Engineering The Future: Global Leaders Unite At GITAM For The 13th ICTIEE 2026

● ICTIEE 2026 served as a forum for reimagining the engineering education

● With 500+ delegates in attendance, the conference provided a roadmap for building classrooms that are more interactive, resilient, and student-focused than ever before

● Total of 76 research papers were presented by faculty members that will be published as part of JEET Journal

GITAM (Deemed to be University) a premier institution driving innovation through multidisciplinary education and impactful research, hosted the 13th International Conference on Transformations in Engineering Education (ICTIEE 2026) at its Bengaluru campus,marking high-impact dialogue and global collaboration. Hosted in partnership with The Indo Universal Collaboration For Engineering Education (IUCEE Foundation), the flagship event based on the theme - “Transforming Teaching and Learning Ecosystems in the AI-Driven World”, brought educators and industry leaders together to innovative pedagogical practices and research aimed at improving the quality and effectiveness of engineering and higher education worldwide.

The conference was graced by Dr. S. Vidyashankar, Vice Chancellor Visvesvaraya Technological University. Dr. Ashok S. Shettar, Pro Chancellor, KLE Technological University, Prof. Basavaraj Gundappa K, Pro Vice Chancellor GITAM University, Bengaluru & conference General Chair, along with other key dignitaries, students and faculty members.

Dr Vidyashankar, Vice Chancellor Visvesvaraya Technological University, emphasized that transformation in engineering education is no longer a choice; it is a necessity. He also highlighted the fact by sharing global best practices, how institutions are collectively ensuring that Indian engineering graduates remain leaders on the world stage.

Echoing the same thoughts, Dr. Ashok S. Shettar, Pro Chancellor, KLE Technological University, highlighted the fact that the classrooms must be a lab for ingenuity, not just a hall for information. He also emphasised the importance of multidisciplinary collaborations that will produce the adaptable leaders the AI-driven world demands.

Commenting on the conference, Prof. Basavaraj Gundappa K, Pro Vice Chancellor GITAM University, Bengaluru & conference General Chair Said,“Our goal wasn't just to talk about AI, but to figure out how we keep the student at the heart of the learning process. I believe the roadmaps developed here at ICTIEE 2026 will serve as the foundation for a more creative, resilient, and human-centric approach to engineering education."

The keynote sessions at ICTIEE 2026 pushed the boundaries of traditional academia, sparking a series of provocative conversations. Experts led deep dives into the 'AI Faculty Lounge,' exploring the shifting dynamics of classrooms where bots act as co-teachers, while other sessions championed a move 'From Passive to Play' through gamified engineering curriculum. Throughout the conference, a singular message emerged: education must be treated as a living system. Speakers emphasised to view AI not as a replacement for the educator, but as a powerful catalyst to reignite student motivation and engagement in a rapidly evolving era.

"Our students aren't waiting for the future—they're building it. This year’s forum proved that when you combine a young person’s empathy with AI’s speed, magic happens. We’re teaching them to be more than just engineers; we’re teaching them to be visionaries who anticipate challenges before they even arrive.” said Krishna Vedula,IUCEE Foundation

Set against the ambitious backdrop of the conference theme, various university leaders took center stage for a panel on “Leading change in response to advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI)” it explored the urgent responsibility academic leaders face in pivoting their institutions. The panel discussion highlighted how the ecosystems can be guided through the AI shift without losing the human element that defines a great education.

The conference also provided a platform for presentation of 76 research papers that were presented by faculty members that will get published in JEET journal spanning across topics such as

● Innovative Pedagogies and Active Learning

● Research-Informed Curriculum and Course Design

● Assessment, Feedback, and Learning Outcomes

● Faculty Development and Educational Leadership

● Emerging Technologies and Future Skills

In conjunction with the ongoing conference, the The Indo Universal Collaboration For Engineering Education foundation (IUCEE) also hosted its IUCEE Annual Student Forum 2026, at the GITAM Bengaluru campus which will provide students a platform to showcase collaboration, innovation and leadership.

