Press Release

Reshaping preschool education with its progressive curriculum and global pedagogical standards, Sanfort Group of Schools (Sanfort) is all set to launch India’s first International Baccalaureate (IB) preschool chain. Such a definitive step will mark a transformative leap in early childhood learning by Sanfort with its legacy of innovation and learner-centric approach. Recognised as Asia’s first preschool brand to integrate the IB Early Years Curriculum, Sanfort is not just preparing children for school, but it’s nurturing future-ready citizens for a rapidly evolving world. Sanfort is bringing internationally benchmarked education to the foundational years. Its curriculum blends play-based exploration with structured developmental milestones which encourage young learners to think independently. Dr. S.K. Rathor, Founder & Chairman of Sanfort said, “The early years form the foundation of lifelong learning, so at Sanfort, we are creating an environment where learning is joyful, meaningful, and aligned with global standards. By launching India’s first IB preschool chain, we aim to provide a truly world-class start to every child’s educational journey. Our goal is to raise confident, creative, and compassionate learners equipped for tomorrow.” The kids at Sanfort are also being made confident enough to question deeply on any topic while understanding their surroundings with curiosity and confidence. In a nutshell, Sanfort fosters well-rounded development on all the parameters covering emotionally, cognitively, socially and physically. Founded by visionary educationists Dr. S.K. Rathor and Mrs. Kavita Rathor, Sanfort began its journey with a single preschool and has grown into one of India’s most trusted names in early childhood education today. Sanfort has, over the years, built a solid reputation by combining innovative teaching methods with strong values at its schools. Innovation, inclusivity, and a global viewpoint are the cornerstones of Sanfort. Its learner-centred curriculum fosters curiosity, self-reliance, and holistic development from a young age. Sanfort is already known for bringing revolutionary changes in the preschool industry. It was the first preschool in India to introduce Touch ‘n’ Learn technology, making learning interactive and fun for young children. It also led the way by launching India’s first AR (Augmented Reality) -based curriculum, adding a whole new dimension to early learning and exploration. Sanfort’s proprietary ‘Core Value Circle’ model continues to drive innovation, addressing six critical pillars of development: sensory refinement, motor skills, creativity, social-emotional growth, personality development, and essential life skills. Sanfort provides a safe and engaging environment for all children to develop and flourish, complete with kid-friendly facilities, qualified teachers, and carefully planned activities. Consequently, Sanfort has emerged as the preferred choice for thousands of parents across India who seek more than just conventional schooling—parents who value a nurturing, progressive, and globally aligned preschool experience. Through continuous curriculum enhancements and robust teacher development programs, Sanfort has created a dynamic learning ecosystem tailored for 21st-century children. With over 250 schools across three countries, more than 90 prestigious awards, and a vast, vibrant alumni network, Sanfort’s journey of 16+ years is a strong reflection of its commitment to revolutionizing preschool education in India. And now, Sanfort is taking a bold new step by launching Asia’s first International Baccalaureate (IB) preschool chain, setting yet another benchmark in world-class early education. About SANFORT- The U.K Concept Preschool Chain SANFORT – The U. K. Concept Preschool Chain is the brain child of Eminent Educationist couple Dr. S. K. Rathor & Mrs. Kavita Rathor. They started their first preschool in 1999 with a bouquet of attraction, concepts and role play models for tiny tots based on the ‘play-way’ methodology or ‘learning by doing’. Its curriculum involves effective, time-tested elements of traditional learning infused with cutting-edge technology resources, which bridges the learning gap. The curriculum is crafted in the hexagram of ‘Core Value Circle’ which helps children in the Refinement of their senses, Gross Motor Development, Creative Development, Social development, Psychological – Personality Development and Practical life care for Self, Others and for the Environment. (Disclaimer: This report is generated from PRO services. ‘ArdorComm Media’ holds no responsibility for its content.)

