With its robust features, exceptional range, and smart technology, the E-Luna is set to revolutionize the EV market by offering a powerful, practical, and eco-friendly alternative to conventional fossil fuel-based two-wheelers. Our vision is to make the E-Luna a partner in progress for individuals and businesses alike, ensuring that the benefits of electric mobility percolate into every corner of the country.”

Building on the iconic “Chal Meri Luna” tagline, the campaign artfully blends nostalgia with modern advancements, reinventing the timeless phrase to align with the evolving electric era. It showcases the E-Luna’s advanced technology, practicality, and eco-friendly performance while honoring the original Luna’s legacy of simplicity and reliability. Designed to resonate with a diverse audience, this campaign highlights how the E-Luna continues to be both relevant and meaningful in today’s era. Like the original Chal Meri Luna campaign, the new campaign creation is also led by the advertising legend, Mr. Piyush Pandey of the Ogilvy Group. The new campaign also will present three new television commercials, just like the old campaign did, and it also aims to connect with the audiences emotionally with a touch of humor.

Mr. Piyush Pandey, Chief Advisor for the Ogilvy Group, said, “Reviving the Luna brand with a modern twist was both a challenge and a privilege for the Group. Our ‘Chal Meri Luna’ campaign made Luna a cultural icon, a ‘Safalta Ki Sawaari’ for an entire generation. Now, Mr. Arun Firodia’s daughter Sulajja Firodia is driving this legacy forward. The new campaign for E-Luna has been crafted by 82.5 Communications, which is part of the Ogilvy Group, and it blends nostalgia with new-age mobility through three light-hearted, memorable TVCs. For our team at 82.5, these aren’t just ads—they are a tribute to Luna’s evolution and an exciting new chapter in its journey.”

Mr. Mayur Varma, Chief Creative Officer, 82.5 Communications stated, “E-Luna is electric. E-Luna is street-smart. E-Luna is made for the hustlers of India. In times where communications are built on cultural trends, Chal Meri Luna is a timeless cultural megatrend in India. And with Luna coming back in its e-avatar, it is time to tell contemporary stories on this megatrend.”

Launched in 2024, the E-Luna has made a powerful impact on the electric vehicle market, with over 25,000 units already being ridden on roads across India. This overwhelming response highlights the rising demand for sustainable and practical mobility solutions. Building on this momentum, Kinetic Green is set to drive its growth even further through an aggressive marketing strategy along with leveraging its extensive manufacturing prowess and well-established dealer footprint spanning over 500 consumer touch points across India. These strong fundamental attributes will ensure greater accessibility, industry-leading quality products, and a positive ownership experience for customers nationwide.

Kolkata, 27th February 2025: Lifting out potential candidates across various societal backgrounds and putting them in the nation’s workforce while impacting the lives and livelihood will be instrumental in nation-building, said Smt Deepti Gaur Mukherjee, Secretary, Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Government of India in the first PMIS Mela hosted by CII in collaboration with Ministry of Corporate Affairs in Kolkata.

Leveraging CII’s on-ground skill initiatives to support the PMIS scheme, the nation’s first MCA-CII PMIS Facilitation Centre and PMIS Mela has been organized in Kolkata. The Centre will work towards sensitization of candidates’ registration in the portal and generating internship opportunities. Companies across sectors have today participated in PMIS Mela in Kolkata.

The Mela has been organized to expand outreach, encourage participation, and strengthen industry participation in nation-building. The PMIS scheme aims to create significant opportunities for the youth to gain hands-on industry experience and an opportunity to learn employable skills. This Mela bridges the gap between academia and real-world employment, fostering skill development and enhancing employability.

Hon’ble Finance Minister, Smt Nirmala Sitharaman, in the union budget for 2024-25, announced the launch of ‘Employment Linked Incentive’ (ELI) schemes, aimed at boosting hiring in line with the recommendations from CII. In support of this initiative, the Government of India has introduced the Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme (PMIS), designed to empower youth by providing quality internship opportunities. This will help them transition successfully into the workforce through structured industry exposure and mentorship.

Highlighting the creation of 1.27 lakh internship opportunities, Smt. Mukherjee stressed the importance of expanding these opportunities in the future. She proposed the establishment of a PMIS cell to ensure the effective implementation of the scheme. She also announced that MCA will create an online platform for mentorship and will also take such internship mela initiatives in a frequent interval of three to four months.

In addition to promoting employability, the initiative also aims to recognize and reward top-performing companies that are actively supporting the scheme. Furthermore, plans are underway to establish peer learning platforms, where other companies can participate, share best practices, and learn from each other’s experiences, fostering a collaborative environment that drives collective growth and improvement.

Applauding that an impressive gathering of over 700 candidates from across West Bengal and representatives from more than 30 top companies has attended the PMIS mela, Mr Chandrajit Banerjee, Director General, Confederation of Indian Industry advocated that the whole vision is to enhance student engagement in the workforce, thereby creating a robust ecosystem for talent development and industry collaboration.