Suzuki Motorcycle India Hits 10 Million Units Production Milestone In Its 20th Year

· Growth Acceleration: First 5 million units achieved in 2020; the next 5 million added in just 6 years

· Celebration Model: Suzuki Access Ride Connect Edition becomes the 10 millionth unit

· Segment Pioneer: India’s first 125cc scooter Suzuki Access

· India to the World: Suzuki two-wheelers exports to 60+ international markets

· Strong Network: 1,200+ touchpoints supporting customers nationwide

· Future Mobility: Progress towards carbon neutrality with GIXXER SF 250 FFV & e-ACCESS

· Iconic Leap: Made-in-India Hayabusa redefined premium motorcycling in the country

· Capacity Expansion: New Kharkhoda Plant to strengthen manufacturing capacity

Suzuki Motorcycle India Pvt. Ltd. (SMIPL), the two-wheeler subsidiary of Suzuki Motor Corporation, Japan, today announced a major landmark in its manufacturing journey with the roll-out its 10 millionth two-wheeler from its Gurugram (India) plant. This achievement reflects SMIPL’s steady growth and presence in the Indian two-wheeler market, built on the trust and confidence of customers across the country.

Two-Decades of Growth in India

Since starting operations in 2006, SMIPL’s journey in India has grown over the years. The company reached the first 5 million production milestone in 2020, within 14 years after rolling out its first vehicle. Over the next few years, SMIPL entered a phase of accelerated growth driven by rising customers demand and a broader product line-up, leading to the roll out of SMIPL’s 10 millionth unit, Suzuki Access Ride Connect Edition, in 2026.

Speaking on this occasion, Mr. Kenichi Umeda, Managing Director, Suzuki Motorcycle India Pvt. Ltd. said, “Reaching the 10 million production mark is a significant achievement for all of us at SMIPL. This has been made possible by the trust and support of our customers, dealer partners, suppliers, and employees, who have stood with us throughout this journey. By expanding our product portfolio, strengthening manufacturing capabilities and focusing on quality and reliability, we have steadily scaled our operations in India. Going ahead, we are further expanding our production capacity, strengthening our sales and service network, and deepening customer experience through engaging activities across the country. True to our promise of standing ‘By Your Side’, we continue to stand ‘By Your Side’ - customers, dealer partners, suppliers, and employees at every stage.”

Products that Shaped the Milestone

At the centre of SMIPL’s growth story is the Suzuki Access 125, a scooter that not only established the mass 125cc scooter segment but also shaped it in a meaningful and scalable way. Evolving across three generations, the Access has grown alongside Indian customers, adapting to changing needs and advancing technology, becoming a trusted family scooter and SMIPL’s highest-selling model.

Over the years, SMIPL has built a robust product portfolio. This includes the Access, Burgman and Avenis in scooters. Its motorcycles include the GIXXER series (in 150cc & 250cc segments), V-Strom SX, and big bikes: GSX-8R, V-Strom 800 DE, and the Hayabusa, each contributing significantly to this achievement. SMIPL’s premium design language, fuel efficiency, Japanese engineering, and customer-first philosophy have consistently helped the brand expand its footprint and popularity. Alongside its products, SMIPL’s commitment to Indian consumers goes beyond sales with ‘Joy of Safety’ program promoting responsible riding.

Looking Ahead: Multi-Pathway Mobility Solutions and Expansion

In line with its goal of achieving carbon neutrality through a multi-pathway approach, SMIPL added the GIXXER SF 250 Flex Fuel, its first E85 fuel-compliant motorcycle. The company has also announced its entry into the electric two-wheeler space with the Suzuki e-ACCESS.

Today, SMIPL operates through a strong network of more than 1,200 touchpoints across the country and exports made-in-India Suzuki two-wheelers to over 60 international markets.

To support rising demand and future growth, SMIPL is taking a significant step forward with the development of its second manufacturing facility at Kharkhoda, Haryana. The new plant will further expand production capacity and strengthen SMIPL’s ability to support future growth.

