BENGALURU TECH SUMMIT 2026

Meet the mentors

Mentor – Mentee Connect

Connect with Industry Experts | Gain Insights | Accelerate Your Growth

The Mentor-Mentee Connect Programme at Bengaluru Tech Summit 2026 provides a platform for registered attendees to interact with experienced industry mentors, business leaders, and subject-matter experts.

Participants can explore mentor profiles, identify experts relevant to their interests, and submit meeting requests for available time slots during the summit. All mentoring meetings are subject to availability and approval by the organising team.

Important Dates

Last date to submit requests	13 November 2026
Last date for approvals	14-15 November 2026
Meeting reminders	16 November 2026
On-site mentoring	17–19 November 2026

How to Apply for a Mentoring Meeting

Explore Mentors: Browse approved mentors and review their profiles, expertise and available slots.
Verify Your BTS 2026 Registration: Click View Schedule and verify your registration using your registered email address or Transaction Identification Number (TIN).
Select Mentor & Slot: Choose your preferred mentor and an available date and time slot during 17–19 November 2026.
Submit a Meeting Request: Submit the request through the website. Each attendee may submit up to two requests, with no more than two approved meetings.
Await Approval: The organising team reviews requests based on availability and capacity. A request is not a confirmed booking.
Receive Confirmation: Approved applicants receive meeting details at their registered email address.
Attend the Session: Report to the designated Mentor Connect area at BIEC for your confirmed session.

Meeting Format

45-minute mentoring session plus 15-minute changeover
One mentor with up to five approved mentees per session
On-site at the designated Mentor Connect area, BIEC
Meeting confirmation subject to organising-team approval

Rules & Regulations

Registration Requirement: Applicants must hold a valid BTS 2026 registration and verify using their registered email or TIN.
Request Limit: Each attendee may submit a maximum of two mentoring meeting requests.
Approval Limit: A maximum of two meetings may be approved per attendee, subject to availability.
Approval-Based Allocation: submitting meeting request does not constitute meeting confirmation.
Meeting Capacity: One mentor and up to five approved mentees may participate per slot.
Session Duration: Each session is 45 minutes, with 15 minutes for changeover.
Slot Availability: Slots depend on mentor availability and organising-team approval.
Confirmation: Approved applicants will be notified at their registered email address.
Punctuality: Participants are requested to report 15 minutes before the confirmed slot.
Meetings may be changed or cancelled due to operational requirements or mentor unavailability.
Professional Conduct: Participants should respect mentors and fellow attendees.
The programme does not guarantee funding, investment, partnerships, employment or other commercial outcomes.
Organiser Discretion: Organisers may approve, decline, reschedule or cancel requests as required.
Acceptance: Submitting a request indicates acceptance of the published programme conditions.

CONNECT. LEARN. GROW.

Meet the mentors

Explore mentor profiles and their session schedules.

Mr Aaqib Jameel

Chief Manager - Investments · IKP KNOWLEDGE PARK

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Mr Achyutha Anantha Murthy

Co-Founder, COO · Nija Venture Impacts Pvt. Ltd.

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Mr Addepalli Pawan Kumar

Partner · Get-Right Management Consultants

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Mr Ajay Apparoop

Creative Director · Shining Cloud / Pocket FM

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Mr Alan John

Founder and CEO · Flowtogen

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Mr Aniket KUMAR

Vice President · The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited

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Mr Anil Rao

PhD Research Scholar and IT Industry Leader · Jain (Deemed-to-be) University

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Ms Archana Kulkarni

Advisor · Startup Innologues

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Mr Ashok Suresh Chandavarkar

Designated Partner · NurtuRise Advisors

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Mr Ashwinder Raj Singh

CEO · BCD Royale

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Dr Aswath H

Assistant Professor · IIIT Dharwad

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Mr Atul Udupi

Executive Director · TiE Mangaluru

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Mr Bharathi Athinarayanan

Founder · AGROWVITZ INNOVATIONS PRIVATE LIMITED

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Mr CHANNABASAPPA KOLACHI

CTO , CO-FOUNDER · MYSTIC TECHNOLABS

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Mr Chethan Kumar G S

Global Startup Mentor · AnyBody Can Do Private Limited

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Mr Dipendu Biswas

Director · Tarisa Technologies

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Mr Ganesh Kumar T K

Technical Lead · Centre of Excellence in Design, IISc

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Mr Ghanashyam C

Business Head-India · Skilledup life Ltd

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Mr Gokul Nagaraj

Strategy, Pricing, Market Analytics, & Business Intelligence Leader - India South Asia · GE Healthcare