LUMAMI, NAGALAND, 26th May 2025: Nagaland University researchers have identified stingless bee species that can be used to increase agricultural yield through pollination. The stingless bee species identified are Tetragonula iridipennis Smith and Lepidotrigona arcifera Cockerell). With the introduction of stingless bees as pollinators in different crops under greenhouse conditions, the yield and quality of produce increased several times in different crops. Stingless bees could be used for pollination without fear of being stung. They are known for their popular medicinal honey and pollination potential, which paves the way formulation of crop pollination calendars to benefit all stakeholders. The honey produced by the bees during the experiments also provided extra income besides good crop production. Nagaland University researchers found that chilli crop, when pollinated by these bees, increases the crop production and quality as compared to crop where pollination is not accomplished. For supplementing the pollination deficit in chilli, stingless bees and honeybee species like A dorsata, A florea – and other wild bees like halictid bees, syrphid bees and Amegiella bees need to be conserved.   In king-chilli the per cent fruit set was increased to 29.46 % over non pollinated crop (21.00 %). Likewise in Chilli (Capsicum annuum), the fruit set and healthy fruits were increased by 7.42 % and 7.92 % over non-pollinated crop. Similarly, seed weight which is an indicator of viability or germination increased by 60.74 % when pollinated by stingless bees. This is the maiden attempt to work out the pollination potential of stingless bees and quality production of honey, which led to increased income and sustainable livelihood. Earlier, it was difficult to use honeybees for pollination of crops (inadequate pollination) due to their natural attributes. This Research was led by Dr. Avinash Chauhan, Scientist and Principal Investigator (AICRP Honeybees & Pollinators), Department of Entomology, School of Agricultural Sciences, Nagaland University. The findings of his team have been published in several reputed, peer-reviewed journals, including International Journal of Farm Sciences. Elaborating on this research, Dr. Avinash Chauhan, Scientist and Principal Investigator (AICRP Honeybees & Pollinators), Department Of Entomology, School of Agricultural Sciences, Nagaland University, said, “The research outcomes of last seven to ten years provided the different stakeholders with lots of opportunities to rear the stingless bees for quality honey production without fear of mixing of impurities in honey and minimizing bee losses, which led to more profitability in this profession. We are still working to improve the beekeeping rearing techniques and to promote Scientific beekeeping with honey bees and stingless bees for better honey production and pollination of crops. The focus is also to raise awareness among the people for the conservation of other wild honey bees and pollinators.” Speaking about the next steps in this research, Dr. Avinash Chauhan said, “The crops which are less known (passion fruit, Solanum spp., Chow Chow etc) but geographically important will be taken for future studies. Focus will also be given for extraction techniques for honey produced by stingless bees. The medicinal properties of the honey will also be worked out by proper analysis and mellisopalynological studies.” The present research was focused on developing the utilisation of stingless bees of genus Tetragonula spp. and Lepidotrigona spp. for the pollination of crops like cucumber, chilli, king chilli, ash-gourd, watermelon, citrus, tomato, pumpkin, brinjal and dragon fruit etc. The stingless bee colonies extracted from the forests and field areas as per the available methods, were multiplied scientifically to attain sufficient numbers of bee colonies for their utilisation as pollinators for crops under confined conditions. Besides these, their potential as pollinators on Mango, Guava, Rhus, Gooseberry and Ber etc was also observed and recorded. Stingless bees are reported from North East India, Eastern India and Southern Indian States, with recent additions from North, Central and Western Indian states. Unlike all the states where stingless bee rearing is still in nascent stages in North Eastern and Southern states, the stingless bees are reared in the traditional manner in homestead apiaries. However, in the last 7-10 years, the scientific domestication of these bees involving the development of scientific hives and mass multiplication of stingless bee colonies using queen cells is achieved in Nagaland and is extended to other states like Meghalaya and Arunachal Pradesh. This development led to the way for the easy multiplication of these bees for pollination and other bee products. The farmers and other stakeholders are able to place their stingless bee colonies for pollination of crops under open field conditions and greenhouse conditions leading to better crop yield and quality production of crops. RESEARCH BACKGROUND Honeybees, stingless bees, bumble bees, halictids, syrphids and other solitary bees are an important group of insects which are indispensable for regulating the food and forage cycle of the ecosystem. They are found in different habitats with different nesting attributes. Among these pollinators, the collection and domestication of feral stingless bee colonies, their identification and their use in crop pollination are the areas of interest for sustainable farming in northeast India. The North East Indian States of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Manipur, Nagaland, Sikkim and Tripura are endowed with a wide range of physiographic and ecoclimatic conditions. Propagation of stingless bee colonies contributes to the preservation of biodiversity by conserving populations of species that may otherwise decline owing to human disruption of ecosystems In open conditions for adequate pollination of chilli, stingless bees, honeybees and Diptera fauna should be conserved along with non-Apis bees. Without pollination the yield and quality were too less in chilli. Stingless bees, honeybees and halictid bees were the major pollinators of chilli. (Disclaimer: This report is generated from PR/ PRO services. ‘ArdorComm Media’ holds no responsibility for its content.)