Celebrating 10 Million Milestone: SMIPL Rewards Its Customers*

Staying by the side of its customers, SMIPL is thanking its customers with a set of limited period offers on retail finance. Customers can avail a zero-processing fee on loans or a waiver of last EMI. As a gesture of appreciation for both new and existing Suzuki customers, SMIPL is offering a complimentary 10-point vehicle check-up and 10% discount on labour charges and genuine accessories, making the celebrations more rewarding across SMIPL’s touchpoints.

* Offers valid for a limited period only. Terms & Conditions apply. To know more, contact your nearest Suzuki dealership.

ABOUT SUZUKI MOTORCYCLE INDIA PVT LTD (SMIPL)

Suzuki Motorcycle India Private Limited (SMIPL), a subsidiary of Suzuki Motor Corporation, Japan, started its India operations in February 2006 from its manufacturing plant at Kherki Daula, Gurugram, Haryana, having an annual production capacity of 1.3 million unit. The company manufactures scooters (125cc), premium motorcycles (150cc and above) and the Big-Bikes best suited for Indian customers.

Picture Caption (From Left To Right):
Mr. Yasuyuki Ikeuchi (Director & Operations Manager – Production, SMIPL),
Mr. Kenichi Umeda (Managing Director, SMIPL),
Mr. Sanjay Singh (Executive Vice-President – Production, SMIPL)

Small Steps, Big Impact: Rural Entrepreneurs Transform Their Lives In Karnataka

In the heart of rural Karnataka, two remarkable journeys - one of a couple reinventing their livelihood through food, and another of a young mother stitching her way to independence - capture the quiet transformation unfolding in rural India.

At the heart of both stories is Manuvikasa, an NGO committed to community-led development with a presence across Uttara Karnataka, Shivamogga, Haveri, Dharwad, Udupi districts. Supported by EdelGive Foundation, the organization has become a catalyst for livelihood creation through skills, mentoring, and market linkage.

Along a busy highway in Hirehalli village in Mundgod block, the scent of dosas and pav bhaji fills the air from Baby Sumayya Fast Food, run by Noorjahan and Nizamuddin, a couple in their 60s who turned their catering skills into a thriving fast-food business.

Their journey began with a small, rural hotel that struggled due to its location. Everything changed when Noorjahan joined a catering and food entrepreneurship training conducted by Manuvikasa. This recharged their entrepreneurial drive giving them confidence to relocate their venture on a main road, giving rise to a local culinary landmark.

Today, Baby Sumayya Fast Food, named after their granddaughter. earns around ₹2,000 a day and caters for large local orders. Noorjahan can set aside ₹500 daily. With steady income and growing customer demand, the couple has transformed their family’s financial situation and are inspiring neighbours to think about starting their own businesses.

Their journey reflects how skill development, paired with continuous guidance, can unlock livelihoods even for those beyond the ‘working age’.

A few 100 kms away in Shirwada village, 38-year-old Rajamma Kumar Shiggavi is weaving her own story of change. With her husband working as a daily-wage mason and two young children to care for, Rajamma had long dreamt of becoming a skilled tailor.

She owned a basic sewing machine but lacked professional training. She used it to sew simple blouses and petticoats for her neighbours but lacked the skills to design more complex garments like blouses, churidars, and others. Financial constraints prevented her from attending tailoring classes, so she was trying to learn through YouTube tutorials.

When Manuvikasa launched a 60-day tailoring program in her village, she grabbed the opportunity. Apart from technical skills, the program introduced her to entrepreneurship, financial planning, and government support schemes. Throughout the training, Manuvikasa’s staff emphasized the importance of self-employment, shared inspiring stories of other women entrepreneurs, and explained various government schemes. "The information about these schemes was very useful," Rajamma said. "In this class, we learned to design blouses, churidars, umbrella frocks, uniforms, petticoats, caps, and more."

