GITAM University, Bengaluru, Welcomes Sirena Technologies – Launches Robotics & AI Centre Of Excellence

GITAM (Deemed to be University), Bengaluru, marked a major milestone today with the inauguration of its Robotics & Artificial Intelligence Centre of Excellence and the launch of a state-of-the-art R&D Centre by Sirena Technologies—the first corporate partner to be embedded within the campus. This pioneering collaboration sets the stage for impactful industry-academia partnerships, positioning GITAM as a leading force in research, innovation, and future-ready education.

The inauguration was graced by Sri Savyasachi K. Srinivas, Vice President of Engineering at Collins Aerospace, who served as the Chief Guest. Applauding GITAM's vision, he stated, “India’s engineering talent needs platforms like GITAM to grow from academic learners to real-world innovators. Such Centres of Excellence will be the catalysts for future aerospace and AI breakthroughs.”

The inauguration ceremony also included remarks by Dr. Errol D’Souza, Vice Chancellor of GITAM University, “Our collaboration with Sirena Technologies reflects GITAM’s commitment to applied, interdisciplinary learning. Together, we’re creating an ecosystem where students engage with real-world innovation and are empowered to lead in emerging industries.” 

Prof. KNS Acharya, Pro Vice Chancellor, expressed his immense delight, stating, “It is a proud moment for us to welcome Sirena Technologies as our first corporate collaborator on the Bengaluru campus. This is just the beginning of many such partnerships to come.”

Launched last year, GITAM’s Robotics & AI programme has already garnered attention for its forward-thinking, interdisciplinary curriculum. The newly inaugurated Centre of Excellence features advanced laboratories designed to support hands-on learning from the first year through to the final semester.

With the global robotics and AI market projected to exceed $500 billion by 2030, driven by applications in aerospace, healthcare, manufacturing, and smart infrastructure, GITAM’s strategic investments align with emerging industry demands and aim to produce highly employable, industry-ready graduates.

Prof. Basavaraj K, Associate Dean - Core Engineering and Director of GITAM School of Technology, Bengaluru, remarked, “We are thrilled to see core engineering regaining momentum. The integration of AI and robotics with foundational engineering has opened new frontiers for our students.”

The event concluded with an expert session on aerospace innovations by Collins Aerospace, followed by internship offer distributions and lab visits. With the inauguration of this R&D Centre, GITAM University once again affirms its role as a frontrunner in future-forward education.

Mahindra Lifespaces Launches Mahindra NewHaven Next To Successful Mahindra Zen, Bengaluru

Mahindra Lifespace Developers Ltd., the real estate and infrastructure development arm of the Mahindra Group, has announced the launch of Mahindra NewHaven, an IGBC-certified Net Zero Energy & Waste project. The development features 70% open spaces, with bespoke 3, 3.5, and 4 BHK residences and is purposefully designed to elevate modern living with a strong focus on sustainability and innovation. This project is located adjacent to the already successful Mahindra Zen on Hosur road in South Bengaluru. 

Vimalendra Singh, Chief Business Officer (Residential), Mahindra Lifespace Developers Limited, said, “Bengaluru continues to be a key market for Mahindra Lifespaces, with our projects consistently receiving strong responses. Following the success of Mahindra Eden and Mahindra Zen, both of which are almost sold out, we are excited to announce the launch of Mahindra NewHaven, our fourth premium development in South Bengaluru, designed to meet the city’s evolving lifestyle aspirations.”

The project’s architectural design emphasizes natural harmony, featuring spacious homes with excellent cross-ventilation, abundant natural sunlight, and wide, expansive decks. The residences are designed to provide a serene living experience.

Mahindra NewHaven also features premium lifestyle amenities, including a 10,400 sq. ft. clubhouse with an infinity pool. Located just 1 km from Singasandra metro station and near Electronic City, the project offers excellent connectivity to IT hubs, business parks, and a thriving social infrastructure. Residents will benefit from easy access to top educational institutions, shopping centers, supermarkets, entertainment venues, and dining options, making it a truly comprehensive lifestyle destination.