Indian Institute of Technology Jodhpur is proud to announce that two esteemed faculty members from the Department of Bioscience & Bioengineering have been recognised by the Indian National Science Academy (INSA) for the year 2025. Prof. Amit Mishra has been elected as a recipient of the INSA Associate Fellowship (IAF) in recognition of his outstanding research contributions to understanding neuronal protein quality control mechanisms in neurodegenerative diseases. His work has elucidated the critical role of selective and multifaceted E3 ubiquitin ligases in defending against the accumulation of misfolded proteins. These findings not only offer a deeper insight into neurobiological defence mechanisms but also pave the way for identifying novel therapeutic targets for treating neurodegeneration and age-associated disorders. Dr. Sucharita Dey, Assistant Professor in the same department, has been selected as a recipient of the INSA Young Associateship (IYA) for the year 2025. Dr. Dey has developed a scalable AI/ML-based strategy for the proteome-wide prediction of homo-obligomeric protein complexes, leading to the identification of hundreds of novel assemblies, including experimentally validated megadalton structures. Her innovative approach bridges computational biology and molecular science, significantly advancing the understanding of protein assembly and function. The Director, faculty, staff, and students of IIT Jodhpur congratulate Prof. Mishra and Dr. Dey on this prestigious national recognition and celebrate their contribution to cutting-edge bioscience research. Their achievements further strengthen IIT Jodhpur’s vision of fostering interdisciplinary research that addresses grand scientific challenges with global impact. Disclaimer: This report is generated from PR/ PRO services. ‘ArdorComm Media’ holds no responsibility for its content.

The system is compatible with ECG machines enabling hospitals and clinics to upgrade the existing equipment at no additional cost  ROURKELA, 15th May 2025: National Institute of Technology Rourkela (NIT Rourkela) Researchers have developed an effective upgrade to Electrocardiography (ECG), one of the most commonly used techniques to monitor heart activity. This new system helps in easily detecting subtle electrical signals from the upper chambers of the heart, which are often too indistinct to be seen clearly in regular ECGs. These signals play a key role in identifying abnormal heart rhythms that can lead to serious conditions such as atrial fibrillation which can further lead to stroke. Irregular heart rhythms, or arrhythmias, are responsible for a large number of cardiac-related deaths around the world. Irregular heart rhythm in the heart’s upper chambers, known as atrial arrhythmias, are among the most common, especially in patients who have been hospitalised. Identifying these arrhythmias in early state can help doctors begin timely treatment and prevent complications. An ECG records the electrical activity of the heart using electrodes placed on the body. In an ECG, doctors check the ‘P-wave’, which reflects the electrical activity in the upper chambers of the heart. However, P-waves are often small and easily lost in background noise or obscured by stronger signals from other parts of the heart. As a result, detecting atrial arrhythmias can sometimes be difficult, particularly in busy clinical settings or with low-cost monitoring equipment. To address this challenge, NIT Rourkela research team has designed novel lead placement system called the Atrial Lead System (ALS). In an ECG, leads refer to specific patterns of electrical measurement created by placing electrodes on different parts of the body. Lead placement involves positioning these electrodes to capture clear signals from the heart. The ALS uses a modified arrangement to improve how electrical activity from the atria is recorded. By strengthening these signals, especially the P-wave, the system helps improve the accuracy of arrhythmia detection, both by doctors and by computer-based diagnostic tools. Speaking about the research, Dr. J. Sivaraman, Research lead, and Assistant Professor, Department of Biotechnology and Medical Engineering, NIT Rourkela, said, “We introduced novel electrode placements that significantly increased the visibility of atrial activity on ECG readings. The improved signal clarity allows for quicker analysis and better clinical decision-making.” One of the most promising aspects of this work is that it requires no change to the ECG machine itself. The innovation lies entirely in the way the leads are placed, which means the upgrade can be easily adopted in both public and private healthcare settings without additional cost.  