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Mr Harish Gadagin

CEO · Anvesana TBI

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Mr Hemanth Gopinath

Director · Hubwords Pvt Ltd

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Dr HN Suma

Director - IIEC · Global Academy of Technology

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Mr Ishu Bansal

Founder · Sarvodaya Ventures

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Mr Jagan Karthick

Chief Operating Officer · Savemom Private Limited

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Mr Joshin Das

Founder · Oligosoft Corp

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Dr K Joshil Raj

CEO · Centre of Excellence in Design(D-CoE), IISc

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Mr Kalyana Rao

Founder & CEO · Verdek Networks Pvt Ltd

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Mr Kiran Bettadapur

Director · Blaze Ventures

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Dr Kiran Kumari Patil

Professor and President ,MoE's Innovation Council · CMR University

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Dr lakshmi Jagannathan

Director and Co founder · Saham Ventures Pvt Ltd

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Mr Mahesh H C

Senior Consultant · CPDMED TBI

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Ms Malathi Ramakrishna

Sr. Manager- Incubation Center · REVA Incubation center

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Mr Manikumar Lakkaraju

Founder & CEO · Startbee Consulting LLP

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Mr Manoj Nehra

Founder · Surani Technologies

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Mr Mike Cruz

Founder & Executive Leadership Coach; Business Consultant, Stanford SEED · Mike Cruz LLP | Stanford SEED

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Dr MOHAN KRISHNA S

MANAGER-RESEARCH, SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT CENTRE · INDIAN INSTITUTE OF MANAGEMENT BANGALORE

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Mr Narayanan Subramaniam

Technology Transformation Executive | Founder & CTO · Vanashri Technology Consulting

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Mr P. SELVA SUNDAR RAJAN

Proprietor · AADITHIYA Training and Consultants

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Ms Padmini Navalgund

Product Compliance Officer · Bosch Global Software Technologies Pvt Ltd

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Mr Pankaj Ramani

Principal Consultant - Information Technology · Mphasis Ltd

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Mr Pradeep Kumar M P

Director · Tecnotree / Karnataka Startup Cell / ELEVATE / KITS / Dept of Electronics, IT & BT

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Mr Prakash Nimbalkar

Freelancer · Startup Intellect

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Mr Praneeth Nerimetla

Founder · Rachaita Labs

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Mr Prasanna Lohar

CEO · Future Transformation Pvt

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Mr Prashant Pansare

Partner · Eagle10 Ventures

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Dr R Roy

CEO · chiestra racehorse business pvt ltd (RBC)

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Mr Rafeek Ahamad

IPR Attorney and Startup Board Advisor · CGPDTM, Govt of Inida

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Dr Raghunandan NK

Director · International School of Business and Media

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Mr Raja Sekhar Kommu

Founder and CEO · IndicStack AI

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Mr Rajesh Shenoy

Partner · Cognizant Technology Solutions

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Mr Rajiv Srinivas

Managing Partner · AddAptech

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Mr Rakesh Marturkar

CEO · Guru Nanak Jhira Entrepreneurship Research and Business Incubation Foundation

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Dr Ramaling Kotnal

Professor and Director (R&D) · BLDEA's SSM College of Pharmacy and Research Centre, Vijayapura 586103

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Mr Ramalingeswara Rao K V

Founder · NIRAM

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Mr Ramanathan V

Accredited Angel Investor/ Advisor / Board Member · Independent

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Mrs ravpreet ganesh

Group Chief strategy officer · Ziel Network

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Mr RENUKA DEVI

PROFESSOR / A.O. · ACHARYA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

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Dr Sai Vinod

Post Doctoral Fellow · IIM-Bangalore

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Mr Sandeep Pawar

Director · Innovatex Pvt Ltd

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Mr Sanjay Godbole

General Manager (Retired) · BHEL, Electronics Division

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Ms Seema Agarwal

Partner · Increff

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Mrs Shantha Maheswari Sekhar

CEO & Managing Partner · Kriyatmak Consulting

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Mr Shashikanth G

Director and Board advisor · Agastya Aerospace Pvt Ltd

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Dr Shivarudrappa Bhairappanavar

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) · Dharwad Research Ecospace for Advancing Minds (DREAM) TBI

