CHANDIGARH,Feb 24^th, 2026-Punjab Unaided Colleges Association (PUCA) in collaboration with Futred Innovation Studios organized a conference on “Accelerating Research Translation & AI-Driven Innovation Ecosystems aligned to Viksit Bharat Vision” at PHD Chamber, Chandigarh.

The event was graced by Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) S. Satnam Singh as the Chief Guest, while the programme was presided over by Dr. Anshu Kataria, President, PUCA; Chairman, Aryans Group of Colleges, Rajpura near Chandigarh.

Among the prominent prominent persons present were Prof (Dr.) Manpreet Singh Manna, Dr. Manish Malhotra, Mr. Russell Merz, Emeritus Professor Michael Clements, Mr. Kamal Chabra along with representatives from leading universities, institutions and industry bodies. The conference witnessed participation from academicians, industry experts, institutional leaders and students from various colleges across Punjab.

Dr. Anshu Kataria, while addressing the gathering, emphasized that India is moving rapidly towards becoming a global knowledge hub and institutions must focus on innovation, research commercialization and industry partnerships to contribute to the Viksit Bharat Vision. He highlighted the role of private educational institutions in skill development, entrepreneurship promotion and youth empowerment.

Mr. Russell Merz, Founder, Brisbane Strategy Ventures, Australia, delivered an insightful address highlighting global innovation trends, startup ecosystems and the need for Indian institutions to create industry-ready graduates through applied research and entrepreneurship. He appreciated India’s demographic strength and encouraged institutions to collaborate internationally for technology-driven growth.

Emeritus Professor Michael Clements from College of Practice Professors, Australia, spoke about transforming higher education through experiential learning, practice-based education models and AI-enabled teaching methodologies. He emphasized that institutions must move beyond theoretical learning and focus on real-world problem solving to enhance employability and innovation outcomes.

On the occasion, renowned Punjabi Actor & Comedian Binnu Dhillon and Actor & Singer Ammy Virk attended as Special Guests and interacted with the audience regarding their upcoming movie Bambukat-2, releasing on 20th February. They shared that the movie is a must-watch for youth and carries a strong message that “Dignity is the greatest invention and one should always protect his or her roots.” They encouraged young people to value substance over status and to stand up for justice in society.

During the programme, Abhishek College, Jain College, Meera College, Guru Ramdas Group of Colleges, Desh Bhagat College, Sant Kabir College, ISF College, SBS College, SFC College, Ferozepur College of Engineering, Amritsar College of Nursing, Mai Bhago College and Aryans Group of Colleges were also honored for their dedicated contribution during the Punjab Governor Anti-Drug Awareness March organized from 9th to 12th February across Tarn Taran, Ferozepur, Abohar and Fazilka. The institutions were appreciated for actively supporting the social cause and spreading awareness among youth against drug abuse.