About Mahindra Lifespace Developers Ltd.

Mahindra Lifespace Developers Limited (“MLDL”) is a pan-India real estate developer. It operates its business through two verticals, namely, (i) residential projects, under the ‘Mahindra Lifespaces’ and ‘Mahindra Happinest’ brands (“Residential”); and (ii) integrated cities and industrial clusters under the ‘Mahindra World City’ and ‘Origins by Mahindra’ brands, respectively (“IC&IC”).

MLDL has also been delivering green-certified homes by Indian Green Building Council (“IGBC”), embedding sustainability as a core principle across all its developments. MLDL projects integrate energy-efficient designs, environmentally responsible materials, and resource optimization measures to reduce carbon impact. Reinforcing this commitment, MLDL has launched three Net Zero projects, namely, Mahindra Eden, Mahindra Vista and Mahindra Zen.Learn more about Mahindra Lifespaces® at www.mahindralifespaces.com

About Mahindra

Mahindra Group, has a global presence across diverse business verticals, including automotive, farm equipment, technology, financial services, real estate, hospitality, logistics, renewable energy, and aerospace and defense. Learn more about Mahindra on www.mahindra.com / Twitter and Facebook: @MahindraRise/ For updates subscribe to https://www.mahindra.com/news-room

KIMS Becomes First In India To Implement Groundbreaking Remote Surgical Training Solution In Collaboration With Medtronic

KIMS Group of Hospitals, a premier multi-specialty hospital network in South India has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Medtronic, a global leader in healthcare technology to upskill young and budding surgeons on advanced surgical procedures. This partnership aims to train over 100 surgeons across KIMS hospitals in Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Maharashtra, strengthening surgical expertise in specialties such as General Surgery, Oncology, Urology-Gynaecology, and Endoscopy. This facility will also be extended to its upcoming facilities in Thane, Mumbai and Bangalore. Under this initiative, physicians will gain access to a uniquely designed remote technology solution that facilitates real-time, interactive communication between surgeons, educators, and remote experts. This cutting-edge solution ensures high quality surgical collaboration, enabling seamless learning and training opportunities regardless of location.  The structured upskilling programs will encompass a mix of didactic sessions, hands-on experience, and observership, ensuring a holistic learning experience tailored to the specific needs of surgeons. Esteemed faculties from KIMS Group of Hospitals have been identified to conduct specialized educational workshops covering various surgical interventions.

Speaking on the collaboration, Mandeep Singh Kumar, Managing Director and Vice President of Medtronic India stated, “This partnership is a step forward in addressing critical healthcare challenges in India, where the need for skilled clinicians is paramount. Leveraging clinical expertise from KIMS Hospital and innovative training pedagogy from Medtronic, we seek to bridge gaps in surgical proficiency while enhancing patient outcomes through tailored programs. These initiatives are designed not only to refine procedural skills but also to foster a deeper understanding of value-based healthcare principles, ensuring clinicians are equipped to meet the highest standards of care.”

Dr. Bhaskar Rao Bollineni, Founder & Chairman, KIMS Group of Hospitals commented, “At KIMS, we are committed to nurturing the next generation of surgical talent by integrating technology-driven learning with clinical excellence. Our collaboration with Medtronic marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to create a robust ecosystem for surgical education. By harnessing remote training solutions and specialized modules, we aim to empower young surgeons with the skills, confidence, and global best practices needed to deliver superior patient care. This initiative aligns with our vision of advancing healthcare through continuous learning, innovation, and strategic partnerships.

Medical education in India is continuously evolving, driven by changing medical guidelines and the increasing demand for structured training programs for young surgeons. Establishing meaningful partnerships for ongoing learning has become essential. Leveraging advanced technologies in a safe and controlled environment allows surgeons to enhance their skills, expand their knowledge, and refine their techniques with greater efficiency ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes and better healthcare delivery. With this initiative, KIMS Group of hospitals and Medtronic have joined hands to build clinical capabilities and expand access to high-quality healthcare ensuring better outcomes for the patient.