Highlighting the clinical importance of the research, Dr. R. Pradeep Kumar, Institute of Cardiac Care, MIOT International, Chennai, said, “A clearly appreciated P wave in ECG gives a clue to the diagnosis of atrial pathology. To distinguish atrial fibrillation from other supraventricular arrhythmias, P wave morphology needs to be taken into consideration.” The research was led by Dr. J. Sivaraman, Dr. N. Bala Chakravarthy and Prof. Kunal Pal along with research scholars, Mr. Prasanna Venkatesh and Ms. Arya Bhardwaj, from NIT Rourkela, with clinical collaborations and validation provided by Dr. R. Pradeep Kumar, Senior Interventional Cardiologist, MIOT International Hospital, Chennai, and visiting consultant at Jaiprakash Hospital and Research Centre, Rourkela. Additionally, findings of this broader research have been published in international journals including Biomedical Signal Processing & Control, Medical Hypotheses, and Physical & Engineering Sciences in Medicine. The research team has also filed a patent application for the Atrial Lead System. (Application No. 202431094709). The project has received financial backing from the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), Government of India. This collaborative achievement by NIT Rourkela, MIOT International, Chennai, and Jaiprakash Hospital, Rourkela, represents the impactful synergy between academic research and clinical practice, paving the way for significant advancements in cardiac diagnostics and patient care across India and beyond. Disclaimer: This report is generated from PR/ PRO services. ‘ArdorComm Media’ holds no responsibility for its content.  

In an era marked by rapid technological advancements and shifting societal needs, universities worldwide are embracing new trends to ensure students remain competitive to ensure students remain competitive in the global job market. Higher education institutions are transforming their curricula, teaching methodologies, and infrastructure to cater to the evolving demands of industries and learners. Here are some key trends shaping the future of university education. Integration of Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data analytics are revolutionizing higher education by personalizing learning experiences, automating administrative tasks, and enabling data-driven decision-making. Universities are incorporating AI-driven tools such as intelligent tutoring systems, chatbots for student support, and predictive analytics to improve student retention and success rates. Emphasis on Skill-Based Learning and Employability With industries prioritizing practical skills over traditional degrees, universities are redesigning their curricula to focus on skill-based education. Micro-credentials, boot camps & certification programs in areas such as coding, digital marketing, and cybersecurity are gaining popularity. Partnerships with industries and internship programs ensure students graduate with hands-on experience & job-ready skills. Hybrid and Online Learning Models The pandemic accelerated the adoption of online learning, and hybrid education has now become a permanent feature in universities. Blended learning models, which combine online and in-person instruction, offer flexibility and accessibility to students worldwide. Platforms like MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses) and Learning Management Systems (LMS) are enhancing remote learning opportunities. Sustainability and Green Education Initiatives As climate change concerns rise, universities are incorporating sustainability-focused curricula and campus initiatives. Courses on renewable energy, environmental management, and sustainable business practices are becoming mainstream. Additionally, universities are implementing green campuses, reducing carbon footprints, and promoting eco-friendly research projects. Interdisciplinary and Experiential Learning Traditional disciplinary boundaries are blurring as universities encourage interdisciplinary education. Programs combining technology, business, and social sciences provide students with a holistic understanding of real-world challenges. Experiential learning through simulations, case studies, and project-based courses ensures students apply theoretical knowledge to practical problems. Globalization and International Collaboration Universities are fostering international partnerships to enhance research, student exchange programs, and cross-border education. Dual-degree programs, virtual study-abroad opportunities, and collaborative research projects allow students and faculty to engage in global learning experiences. Mental Health and Well-being Support Recognizing the pressures of academic life, universities are investing in mental health and well-being programs. Counseling services, mindfulness sessions, and stress management workshops are integrated into student support systems to ensure overall well-being and academic success. The landscape of higher education is evolving rapidly to align with industry needs, technological progress, and societal changes. Universities that adapt to these trends by incorporating innovative teaching methods, skill-based learning, and student-centric approaches will continue to thrive. The future of education lies in flexibility, inclusivity, and continuous learning, ensuring that students are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed for a dynamic and competitive world. This article is written by Dr. CA Achyut Dani, Director General & Provost, JG University Disclaimer: This report is generated from PR/ PRO services. ‘ArdorComm Media’ holds no responsibility for its content.