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Mr Shyamnath Harinath

Head, SHIFT Innovation Center · Siemens Healthineers

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Mr Sivakumar G

Founder, CEO & Managing Director · AEITY SYSTEMS PRIVATE LIMITED

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Mr Sridhar Ramanathan

Advisor · Independent Consultant

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Mr Srikrishna S

Cluster delivery Lead · Mastek Ltd

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Dr Srinivas Kosgi

Director · Dharwad Research Ecospace for Advancing Minds

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Mr Sudheer Dayanand

CEO · outcomes.digital

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Mr Sudhindra Paraki

Chief Strategy Consultant · Launchpad Leaders

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Mr Suraj Bhosale

Teaching Assistant · Indian Statistical Institute Bangalore

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Mr SURESH CHINTADA

CEO · VISIST AI Technologies Private Limted

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Dr Tanuja Patgar

Asso.Professor/ Startup Founder · Dr. Ambedkar Institute of Technology/ TSS

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Mr Tarun Rama

Strategic Initiatives Manager · PES University

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Mr Umakant Bijapur

Advisor · Mobicule Technologies Pvt.Ltd

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Dr Vasantha Kumara Mahadevachar

Associate Professor · Government Engineering College Hassan

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Mr Vinay Rao

Director of Engineering · Intel (retired)

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Dr Vinayak Hosamani

Director · KLE Center for Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship, KLE Technological University, Hubballi

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Dr Vishwa Kiran S

Professor · BMS Institute of Technology and Management

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Mr Vivek Saxena

Managing Partner · Vanexas Consulting

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Mr Narayanan Subramaniam

Technology Transformation Executive | Founder & CTO · Vanashri Technology Consulting

About the mentor

Technology Transformation Executive with 30+ years of experience building, scaling and transforming complex distributed systems at the intersection of technology, operations and business outcomes. Delivered production-scale platforms supporting 100,000+ connected vehicles across 1,600+ infrastructure nodes. Holder of 22+ patents across the US and India. My work has spanned electric mobility, energy systems, enterprise cloud platforms, industrial AI and large-scale infrastructure ecosystems across global technology companies, growth-stage businesses and deep-tech ventures. Over time, my career has evolved from building products and systems to creating platforms, ecosystems and enterprise-wide transformation. Systems → Platforms → Ecosystems → Enterprise Transformation Whether communication networks, datacenter infrastructure, cloud platforms, electric mobility ecosystems or industrial AI, the challenge remains the same: enabling operational scale while preserving the agility required for innovation. Today, I am most energized by opportunities that bring together platform strategy, architecture, engineering, operations and business leadership to build resilient, economically sustainable and future-ready technology platforms. Beyond my executive roles, I contribute to the deep-tech ecosystem through IEEE, NASSCOM DeepTech Emerge 50, Karnataka ELEVATE-NXT and mentoring initiatives that help bridge innovation and operational deployment. Alongside executive advisory and leadership engagements, I am conducting an independent technology research and customer discovery program focused on Intelligent Energy Platforms and Mission-Aware Energy Systems. The research explores how energy is evolving from a utility management function into a mission-aware operational decision-making capability as organizations become increasingly electrified, automated and AI-driven. Areas where I create value: • Technology Transformation • Enterprise Digital Infrastructure Platforms • AI and Operational Intelligence • Electric Mobility and Energy Systems • Cyber-Physical Systems and Operational Scale • Architecture, Governance and Business Alignment • Future-Proofing Technology Investments

Focus area

Cleantech and Smartcity, Automotive transportation Shipping and railways

Mr Pradeep Kumar M P

Director · Tecnotree / Karnataka Startup Cell / ELEVATE / KITS / Dept of Electronics, IT & BT

About the mentor

Pradeep Kumar M.P. is a technology and business transformation leader with over 2e4 years of experience spanning telecom, product engineering, cloud transformation, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and large-scale digital program delivery. He currently serves as Director – Product Program Management & Engineering, Global Delivery at Tecnotree, driving product program management, global delivery excellence, and strategic technology initiatives. Previously, he held senior leadership responsibilities at Ericsson, leading the Global Capability Centre (GCC) for Cloud, Security, Data Privacy and Compliance across Europe and the Americas. Throughout his career, Pradeep has led large-scale, business-critical technology transformation programs, managed global engineering and delivery teams, and driven product innovation across BSS/BCSS, revenue management, 5G, private networks, cloud-native platforms, DevSecOps, and cybersecurity. His expertise extends to Generative AI and Agentic AI, with a focus on applying AI to enterprise security, automation, operational efficiency, and product engineering. He has been instrumental in delivering high-impact digital platforms, including real-time revenue management solutions processing millions of transactions per hour, while driving improvements in delivery efficiency, engineering productivity, security posture, and time-to-market. Beyond corporate leadership, Pradeep actively contributes to the technology and startup ecosystem. He has been associated with the Karnataka Digital Economy Mission (KDEM) and Karnataka Startup Cell as a jury member, contributing to the evaluation of startups under Karnataka’s ELEVATE initiative. His involvement includes assessing startup pitch decks and evaluating emerging innovations with potential for technology adoption, scalability, and business impact. He is also actively engaged in industry forums, technology conferences, and cybersecurity communities, contributing as a speaker, moderator, and panelist on emerging technology trends, AI, cybersecurity, and technology leadership.