About KIMS Group of Hospitals

KIMS Hospitals is one of the largest corporate healthcare groups in India with hospitals in Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra and Kerala providing multi-disciplinary integrated healthcare services, with a focus on tertiary and quaternary healthcare at an affordable cost. Our network of 18 hospitals and over 5500 beds is spread across Telangana (Secunderabad, Kondapur, Gachibowli, and Begumpet), Andhra Pradesh (Nellore, Rajahmundry, Srikakulam, Ongole, Vizag - 2 units, Anantapur, Guntur and Kurnool), Maharashtra (Nagpur, Nashik and Sangli) and Kerala (Kannur and Kollam). Our new units, under construction, include 2 hospitals in Bangalore and one in Mumbai.  We offer a bouquet of comprehensive healthcare services across 25 specialties including cardiac sciences, oncology, neurosciences, gastric sciences, orthopaedics, organ transplantation, renal sciences, and mother & child care.

This World Art Day, Hyundai Motor India Champions Artists As Changemakers

·         With INR 1.65 crore awarded across four seasons, ‘Hyundai Art for hope’ has supported over 150 artists and collectives, impacting 25,000+ artists nationwide

·         Bengaluru-based artists redefine inclusion with ISL-inspired visual art, trans-led installations, Yakshagana theatre, and neurodiverse digital storytelling.

Every year on April 15 the global community celebrates World Art Day, a moment to pause and reflect on the transformative and healing powers of art - as a mirror to society and a torch for progress. This UNESCO-led initiative was launched in 2019 to mark the birthday of Leonardo da Vinci - a symbol of artistic brilliance and interdisciplinary thinking.

This annual celebration consistently highlights values that form the core of Hyundai Motor India Foundation's (HMIF’s) flagship initiative ‘Hyundai Art for hope’. Inspired by Hyundai’s vision of ‘Progress for Humanity’, the initiative has championed artists as changemakers - voices that amplify endangered traditions, question norms, and reimagine inclusion. Since its inception in 2021, ‘Hyundai Art for hope’ has become a movement, touching the lives of over 25,000 artists and awarding INR 1.65 crore in grants across four seasons. On World Art Day 2025, Hyundai reaffirms its commitment to art as a force for sustainability, echoing UNESCO’s call to harness creativity for planetary and societal well-being.

The fourth season of ‘Hyundai Art for hope’ was a vibrant celebration of India’s artistic diversity. With INR 60 lakh awarded to 50 grantees - including 40 individual artists (5 with disabilities) and 10 collectives - the event showcased art as a tool for social change. Interactive workshops, roundtables on Art from Waste, and tactile exhibits for visually impaired visitors underscored Hyundai’s commitment to accessibility. The three-day festival wasn’t just an exhibition - it was a dialogue, a call to action, and a celebration of art’s power to unite.

Regional Spotlight: Artists Weaving Change Across India

Bengaluru: Breaking Barriers with Neurodiverse Art

In the bustling tech capital, five grantees redefined what inclusion and transformation look like. Alim Chandani, a deaf artist, bridged gestures and Indian Sign Language in Beyond Signs, while Gayatri Gupta (Down syndrome) dazzled with digital art (Busting Boundaries). The Aravani Art Project celebrated transgender identities through nature-inspired installations, and Yakshadeevige used Yakshagana theatre to advocate water conservation in drought-prone Tumkur.

From Delhi’s urban canvases to Karnataka’s neurodiverse ateliers, each artist’s story is a brushstroke in a larger portrait of resilience and renewal. This World Art Day, as global conversations centre around art’s role in shaping society, ‘Hyundai Art for hope’ stands tall - not as a corporate social responsibility checkbox, but as a cultural commitment.

Bengaluru Hospital Restores Hope For 40-Year-Old Man From Haryana Through A Complicated Heart Transplant Surgery

·         The patient who had end stage heart failure travelled from Haryana to Bengaluru to get this surgery done by Dr. Kumud Dhital at Apollo Seshadripuram

·         Karnataka is one of the leading states in India in terms of organ donations

A 40-year-old resident of Haryana, who had end stage heart failure, was given a new lease on life through a complicated heart transplant surgery performed at Apollo Hospital, Seshadripuram, Bengaluru.

