Shri N Chandrababu Naidu, Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, and Shri Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, will attend the foundation ceremony of the Amaravati Quantum Valley initiative.
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A State Led Push Into Quantum Research Advances With Amaravati Quantum Valley
Amaravati, February 6, 2026: Andhra Pradesh is set to move into an execution phase in advanced science infrastructure with the foundation ceremony of the Amaravati Quantum Valley, an initiative aimed at building an integrated ecosystem for quantum research, talent development, and industry collaboration.
The programme will feature a series of formal launches and collaborative announcements reflecting coordination between government, academia, and industry. These include the unveiling of the Amaravati Quantum Valley identity, the announcement of prize awards linked to innovation initiatives, and the launch of quantum cloud services in collaboration with IBM and Tata Consultancy Services.
The event will also highlight talent development and entrepreneurship. Dignitaries will interact with students participating in the Amaravati Quantum Valley hackathon programme and engage with early stage startups operating from Medha Towers, underlining the initiative’s focus on skills, research capacity, and enterprise creation.
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From experimentation to execution, AI strategy enters a more measured phase at Capgemini
Pascal Brier, Chief Innovation Officer and Member of the Group Executive Committee at Capgemini, explains why governance and leadership readiness now matter more than speed
Mumbai, 16 January 2026: After several years of experimentation and rapid pilots, organisations are entering a more deliberate phase of artificial intelligence adoption, according to new research released by Capgemini. The findings point to a clear shift away from short-term AI hype towards long-term value creation anchored in governance, skills, accountability, and leadership readiness.
The research, published by the Capgemini Research Institute, indicates that AI is no longer viewed as a peripheral productivity tool but as a core component of enterprise strategy. A growing number of organisations have moved generative AI use cases into live operations, while many are also exploring agent-based AI systems. Business leaders increasingly believe that failing to scale AI at pace with competitors could lead to missed strategic opportunities.At the same time, how organisations define AI success is evolving. Productivity and cost reduction are no longer the sole benchmarks. Measures now extend to revenue growth, customer experience, risk management, compliance, and knowledge management. This broader view reflects a more mature understanding of AI’s role in enterprise decision making.
Commenting on the shift, Pascal Brier, Chief Innovation Officer and Member of the Group Executive Committee at Capgemini, said organisations have entered a more pragmatic era of AI-driven transformation. He noted that the focus has moved to embedding AI across the enterprise rather than pursuing isolated experiments, with strong foundations in data, governance, and leadership emerging as critical enablers.The research also highlights that organisations are becoming more selective in their AI investments. Many leaders report pausing lower-value initiatives in favour of projects with clearer outcomes. On average, organisations expect to increase AI spending in 2026, directing funds toward infrastructure, data readiness, governance frameworks, and workforce upskilling to support sustainable adoption.
Alongside operational deployment, AI is beginning to influence executive decision making. A separate Capgemini Research Institute study finds that more than half of CXOs already use AI to support strategic decisions, primarily for research, analysis, and documentation. Over the next few years, leaders expect AI to play a larger role in challenging assumptions and augmenting strategic thinking, while still remaining an input rather than a replacement for human judgement.Despite growing adoption, trust remains a key concern. Many senior leaders cite legal, security, and explainability risks as barriers to deeper reliance on AI for executive decisions. Clear governance and accountability frameworks are therefore seen as essential to increasing confidence and ensuring responsible use.
As enterprises look ahead to 2026, the research suggests that success with AI will depend less on speed and experimentation, and more on how effectively organisations align technology with leadership, governance, and long-term business objectives.At Prittle PrattleNews, featuring you virtuously, we celebrate the commitment and innovation. Led by Editor-in-Chief Smruti Bhalerao, our platform is dedicated to sharing impactful stories that inspire change and create awareness. Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube for more stories that matter.
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From policy labs to field deployment, Matrix Geo Solutions formalises delivery role with DRIIV Foundation
Rahul Jain and Prof. Ambuj D. Sagar discuss how the collaboration bridges scientific research and on ground implementation
Matrix Geo Solutions Limited has entered a formal delivery framework with DRIIV Foundation to support the execution of government backed science and technology programmes, marking a shift from research stage development to structured field implementation across drone, geospatial, and spatial analytics projects.