Focus area

Agri & BT F&B & Food Processing, Healthcare medtech pharma vet and wellness, IT&Ites telecom fashion Jewellery, Cleantech and Smartcity, Banking and Finance, Consumer Electronics and ESDM and Aerospace, Kannada Culture and Tourism, AVGC, Automotive transportation Shipping and railways, Construction Industrial Machinery & Manufacturing metallurgy, Consulting HR Legal Marketing and Media

Mr Prasanna Lohar

CEO · Future Transformation Pvt

About the mentor

President India Blockchain Forum and India finnovation Network | Bank Advisor, Fintech Mentor and Investor Award Winning CXO Banker, Digital Architect, Industry Innovator, Board Member, Fintech Influencer, Startup Mentor, Leadership Coach, Bank Advisor & Author Prasanna Lohar is National SME for Banking and FInane CBDC ( E-rupee) & Digital Assets, Open Banking, Cyber Security , Payments , App Modernisation and Digital Public Infra. He is Advisor for Banks, Fintech Bigtech , Policy makers, Government, Enterprises, Investors and Deeptech& Fintech. Author of E-Rupee | CBDC Handbook at State Bank of India along with Prodevans and India Blockchain Forum. Currently working on multiple banking and financial transformation projects along with more than 20+ Banks into CBDC , Innovation , Digital Transformation like State Bank of India , yes Bank , Union Bank of India , IDFC Bank , Fino etc. He is a seasoned professional with a wealth of experience in the banking and financial technology sector. With a background spanning across various domains such as organization strategy, leadership development, and emerging technologies, Prasanna has established himself as a trusted advisor to both Bank, BigTech , Fintech and Government bodies. 25+ Yrs of experience at all levels, Engineering, Management, and Innovation as CXO. I have worked Globally for Banks, Fintech, Micro-Finance, Engineering, and Multi-National companies for Digital & Architecture Transformation. He is closely associated with cutting-edge technology adoption Strategy, Assimilation, Experimentation, Innovative Customer Servicing & Engagement, Robust Architecture Implementation, Fintech & Start-up Alignment, Open Innovation practices, Ecosystem Collaboration with Govt, BigTech , Fintech , Banks , Academia. His expertise extends to areas like digital transformation, fintech, and open banking, where he has played a pivotal role in designing innovative business models and driving strategic initiatives. Prasanna's passion for technology and his commitment to driving organizational growth make him a valuable asset in any professional setting. Prasanna have worked into Banking and Finance at Multiple Geography– Asia , Middle-East , Europe , United Kingdom . Represented India’s Blockchain and Fintech Perspective at various International Events. Current Experience • Currently As President at India Blockchain Forum with a vision to make India a global hub for Blockchain and Web 3.0. Participated at National, State, and international level Forums for Blockchain Adoption, Policy and Startup Programs . He has Worked on many national use Cases as Advisor at various State Govt like TS Govt , Orissa , Rajasthan , Mentor at Kerala Blockchain Academy Speaker at Many National and International Forums. • Currently On Board with Plada Infotech Services Limited , OMS Account Aggregator , Prodevans Technologies , Future Transformation , Imperative Ltd as Independent Director. • Working Growth Advisors for EY , GMR Innovex, Samsung Research, WeGoFin , Moringa Techsolv , Digitap.Ai , Automation Edge Companies into Banking , Regtech , Automation & Data space • Currently practicing Blockchain & Deeptech Research, Digital Transformation, Innovation Implementation & Architecture Orchestration along with BIG4 and Key GCCs Past Experience • He has performed Various Role at DCB Bank, Chief Digital officer , Chief Innovation Officer , Technical Architect , Digital Channels Head • He has Worked 360 degrees in Banking Ecosystem as Banker Fintech and Technology Architect and Payment Expert ( DCB Bank, Worldline & Mastek UK) • He has conducted 500+ Future Transformation Advisory sessions for Regulator, Academia and Banking Ecosystem. He has been thought leaders on Digital Transformation, Innovation, Cloud Computing, Security & Audit, Artificial Intelligence Web 3.0, Blockchain, Payment, Banking, and Metaverse. • Successfully nurtured Innovation Carnival at 20+ Cities, 100+ Academia Colleges, 5000+ Startups Connects, 40+ Hackathons, 25+ Innovation Expo Event and 50+ National and International Events. He is Mentor / Member Contribution to National Strategy and Committees with ICC, FICCI, MEITY , IAMAI, IDRBT , India Fintech Forum , Bankchain , Association of Emerging Technologies India to promote emerging technology-based education. • Served as CEO at Block Stack , India for Building Next-Gen Banking Platforms for Web 3 World and CIO at Diamante Blockchain INC , USA.

