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The Wire
2 hours ago
- Business
- The Wire
Solidus Techno Power Strengthens Long-Term O&M Capabilities Through Strategic Partnership with Sol-Bright
Punjab-based EPC leader integrates global robotic cleaning tech into current and future solar projects across India Patiala, Punjab, India (NewsVoir) Solidus Techno Power Pvt. Ltd., one of India's fastest-growing solar EPC companies, has signed a strategic long-term partnership with global O&M technology leader Sol-Bright New Energy Technology Co., Ltd. The collaboration begins with the deployment of dry-type robotic cleaning systems at Solidus' 28.71 MWp solar PV project in Kitasar, Rajasthan—but it is designed to extend across Solidus' expanding national portfolio in the coming years. With this alliance, Solidus takes a major step toward revolutionizing its operations and maintenance (O&M) strategy - introducing automated, water-free robotic cleaning solutions to enhance performance, reduce manual intervention, and ensure long-term sustainability, particularly in highdust and water-scarce zones. 'At Solidus, innovation isn't an add-on - it's integral to how we build and manage every solar project,' said Harvinder Singh, Director, Solidus Techno Power Pvt. Ltd..'Our partnership with Sol-Bright is not just about one site in Rajasthan. It's a long-term collaboration that supports our vision of building smart, self-sustaining solar infrastructure powered by global best practices in O&M.' Founded and headquartered in Punjab, Solidus Techno Power has emerged as a dynamic force in India's solar industry. Known for its high-quality execution, project customization, and future-ready EPC approach, the company is currently executing more than 200 MWp of solar projects across North India. With a sharp focus on performance optimization, Solidus is setting new standards in solar asset lifecycle management. The integration of Sol-Bright's 7th-generation dry-cleaning robots will allow Solidus to maintain energy efficiency while significantly reducing water usage and operational overhead. The deployment at Kitasar is a pilot for broader application across Solidus' upcoming C&I and utility-scale projects. Sol-Bright is the inventor of the Automatic Robotic (Dry) Cleaning System, and the world largest manufacturer and supplier of this cleaning robot. From 2013 till date, from 1st generation to 7th generation, Sol-Bright has supplied almost 98,000 units of robot and covered roughly 40 GWp capacity worldwide. From China to the world, Sol-Bright robot has its footprints in countries including KSA, UAE, Oman, Kuwait, Jordan, Palestine, Iran, Afghanistan, Israel, Uzbekistan, India, Thailand, Kenya, Eritrea, Australia, Chile, Argentina, USA, France and more on the way. Sol-Bright wins the market with its outstanding characteristics including: 100% dry cleaning, self-powered, long-distance and long-time cleaning, excellent ability of obstacle crossing, travelling posture adjustment, self-locking mechanism on docking station, patented non-disengaging flexible bridge design, high cleaning efficiency, intelligent SCADA control and more than ten (10) years' rich project experiences globally. Priya Gupta, Country Head – India at Sol-Bright, added, 'Solidus Techno Power is one of our valued partner - ambitious, quality-driven, and future-focused. We're proud to support their operational vision with our technology and look forward to scaling this partnership across many more projects.' This announcement reflects Solidus Techno Power's continued investment in smart energy infrastructure - pushing the boundaries of EPC and O&M excellence. As the company moves forward with its next phase of growth, strategic partnerships like this one reinforce its leadership role in building a sustainable solar-powered future for India. (Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with Newsvoir and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.). This is an auto-published feed from PTI with no editorial input from The Wire.