Prof. Sachchida Nand Tripathi, Dean of the Kotak School of Sustainability, emphasized the significance of the workshop on Watershed Development under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) 2.0, held on April 4, 2025, at IIT Kanpur. The event marked a major step toward holistic and sustainable development. The workshop focused on Watershed Development & Climate Resilience, aiming to refine strategies for water conservation and sustainable agriculture. Experts explored the role of AI, IoT, and modern technologies in optimizing water resource management. The event showcased innovative approaches to mitigating climate change and enhancing agricultural productivity, drawing insights from 150 participants. Dr. Heera Lal Patel, IAS, Chief Executive Officer, Government of Uttar Pradesh, addressed the gathering as the Chief Guest. He stressed the importance of respecting “Mother Earth,” which he described as encompassing “jal, jungle, zameen” (water, forest, and land), emphasizing the need to honor and protect these resources for collective progress. Prof. Mahendra Verma, IIT Kanpur: “Climate change has a direct impact on agriculture. Scientific strategies in water conservation can mitigate these effects and boost productivity.” Dr. Rupendra Oberoi, Delhi University: “Sustainable practices must evolve with technological advancements. AI and IoT are game changers in efficient water resource management.” Prof. Devlina Chatterjee, IIT Kanpur, Department of Management Science, highlighted that the training for PMKSY 2.0 is set to commence soon, integrating AI into ancient Asian water conservation practices. She emphasized that the modern era is driven by AI, with smart water management systems leveraging AI and IoT to revolutionize agricultural processes. Disclaimer: ‘ArdorComm Media’ Journalist was not involved in creation of this content.

LUMAMI, NAGALAND, 3rd April 2025: Nagaland University Researchers have proposed a ‘Flexible Learning System’ (FLS) designed to create personalized learning styles and content based on each student’s context, facilitating a one-to-one learning experience. They have designed a framework to integrate ‘Multi-Access Edge Computing’ (MEC) to support real-time adaptive learning in Intelligent Tutoring Systems (ITS), which are computer-based educational systems that use AI to provide personalized, adaptive instruction. This System, mooted for higher education institutions, will help the learner to pass the course with easy, moderate, or advanced content. It will also be helpful to guide the learners where they are not performing up to the mark. Multi-access Edge Computing (MEC) is an extension of cloud computing technology to provide an application deployment platform close to the end users. This Flexible Learning System is designed to implement the advantages of such a new policy and to integrate the flexibility for learning subjects where it provides the content to achieve one-to-one learning. In the Field Trials conducted by the Researchers at School of Engineering & Technology, Nagaland University, the FLS has demonstrated a remarkable reduction in task processing time by 94 per cent, enabling real-time responses that enhance flexible learning experiences. This research is more about showing the process of developing the FLS through complex algorithms. However, the researchers propose that this framework should be tested after it is successfully developed and the preliminary output can be relied on before testing it in an actual class. The Research was led by Er. Ramesh Singh, Er. Chenlep Yakha Konyak, and Er. Akangjungshi Longkumer, Faculty, Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Nagaland University. The findings were published in the reputed, peer-reviewed