Mr Harshavardhan Neotia, Chairman, CII Suresh Neotia Centre of Excellence for Leadership and Chairman Ambuja Neotia Group said that PMIS is a timely and groundbreaking initiative by the Government providing the perfect platform for students emphasizing skill development, real-world experience, and financial support, that meets the demands of India’s growing economy.

The innovative initiative enhances the learning environment for 1,200 students in Bengaluru

Bengaluru; Infobip, a global cloud communications platform, in collaboration with Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled, has taken a significant step toward sustainable educational empowerment. Through this initiative, Infobip has positively impacted 1,200 students in urban localities, beginning with the distribution of 100 Yelo-Green Bags at Government Primary School, Kaverinagar, Mahadevapura, Bengaluru.

The Yelo-Green Bags are an innovative response to the lack of adequate infrastructure in schools. These multi-functional bags, made from recycled materials such as tyre tubes, flex banners, plastic, denim, and discarded seat covers, serve as both school bags and sturdy writing desks. Designed to provide a comfortable and supportive study environment, the initiative underscores Infobip’s commitment to fostering accessibility in education while championing environmental sustainability.

As part of its broader corporate social responsibility (CSR) and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) commitments, Infobip continues to drive initiatives that create lasting positive change. The Yelo-Green Bag project aligns with the company’s dedication to community engagement and sustainable solutions that bridge educational and infrastructural gaps.

The event saw active participation from Infobip’s senior leadership, reinforcing the company’s hands-on approach to social responsibility. Key representatives included Ms. Harsha Solanki, Ms. Arpita Jadhav, Mr. Shivasankar Padhy, Mr. William Mathew, Mr. Amit Kumar, and Ms. Aradhana Agrawal, who personally distributed the bags to students, highlighting Infobip’s people-first philosophy.

Speaking about the initiative, Ms. Harsha Solanki, VP GM – Asia, Infobip, highlighted, “At Infobip, we believe that technology and innovation should not only drive business growth but also create a meaningful impact on society. We aim to drive meaningful change through our partnerships and initiatives by bridging demographic, educational, and geographical disparities in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM). The Yelo-Green Bag project is a reflection of our commitment to enabling accessible education while prioritizing sustainability. With this initiative, we are addressing a fundamental need — ensuring that every child has the right tools to learn and thrive. Through collaborations like this, we hope to empower future generations and create a positive, lasting change in the communities we serve.”

Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled has long been dedicated to empowering underprivileged children and promoting inclusive education. Partnering with organizations like Infobip strengthens their mission to bridge educational gaps with sustainable solutions. This initiative marks another milestone in their continued efforts to transform lives through education and innovation.

By-Mr. Neeraj Kansal, Founder and CEO, Crack Academy

The integration of Artificial Intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept; it is already reshaping industries worldwide. From healthcare and finance to manufacturing and retail, AI is streamlining processes, enhancing efficiency, and driving innovation. The education sector is no exception. AI-powered tools are redefining learning experiences, making education more personalized, accessible, and efficient. From adaptive learning platforms to automated assessments, AI is helping students and educators navigate a rapidly changing academic landscape.

 Besides, AI-powered personalized learning is transforming education by tailoring study experiences to individual needs. Adaptive learning platforms leverage AI to assess students’ potential, creating customized study plans that enhance learning outcomes. This is especially beneficial in countries where students come from varied socio-economic and linguistic backgrounds, ensuring that each learner receives targeted support and resources to excel.

 Further, the Union Budget 2025 reinforced this transformation by laying a strong foundation for AI-driven education. The government’s announcement of the establishment of three Centres of Excellence in AI for Education, with an outlay of ₹500 crore, is a visionary step that will accelerate AI’s integration into the learning ecosystem. This initiative will particularly benefit rural schools and students in Tier 3 and 4 cities, providing access to e-learning resources, virtual classrooms, and AI-based education tools.

 Moreover, several ed-tech companies leverage AI to bridge the learning gaps in Tier 3 and Tier 4 cities. By bringing extensive education experience to smaller towns, AI-driven platforms provide students with data-backed insights, real-time progress tracking, and targeted resources—an approach that was once limited to metro cities.

 AI serves as a valuable assistant to teachers rather than a replacement, streamlining tasks like automated grading, AI-generated lesson plans, and virtual teaching support. By reducing administrative workload, AI enables educators to focus more on student engagement and interactive learning. Additionally, AI-powered chatbots and virtual tutors provide students with 24/7 academic assistance, making quality education more accessible and responsive to individual learning needs.

 However, the challenge lies in teacher adoption. Many educators in India, especially in tier 3 and 4 cities, are yet to receive adequate AI training. Without structured AI literacy programs for teachers, the full potential of AI-driven education remains untapped.

 Another major hurdle in AI integration is the lack of digital infrastructure, especially in rural and underfunded schools. Many institutions struggle with unreliable internet connectivity, outdated hardware, and insufficient funding, making AI-driven education inaccessible to a large segment of students.

 Ethical concerns and data privacy also pose significant challenges. The use of AI in education raises questions about student data security, algorithmic bias, and over-reliance on technology. Establishing stringent regulatory frameworks is essential to ensure AI is implemented responsibly, balancing its benefits with ethical considerations.