Focus area

Banking and Finance

Dr Ramaling Kotnal

Professor and Director (R&D) · BLDEA's SSM College of Pharmacy and Research Centre, Vijayapura 586103

About the mentor

PROFILE: Dr. R. B. Kotnal is a seasoned academic leader and visionary administrator with over two decades of experience in pharmaceutical education and institutional development. He began his professional journey after completing his postgraduate studies at the Government College of Pharmacy, Bengaluru, in 1997. He initially served as a Trainee Executive at Merind Pharma Ltd., Mumbai, before transitioning into academia in 1998. Throughout his career, Dr. Kotnal has held various leadership roles, culminating in his appointment as Principal in 2019. Before this role, he led the SOP Cell of the BLDE Association, where he introduced several pioneering initiatives that set new qualitative and quantitative benchmarks in academic and research practices across higher education institutions. Under his leadership, the institution achieved an A++ grade from NAAC an unprecedented accomplishment in its category at the national level. He also spearheaded the establishment of an in-house manufacturing unit for hygiene products, significantly reducing operational costs and saving crores of rupees annually for the Association. As the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) of BLDEA, Dr. Kotnal played a pivotal role in reforming fund mobilization strategies, academic programming, admissions, research and development, stakeholder engagement, and human resource development. Dr. Kotnal is recognized for his strengths in team building, strategic planning, accreditation processes, financial management, ideation and execution, modernization of academic systems, and human capital development. He currently serves as Director (R&D), continuing to drive innovation and excellence in institutional research. He is currently authoring a book titled *"Navigating Through the QCI Framework"*, which aims to guide academic and research institutions in embedding quality benchmarks into their daily operations. Academic Leadership: Nominated as Member, Board of Studies (PG), RGUHS (2013 2015), where he played a pivotal role in restructuring the postgraduate pharmacy curriculum. Appointed as a Member, Faculty of Pharmacy, RGUHS (2014), contributing to academic policy and development. In 2018, nominated as a Member, Board of Studies (UG), RGUHS, extending his expertise to undergraduate programs. In 2021, once again nominated as a Member, Board of Studies (PG), RGUHS, extending his expertise to postgraduate programs of Pharmacy. Research Contributions: Authored and presented numerous research papers in reputed national and international journals, conferences, and seminars. Presented a research paper at the 14th Tetrahedron Symposium, Seoul, South Korea, supported by travel grants from BLDE Association and RGUHS. Awarded to advance pharmaceutical research. Successfully guided 8 M. Pharm and 2 Ph.D. students, mentoring them through their research studies. Professional Engagement: Served as Secretary, Association of Pharmaceutical Teachers of India (APTI), Karnataka State Branch. Life member of IHPA and Kannada Sahitya Parishad, Bangalore. Organised State and national-level conferences as organising secretary and convener. Summary: Dr. Kotnal's career reflects a distinguished blend of academic leadership, impactful research, professional service, and institutional development. His contributions have significantly shaped pharmacy education and research as well as all higher education institutions, while his leadership roles highlight his dedication to advancing the profession at both state and national levels.