International Journal of Information Technology (https://doi.org/10.1007/s41870-025-02460-w) Welcoming this new centre for the university, Prof. Jagadish K. Patnaik, Vice Chancellor, Nagaland University, said, “This proposed system will help the learner to pass the course with easy, moderate or advanced content. It will also be helpful to guide the learners where they are not performing up to the mark.” Prof. Jagadish K. Patnaik added, “In the future, the model will be Internet of Things (IoT) enabled to generate deeper insights into the learner’s learning needs. Immersive learning will be enabled by integrating augmented reality and virtual reality. The system will be enhanced for ultra-low power consumption. Accessible in a wide range of services to address education services for all.” The Key Advantages of developing such FLS by Nagaland University Researchers include Providing real time feedback from learner to instructor. Providing flexibility to the learner, where they are assigned contents according to their level of knowledge. Facilitating one to one learning to allow learners to learn at their own pace. Elaborating on this Research, Er. Chenlep Yakha Konyak, Assistant Professor, Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Nagaland University, said, “The research team identified a significant gap in Intelligent Tutoring Systems (ITS), particularly the lack of real-time adaptive learning features. This deficiency limits the ability of these systems to provide personalized learning experiences tailored to individual learners’ needs.” Er. Ramesh Singh, Assistant Professor, Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Nagaland University, added, “Unlike existing ITS tools, our research emphasizes the use of Multi-access Edge Computing to optimize network bandwidth and processing tasks efficiently. The FLS not only categorizes learners and content automatically but also allows for enhanced interaction between learners and instructors.” Further, Er. Akangjungshi Longkumer, Assistant Professor, Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Nagaland University, said, “The implementation of this solution has the potential to revolutionize educational practices by providing tailored learning experiences that can significantly improve student engagement and outcomes. By addressing the needs of larger institutions, the research could lead to widespread adoption of ITS, ultimately benefiting learners across various educational settings. Currently, the research is in the development phase, with ongoing efforts to refine the FLS and expand its capabilities. The way forward includes further testing and potential commercialization of the system to make it accessible to educational institutions nationwide” TECHNICAL ASPECTS In this research, a novel Flexible Learning System in the MEC environment is proposed where the personal context parameters of learners are used to generate learning styles and personalized content to achieve one-to-one learning. The MEC environment enables the FLS to perform task processing for content generation with fast response time and efficient network bandwidth usage. The proposed FLS has achieved the goals of generating learning styles and personalized content and improved task processing time by 94% when executed at the MEC layer. Continuous learner improvement via a feedback loop for effective learning will be in-cooperated. Computing resources at the local network will be leveraged by utilizing edge computing in regions with limited infrastructure. The FLS will address the challenges of the learning experience with more personalized, efficient, and accessible in real-time. Disclaimer: ‘ArdorComm Media’ Journalist was not involved in creation of this content.