The patient, who is a father of two and the sole breadwinner for his family, was diagnosed with Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) with severe bi-ventricular dysfunction, a condition where both the left and right pumping chambers of the heart fail to function properly. His condition required frequent hospital admissions for recurrent heart failure, causing a rapid decline in his quality of life. After extensive treatments and worsening symptoms, he flew down to Bengaluru with the support of a specialized medical team to get the heart transplant done by Dr. Kumud Dhital, Program & Surgical Director for Heart & Lung at Apollo Seshadripuram.

Commenting on the patient’s condition while presented at the hospital, Dr. Kumud Dhital said, “Upon arrival at Apollo Hospitals, he showed severe symptoms of advanced heart failure. He required immediate intervention, including the insertion of an Intra-Aortic Balloon Pump (IABP) to stabilize his condition. Aggressive fluid management was performed to remove over 20 litres of excess fluid before he was deemed fit for a transplant.”

After a month-long wait, a suitable organ became available, and he underwent the heart transplant procedure, performed by Dr. Kumud Dhital with support from Senior Cardiothoracic & Vascular Surgeons Dr. Anand Subramaniyam Dr. Manoj Kumar & Dr. Prakash Ludhani, and anesthetists Dr. Pradeep Kumar and Dr. Srinivas Dhulipala. Owing to the concerted efforts of the multidisciplinary team, both the surgical procedure and post-operative recovery progressed smoothly. The patient was subsequently discharged within few weeks and returned to Sonipat, Haryana, to reunite with his family.

The patient’s brother expressed his gratitude, “It’s been an emotional journey, but seeing my brother healthy again is beyond words. We are deeply grateful to the donor family for giving my brother a second chance at life.”

While talking about the importance of organ donation, Dr. Kumud Dhital said, “this story highlights the transformative impact of organ donation on patients with end-stage organ failure. This patient’s survival was made possible by the selfless decision of a donor’s family and the coordinated efforts of donor coordination, organ registry, transplant teams, and other healthcare professionals. It also underscores the urgent need for greater awareness and participation in organ donation programs.”

Head of Apollo Hospitals Seshadripuram Mr. Uday Davda said “We Thank Jeevasarthakathe for their exceptional coordination in making organ donation a streamlined process in Karnataka.  This is what had lead the state to be awarded the second-best state for organ donations in 2023 by the central government. We can restore many lives and families if the public at large come out to donate organs.”  

SOCOMEC India And IFCCI Continue Their CSR Initiative With The Launch Of Project EMPOWERPATH

Socomec India in collaboration with Indo-French Chamber of Commerce & Industry (IFCCI) has launched a game-changing CSR initiative – Project EMPOWERPATH – to uplift unserved communities. This innovative project will focus on Digital Literacy Training, Technical Skills Development, Health & Management Awareness for High-Risk Groups (FSW/HRG) and After-School Academic Support for Children of HRG & Female Sex Workers (FSW). 

As part of the three-year collaboration with IFCCI, Socomec has pledged to refurbish and renovate school buildings in Noida and Gurugram. These efforts created physical infrastructures that foster a positive and conducive learning atmosphere.

On its latest CSR initiative, Meenu Singhal, Regional Managing Director of Socomec Greater India, said, "We are happy to collaborate with IFCCI for project EMPOWERPATH - an initiative that aligns with our mission of manufacturing of UPS and energy management solutions while ensuring that our skill development programs create a workforce that meets industry demands. By providing access to these initiatives, we are not just creating job opportunities—we are transforming lives and empowering individuals to take charge of their future. Together with IFCCI, we are helping marginalized communities unlock their potential and thrive in tomorrow’s workforce.”

This project will empower 120 individuals with essential digital skills and 120 others with industry relevant technical skills to enhance employability and financial independence. EMPOWERPATH will promote well-being through behaviour change sessions, counselling, hygiene education and mental health support to 500 individuals belonging to High-Risk Groups.  After school academic support will be given to 80 children of High-Risk Groups and Female Sex Workers, strengthening their educational foundations.