Focus area

Agri & BT F&B & Food Processing, Healthcare medtech pharma vet and wellness, Education and Edtech

Mr RENUKA DEVI

PROFESSOR / A.O. · ACHARYA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

About the mentor

Dr. RENUKA DEVI QUALIFICATION : B.E – Computer Science & Engineering, MBA – Marketing, Ph.D. – Management Title : Charismatic Inclinations of Social Nexus on Brand Endorsement of Fast Moving Consumers Merchandise. UGC NET – Lectureship. EXPERIENCE • Professor / Administrative Officer, Acharya Institute of Technology, Soladevanahalli, Bengaluru, Karnataka since November 2010 • Guest Lecturer at Dr. Manmohan Singh City University Bangalore, Canara Bank School of Management Studies, Bangalore University, Bengaluru, Karnataka since June 2012 • Technical and Administrative support at AICTE – SWRO – 13 years (Oct. 1996 – Nov. 2010 PUBLICATIONS • Nation and International journals – 06 • Conference publications – 06 PARTICIPATED IN WORKSHOP, SEMINARS, SYMPOSIUMS • Papers presented at National and International conference and Seminars - 10 • Training and Workshops attended – 20 NPTEL ONLINE COURSES COMPLETED: • NATE – NBA accreditation and Teaching Learning in Engineering • IMM – Integrated Marketing Management PROGRAMS COORDINATED FOR • AICTE- ISTE- ECI sponsored "Chatra Vishwakarma Awards - 2018 - Regional Convention. • Training Workshop of UKIERI Leadership Development Program of AICTE , • AICTE Initiatives workshop • Faculty development program on Student Induction Program for AICTE approved Institution sponsored by AICTE. • Competition to create awareness about the legal rights of women sponsored by National Commission for Women, New Delhi. ACCOMPLISHMENT • Reviewer for the Multidisciplinary Research and Innovation Conference Series – I (MRICS-I 2026), organized by the Wolverhampton–Bengaluru Centre for Research and Innovation in collaboration with the University of Wolverhampton • Jury member for various interdepartmental and inter college level competitions, exhibitions. • Jury member for Entrepreneurship Summit 2026 organized by Dept. of MBA, AIT. • Reviewer team for AISIC-2019: AIMS International Summer Internship Competition for MBA. • Institutional responsibilities include coordinating AICTE approvals, university affiliations, UGC recognition, NAAC and NBA accreditation, NIRF and AISHE submissions, and institutional quality assurance initiatives. Also served as Chairperson of the Internal Complaints Committee, Member of IQAC and Examination Committee, and Nodal Officer for the AICTE PMSSS Scholarship. • Single point of contact (SPOC) coordinator for 2nd Training Workshop of AICTE-UKIERI Leadership Development Program conducted for selected faculty members from various AICTE approved Institution across India in two different batch held from 20th February 2019 to 23rd February 2019 and from 26th February 2019 to 1st March 2019 at Acharya Institute of Technology. Bangalore. • Nominated by AICTE as a Master Trainer to be equipped with the Technical Know-how on the salient features of the AICTE Web portal. • Organized competition to create awareness about the legal rights of women sponsored by National Commission for Women, New Delhi. LECTURES DELIVERED AS RESOURCE PERSON • Staff development program for non Teaching staff- since 2022. • Handled session on emerging areas of Marketing to Ph.D. scholars at Bangalore University- 7th Sep 2021 • Delivered expert lecture on MSME schemes for DST sponsored TEDP on "loT & Cyber Security"- 10th & 11th February 2021 • Resource person for Two day workshop on research Methodology organized at Nitte Meenakshi Institute of Technology Bangalore on 25th and 26th March 2019. • Resource person for the workshop on new initiatives and process of Govt. scholarship.- Every year since 2020. MEMBERSHIP IN PROFESSIONAL BODIES • Member of All India Management Association. • Member of Institute of Engineering Research Publications

Focus area

Agri & BT F&B & Food Processing, IT&Ites telecom fashion Jewellery, Cleantech and Smartcity, Banking and Finance, Education and Edtech, Kannada Culture and Tourism, Consulting HR Legal Marketing and Media

