Manipal Group Of Institutions Honor Visionary Founder Dr T.M.A Pai On 127th Birth Anniversary

Manipal Group of Institutions celebrated the 127th birth anniversary of its founder Dr TMA Pai in solemn and respectful ceremony held at Manipal on Wednesday, 30 April 2025.  Paying rich tributes to the remarkable legacy of Dr TMA Pai on the occasion as the Chief Guest, Hon'ble Justice Shri S Abdul Nazeer, His Excellency the Governor of Andhra Pradesh, described him as a ‘legendary visionary’ whose pioneering efforts in education and healthcare have transformed lives and continue to inspire generations.

He remembered Dr. Pai as a multi-faceted personality, an educationist, banker, philanthropist, and a true nation builder. “Dr. Pai believed that poverty could be eradicated by eliminating illiteracy and ill health. Dr. Pai is a true Karma Yogi. He viewed educated children not just as assets to their families, but as the pillars of a progressive nation,” he added.

On a heartfelt personal note, the Governor also shared his connection to Dr. Pai’s legacy. “I am a proud alumnus of Mahaveera College at Moodbidri, an institution founded by Dr. T.M.A. Pai.  His vision shaped my educational journey and career,” he said.

The celebration was also attended by dignitaries from the Manipal Group comprising of Mrs Vasanti R Pai, Trustee, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) Trust, Dr Ranjan R Pai, President, MAHE Trust, Registrar, Academy of General Education & Chairman, Manipal Education and  Medical Group (MEMG), Bengaluru, Mr T Ashok Pai, President of Dr TMA Pai Foundation, Manipal, Mr T Satish U Pai, Executive Chairman, Manipal Media Network Ltd., & Vice President, AGE, Dr HS Ballal, Pro Chancellor, MAHE & President, AGE, Manipal, Lt Gen (Dr) MD Venkatesh VSM (Retd.), Vice Chancellor, MAHE, Manipal.  The event was also graced by several senior officials from the Manipal Group, making it a significant celebration of Dr TMA Pai's lasting legacy.

Each year Manipal Group of Institutions celebrates Founder's Day on April 30th on his birth anniversary to honor and remember the legacy of Dr TMA Pai, the visionary founder of the Manipal Group, who transformed the once barren hilltop of Manipal into a globally renowned educational hub. This year's celebration featured several programs, beginning with a heartfelt floral tribute to Dr TMA Pai by all the distinguished guests and dignitaries.

Welcoming the august gathering, Dr HS Ballal, President-AGE Manipal & Pro Chancellor-MAHE , said, "We are reminded of the extraordinary vision of our founder Dr TMA Pai that has shaped not just an institution, but an entire educational ecosystem.  Dr Pai's anticipation into establishing self-financing educational institutions in the 1950s was revolutionary for its time and continues to inspire our approach to education today.  Today, as we honor his memory, we entrust ourselves to his principles of accessible quality education, innovation, and service to society that have become the traditional hallmark of the Manipal experience."

Addressing the audience, Lt Gen (Dr) MD Venkatesh, VSM (Retd.), Vice Chancellor of MAHE, said, "As we celebrate the 127th birth anniversary of our founder, Dr TMA Pai, we reflect on a legacy that continues to guide our institution's mission and vision.  Dr Pai's remarkable journey from establishing a single medical college to creating this comprehensive educational ecosystem exemplifies what visionary leadership can accomplish. His basic belief that education should be accessible to all, regardless of socioeconomic differences, remains central to the base of our institution.  In the past year, we have further strengthened our commitment to this vision through expanded scholarship programs, research initiatives addressing societal challenges, and international collaborations that provide our students with global perspectives.”