“At Socomec, we are deeply committed to building stronger, more inclusive communities,” said Nida Khanam, Head of Human Resources at Socomec Greater India. “Through our partnership with IFCCI, the EMPOWERPATH initiative focuses on equipping individuals with the tools they need to thrive—whether it’s through digital literacy, technical skill development, or academic support for children from high-risk groups. We’re also prioritizing the health and well-being of High-Risk Groups by addressing mental health, hygiene, and behavior change. With over 800 individuals set to be impacted in Dwarka and Najafgarh, this is a meaningful step towards sustainable, community-led progress—and we look forward to expanding this initiative to other regions in the near future.”

Ms. Payal S. Kanwar, Director General, Indo-French Chamber of Commerce & Industry (IFCCI), said: “We are delighted to partner with Socomec on the EMPOWERPATH project, supporting education for children of High-Risk Groups, promoting health awareness, and fostering youth skill development with our NGO partner, Indian Society for Applied Research & Development (ISARD). Aligned with key UN SDGs, this initiative empowers underserved communities, creating opportunities for a brighter future.”

Together, Socomec and IFCCI are equipping individuals with essential skills, health awareness, and educational support, bridging critical gaps and preparing them for sustainable careers in an evolving job market.

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Launches New 2025 Dio 125 ‘Dio Wanna Have Fun?’

Continuing its legacy of customer-centric offerings, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) today introduced the new OBD2B compliant Dio 125. Packed with bold aesthetics and advanced features, the prices of the new 2025 Honda Dio 125 start at Rs. 96,749 (ex-showroom Pune).

Introducing the OBD2B Dio 125, Mr. Tsutsumu Otani, Managing Director, President & CEO, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, said, “For over 21 years, the Dio has been an iconic name in the Indian market, standing as a symbol of style, performance, and trust. It has consistently been the first choice for customers looking for a trendy and reliable moto-scooter. With the launch of the new OBD2B Dio 125, we are excited to take forward its iconic legacy, keeping the core concept of moto-scooter intact, with added value and excitement for our customers.”

Commenting on this announcement, Mr. Yogesh Mathur, Director, Sales & Marketing, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, said, “We are ecstatic to introduce the new OBD2B version of Dio 125 – a scooter that has resonated with young India for years. With its refreshed graphics, advanced TFT display, and enhanced connectivity features, the new Dio 125 is designed to meet the evolving aspirations of today’s customers. True to its tagline, ‘Dio Wanna Have Fun?’, this moto scooter has always been a popular choice among India's younger generation, and this update will further strengthen its position in the segment.”

New Dio 125: Advanced Features and New Colours

The Dio 125 now comes with vibrant, refreshed graphics and striking colour schemes that amplify its funky and youthful appeal. It boasts a host of new advancements designed to elevate the riding experience of customers. At the heart of this upgrade is a 123.92cc, single-cylinder PGM-Fi engine that is now OBD2B compliant. It develops 6.11 kW of power and 10.5 Nm of torque. This moto-scooter is also equipped with an advanced Idling stop system which enhances fuel efficiency, aligning with Honda’s sustainable philosophy.

In terms of features, the Dio 125 sports a new 4.2-inch TFT display with mileage indicators, trip meter, Eco indicator, and range (distance to empty). It is compatible with Honda RoadSync app, enabling functions like navigation and call/message alerts, allowing riders to stay connected while on the move. The Dio 125 also comes equipped with a Smart key and a USB Type-C charging port, ensuring convenience for riders to charge their devices on the go.

Standing true to the trust reposed by millions of customers over the years in brand Dio, the Dio 125 retains its iconic silhouette, enhancing its visual appeal. It will be offered in two variants, DLX and H-Smart, with five colour options on sale. They are – Mat Marvel Blue Metallic, Pearl Deep Ground Gray, Pearl Sports Yellow, Pearl Igneous Black, and Imperial Red.     

New Dio 125: Price and Availability

The prices of the new 2025 Honda Dio 125 start at Rs. 96,749, ex-showroom Pune. It is now available at HMSI dealerships across India.