The Wire
2 hours ago
- Business
- The Wire
Algorithmic Trading's Next Frontier: Education and Responsible Adoption Amidst Regulatory Shifts
Algorithmic trading is rapidly reshaping global capital markets, transitioning from an institutional niche to a widespread force. Automated trading strategies now account for over half the volumes on major exchanges, with increasing accessibility for individual investors and financial professionals. This evolution, however, highlights a critical need for enhanced understanding, robust education, and clear regulatory frameworks to ensure market efficiency and investor protection. The momentum driving this shift is significant and quantifiable. The global algorithmic trading market was valued at an estimated USD 21.06 billion in 2024 and is projected to surge to USD 42.99 billion by 2030, reflecting a substantial 12.9% Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) from 2025 to 2030. This impressive growth, according to Grand View Research, is largely propelled by the increasing integration of Machine Learning (ML) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies into algorithmic trading solutions. As the market expands and technology advances, regulatory bodies globally are responding with clearer guidelines. Recent frameworks, such as those introduced by India's capital market regulator (SEBI) effective August 1, 2025, signal a universal commitment to formalizing algorithmic trading, particularly for retail participants. These initiatives aim to improve compliance and foster responsible adoption, thereby creating a more robust and secure ecosystem for automated strategies worldwide. "The advent of cloud infrastructure, coupled with the rise of AI, is generating immense interest in algorithmic trading," observes Nitesh Khandelwal, Co-founder and Director of QuantInsti. "While the evolving regulatory landscape aims to build a strong foundation for the adoption of technology and quantitative methods, there remains a critical need to bridge education gaps and provide access to the right tools and platforms for both professionals and new entrants." The increasing sophistication of financial technology, coupled with market growth, means that continuous skill development is no longer optional for market participants. Mastering the development, testing, and compliant deployment of algorithmic strategies is fast becoming an essential competency in modern finance. In direct response to this growing industry demand, organizations are stepping up to provide critical educational resources. For instance, QuantInsti is hosting a complimentary online session, "Build Your Quant Portfolio: First Steps into Algorithmic Trading," on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, at 8:30 AM EST (5:30 AM PST / 6:00 PM IST). This webinar will feature expert perspectives from seasoned practitioners including Jay Parmar (Quantitative Researcher, iRage), Mrinall Mahajan (Vice President at a leading global asset management firm), Tomás V. García-Purriños (Senior Asset Allocation Strategist at a prominent global bank's asset management division), and Rohan Mathews (Global Business Head, QuantInsti). The session aims to offer practical insights into developing data-driven trading strategies, understanding the role of machine learning in financial models, and navigating real-world career transitions within quantitative finance. This initiative reflects a broader industry movement to democratize access to advanced financial knowledge and cultivate a skilled workforce capable of navigating the complexities of automated markets. As algorithmic trading continues to reshape how capital markets operate, driven by significant market expansion and technological innovation, the emphasis on comprehensive education and adherence to evolving regulatory guidelines will be paramount for sustained growth and long-term industry stability. About QuantInsti: QuantInsti is a pioneering global algorithmic trading research and education institute. It focuses on empowering financial professionals and aspiring quants worldwide through educational programs and technology solutions, aiming to contribute to the global financial markets' growth and inclusion. (Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with NRDPL and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.). This is an auto-published feed from PTI with no editorial input from The Wire.
The Wire
2 hours ago
- Science
- The Wire
MAHE Rises in Global Rankings, Excels in Sustainability and Research
BANGALORE, India, June 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institution of Eminence Deemed-to-be-University, has once again demonstrated its global academic and research excellence by securing improved positions in three of the world's most prestigious university rankings: the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings 2026, Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings 2025, and the U.S. News & World Report Best Global Universities Rankings 2025–26. These achievements reflect MAHE's unwavering commitment to academic quality, sustainability, and international collaboration. MAHE has demonstrated exceptional progress across multiple performance indicators, marking a historic milestone in its global recognition. The overall global ranking has improved substantially, with MAHE now positioned in the 851-900 band, advancing from the 901-950 band in 2025. This represents a significant leap in global standing among the world's leading universities. Commenting on MAHE's remarkable achievement, Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M. D. Venkatesh, VSM (Retd), Vice Chancellor, MAHE said: "This remarkable progress across multiple global rankings signifies MAHE's steadfast dedication to excellence in education, impactful research, and global collaboration. We view rankings as vital indicators for growth and transformation." QS World University Rankings 2026 MAHE advanced to the 851–900 band globally, up from the 901–950 band in 2025, among 1,501 ranked institutions worldwide. Highlights: • Faculty-Student Ratio: Global Rank 379; 4th in India • Sustainability Score: Increased to 14.9% (from 5.8%) • International Research Network: Scored 16.9%, with a global indicator score of 73.7 THE Impact Rankings 2025 MAHE retained its position in the 101–200 global band among over 2,300 institutions, reaffirming its leadership in advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Top SDG Performances: • SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being): Rank 74 • SDG 4 (Quality Education): Rank 43 • SDG 5 (Gender Equality): Rank 11 (1st in India for the second consecutive year) U.S. News & World Report Best Global Universities Rankings 2025–26 MAHE improved its global standing to Rank 802, up from 804 in 2024, in a ranking that assessed over 2,250 institutions across 100 countries. Regional Rankings: • Best in Asia: Rank 253 • Best in India: Rank 15 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 a transformative learning experience and enriching campus life and for national & multi-national corporates looking for top talent. For further information please contact: BharathKumar H. Director of Public Relations, Media and Social Media, MAHE, BharathKumar.H@ Photo: (Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with PRNewswire and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.). This is an auto-published feed from PTI with no editorial input from The Wire.