Mrs Shantha Maheswari Sekhar

CEO & Managing Partner · Kriyatmak Consulting

About the mentor

A seasoned global business technology CxO leader with over 30 years of purposeful leadership solving problems for clients across consulting, technology, industry innovations, talent specialisations, intentional people, leadership career development and ecosystem partnerships - recognised for guiding clients, people and organizations through complex challenges and shaping strategies for sustainable growth. I have had the privilege in leading client relationships, complex business and technology transformations, operational business excellence, Centers of Excellence build out, new market country expansions, incubating new business verticals, Sales GTM, M and A, ecosystem alliance partnerships. It included shaping organization strategy, creating innovation networks, strategic client accounts growth, delivery excellence, transformation roadmaps, industry products and platform solutions that scale with measurable impact across Consumer, Health care, Life Sciences, Retail, Industrial, Hospitality among other industries - FS, CMT, Resources and Health Public Services encompassing Custom, Web, Client Server, Enterprise Applications, Datawarehouse, Security Applications, Infrstructure, SAP, CRM, AI, Data Analytics and Cloud technology landscape. Shaping people careers, specialization initiatives, leadership programs, mentoring programs and inclusion culture programs including external start up, STEM girls mentoring and persons with disability programs advocacy and sponsorship as a leadership DNA and learning with each other to empower and grow. Board and leader stewardship mission includes strategy,, capital allocations, business growth decisions, technology investments,’ key organization decisions, risk and compliance decisions across multiple executive leadership boards, POSH Council Board, Inclusion Council Board, Innovation Committee, GRC, Technology Investment Committee, DEI , CSR, Non-profit organization Board Member, Start Up Board Advisor, STEM Mentor Sponsor, Women Safety Officer. A Fellow Member in Board Stewardship, Divershefy Distinguished Director, Ambassador - Women in Manufacturing Association (WIMA) apart from the industry speakership, book contributions, patents, industry accolades, thought leadership and certified independent director What defines my stewardship identity and value system - 1) Be yourself 2) Be intentional in all what you do and 3) lift as you rise authenticity 4) Gratitude grows 5) Holistic wellbeing matters and creating stewardship impact through sustainable growth, responsible governance, and purposeful innovation.

Focus area

Agri & BT F&B & Food Processing, Healthcare medtech pharma vet and wellness, IT&Ites telecom fashion Jewellery, Cleantech and Smartcity, Banking and Finance, Education and Edtech, Consumer Electronics and ESDM and Aerospace, Automotive transportation Shipping and railways, Construction Industrial Machinery & Manufacturing metallurgy, Consulting HR Legal Marketing and Media

Dr Shivarudrappa Bhairappanavar

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) · Dharwad Research Ecospace for Advancing Minds (DREAM) TBI

About the mentor

Dr. Shivarudrappa Bhairappanvar Chief Executive Officer (CEO), DREAM Technology Business Incubator (DREAM TBI) Professional Overview Dr. Shivarudrappa Bhairappanvar is a distinguished biomedical scientist and healthcare innovator with over 18 years of transformative contributions to India's healthcare and biotechnology ecosystem. Currently serving as Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dharwad, he has played a pivotal role in establishing cutting-edge molecular biology and diagnostic infrastructure across three Indian states: Karnataka, Gujarat, and Odisha. Key Contributions to Healthcare Infrastructure Rapid COVID-19 Testing Laboratory Establishment (2020) During the global pandemic crisis, Dr. Shivarudrappa demonstrated exceptional leadership by establishing a fully functional, NABL-accredited COVID-19 testing laboratory at IMS and SUM Hospital, SOA University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, within just 48 hours. This rapid deployment enabled critical diagnostic capacity when testing infrastructure was severely limited worldwide, showcasing his ability to deliver under pressure and his commitment to public health emergency response. Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre (GBRC), Gandhinagar Dr. Shivarudrappa was instrumental in the foundational establishment of GBRC, which has grown from a modest laboratory setup to become one of India's renowned biotechnology research centers. Launched in 2017 under the Department of Science and Technology, Government of Gujarat, GBRC now serves as a hub for translational biotechnology research addressing state-priority health and societal challenges. Dst. Gujarat. Molecular Biology Laboratory Development As In-Charge of the Medical Research Laboratory at DIMHANS, he has spearheaded the development of advanced research facilities including Genomics, Mammalian Cell Culture, Biobanking, Super Computing, and Molecular Diagnostic and Therapeutic laboratories. These facilities have positioned DIMHANS as a leading center for neuroscience and mental health research in Karnataka. DREAM Technology Business Incubator (DREAM TBI) Currently, Dr. Shivarudrappa leads the establishment of DREAM TBI at DIMHANS, a ₹10 crore initiative funded by KITS, Department of Electronics, IT & Biotechnology, Government of Karnataka. This unique incubator blends neuroscience with deep technology to support startups in digital diagnostics, AI/ML, pharmacogenomics, forensics, and Sensogenomics, fostering health innovation and entrepreneurship in the region. Research Leadership and Achievements Dr. Shivarudrappa currently serves as Principal Investigator on 10 major research projects with cumulative grants exceeding INR 5.69 crore from agencies including DST (Government of Gujarat) and DBT (Government of India). His research portfolio spans: • Development of DNA-based diagnostic kits and universal vaccine candidates for infectious diseases • Early diagnostics for Alzheimer's disease and neurological disorders using saliva-based miRNA panels • Plant miRNA-based formulations for targeted immunomodulation in oral and breast cancer • Rapid PCR-based detection kits for multidrug-resistant bacteria • Bioremediation technologies for solid waste and textile effluent degradation • Genomic selection for elite fish varieties to improve seed aquaculture His work on epitope-based vaccine candidates for COVID-19 and early diagnostic kits for neurological disorders represents significant translational research contributions with direct public health impact. Academic and Scientific Contributions Dr. Shivarudrappa holds a Ph.D. in Biotechnology from Acharya Nagarjuna University (2015) and has authored numerous high-impact publications in journals such as Scientific Reports, Cells (MDPI), Oncotarget, and Infection, Genetics and Evolution. He has contributed book chapters to Springer-Nature and Elsevier publications on vaccine design, microbial wastewater treatment, and environmental bioremediation. He holds a patent for an allele-specific PCR diagnostic assay system for breeding Fusarium wilt disease-resistant pigeonpea varieties, registered with NRDC, Government of India. Capacity Building and Mentorship Beyond research, Dr. Shivarudrappa has been a key resource person, delivering keynote lectures and training sessions on bioinformatics, transcriptomics, genomics, and molecular biology at national conferences and summer schools. He has fostered collaborations with premier institutions including IGIB, CDAC, DA-IICT, IIT Guwahati, and Fraunhofer University, Germany, strengthening India's biotechnology research network. Recognition With a career spanning 15 years across premier institutions in Karnataka, Gujarat, Odisha, and at the national level, Dr. Shivarudrappa Bhairappanavar exemplifies excellence in healthcare research, infrastructure development, and innovation leadership. His work continues to advance molecular diagnostics, translational research, and health technology entrepreneurship,

