Poornaprajna Institute of Management (PIM), Udupi, in association with the Udupi Management Association, successfully organized a two-day International Conference on the theme “Technology as a Catalyst for Global Business Growth and Entrepreneurial Development” on 24th and 25th April 2026. The conference aimed to provide a vibrant academic platform for scholars, researchers, industry experts, and students to deliberate on the transformative role of technology in shaping business growth and entrepreneurial opportunities in the modern digital era.
The conference was formally inaugurated on 24th April 2026 with the traditional lighting of the lamp by His Holiness Shri Shri Eeshapriya Theertha Swamiji, President of the Udupi Sri Adamarmatha Educational Council. In his inaugural address, His Holiness blessed the gathering and highlighted the importance of research, innovation, and value-based education in today’s knowledge-driven society. He encouraged students and scholars to actively engage in research-oriented academic pursuits and contribute to societal development through innovative and ethical practices.
The inaugural session commenced with a warm welcome address by Dr. P. S. Aithal, Director of Poornaprajna Institute of Management. In his address, he outlined the objectives of the conference and emphasized the importance of integrating technological advancements with management practices to achieve sustainable global business growth.
On this occasion, His Holiness Swamiji released three important publications: the Book of Abstracts of the International Conference, the Conference Proceedings of the National Conference held in December 2025, and the book titled “The Path of Moksha for Ultimate Liberation,” authored by Dr. P. S. Aithal and Dr. Ramanathan Srinivasan.
The Chief Guest of the programme, Brig. Dr. Surjit Singh Pabla, Chairman of the Manipal Skill Development Centre, Manipal, delivered an inspiring keynote address. Drawing from his vast experience in the defence sector, he emphasized the significance of lifelong learning, adaptability, and continuous skill development in an era marked by rapid technological transformation. He encouraged students and professionals to constantly upgrade their knowledge and competencies to remain relevant and competitive in the evolving global environment.
The programme was further enriched by the presence of several distinguished dignitaries. Dr. A. P. Bhat, Hon. Secretary of USAMEC, Bangalore, spoke on the transformative impact of technology on the global economy and stressed the need for responsible and ethical use of emerging technologies. CA T. Prashantha Holla, Hon. Treasurer of PIM, highlighted the importance of academic conferences in fostering research collaboration, intellectual exchange, and knowledge dissemination. Dr. Ramu, Principal PPC, emphasized the importance of encouraging students to actively participate in research and innovation activities to enhance their analytical and critical thinking skills.
Dr. Chandrasheker, Hon. Secretary of PIM, delivered the presidential remarks and addressed the gathering on the growing influence of Artificial Intelligence on the younger generation. He discussed both the opportunities and challenges associated with the widespread adoption of AI and emphasized the need for responsible and informed use of technology.
During the pre-inaugural session, Dr. K. V. M. Varamballi, Former Director of Manipal Institute of Management, delivered an insightful lecture on the economic dimensions of technological development. He explained both the positive and negative implications of technological advancement on economic growth, employment patterns, and organizational structures, urging policymakers and academicians to adopt balanced strategies for inclusive and sustainable development.
The post-inaugural session featured a series of keynote lectures delivered by eminent scholars and industry experts from India and abroad through both offline and online modes. Prof. Harikrishna Bhat, CEO of HCL Japan, delivered a keynote address on “Digital Transformation and Global Competitiveness,” highlighting how digital technologies are reshaping global markets and redefining business strategies. Dr. Michael Sony, Professor at Oxford Brookes University, UK, spoke on “Agentic AI in Operations Management,” discussing the evolving role of artificial intelligence in enhancing operational efficiency and strategic decision-making. Dr. Prantosh K. Paul, Professor at Raiganj University, West Bengal, delivered a presentation on “Demystifying the Emerging Impact of AI in Diverse Areas of Sustainability,” emphasizing the role of intelligent technologies in promoting sustainable development. Prof. Anjay Kumar Mishra, Professor at Madhesh University, Nepal, delivered an engaging lecture on “The Future of Accounting Operations,” highlighting how automation and AI are transforming financial management and accounting practices. Prof. Dr. Ramanathan Srinivasan, Former Fellow of the Indian Institute of Advanced Study, Shimla, delivered a thought-provoking address on “Cyber Fraud in the Era of Digital India,” highlighting the emerging challenges and risks associated with the rapidly expanding digital economy.
A major highlight of the conference was an engaging panel discussion featuring eminent experts including Mr. M. R. Vasudev, Former Managing Director of Mangalore International Airport; Prof. H. V. Somayaji, Coordinator of M.Com., PPC; Dr. Krishna Kothai, Director of Poornaprajna Research and Development Centre; Prof. Ramanathan Srinivasan; Mr. Srikanth, Head of the Department of Computer Science, PPC; and Dr. Vinay Prabhu, Professor at PIM. The panelists discussed the challenges and opportunities created by emerging technologies and shared valuable insights on how academia and industry can collaborate effectively to promote innovation and entrepreneurial development.
The panel discussion was efficiently moderated by Dr. Bharathi Karanth, Professor at Poornaprajna Institute of Management, who also elaborated on the objectives and significance of the conference theme.
The inaugural session was gracefully compered by Mr. Ramakrishna Nayak. Dr. Diana Saldanha played a key role in coordinating the keynote sessions conducted both online and offline and proposed the vote of thanks.
The conference witnessed enthusiastic participation from academicians, researchers, scholars, students, and industry professionals from across India and abroad. A total of 76 research abstracts were received from participants representing diverse institutions and research backgrounds. Selected authors presented their research papers through both offline and online sessions conducted on 24th and 25th April 2026. The presentations covered a wide range of contemporary themes including artificial intelligence, digital transformation, entrepreneurship, financial technology, sustainable business practices, and global economic development.
The entire programme was successfully supported by dedicated faculty members and enthusiastic student volunteers, whose coordinated efforts ensured the smooth organization and effective conduct of the conference.
The conference served as an excellent platform for intellectual interaction, academic collaboration, and knowledge exchange. It provided valuable insights into the transformative role of emerging technologies in driving global business growth, innovation, and entrepreneurial development. The event concluded with a renewed commitment to promoting interdisciplinary research and encouraging innovative solutions to address contemporary business and economic challenges in an increasingly technology-driven world.