The Wire
2 hours ago
- Politics
- The Wire
VIBGYOR Group of Schools Announces 15th Edition of Model United Nations Conference Focused on Climate Action
New Delhi [India], June 20: VIBGYOR Group of Schools, one of India's leading K-12 education networks, is set to host the 15th edition of its flagship Model United Nations (VIBGYOR MUN) from June 25–28, 2025, at The Westin, Mumbai Powai Lake. This Quindecennial Edition marks more than a milestone, it reaffirms the conference's mission to empower young minds with the skills, awareness, and empathy needed to address global challenges. Open to students aged 14 to 19 from domestic and international schools, VIBGYOR MUN has long served as a platform for intellectual exchange and leadership growth. This year's theme centred around the UN Sustainable Development Goal 13: Climate Action—highlights the urgent need to tackle climate change through inclusive, solution-focused dialogue. Delegates will examine topics like emission reductions, environmental equity, sustainable transitions, and global cooperation, gaining insights into both the science and politics of climate resilience. The conference will be inaugurated by Dr. Vedprakash Mishra, a distinguished academician and public health expert, who will set the stage for meaningful dialogue on sustainability and global responsibility. 'What makes VIBGYOR MUN truly special is the way our students show up—not just as debaters, but as thoughtful, compassionate individuals who care deeply about the world,' said Kavita Kerawalla, Vice-Chairperson, VIBGYOR Group of Schools. 'Every year, I'm humbled by the conversations they spark and the empathy they bring into the room. This isn't just a conference, it's a reminder of what's possible when young people come together with purpose and heart.' Over four days, students will take part in eleven sessions across seven committees, including SPECPOL, COP30, UNICEF, Security Council, and Lok Sabha. Guided by experienced Chairs, the simulations aim to inspire critical thinking, collaboration, and confident problem-solving. What sets VIBGYOR MUN 15 apart is its rich co-curricular programme, designed to deepen engagement beyond formal committee discussions. Highlights include: • The MUN Colosseum, a high-stakes, parliamentary-style debate featuring the Executive Board in action. • A Fireside Chat series, offering students an intimate space to interact with leading voices in policy, activism, and diplomacy. • A midnight crisis simulation, an unscripted challenge for the Executive Board that tests agility, leadership, and teamwork under pressure. • A student-run press conference and a socio-cultural night, blending journalism, spontaneity, and community celebration into the MUN experience. Over the years, VIBGYOR MUN has hosted influential figures including Afroz Shah (UN Champion of the Earth), Erik Solheim (former Executive Director, UN Environment), and Consul Generals from Sweden, France, and the Netherlands, enriching student dialogue with real-world relevance and global perspective. As it enters its 15th year, VIBGYOR MUN continues to be a crucible for young voices committed to change, where diplomacy meets action, and students step forward not just as delegates, but as future leaders. Registrations are now open at About VIBGYOR Group of Schools Founded in 2004, VIBGYOR Group of Schools, recognised as Best Education Brand of 2023 by The Economic Times, followed by the BW Education Top Education Brands Award 2024 for Academic Excellence in K-12, is a leading network of K-12 schools known for its academic excellence for over two decades. The Group offers a unique range of world-class educational programs for the holistic development of students in curricular and co-curricular studies across all its schools. Under the leadership of Mr. Rustom Kerawalla, Founder Chairman of the institution, VIBGYOR Group of Schools is nurturing the academic growth and development of over 50,000 students nationwide across its 39 schools in 15 major cities. VIBGYOR Group of Schools delivers international levels of education in affiliation with CISCE, CBSE and Cambridge International curriculum, from early years education to Grade 12. (Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with PNN and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.). This is an auto-published feed from PTI with no editorial input from The Wire.