Lucknow, 31st March 2025 – Indian Institute of Management Lucknow (IIM Lucknow) hosted its 39th convocation ceremony today, marking a significant milestone for its graduating students. During the ceremony, 811 students were awarded their degrees by Mr. N. Chandrasekaran, Chairperson, Board of Governors, IIM Lucknow, and Prof. Archana Shukla, Director, IIM Lucknow. Dr. Devi Prasad Shetty, Founder & Chairperson, Narayana Health, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest and delivered Convocation address. In his inspirational address, Hon’ble Chief Guest Dr. Devi Prasad Shetty shared insights on the need for innovation and efficiency in traditional industries. He said, “Many sectors still operate as they did decades ago, and adopting automation, digital solutions, and restructuring can drive progress by improving efficiency and accessibility. While entrepreneurship fosters growth, rigid systems struggle to scale. History shows that young professionals, recognising inefficiencies, have taken services directly to communities, enhancing accessibility and impact. To excel in any field, early intervention is crucial, routine evaluations can prevent major issues, and essential services must seamlessly integrate into everyday life. Innovation, efficiency, and technology are key to building scalable, sustainable solutions. To create meaningful change, we must challenge outdated models and think differently.” Details of Graduating Cohort Program Number of Graduating Students 39th batch of the Post Graduate Programme in Management (MBA) 501 20th batch of the Post Graduate Programme in Agri-Business Management (MBA-ABM) 67 Doctoral Programme in Management (Ph.D.) 21 Executive Fellow Programme in Management (Ph.D.) 05 9th Batch of the Post Graduate Programme in Sustainable Management (MBA-SM) 44 17th batch of the International Programme in Management for Executives 110 19th batch of the Post-Graduate Programme in Management for Working Executives 63 Details of Award Winners Post Graduate Programme in Management Chairman’s Gold Medal Yogya Mittal Director’s Medal Manasi Parakh PGP Chairman’s Medal Potabattula Sridivya Hari Shankar Singhania Medal for Best All Rounder Arpita Rathi Post Graduate Programme in Sustainable Management (PGPSM) Chairman’s Gold Medal Kumar Ankur International Programme in Management for Executives (IPMX) Chairman’s Gold Medal Nitin Kumar Jain Director’s Medal Hasthavaram Sesha Reddy Post-Graduate Programme in Management for Working Executives (PGPWE) Chairman’s Gold Medal Mandeep Singh Singroha Speaking during the event, Mr. N. Chandrasekaran, Chairperson, Board of Governors, IIM Lucknow, said, “You are stepping into a world of immense opportunities, where rapid advancements in AI, blockchain, and digital technologies are reshaping industries. India stands at a unique inflection point, with a young, ambitious workforce and growing demand across infrastructure, logistics, and innovation. Whether you pursue high-tech sectors, traditional industries, or entrepreneurship, your education at IIM Lucknow will be a strong foundation for success. The institute’s significant leap in global rankings and the establishment of the Center for Blockchain Technology reflect its commitment to excellence and innovation. As you move forward, embrace change, push boundaries, and lead with integrity, The world needs leaders who not only excel but also inspire transformation, and I have no doubt you will rise to this challenge.” Presenting the Director’s report, Prof. Archana Shukla, said, “Today is a moment of immense pride as we celebrate the achievements of our graduating class. Their dedication and perseverance have brought them to this milestone. This convocation is not just the culmination of years of hard work but the beginning of a journey that will shape the future of business, leadership, and society. As our students step into the world, we are confident they will make meaningful contributions and lead with integrity and compassion. No matter where life takes them, IIM Lucknow will always be their home.” Prof. Shukla further said, “This year, our faculty and students have made remarkable strides, publishing impactful research, earning top industry accolades, and excelling in global competitions. Our programs continue to rank among the best, and our alumni are making significant contributions across industries. As we move forward, we remain committed to nurturing future leaders who are not only academically proficient but also socially responsible and driven to create lasting impact. The world needs leaders who are not just brilliant thinkers but also ethical changemakers, and I have no doubt our graduates will rise to that challenge.” The 39th convocation served as a testament to IIM Lucknow’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence, successful student placements, and impactful societal contributions. The institute continues its legacy as a premier institution shaping future business leaders and driving advancements in management education. YouTube Live Steam Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vKoV8ftQy7Q Disclaimer: ‘ArdorComm Media’ Journalist was not involved in creation of this content.