 For AI to be fully integrated into India’s school curricula, a collaborative effort is essential. Government initiatives, public-private partnerships, and industry-led training programs can accelerate AI adoption, ensuring that both students and teachers are equipped with the necessary skills. The National Education Policy 2020 already recognizes AI’s role in skill development, signalling a positive shift toward its widespread implementation.

 Therefore, the road ahead is both challenging and promising. By fostering a collaborative ecosystem between policymakers, educators, and technology providers, India can unlock the transformative power of AI in education. With the right investments and structured implementation, AI can democratize learning, empower teachers, and prepare students for a future driven by intelligence and innovation. The goal is not just to integrate AI into classrooms but to build a more inclusive, future-ready education system that leaves no learner behind.

Mumbai, February 25, 2025: Venus Remedies Ltd. a leading Indian pharmaceutical company renowned for its longstanding expertise in combatting antimicrobial resistance (AMR), today announced that it has entered into an exclusive license agreement with Infex Therapeutics, a UK-based anti-infectives specialist for the clinical development of MET-X. This agreement authorizes Venus Remedies to spearhead the clinical development, registration, and commercialization of MET-X, an innovative metallo-beta-lactamase (MBL) inhibitor. The initial development phase will focus on integrating MET-X with meropenem to tackle drug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria, with Venus Remedies holding exclusive marketing rights within India.

In India, meropenem resistance is reported to be as high as 62-87% in WHO critical priority pathogens like K. pneumoniae and A. baumannii as per the ICMR’s Antimicrobial Resistance Research and Surveillance Network-Annual report 2023, with as high as 50% being directly attributable to MBL prevalence.

Under the terms of the agreement, Venus Remedies will commence with a Phase I trial involving healthy volunteers in India, evaluating MET-X in combination with meropenem. Following successful Phase I outcomes, the focus will shift to Phase II/III trials targeting drug-resistant Complicated Urinary Tract Infections (cUTIs), prevalent in hospital settings.

 This strategic move is aligned with Venus Remedies’ extensive experience in antibiotic R&D and critical care, enhancing its leadership in the Indian critical care landscape. The company’s formidable position in meropenem marketing and manufacturing will facilitate the integration of MET-X into existing and prospective antibiotic strategies.

 All trials conducted in India will adhere to international standards, compliant with regulations from the FDA, EMA, and MHRA, which will also support further development and global commercialization efforts for MET-X. The agreement grants both Infex Therapeutics and Venus Remedies the option to expand their collaboration to include other MET-X/beta-lactam combinations under mutually agreed terms.

MET-X is Infex Therapeutics’ broad spectrum MBL-inhibitor, targeting Gram-negative bacteria. These pathogens produce MBL enzymes to deactivate beta-lactam antibiotics, such as meropenem, and evade antibiotic clearance of disease. MET-X blocks MBL resistance, restoring antibiotic activity. The drug is being developed to be one of the first broad-spectrum MBL inhibitors to address a wide range of bacterial species and MBL-resistant strains, such as E.coli and K.pneumoniae. The treatment has shown best-in-class performance in animal studies to date. The development of new agents to overcome MBL antibiotic resistance in such Gram-negative bacteria is a World Health Organisation (“WHO”) critical priority.

Mr. Saransh Chaudhary, President, Global Critical Care, Venus Remedies Ltd and CEO, Venus Medicine Research Centre, said: “This early-stage introduction of MET-X into the Indian market leverages our decades-long dedication to AMR-focused R&D and our prominent role in critical care and antibiotic therapies. This partnership is perfectly poised to enhance our antibiotic arsenal with meropenem and explore further beta-lactam combinations, ensuring high-quality research and a significant market presence.”

Mr. Pawan Chaudhary, Chairman and Managing Director, Venus Remedies Ltd, added, “The in-licensing of MET-X is a major step forward in providing breakthrough solutions for drug-resistant infections, a serious threat to India’s healthcare ecosystem. Our aim is to develop an effective solution against MBL-producing pathogens, fulfilling a critical healthcare need and continuing our commitment to transformative therapies and sustained innovation in critical care.”

India faces a significant burden of MBL-producing pathogens in hospital settings, and no approved MBL inhibitors currently exist in the country. The development and exclusive in-licensing of MET-X underscores Venus Remedies’ commitment to providing a cutting-edge solution where it is needed most and creating long-term value for stakeholders.

Dr. Peter Jackson, CEO of Infex Therapeutics, said: “I am delighted about this agreement with Venus Remedies, which will facilitate the comprehensive clinical development of our MET-X program in India. By leveraging Venus Remedies’ robust expertise in critical care antibiotics, we can accelerate MET-X as our second clinical-stage drug program. Crucially, the international standards of these trials will also support future regulatory filings in the UK, U.S., Europe, and other global markets. MET-X has shown best-in-class performance in preclinical studies and could be game-changing for patients suffering from Gram-negative, MBL-resistant infections.”