After training, Rajamma opened M.K.S. Ladies Tailor in a rented space for ₹1,500 a month. Her clientele quickly grew - from elderly women to college students and working professionals. Orders grew so rapidly that she hired another woman to help stitch uniforms, paying her fair wages. Rajamma’s monthly income now ranges between ₹8,000–₹10,000, and she recently invested in a new speed machine to keep up with demand. Nowadays, she has so many orders, she has hired another person to stitch uniforms. Recently, she also purchased a speed machine.

Her shop has become a symbol of aspiration for many women in the area — proof that small skill-building opportunities can yield enormous social and economic dividends. Rajamma’s goal is to develop an appealing and innovative shop and to provide a good education for her children.

These inspiring stories from rural Karnataka prove that with the right training and trust, small steps can indeed create big, lasting impact. They share a common thread - the power of local organizations empowered with the right resources and partnerships. Manuvikasa’s ability to identify potential, nurture skills, and sustain livelihoods is made possible through the support of EdelGive Foundation.

EdelGive’s approach represents a shift in philanthropy — from direct aid to ecosystem building. By identifying credible community-based organizations and investing in their long-term capacity, each such collaboration multiplies outcomes — one grant can enable hundreds of lives to evolve through skill, confidence, and enterprise.

For Noorjahan, Nizamuddin, and Rajamma, what began as a small step — a training, a shift in perspective, a chance taken — became a turning point toward dignity and independence. For Manuvikasa and EdelGive, their journeys reaffirm a simple truth: lasting change begins when communities are given the tools to shape their own future.

10 Years Of PhonePe: Celebrating A Decade Of Building For Bharat

PhonePe recently marked a decade of innovation, celebrating ten years in India’s fintech ecosystem. This milestone represents a decade of driving progress and expanding financial access for millions, transforming the way India transacts and manages money.

In the year 2025, PhonePe reached a significant milestone by surpassing 600 million registered users, further cementing its role as a cornerstone of India’s digital economy. This year focused on deepening user trust and expanding accessibility through the launch of features such as UPI Circle, which enables delegated payments for trusted contacts, and PhonePe Protect, a security framework designed to safeguard millions against fraudulent transactions.

To further empower the merchant ecosystem, PhonePe introduced the Made-in-India SmartSpeaker and SmartPOD, driving financial inclusion for businesses nationwide. Through its Udyam Assist initiative in partnership with SIDBI, the company became one of the first institutions to deliver a digital-first integration for MSMEs, streamlining their access to formal credit. Additionally, PhonePe scaled its product offerings for consumers by launching affordable, essential protection such as Home Insurance and Health Insurance for India’s "Missing Middle," while unlocking liquidity through innovative lending solutions such as Loan Against Mutual Funds, ensuring that key financial services are accessible to millions.

Reflecting on this journey, Sameer Nigam, Founder & CEO, PhonePe said “The most exciting part of our ten-year journey is that, despite how far we have come, the summit is still not in sight. We don’t yet know how high or wide it will be, and that’s what makes it exciting. With thousands of passionate, driven people striving every day to be the best in their craft, this journey remains as meaningful and energising as ever.”

Rahul Chari, Founder & CTO, PhonePe added “I am incredibly proud of what we have built at PhonePe. The goodwill and support from the industry and the wider ecosystem have been humbling. If there’s one lasting lesson from this journey, it’s building something people truly believe in, because passion is what turns an idea into impact.”

Since its inception, PhonePe has consistently redefined the Indian fintech landscape through a series of industry-first innovations aimed at democratizing financial services. From Digital Gold and Mutual Funds to making Insurance and Stock Broking accessible to the masses, the company has evolved from a payments app into a comprehensive financial ecosystem. Key milestones include the launch of PhonePe Business app, giving merchants clarity and control over their payments, and Merchant Lending to empower small businesses, Credit Line on UPI making access to credit seamless, the introduction of Cross-Border UPI and UPI Lite for frictionless transactions, and the 2024 launch of the Indus Appstore, Share.Market and Secured Lending platforms. By relocating its domicile to India in 2022 and continuously expanding into credit and wealth management, PhonePe has moved beyond simple utility to become an integral part of India’s financial fabric, ensuring that protection, investment, and credit are rights accessible to every citizen of the country.