Focus area

Healthcare medtech pharma vet and wellness

Dr Tanuja Patgar

Asso.Professor/ Startup Founder · Dr. Ambedkar Institute of Technology/ TSS

About the mentor

Professional Summary Exceptionally seasoned and dedicated Electronics and Communication engineer, Academician, Researcher, Social Entrepreneur and Start-up Mentor with a passion for innovation and excellence. Personal Information Founder & Director : International Women Technology & Research Forum Founder & Director : Health care Startup—TSS, Bengaluru Qualification : B.E (E&C), M.Tech (C&I), PhD(WSN) , Post Doc ( ML/DL) Working @ : Dr. Ambedkar Institute of Technology, Bengaluru Experience : 29 yrs Administrative Experience/Post(s) & Responsibilities held:  Academic Advisor : 3Q SUTANTRA( Edu-tech Start-up), Bengaluru,  Innovation Ambassador : Ministry Of Education , Government of India  Convener, Institute Interaction Cell Dr. Ambedkar Institute of Technology, Bengaluru,  Member, Board of Studies Dr. Ambedkar Institute of Technology, Bengaluru  Presiding Officer- for general election(Lok Sabha), Legislative Assembly of Karnataka  Executive Council Member, I.E.T.E Bangalore Centre, Bangalore  Joint Secretary, I.E.T.E Bangalore Centre, Bangalore, Research Area Artificial Neural Network, Machine Learning, Deep Learning Big Data Analytics, Signal Processing Data Science, Augmented Reality, IOT/ IOE Wireless Sensor Network, Control System Out Reach Activity ( Participation and Contribution in relevant areas of higher education): 1. Start-up Mentor - National Entrepreneurship Challenge (NEC) Entrepreneurship Cell at IIT Bombay - 2023-26 2. Jury Panel Member- Department of Electronics, IT-BT and S&T, Government of Karnataka, for Startup Karnataka Grant-in-Aid Program -2025 3. Idea Evaluator-Ministry of Education and Innovation, Government of India & AICTE--- Smart India Hackothon-2022-25 4. Nominated Jury Member - Ministry of Education and Innovation, Government of India & AICTE--- Smart India Hackothon-2022, 2024 5. Start-up Idea Product Evaluator - Ministry of Education and Innovation, Government of India & AICTE - Toy hackothon , 2021-25 6. Jury Member- Pitch Tank, Eureka -2026, Shoolini University, Himachal Pradesh 7. Jury Member- Smart India Hackothon-2026, Anjuman Institute of Technology & Management, Bhatkal 8. Resource Person - FDP, Workshop

Focus area

Agri & BT F&B & Food Processing, Healthcare medtech pharma vet and wellness, Cleantech and Smartcity, Education and Edtech, Automotive transportation Shipping and railways