The event featured several award presentations, including the "Kundapur Mohan and Latha Bhandarkars' Merit-cum-Means Scholarships," the "Smt. Sharada M Pai - Dr Padma Rao Memorial Award" for the Best Nursing and Anganwadi Service, the "Smt. Sharada M Pai - Dr Padma Rao A- MMS Diamond Jubilee Award" for the Best Female Warden/Caretaker (Non-Teaching Staff), and the "Smt. Geetha K Nayak Memorial Award" for the Senior Nurses of Kasturba Hospital. The event also honored rank holders from AGE Colleges, recipients of Kadambi Scholarships, and Manipal Scholars.

Dr Narayana Sabhahit, Pro Vice Chancellor – Technology & Science, MAHE, delivered a vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all those who contributed to making the celebration a success.

About Manipal Academy of Higher Education:

The Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) is an Institution of Eminence Deemed-to-be University. MAHE offers over 400 specializations across the Health Sciences (HS), Management, Law, Humanities & Social Sciences (MLHS), and Technology & Science (T&S) streams through its constituent units at campuses in Manipal, Mangalore, Bangalore, Jamshedpur, and Dubai. With a remarkable academic track record, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and significant research contributions, MAHE has earned recognition and acclaim nationally and internationally. In October 2020, the Ministry of Education, Government of India, awarded MAHE the prestigious Institution of Eminence status. Currently ranked 4th in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), MAHE is the preferred choice for students seeking transformative learning experience and an enriching campus life and for national & multi-national corporates looking for top talent.

Ajit Prabhu, CEO And Co-Founder Of Quest Global Announces $10M Gift To RPI To Tackle World’s Toughest Engineering Challenges

Quest Global is honored to announce a $10 million endowment to Rensselaer Polytechnical Institute (RPI), aimed at advancing engineering innovation and entrepreneurship. This gift establishes the Ajit Prabhu Catalyst Endowment and the Ajit Prabhu Catalyst Fund donated by the Prahbu family, supporting the Office of Strategic Alliances and Translation (OSAT) to equip RPI students and faculty to solve some of the hardest engineering problems for today and tomorrow.

The Catalyst Fund will support accelerating groundbreaking ideas into proof-of-concept prototypes or market-ready ventures. The Fund will help bridge the gap between lab research and real-world application, allowing RPI’s brightest minds to focus not only on solving today’s challenges but also on anticipating tomorrow's opportunities. This endowment will help translate research into application to benefit society.  

“Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, and in particular my mentor Dr. John Brunski in the Biomedical Engineering department shaped my career and expanded my worldview, allowing me to dream of infinite possibilities,” said Ajit Prabhu, CEO & Co-founder, Quest Global. “This gift from our family reflects our commitment to empowering students and faculty to pursue ambitious ideas and develop innovative solutions.  My dream is that this gift will inspire students to tackle the toughest engineering problems and deliver unparalleled value to humanity.”

Dr. Jonathan Dordick, Vice President of OSAT, highlighted the significance of the contribution, “The Ajit Prabhu Catalyst Fund represents a powerful opportunity for RPI’s entrepreneurial community. This fund will enable students and faculty to innovate freely, knowing they have the resources to turn new discoveries into viable products and thriving businesses.”

Ajit Prabhu’s leadership at Quest Global, one of the world’s fastest-growing engineering services firms with over 21,000 engineers worldwide, underscores his dedication to solving the hardest engineering problems across industries including Aerospace, Energy, High Tech, and Automotive. His core belief—that culture and aspiration are as critical as strategy—aligns perfectly with RPI’s mission to inspire the next generation of forward-thinking problem-solvers.

About Quest Global:

At Quest Global, it's not just what we do but how and why we do it that makes us different. We are in the business of engineering, but what we are really creating is a brighter future. For over 25 years, we've been solving the world's most complex engineering problems. Operating in 18 countries, with over 84 global delivery centers, our 21,000+ curious minds embrace the power of doing things differently to make the impossible possible. Using a multi-dimensional approach, combining technology, industry expertise, and diverse talents, we tackle critical challenges faster and more effectively. And we do it across the Aerospace & Defense, Automotive, Energy, Hi-Tech, MedTech & Healthcare, Rail and Semiconductor industries. For world-class end-to-end engineering solutions, we are your trusted partner. 

About Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Founded in 1824 for the application of science to the common purposes of life, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute is the first technological research university in the United States. Today, it is recognized as a premier university, noted for its robust and holistic learning community that connects creativity with science and technology. RPI is dedicated to inventing for the future, from shaping the scientists, engineers, technologists, architects, and entrepreneurs who will define what’s next for humanity, to research that bridges disciplines to solve the world's toughest problems. Learn more at rpi.edu.  

Bengaluru-based CognitiveLab Wins 2024 Meta Llama Impact Grant For Its Nayana Project Advancing Multilingual AI

Meta has announced the recipients of the 2024 Llama Impact Grants, recognizing innovators using open-source large language models to tackle critical social challenges. Among this year’s global winners is CognitiveLab, an India-based research lab whose project Nayana is revolutionizing AI accessibility for linguistically diverse communities. The Llama Impact Grant will help scale Nayana’s multilingual, multimodal capabilities, expanding access to AI across more than 22 languages and reaching over three billion people worldwide.

Launched in 2023, the Llama Impact Grants support transformative uses of Meta’s open-source models: Llama 2, Llama 3, and now Llama 4, that demonstrate measurable social impact.

Headquartered in Bangalore, CognitiveLab is a mission-driven, open-source-first AI research lab focused on developing state-of-the-art technologies that are accessible, transparent, and community-powered. The lab has pioneered open infrastructure projects such as the Indic LLM Leaderboard and released benchmark datasets widely adopted by global researchers.

Nayana, developed by CognitiveLab, is a multilingual, multimodal, multitask language model that integrates advanced Llama technology to automate document and image processing across diverse languages, including several low-resource Indic languages. The model includes robust text, vision, and speech capabilities and has already outperformed industry standards in OCR for 10 Indian languages.

Speaking on the announcement, Shivnath Thukral, Vice President and Head of Public Policy, Meta India, said, “Open-source AI is a powerful tool to bridge digital divides, especially in a diverse country like India. With the 2024 Llama Impact Grant, we’re proud to support the Nayana project. Its work embodies the spirit of open innovation—making advanced AI usable for billions of people. Llama 4 was designed with accessibility, flexibility, and scalability at its core—and we’re excited to see how CognitiveLab will leverage this foundation to drive real-world impact.”

Shashi Kumar, Founder, CognitiveLab, added, “Our vision is to democratize AI in a way that’s inclusive and equitable. The Llama Impact Grant enables us to supercharge our efforts with Nayana - expanding language coverage, enhancing multimodal capabilities, and building high-quality training datasets for low-resource language communities. Open-source and Llama have empowered us to build world-class systems like Ambari and Nayana with minimal resources. This grant is a milestone in our journey to build impactful, indigenous AI solutions for the global south.”

CognitiveLab plans to use the grant to expand Nayana’s language support, increase the model’s multimodal integration, and develop optimized deployment tools for low-resource settings. The lab will also release new speech-text-image datasets, improve its Indic tokenizer, and set new benchmarks for multilingual AI systems through community collaboration.

With over 1 billion global downloads and more than 85,000 derivative models, the Llama family of open-source AI models, now in its fourth generation, has become the foundation for a growing ecosystem of socially impactful solutions. India remains one of the top markets for Llama adoption, where innovators like CognitiveLab are leveraging these tools to solve complex local challenges and foster inclusive digital growth.