About PhonePe:

PhonePe Limited (Formerly PhonePe Private Limited) is a technology company that builds digital platforms for Payments, Digital Distribution Services, Financial Services and Marketplace Solutions. Headquartered in India, the PhonePe digital payments app was launched in 2016. As of March 31, 2025, PhonePe has over 61 Crore registered users and a digital payments acceptance network spread across over 4.4 Crore merchants.

PhonePe’s products and services include Consumer Payments (including Digital Distribution Services), Merchant Payments, Lending and Insurance Distribution services, and New Platforms, which comprises Share.Market (stock broking and mutual funds distribution platform), and Indus Appstore (Android-based mobile app marketplace).

Titan Eye+ introduces PhotoFusion® X Lens Tech By ZEISS With Exclusive Licensing—Enhancing Consumer Vision With Style

* PhotoFusion® X photochromic lens technology by ZEISS is now available across Titan Eye+ lens portfolio and stores in India

Titan Eye+, one of India’s leading eyewear retailers, and ZEISS India Vision Care, guided by its purpose of protecting and improving the vision and lifetime visual health of the world’s consumers, announced the licensing and nationwide deployment of PhotoFusion® X photochromic lens technology of ZEISS at Titan Eye+ lens design portfolio across India.

The announcement was made at the ZEISS Innovation Summit, an exclusive event hosted by ZEISS India Vision Care for Titan Eye+, focused on advancing lens innovation and raising everyday vision care standards for Indian consumers.

Through this collaboration, Titan Eye+ will bring PhotoFusion® X photochromic lens technology by ZEISS to its lens designs mix & retail network, combining Titan Eye+ deep understanding of Indian consumer needs with ZEISS’ expertise in precision optics and lens innovation. The introduction of PhotoFusion® X by ZEISS enables faster transitioning lenses with integrated blue-light and UV protection, designed to support long-term visual comfort and eye health.

Key Highlights

Next-Generation Photochromic Technology: Titan Eye+ will offer PhotoFusion® X lens technology with Titan lenses, engineered for faster darkening in sunlight and quicker fade-back indoors, along with built-in protection against harmful blue light and ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

Seamless Vision, All Day: ZEISS PhotoFusion® X lens technology adapts automatically to changing light conditions, eliminating the need to switch between clear glasses and sunglasses while ensuring clarity indoors and sunglass-level darkness outdoors.

Speaking at the event, Mr. NS Raghavan from Titan Eye+ said:

“At Titan Eye+, our vision has always been to lead the eyewear category through innovation that genuinely improves how people see and experience the world. The introduction of "Titan with PhotoFusion® X" technology exclusive to Titan Eye+ by Carl ZEISS reflects this ambition by combining cutting-edge optical science with our deep understanding of Indian consumer needs. This partnership allows us to set a new benchmark for everyday eyewear that delivers performance, protection and modern style."

Speaking at the event, Mr. Rohan Paul from ZEISS India Vision Care said Our focus has always been on advancing eye-care through meaningful innovation. Availability of ZEISS’ PhotoFusion® X lens technology with Titan Eye+ portfolio across India, will expand consumer’s access to photochromic lenses that is designed for real-world usage with complete UV protection in sun. This is an important step in making advanced visual protection part of everyday eyewear choices for Indian consumers.”

This announcement represents a shared mission to empower India with better vision, improved protection, and superior everyday comfort. Together, Titan Eye+ and ZEISS India Vision Care are setting the stage for a new era in the country’s eyewear landscape - one where advanced technology, trusted retail expertise, and a deep commitment to long-term visual wellness come together for the benefit of every consumer.

Snapdeal Unveils Republic Day Edition Of The SwagTantra Sale

SwagTantra Sale runs from January 7th to 12th ‘26 Discounts of up to 80% across fashion and beauty categories

Snapdeal, Bharat-focused marketplace for value-conscious shoppers, today announced the return of its popular SwagTantra Sale, running from January 7 to January 12, 2026, in the run-up to Republic Day. Following an overwhelming response to the inaugural SwagTantra Sale during Independence Day last year, Snapdeal is bringing the property back to celebrate the spirit of economic freedom and smart shopping.