LUMAMI, NAGALAND, 25th March 2025: Nagaland University Researchers are collaborating with the local community to study and conserve indigenous Fish Species in Dikhu River, Nagaland. This research integrates traditional ecological knowledge from local villagers to better understand fish diversity, fish species assessment, indigenous fishing techniques, and community-based fishing practices, an approach that is uncommon in scientific studies in the region. The Dikhu River is one of the most important tributaries of the Brahmaputra and is home to many freshwater species crucial for local biodiversity and the economy The study underscored an urgent need for focused conservation efforts in the river systems of Nagaland. These systems support a unique and rich biodiversity but are threatened by increasing human encroachment and unsustainable practices. It showed that the Dikhu River is not only vital for local communities but also plays an important role in global conservation efforts. The research team from the Zoology Department, Nagaland University (Lumami Campus) and ICAR-National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources, Lucknow, aimed to explore and document the ichthyofaunal diversity of the Dikhu River in Nagaland. They focused on the lack of comprehensive data on fish species in the river and the pressing threats these species face due to anthropogenic pressures such as habitat destruction, overfishing, and destructive fishing techniques. The study, funded by ICAR-National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources, Lucknow recorded 28 fish species across 6 orders, 13 families, and 3 subfamilies, with Cypriniformes being the most dominant order (67.9%). The Research was led by Dr. Pranay Punj Pankaj, Associate Professor, Department of Zoology, Nagaland University (Lumami Campus) and Ms. Metevinu Kechu, Research Scholar, Nagaland University. Their findings were published in the reputed, peer-reviewed Journal of Threatened Taxa (https://doi.org/10.11609/jott.9181.17.2.26504-26514) Elaborating on the need for such research, Dr. Pranay Punj Pankaj, Associate Professor, Department of Zoology, Nagaland University (Lumami Campus), said, “The study is significant because the Dikhu River and its fish species have received limited attention in scientific literature. Thus, this study makes a valuable contribution to the body of knowledge on the freshwater ecosystems of North Eastern India. The findings are vital for conservation strategies aimed at preserving freshwater biodiversity in North Eastern India, a biodiversity hotspot. Documenting threatened fish species and their population trends will support targeted conservation efforts.” Dr. Pranay Punj Pankaj added, “We need collaborative efforts involving local communities, conservationists and Government authorities to ensure the sustainability of river ecosystems. There is also a need for stricter regulations on destructive fishing methods, habitat protection and the promotion of traditional, sustainable fishing techniques as part of an integrated conservation strategy.” The same research team also documented the first-ever record of Garra birostris, a freshwater fish species previously found in Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, and Bhutan and now recorded in the Doyang and Dikhu rivers. This discovery further enriches Nagaland’s ichthyofauna and highlights the ecological significance of these river systems in maintaining biodiversity. The findings on Garra birostris were published under the title ‘First Record of Garra birostris Nebeshwar & Vishwanath, 2013 (Cypriniformes: Cyprinidae) from Doyang and Dikhu Rivers of Brahmaputra Drainage, Nagaland.’ Their findings were published in the reputed, peer-reviewed Journal of Threatened Taxa 14(7): 21453–21457 (https://doi.org/10.11609/jott.7075.14.7.21453-21457). Further, Ms. Metevinu Kechu, Research Scholar, Nagaland University, said, “This research provides data for policy-making on sustainable fisheries and protecting aquatic ecosystems, which is crucial for the local communities that depend on these resources. The next steps involve implementing conservation policies based on the findings, including habitat restoration programs, biodiversity monitoring, and collaboration with local stakeholders for sustainable resource management.” The Researchers also focus on providing solutions to improve fish conservation including promoting sustainable fishing practices, habitat restoration, and leveraging traditional ecological knowledge from local communities. Additionally, the study aimed to identify and document these fish species’ conservation status and population trends, focusing on threatened species in the region. Unlike many studies, this research uses seasonal variation in fish diversity and relative abundance to provide a temporal understanding of how fish populations fluctuate throughout the year. The research identified seasonal patterns in fish abundance, with the post-monsoon season supporting the highest fish diversity and abundance. The research highlights that many of these species face threats from over-exploitation, habitat degradation, and pollution due to human activities. The study underscores the urgency of implementing stricter conservation measures to safeguard these vital aquatic resources. Furthermore, the same research team also sheds light on traditional fishing methods practised by the Ao and Sumi tribes in the Dikhu River. These indigenous fishing practices, including the use of bamboo rafts, gill nets, and handmade traps, continue to play a vital role in the livelihood of local communities. The Ao and Sumi tribes’ fishing techniques are sustainable, eco-friendly, and integrated with the local ecosystem. Their findings were published in the reputed, peer-reviewed Journal of Fisheries, 11(2), 112202. Disclaimer: ‘ArdorComm Media’ Journalist was not involved in creation of this content.