IGI School Of Gemology Introduces Comprehensive "Diploma In Pearls" Program

* Empowering Professionals with Expertise in Pearl Identification, Grading, and Market Insights Through a Hands-On, Industry-Focused Program

The International Gemological Institute (IGI) School of Gemology announces the launch of its exclusive "Diploma in Pearls" program. This intensive 5-day course offers a comprehensive exploration of pearls, combining in-depth theoretical knowledge with hands-on practical training. The Diploma will provide ongoing opportunities for aspiring gemologists and jewelry professionals, enhancing their expertise and career prospects. Enrollment for the inaugural batch is now open. This course will be held at IGI’s Mumbai campus.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Tehmasp Printer, Managing Director and CEO of IGI, said, "The IGI School of Gemology is committed to providing world-class education in gemology. Our 'Diploma in Pearls' program offers enthusiasts and professionals alike a unique opportunity to master pearl identification and grading, gain hands-on practical training, and learn from expert faculty. With pearls playing a growing role in the global jewelry market, this diploma is the perfect stepping stone for those looking to enhance their expertise in the field. Understanding the intricacies of pearl certification is crucial for maintaining transparency and trust in the marketplace."

* The curriculum covers a comprehensive range of topics, including the following:

Pearl Origins and History – Explore the cultural and historical significance of pearls and learn about the anatomy of pearl-producing oysters and mussels.

Types and Imitations – Identify different pearl varieties and how to distinguish them from  simulants and examine common pearl treatments and their effects.

Grading Criteria – Understand the key factors used to evaluate pearl quality and value.

Hands-On Analysis – Develop analytical skills through basic and advanced pearl assessments and benefit from guided practical sessions led by industry professionals.

Market Readiness – Gain insights into practical applications and market trends.

"Diploma in Pearls" program is ideal for a diverse range of professionals, including sales associates, managers, business owners, buyers, manufacturer's sales representatives, brokers, appraisers, wholesalers, diamond and jewelry designers, gem lab personnel, and anyone keen on becoming a gem expert.

For more information about future batches and enrolment details, visit IGI's School of Gemology website.

Greenlam Industries Launches Its First Exclusive Dealer Display Showroom In Karnataka At Sapthagiri Panel Products Ltd., Bengaluru

Greenlam Industries, a leading provider of integrated substrate and surface solutions, across more than 120 countries, proudly announces the launch of its first exclusive dealer display showroom in Karnataka. Strategically located at NO. 275/8, New Timber Yard Layout, Mysore Road, next to N.A.K. Kalyana Mantappa, Bengaluru – 560026, the 2,400 sq. ft. showroom reflects over a decade of trusted presence in the interior solutions industry.

The newly launched showroom houses a complete portfolio of Greenlam’s premium offerings including Greenlam Laminates, Decowood Veneers, Mikasa Flooring, Mikasa Staircase Solutions, Mikasa Doors & Frames, and Mikasa Plywood. Designed as a one-stop solution for interior needs, the showroom brings together a rich tapestry of colours, textures, and finishes, curated to inspire homeowners, architects, designers, and contractors alike.

Sapthagiri Panel Products Pvt. Ltd. is celebrated in the industry for its unwavering commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Now, with this strategic collaboration, Greenlam and Sapthagiri aim to elevate the customer experience in Karnataka by offering a premium and immersive space where the interior fraternity can engage with innovative, design-forward products.

The showroom features Greenlam’s wide range of premium laminates in diverse finishes, designs, and colors—offering stylish, durable surfacing solutions. It also showcases Decowood Veneers, crafted from over 200 exotic wood species like oak, walnut, and mahogany, enhanced with TD technology to highlight natural grain patterns.

Complementing this, Mikasa Floors present a robust three-layer construction made from real hard wood, a stabilizing core, and a balancing layer. These floors are equipped with the innovative PlankLoc™ glue-free locking system, ensuring durability and ease of installation—ideal for modern, high-traffic spaces. Mikasa Staircase Solutions include pre-finished treads, risers, and nosing for easy installation, while Mikasa Doors & Frames provide sleek, factory-finished units. The range is completed with versatile Mikasa Plywood, making the showroom a one-stop destination for premium interiors.