The Wire
2 hours ago
- The Wire
J&K Police Confirms Use of Face Recognition Tech in Detention of Carpenter at Pahalgam
Authorities have detained a carpenter who is listed in police records as an overground worker of militants (OGW) after he was flagged by a facial recognition system near Pahalgam where 26 civilians, mostly tourists, were gunned down in a terror attack in April this year. This is the first time that J&K police have officially confirmed that it was using the controversial technology which was long rumoured to have helped the security agencies in profiling Kashmiri militants and their suspected sympathisers for counter-intelligence operations. A J&K police official said on Thursday (June 20) that the suspect who hails from Seer Hamdan village of south Kashmir's Anantnag district was apprehended after being flagged by the facial recognition system at the Langanbal security checkpoint near Nunwan base camp in Pahalgam ahead of the commencement of the pilgrimage to the cave shrine. Amarnath Yatra Nunwan base camp is one of the two starting points for the annual Hindu pilgrimage which will begin from July 3 under the shadow of the Pahalgam terrorist attack and culminate on August 9. 'The individual is in custody; investigation underway. Safety of #AmarnathYatra2025 remains our top priority,' the official said in a post on X, formerly Twitter. Sources said that the system has been pre-fed with the database of all the suspected OGWs of Kashmir and it has been deployed near at least two checkpoints along the road to Pahalgam. A suspected OGW, who spoke with , said that he was recently asked to furnish his Aadhaar details at his concerned police station. It was not immediately clear whether the system works by recognising a suspect's facial features or their biometrics. A similar system is also being installed on the second and shortest route to the Himalayan cave shrine which commences from Baltal area of central Kashmir's Sonmarg health resort. The J&K Police have kept a database of hundreds of OGWs who have been named or formally charged in militancy-related First Information Reports (FIR) in Kashmir. These Kashmiri suspects are often summoned to police stations and detained on important national holidays such as Republic Day and Independence Day, or whenever the prime minister or union home minister are visiting the Valley. Although most of the suspects named in the FIRs have been granted bail by the courts, police has kept them on its watch list amid apprehensions of their continuing involvement in militancy. The controversial system would effectively make them criminals in the eyes of law and liable for detention or arrest without any sound legal backing. 'No one with an FIR or with an adverse police record can walk or travel on Khanabal-Pahalgam road particularly beyond Mattan (in Anantnag district) till the time the is over,' sources said. A controversial technology The use of facial recognition surveillance in law enforcement has been a source of raging debate across the world with human rights groups and legal experts seeking a complete ban on its use in public places over the fears of privacy violation and human rights concerns. According to a Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) analysis, India has about 170 facial recognition systems with a collective expenditure of around Rs 15.13 billion of which Rs 7.7 billion have been spent by the central government and Rs 7.43 billion by the state governments. However, only 20 of these systems are reportedly operational in Delhi, Maharashtra and Telangana, the IFF analysis states, adding that the police, army and other security agencies made more use of the technology than any other government departments. In 2018, police told the Delhi high court that the software used by the facial recognition system in the national capital was accurate only 2% of the time and 'not good'. The National Crime Records Bureau is developing the National Automated Facial Recognition System (AFRS) to use facial recognition technology for assisting law enforcement agencies in crime investigations by identifying criminals from a bank of photographs and videos. The Supreme Court has ruled that any intrusion by the State into people's right to privacy, which is protected as a fundamental right under Article 21 of the Constitution, must conform to the thresholds of legality, necessity, proportionality and procedural safeguards. However, the IFF has said that the AFRS proposal fails to meet any of these thresholds, citing manifest arbitrariness and the absence of legality, accountability and other safeguards. Legal experts have also said that there was no law in place to keep track of how this technology was being used. Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International among 180 global defenders of human rights have called on the governments across the world to stop using facial recognition surveillance technology in public spaces, terming it as a tool of 'mass surveillance' as concerns prevail over the use and storage of data gathered by the systems. 'The use of facial recognition by the police and security/intelligence agencies will not only lead to violation of the rights to privacy and freedom of speech and expression but also lead to human rights violations by helping to increase systemic bias against already marginalised communities,' Amnesty has said in a letter to the prime minister Narendra Modi.