Staying true to Snapdeal’s value-first philosophy, the SwagTantra Sale will spotlight a wide selection of best-selling fashion, lifestyle and everyday essentials priced in the ₹299–₹699 range, reaffirming the platform’s focus on accessible pricing for Bharat’s value-conscious shoppers.

The Republic Day edition of the SwagTantra Sale will feature discounts of up to 80% across a wide range of categories, with a focus on women’s fashion (westernwear, ethnicwear and footwear), men’s fashion, kids’ clothing, home décor and furnishing, and make-up & personal care. Designed for Bharat’s value-driven shoppers, the sale brings together trending styles, everyday essentials and festive-ready assortments at compelling price points.

Adding to the excitement are “Deal of the Day” offers, featuring some of the most competitive prices across key categories, and “77 Freedom Deals”, a limited-period proposition inspired by India’s Republic Day celebrations. Customers can also avail attractive bank and payment offers, including benefits via BHIM UPI, PayTM, and Bank of Baroda cards, making value shopping even more rewarding.

Commenting on the announcement, Achint Setia, CEO, Snapdeal, said, “Bringing SwagTantra back for Republic Day is our way of celebrating economic freedom through smarter choices, sharper prices and wider access to trusted brands.”

Snapdeal continues to empower millions of value-conscious consumers while enabling small sellers and manufacturers to participate meaningfully in India’s digital commerce growth.

For more details, customers can download the Snapdeal app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

Hartek Bags INR 353.77 Crore Solar And Battery Storage EPC Project In Karnataka

Hartek Power, one of India’s leading Engineering, Procurement, Construction companies, has secured a major renewable energy contract in Karnataka. The company has been awarded the EPC scope for a 280 MW AC / 410 MWp DC solar PV project, along with an 80 MW / 320 MWh battery energy storage system at Challakere.

The scope of work includes design, engineering, supply, erection and commissioning of the project, along with one year of operations and maintenance. The total purchase price for the signed and agreed scope is approximately INR 353.77 crore.

The project is significant at a time when India is increasingly focusing on integrating large-scale renewable generation with energy storage to ensure grid stability and reliable power supply. Battery energy storage systems are emerging as a critical enabler for managing intermittency in solar power and supporting round-the-clock energy availability.

Commenting on the project win, Simarpreet Singh, Executive Director and CEO, Hartek Group, said, “This project reflects the growing maturity of India’s renewable energy market, where solar generation and storage are coming together as an integrated solution. We are pleased to be working on this large-scale solar and battery storage project at Challakere. At Hartek, we have consistently invested in engineering capabilities and execution excellence to deliver complex projects of this scale. This win strengthens our position in the utility-scale solar segment and marks an important step forward in our journey into battery energy storage.”

Located in Challakere, which is fast emerging as a renewable energy hub, the project adds to Karnataka’s expanding clean energy footprint.

For Hartek, it reinforces the company’s ability to execute large, technically advanced projects across geographies, while supporting India’s broader energy transition goals.

As renewable capacity additions accelerate across the country, industry observers note that hybrid projects combining solar and storage are expected to become increasingly common. Hartek’s latest order places it firmly among solar EPC players equipped to deliver next-generation renewable infrastructure at scale.

About Hartek Group

Hartek Group has been a driving force in transforming India’s energy sector, pioneering EPC solutions since 1991, leading the charge in power systems, renewable energy, and delivering advanced power distribution products. As a pioneer in India’s transition to renewable energy, we have connected over 10 GW of solar power to the national grid, significantly contributing to the reduction of 300 million tonnes of carbon emissions. In addition, we have successfully installed 200 MW of rooftop solar capacity across the country, offering turnkey solutions that cover everything from site assessment to project commissioning. Driven by a commitment to creating smart cities and intelligent infrastructure, we stand true to our purpose of ‘Making your Future Powerful by building a brighter today.’