The showroom was inaugurated by Mr. Saurabh Mittal, Managing Director & CEO of Greenlam Industries Limited, alongside Mr. Anil TN, Partner at Sapthagiri Panel Products Pvt. Ltd. The grand launch event was attended by over 120 industry professionals, including architects, OEMs, contractors, and clients, marking a significant moment in Greenlam’s expansion in South India.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Saurabh Mittal, Managing Director and CEO of Greenlam Industries Ltd., said,

“The opening of this new showroom in Bengaluru marks a strategic milestone in Greenlam’s journey to bring world-class surfacing solutions closer to the design and architecture community in Karnataka. This space is not just a showcase of our expansive product range, it is a hub for inspiration, innovation, and collaboration. From premium laminates and decorative veneers to engineered wood floors, doors, and plywood, we aim to provide designers, architects, and homeowners with comprehensive, hands-on experience of our offerings.

We are equally excited to collaborate with Sapthagiri Panel Products Pvt. Ltd., a partner whose commitment to excellence and customer service reflects our own. Together, we look forward to setting new benchmarks in quality, service, and design in this dynamic market.”

As Karnataka’s first exclusive Greenlam Laminates and Wood & Allied Products dealer display showroom, this new centre stands as a testament to Greenlam’s commitment to design excellence, performance, and sustainability.

About Greenlam Industries

Greenlam Industries Limited ranks among the top three laminate manufacturers globally and is a leading integrated substrate and surface solutions provider. The company offers a wide range of products to customers in over 120 countries, consistently delivering innovation and quality. Its diverse product portfolio includes decorative laminates and compacts, interior and exterior cladding, restroom cubicles and locker solutions, decorative veneers, engineered wood flooring, doors, plywood and pre-laminated chipboards. 

With five state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities located across India—in Behror (Rajasthan), Nalagarh (Himachal Pradesh), Prantij (Gujarat), Tindivanam (Tamil Nadu), and Naidupeta (Andhra Pradesh)—Greenlam is committed to both quality and environmental responsibility. The company ethically sources its raw materials and holds numerous sustainability certifications, including FSC®, PEFC™, ISO 14001, GRIHA, GREENPRO, REACH, ISO 45001, and ISO 50001. Its products are globally certified with CE, UL, NSF, SEFA, Green Label, Greenguard, NEMA (for the US and North America), and BS EN standards. Greenlam is also ISO 9001 certified for Quality Management Systems and holds SEDEX certification for Ethical Trade Initiatives, ensuring its products are both safe and eco-friendly. 

Supported by an expansive global sales and distribution network, Greenlam is always prepared to assist in transforming your spaces with seamless expertise. 

For more information, visit: https://www.greenlamindustries.com/ 

NUVOCO Vistas Announces Its Financial Results For Q4 And FY25

* Achieved historical quarterly highest consolidated EBITDA of Rs. 556 Cr. in Q4 FY25

* Deleveraging initiative continued with Net debt reduction of Rs. 390 Cr. YoY to Rs. 3640 Cr.

* Received NCLT nod for Vadraj Cement acquisition, enhancing cement capacity to 31 MMT by FY27

* Cement volume for FY25 closed at 19.4 MMT

Nuvoco Vistas Corp. Ltd., a leading building materials Company in India, announced its unaudited financial results for the quarter ended March 31, 2025. With 25 MMTPA of combined installed capacity, Nuvoco Vistas Corp. Ltd. is the 5th largest cement group in India and amongst the leading cement players in East India. The Company is on track to achieve 31 MMTPA cement capacity by Q3 FY27 post NCLT approving the Resolution Plan for acquisition of Vadraj Cement Limited (VCL).

The Company achieved a consolidated cement sales volume of 5.7 MMT in Q4 FY25, with full-year volume reaching 19.4 MMT. Consolidated revenue from operations grew 4% YoY to Rs. 3,042 Cr. in Q4, bringing FY25 revenue to Rs. 10,357 Cr. The Company also reported its highest-ever quarterly consolidated EBITDA of Rs. 556 Cr. in Q4 FY25, with full-year EBITDA at Rs. 1,391 Cr. Furthermore, the Company stayed committed to its deleveraging agenda reducing its net debt by Rs. 390 Cr. YoY to Rs. 3,640 Cr.