The Memorandum of Understanding establishes DRIIV Foundation as the programme management and implementation anchor, while Matrix Geo Solutions will be responsible for on ground execution, technology deployment, and operational delivery. The arrangement is designed to support national and state level initiatives involving public agencies and institutional stakeholders.The scope of work under the framework includes drone and UAV based surveys, LiDAR mapping, three dimensional digital twins, GeoAI driven spatial analytics, satellite data applications, cloud based GIS platforms, and collaborative research and capacity building initiatives. The structure allows research outputs and pilot concepts to be tested through demonstrations and then converted into defined and executable projects.
Rahul Jain, Managing Director at Matrix Geo Solutions, said the collaboration strengthens the pathway from scientific research to practical deployment. He noted that combining DRIIV Foundation’s policy and institutional ecosystem with Matrix Geo’s execution capabilities enables technology driven solutions to be applied across sectors such as water management, infrastructure planning, environmental monitoring, and governance systems.Prof. Ambuj D. Sagar, Chief Executive Officer at DRIIV Foundation, said the MoU supports the foundation’s mandate of translating advanced research into solutions that can be implemented at scale. He stated that Matrix Geo’s experience in drone operations, geospatial engineering, and infrastructure projects adds delivery depth to government aligned science and technology programmes.
The framework also includes provisions for pilot projects, training initiatives, and workforce development in drone and geospatial technologies. Both organisations confirmed that discussions are underway to identify initial pilots that can move into formal project execution.The agreement is valid for five years and is intended to support sustained collaboration across national missions, state programmes, and public sector initiatives, with a focus on strengthening technology led planning and implementation capacity.
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Technip Energies secures key engineering mandates in BPCL’s refinery upgrade plans
Davendra Kumar outlines the scope and significance of new contracts at the Bina and Mumbai refineries in India
India’s downstream energy infrastructure is entering a phase of higher complexity and scale, and Technip Energies has strengthened its role in this transition through two major contracts awarded by Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited. The mandates cover key expansion and upgrade projects at BPCL’s Bina refinery in Madhya Pradesh and Mumbai refinery in Maharashtra.
At the Bina refinery, Technip Energies has been entrusted with Engineering, Procurement, Construction and Commissioning services for new polypropylene and Butene-1 units. These units will add production capacity of 550 kilotons per annum of polypropylene and 50 kilotons per annum of Butene-1, both critical inputs for downstream industries such as packaging, piping, and automotive manufacturing. The project forms part of BPCL’s larger Bina Petrochemical and Refinery Expansion initiative, which includes increasing refining capacity alongside the development of new petrochemical infrastructure.The second contract relates to BPCL’s Mumbai refinery, where Technip Energies will provide Engineering, Procurement and Construction management services for a 3 million metric tons per annum Petro Resid Fluidized Catalytic Cracker unit. This facility will be India’s first PRFCC unit, designed to convert heavy refinery residues into lighter, higher-value products. The scope also includes associated auxiliary units, offsites, and utilities, reflecting the technical depth and integration required for residue upgradation projects.
Together, the two contracts represent a large award for Technip Energies, with combined revenue estimated between €250 million and €500 million. The projects were recorded in the company’s Project Delivery and Technology, Products and Services segments during the fourth quarter of 2025.Commenting on the awards, Davendra Kumar, Managing Director of Technip Energies India, said the projects reflect BPCL’s confidence in the company’s engineering capabilities and execution strength. He noted that supporting development plans at both the Bina and Mumbai sites aligns with Technip Energies’ long-standing commitment to India’s energy infrastructure and industrial growth.
The contracts also reinforce a collaboration that spans more than two decades between Technip Energies and BPCL. With over 50 years of operational experience in India and a strong local presence across Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Ahmedabad, and Dahej, Technip Energies continues to position itself as a partner of choice for large-scale and technically complex energy projects.As India seeks to enhance refining efficiency, increase petrochemical output, and maximise value from heavier feedstocks, projects such as these highlight the growing importance of advanced engineering, integration capability, and long-term execution expertise in shaping the country’s downstream energy landscape.