FY25 marked a year of resilience and recovery for the cement industry, with demand picking up steadily after a muted first half. Nuvoco capitalized on this rebound with targeted initiatives that delivered volume growth, especially in the second half. Cement demand remained robust across two consecutive quarters, supported by increased Central and State Government Capex in infrastructure and housing. Throughout the year, the Company maintained a sharp focus on operational excellence. This is reflected in achieving the lowest blended fuel cost in the last 14 quarters at Rs. 1.43 per Mcal, reinforcing Nuvoco’s position amongst the industry's lowest in power and fuel costs.

The Company undertook key marketing initiatives to enhance its brand presence. These included the ‘Sarthi Programme at Maha Kumbh 2025’, which provided an immersive experience to over 25,000 visitors, reinforcing the company’s commitment to its channel partners and influencers. Additionally, the launch of ‘Sabse Khaas Pehelwaan’, Haryana’s premier wrestling championship, helped strengthen Duraguard Cement’s brand by aligning it with the strength and resilience of wrestling champions. Furthermore, the Company also commenced production of Duraguard Microfiber Cement at Haryana Cement Plant to cater to Northern market.

The RMX business, with 58 operational plants, is gaining healthy momentum, contributing to overall growth. In the MBM business, products such as tile adhesive, construction chemicals, cover blocks, and block jointing mortar are experiencing strong sales momentum, further accelerating performance.

The Company continues to strengthen its commitment to sustainability with lowest carbon emissions in the industry, with 457 kg CO2 per ton1 of cementitious materials.

Commenting on the performance of the Company, Mr. Jayakumar Krishnaswamy, Managing Director, Nuvoco Vistas Corp. Ltd., stated, “Despite a subdued demand environment in the first half of FY25, the Company witnessed a strong rebound in the second half. The Company responded swiftly by capitalising on emerging opportunities to strengthen its market presence. Back-to-back quarters of improved demand, coupled with our sharp focus on premiumisation, contributed to enhanced realisations leading to the Company achieving historical quarterly highest consolidated EBITDA.”

He further remarked, “We remain optimistic about the cement demand in near to medium term. As we look ahead, our focus will be on scaling growth and expanding our market footprint. Moving ahead, the Company will focus on growth and expanding market footprint with Vadraj Cement acquisition elevating capacity to 31 MMTPA by Q3 FY27. The Company will continue to drive key initiatives pertaining to premiumisation, geo-optimisation and cost optimisation. This aligns with our renewed mission of being a Trusted Building Materials Company Creating Value for Our Stakeholders.”

Toyota Kirloskar Motor Sells 27,324 Units In The Month Of April 2025

Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) recorded a growth of 33% in April 2025 over the same period last year, selling 27,324 units. In April 2025, domestic sales stood at 24,833 units, while exports contributed 2,491 units. In April 2024, TKM had sold 20,494 units.

The growth momentum was sustained despite a maintenance shutdown from April 21-25, 2025, undertaken for the upkeep of machinery and equipment to maintain operational efficiency, productivity, and safety.

The company closed the last fiscal year with its highest-ever sales in India, reaffirming growing customer trust and the market’s preference for quality, reliability, and robust after-sales support.

Speaking on the sales momentum, Varinder Wadhwa, Vice President, Sales-Service-Used Car Business, said, “The sustained growth is a testament to our unwavering commitment to offering the Indian market the right products and technologies at the right time. Our multi-pathway approach, which provides diverse technology options, has enabled us to respond positively to shifting customer needs and has ensured strong demand across our line-up. We are also encouraged by the positive response to the recently introduced Urban Cruiser Hyryder, now equipped with enhanced safety, comfort, and convenience features — further strengthening its appeal among customers.

Looking ahead, we will continue to be guided by customer voices, responding with agility and precision in introducing products and value-added services that align with rising expectations.”