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DITE&C and ITG boost Canacona’s digital infrastructure with 100 WiFi hotspots, 240 CCTV cameras and expanded 5G coverage at Partagali Math
His Holiness Vidyadheesh Teerth Swamiji inaugurated the rollout alongside Minister Rohan Khaunte, Dr Chandrakhant Shetye, Kabir Shirgaonkar, Praveen Volvotkar and Shrinivas Shenvi Dempo as Goa strengthens digital services around the Partagali Math and 77-foot idol site.
The Department of Information Technology, Electronics and Communications (DITE&C), in collaboration with Infotech Corporation of Goa Ltd (ITG), has significantly upgraded digital infrastructure at Shree Samsthan Gokarn Partagali Jeevottam Math with the deployment of more than 100 WiFi access points, over 200 CCTV installations and improved 5G connectivity around the Math campus. The initiative, launched on November 27, reflects the State’s ongoing efforts to extend reliable digital services to high-footfall spiritual centres and rural pockets.
The rollout was inaugurated by His Holiness, Paramapoojya Shreemad Vidyadheesh Teerth Shreepad Vader Swamiji in the presence of Shri Rohan Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister for IT, Electronics & Communications, Tourism and Printing & Stationery; Dr Chandrakhant Shetye, Chairman, ITG; Shri Kabir Shirgaonkar, Director, DITE&C; Shri Praveen Volvotkar, Managing Director, ITG; and Shri Shrinivas Shenvi Dempo, President, Central Committee & Sardha Panchashatamanotsava Committee.
The initiative aligns with the vision of Dr Pramod Sawant, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Goa, to strengthen digital access across the State while supporting local economies and community-centric centres of culture and tourism.While Canacona already had 5G networks from Jio and BSNL, connectivity has been further strengthened with additional coverage from Airtel (Indus Towers) around the Math premises. This enhancement assumes greater significance as the area attracts rising footfall, particularly since the installation of the 77-foot bronze idol.
Speaking at the launch, His Holiness Vidyadheesh Teerth Swamiji said, “I am grateful to the Goa Government and to Minister Rohan Khaunte for ensuring that all digital arrangements are in place ahead of the Friday celebrations. This initiative brings much-needed digital infrastructure to rural areas, and I appreciate the collective effort to support the Math and the wider community.”Minister Rohan Khaunte added, “The deployment of WiFi access points and surveillance infrastructure at the Math reinforces our commitment to strengthening Goa’s digital backbone. While it will support the immediate needs of the celebrations, its long-term impact will benefit residents, devotees and visitors. This upgrade will enhance the experience within the Math and contribute to positioning Canacona as a key spiritual tourism destination.”
The project is being executed by Infotech Corporation of Goa Ltd, which has installed high-speed WiFi access points capable of delivering up to 10Gbps. Of the 100-plus hotspots, 57 are permanent and will continue serving the local community beyond the festive period. Additional temporary hotspots have been added to manage the expected surge in visitors for the Sardha Panchashatamanotsava celebrations.A total of 240 CCTV cameras are being installed across the Math premises, strengthening crowd management and public safety. Of these, 80 cameras are permanent. Select units are equipped with AI-based capabilities that support headcount monitoring and identification of habitual offenders based on data inputs from police authorities.
With this rollout, DITE&C reinforces its long-standing aim to extend digital connectivity, safety infrastructure and seamless service delivery to every corner of Goa. By bringing these upgrades to the Partagali Math, the State ensures that both residents and pilgrims benefit from enhanced digital access as the region continues to evolve as a major spiritual and cultural hub.At Prittle Prattle News, we honor your dedication and inventiveness led by showcasing you in a positive light. Under the direction of Editor-in-Chief Smruti Bhalerao, our platform is committed to disseminating powerful narratives that raise awareness and motivate change. For more important stories, follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTub
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India’s Zebu Raises $1M to Deliver Next-Gen Military Drones with Indigenous Capabilities
Hyderabad-based defense-tech startup backed by Bluehill VC to accelerate production and deployment of four unmanned systems for armed forces
Zebu Intelligent Systems, a rapidly emerging name in India’s defense innovation landscape, has secured $1 million in pre-Series A funding. The round was led by Bluehill VC, a Chennai-based venture capital firm focused on deep-tech investments. The funding will be used to fast-track the production and deployment of four indigenous unmanned aerial systems (UAVs) developed by the company for various divisions of the Indian armed forces.
Founded in Hyderabad in 2021 by Santosh Balajee Banisetty, a Ph.D. in Robotics and Intelligent Systems, Zebu has grown into a vertically integrated defense-tech company. It specializes in AI-enabled UAVs designed for both combat and surveillance applications. Its portfolio includes systems for the Indian Air Force, Indian Coast Guard, and Army border regiments. Each system is tailored to meet specific use-case scenarios and battlefield demands.One of Zebu’s flagship developments is a net-capture drone designed to neutralize hostile UAVs mid-air using a six-cartridge mechanism. This system, currently undergoing radar integration tests, has been engineered to trap unauthorized drones without collateral damage. For coastal applications, Zebu has built a search and rescue UAV capable of withstanding high-wind and water immersion conditions, with built-in AI for return-to-base operations. The company’s third offering is a swarm-enabled combat drone developed for the air force, equipped to execute coordinated strikes. Finally, Zebu has designed a tethered aerial surveillance platform for the Army, capable of delivering live border intelligence in continuous operations.The company’s fully indigenous manufacturing model has allowed it to develop all key components, including electronic speed controllers, camera gimbals, custom battery packs, and a mission-grade ground control station (GCS). Its GCS platform has already been tested in live operations with the Coast Guard and is slated to replace foreign-imported command systems currently in use
Zebu’s work aligns directly with the Government of India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative. It has filed seven patents, secured two trademarks, and is actively scaling its IP portfolio with new subsystems and mission software. In 2024, the company was awarded a Guinness World Record for achieving the longest drone endurance in the under-5kg category.
The $1 million raised will support Zebu’s next set of field deployments and initiate production of its UAVs at scale. The startup is also preparing for a $5 million Series A round to expand internationally, with key export markets identified in Southeast Asia and the Middle East.
Investor Sridhar Parthasarathi, General Partner at Bluehill VC, said the company represents a significant opportunity in a global counter-drone market projected to cross $11 billion by 2030. He added that India’s defense ecosystem benefits tremendously from such ground-up platforms built by domestic engineers and field-tested on Indian soil.Zebu’s impact is not limited to defense. The company has already commercialized its battery packs and GCS systems for industrial drone inspections, unmanned logistics, and large-area mapping. Several Indian and US-based OEMs are currently piloting Zebu’s subsystems for civilian applications. Its dual-use strategy gives it a path to scale both within and beyond government contracts.
The founder, Santosh Balajee, emphasized that sovereign defense technology is no longer optional, but foundational. He said the goal is to ensure India’s defense modernization is driven by local innovation, reducing dependency on imports and strengthening national security. Zebu’s ongoing hiring of a Chief Business Officer and domain experts in procurement and systems integration further signals the company’s intention to scale across defense and enterprise sectors.
Zebu now stands among India’s most promising hardware-first defense startups, focused not only on product development but also on ecosystem building. Its technology roadmap, grounded in indigenization, is designed to deliver scalable solutions for both military operations and commercial drone markets. With this round of funding, Zebu enters a phase of operational maturity, ready to export India’s next-generation unmanned systems to global theaters.
This exclusive editorial is published by Prittle Prattle News under the editorial direction of Smruti Bhalerao, featuring you virtuously.At Prittle Prattle News, we honor your dedication and inventiveness led by showcasing you in a positive light. Under the direction of Editor-in-Chief Smruti Bhalerao, our platform is committed to disseminating powerful narratives that raise awareness and motivate change. For more important stories, follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube.