Latest news with #UPES
Time of India
4 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
250+ startups and counting, with Runway Incubator at UPES
India has emerged as one of the world's most dynamic startup ecosystems, currently home to over 119 unicorns (Tracxn, 2025) and thousands of ventures disrupting traditional industries. Ranked third globally in terms of the number of startups, the country continues to benefit from government-led initiatives focused on building job creators rather than just job seekers. A robust digital infrastructure and a new generation of entrepreneurial talent have further accelerated this momentum. Yet, many young innovators, particularly from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, still lack access to a nurturing ecosystem that provides structured mentorship, funding opportunities, and hands-on experience to transform ideas into meaningful impact. Recognising this need, UPES has taken a proactive approach to foster innovation and entrepreneurship from the ground up. At UPES, this nurturing ecosystem has a name: Runway. Launched in 2021, Runway is the university's dedicated startup incubator, built to empower student founders and early-stage entrepreneurs from ideation to investment. In just under four years, Runway has grown into a full-fledged innovation hub, supporting over 250 startups. This reflects UPES' broader vision to embed entrepreneurship into the fabric of education, not as an elective, but as a core skill for the future. What sets the Runway apart is the credibility it has built in a remarkably short span. The incubator has secured over ₹20 crore in competitive grants from key national and state-level agencies, including DST, MeitY, DBT–BIRAC SPARSH, Startup Uttarakhand, and ACIC–AIM, NITI Aayog. Startups nurtured at the incubator have collectively raised close to ₹25 crore in external funding. These recognitions have positioned Runway as a serious platform for entrepreneurship—not only for students, but also for startups across the region seeking capital, mentorship, and technical support. Runway is grounded in a philosophy that seeks to lower barriers to entrepreneurship—especially for students from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, many of whom are first-generation entrepreneurs. The incubator welcomes students from all disciplines—engineering, law, design, liberal studies—encouraging interdisciplinary innovation. The focus is not just on launching startups, but on building ventures that solve real-world problems. Support spans a curated pre-incubation program, access to co-working spaces, labs for prototyping, legal and IP advisory, training in the art of pitching and GTM strategy, and mentorship from ecosystem experts and industry leaders. Regular demo days help connect founders with investors and funding opportunities. The most powerful driver, however, is the entrepreneurial culture on campus, where students are inspired to see themselves not just as job seekers, but as creators. This culture of action-oriented innovation will be further strengthened through 'The Pitch', an upcoming Shark Tank-style event at UPES. The high-stakes showcase will feature 12–15 early-stage startups pitching live for a chance to secure funding from a ₹3 crore pool, with a minimum ticket size of ₹25 lakhs (approximately $25,000) per startup. But this is more than just a funding event. The Pitch reflects UPES' broader vision of redefining higher education by backing entrepreneurial talent with real money, real mentorship, and real opportunities. With university leadership, investors, and industry experts on the panel, the event is set to mark a bold chapter in UPES' journey as a startup university. This culture has already given rise to several promising startups such as: UGreen Technology Founded by Gaurav Dwivedi ( Petroleum Engineering, UPES, 2019–2023), UGreen Technology is a CleanTech venture that began as a bold idea, and Runway was the first to believe in it. UGreen launched India's first carbon capture pilot for the E&P sector. Its flagship product, OCOFix, uses a patented molecular engineering method to decarbonise hard-to-abate industries. With ₹92.5 lakh raised through grants and a ₹4 crore funding round in the pipeline, UGreen is setting the pace in climate innovation. Gaurav thanks his alma mater for the exposure and access to cutting-edge labs for his success. 'The professors believed in my ideas even before they were fully formed. Their mentorship was instrumental in turning an idea on paper into a national-level CleanTech startup,' he says. Pension Box Founded by Kuldeep Parashar ( Applied Petroleum Engineering, UPES, 2010–2014), Pension Box is helping India rethink retirement. It offers a digital pension infrastructure that enables users, especially gig workers and the self-employed, to plan, automate, and manage their retirement savings effortlessly. With ₹7 crore in funding from marquee investors, including the founders of Zerodha, the platform has grown rapidly and become a thought leader in the retirement tech space. Kuldeep credits UPES for having instilled in him the confidence to think beyond the obvious. 'The faculty not only taught us what was in the books but also challenged us to apply that knowledge in real-world scenarios. That mindset helped shape my entrepreneurial journey,' he says. Indian Hempstore Founded by Siddharth Gupta (MBA, Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management, UPES, 2013–2015), Indian Hempstore is building India's first hybrid marketplace for hemp-based products. The venture promotes sustainable alternatives across fashion, food, wellness, and lifestyle, while also supporting rural producers and artisans. The idea took root during Siddharth's time at UPES, where early exposure to sustainable practices inspired him to explore hemp as a future-ready material. With support from Runway, Indian Hempstore has fulfilled over 2,000 orders, onboarded 40+ brands, and generated over ₹15 lakh in revenue, helping position hemp as a planet-positive solution for the future. Siddharth credits UPES and Runway for enabling him to channel his purpose into a scalable business. 'Runway gave us the space to dream bigger and the support to build what truly matters- a startup that is good for people and the planet,' he says. These ventures stand out not only for innovation but for their purpose, with a focus on accessibility and social impact. They reflect what's possible when young entrepreneurs are equipped with the right environment and intent. With Runway, UPES is doing more than launching startups, it's cultivating changemakers who may well define India's next innovation wave.
Time of India
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
UPES School of Design triumphs with multiple wins in animation and VFX
At the UPES School of Design, every stroke of a pencil and every flicker of an idea is a step toward something transformative. Here, creativity is not just taught — it is lived, spoken, and celebrated as a force for meaningful change. From modest beginnings in classroom studios to the global stage, student creations have evolved into powerful stories that win awards and hearts alike. More than 50 films, created as part of final year projects by students, and born from diverse minds and driven by cultural resonance, are proof that design at UPES is a bold fusion of purpose, imagination, and impact — where storytelling meets technology, and where passion becomes legacy. Over the past year, the School 's creative output has garnered recognition across diverse formats, including live action, animation, motion graphics, VFX, and stop motion. While each project presents a unique narrative, they are united by a shared commitment to thoughtfulness, originality, and technical excellence. The Animation programme, guided by Vivek Pandey and his team under the strategic leadership of Dean Prof. Bhaskar Bhatt, has played a pivotal role in this evolution. Its strong industry interface and expert mentorship have empowered students to discover their creative voice and refine their craft. Among the most celebrated of these films is Pukaar , a live-action short film created by Harsh Humnekar, Ratin Mohan, and Aamir Husain. The film clinched the Platinum Trophy at the IFP 50-Hour Filmmaking Challenge in the Mobile Vertical category, an achievement that truly shines the light on our talented students as well as the school. Another remarkable project, A Shoe Story, a graduation film by Aditi Goel, made its mark across three international festivals, winning Best Animated Short Film at Poombukar , Sittannavasal, and Rohip. The film was also selected for the 5th Kerala Short Film Festival. 'At UPES, we're encouraged to think out of the box and be our most creative selves, and the support I received from my mentors while developing my film has made all the difference,' says Aditi. 'Every step, from concept to post-production, felt collaborative, never prescriptive.' Harsh Rawat and Mayank Morkhade's animated film Save the Himalayas was honoured as Best Animated Short Film at both the Kodaikanal International Film Festival and the Indian Independent Film Festival. Its emotional, environmentally conscious theme was crafted through hand-drawn animation and careful storytelling. 'We didn't want to preach, we wanted to move people,' says Harsh. 'And our mentors gave us that space to try, to fail, and then to try again with more clarity.' Another standout project is The Coconut Man, a stop-motion animated short crafted by KS Ujwal, Vedanga Nag, Aniket R. Shankar, and Harsh Humnekar. The film's handcrafted aesthetic and heartfelt storytelling have earned it multiple international recognitions, including official selections at the Kosovo Young Filmmakers Festival, Chitranjan International Film & Theatre Festival, and the Daytona Beach Short Film Festival. It was also featured at the Kerala Short Film Festival and the prestigious Russian festival, Within the Family, dedicated to family and children's cinema. A quarterfinalist at the Daddy Deshmukh Film Festival in Akola, the film is now streaming on YouTube, offering a glimpse into the kind of nuanced, culturally resonant work emerging from the UPES School of Design. Cultural storytelling took a compelling form in Bhangarh: A Rajasthani Folk Tale, a motion infographic film that was awarded Best Film from Uttar Pradesh at the 7th International Festival of Short Films on Culture & Tourism. Created by Ratin Mohan, Shrestha Rawal, Aniket Shankar, and Aamir Husain, the film reimagines a local legend through a contemporary lens while staying true to its cultural roots. 'We were fascinated by how folklore could be visualised using motion graphics,' says Shrestha. 'It was our faculty's belief in us that inspired us to take risks and grow creatively.' Several other student projects from the school have garnered national and international recognition for their creativity and Follower, a live-action short film by Tejas Murthy and Rajen Shaw, won Best Short Film at the DRISHय Filmmaking Competition, while Katora, a meticulously crafted stop-motion animation, received a Special Mention at Camera Zizanio in Greece. In the realm of digital art, Saikat Kumar Dey and Harinarayana P.V. achieved top honors in Wacom's 'Beyond the Brush' challenge, showcasing their unique visual styles and mastery of digital tools. Meanwhile, original works such as Gauriya, Dystopian Hope , Kinavu, and Prostastis have been successfully showcased at both national and international festivals—reflecting the diversity and depth of storytelling emerging from our students. Above all, Ratin Mohan won the Silver Trophy in the North Zone of the WAFX VFX Challenge, marking a significant national-level accomplishment in the field of visual effects and animation innovation. These accolades are not accidental. They are the result of an academic culture that prioritises experimentation, storytelling, and transdisciplinary learning. At UPES School of Design, students are not taught to follow a template. They are encouraged to question it, reshape it, and respond to the world around them. The school's pedagogy is built around the convergence of creativity, cultural understanding, and technological exploration. Whether students are using AR, VR, or AI tools to develop immersive narratives or reimagining folklore for modern audiences, their work is rooted in purpose. What makes the school truly distinct is the breadth of disciplines it offers. Students can collaborate and co-explore in areas as diverse as Animation and VFX, Game Design, Graphics and Communication Design, User Experience and Interaction Design, Product Design, Mobility and Vehicle Design, and Interior and Retail Space Design. Each of these programmes encourages hands-on learning, studio practice, and real-world application. At the postgraduate level, Master's students go deeper into research and advanced design strategies, often working across departments to build solutions that are as intelligent as they are intuitive. Being part of a multidisciplinary university, students also benefit from access to domains like computer science, engineering, health sciences, business, law, liberal studies and media, creating a unique ecosystem where design thinking is informed by diverse perspectives and real-world applications. 'I remember our classroom critiques feeling more like creative labs,' says Ratin Mohan, whose name appears in multiple award-winning projects. 'Professors didn't just evaluate, they asked why something mattered, what we were trying to say, and how it could be said better.' Adding to this rich ecosystem is the global exposure students receive. From a semester abroad at UC Berkeley to exchange opportunities with BESIGN – The Sustainable Design School and L'École de Design Atlantique in France, as well as HSE University in Russia, the school ensures that design thinking at UPES is not limited by geography. Progression pathways to Nottingham Trent University in the UK and assistance with international internships make it possible for students to bring global relevance to their ideas inspired by local culture. Because here, at this school in the foothills of the Himalayas, design is not just taught, it is lived. It is the secret lab in the mountains you always dreamt of, where ideas quietly take shape before they go on to change the world. If you are ready to turn your creativity into impact, visit the UPES School of Design to explore more. Apply now and start designing the future — yours and the world's. NOTE: The above-mentioned films, created by final-year students, are the exclusive property of UPES and will be published on official platforms after the college evaluation process is complete.
Time of India
15-05-2025
- Business
- Time of India
How UPES opens doors to global education
Global exposure has become an essential aspect of higher education, as the modern professional landscape increasingly demands individuals who can thrive in multicultural environments and collaborate across borders. With businesses operating on a global scale, students must be equipped with the skills and experiences needed to navigate diverse academic, cultural, and professional contexts. Addressing this need, UPES offers a structured global learning approach through international programmes, strategic partnerships, and real-world experiences—preparing students to succeed in an interconnected world. Global Pathway Programme The Global Pathway Programme (GPP) is a standout initiative that offers students the flexibility to start their academic journey at UPES and complete it at one of its prestigious international partner institutions. With options in countries like the UK, Germany, Australia, Canada, and the USA, this programme offers unmatched value and opportunity. Students have previously continued their education at esteemed institutions such as the University of Edinburgh , The University of Queensland, The University of Auckland, University of Aberdeen, The University of Essex, Nottingham Trent University, and Goldsmiths, University of London, among others. For instance, BTech students have the option to pursue their final years at The University of Queensland, which ranks in the top 50 globally (QS World University Rankings 2024), or at the University of Essex, known for its excellence in data science and analytics. UPES provides end-to-end support, from helping students shortlist universities and navigate visa processes, to offering guidance on fee structures and accommodation. One of the most impactful aspects of the program is the significant fee advantage; students can save up to 45% to 65% on total education costs, making world-class education more accessible. Additionally, students are well-prepared to face academic and cultural shifts abroad, ensuring they transition smoothly and represent UPES on the global stage. Master's progression UPES has strategically partnered with top-ranking global universities to help students prepare for and transition into a Master's degree program, prominent among them being Cranfield University, The University of Queensland, Nottingham University, Moritz College of Law (Ohio State University), University of Sussex , Maurer School of Law (Indiana University Bloomington), Higher School of Economics (HSE), and Nottingham Trent University. Research collaboration At UPES, international exposure is not confined to classrooms. From classifying bone X-ray images using convolutional neural networks (CNN) to analysing brain signals and developing smart home automation solutions, students work on cutting-edge international projects that challenge their thinking and expand their horizons. These hands-on experiences not only sharpen technical abilities but also cultivate cross-cultural sensitivity and adaptability. UPES has collaborations with institutions such as the University of Auckland, University of Glasgow, University of Adelaide, University of Nottingham, University of Bologna, University of Gothenburg, University of Sussex, Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP), and University of Windsor . For example, the School of Engineering has collaborated with Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP) on sustainable energy research and smart grid solutions, while the School of Health Sciences works closely with the University of Gothenburg on research in neurodevelopmental disorders. Global Immersion Programme The Global Immersion Programme at UPES is designed to help students develop leadership acumen, foster digital thinking, and sharpen their creative and analytical abilities. These programmes place students in the heart of global business ecosystems, helping them understand market dynamics from a broader perspective. UPES offers Summer School and Immersion programs at University of Edinburgh, King's College London, University of Gothenburg, Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP), Malaysia, Higher School of Economics (HSE), Russia, and Nottingham Trent University. Recently, MBA students from UPES participated in immersion programs across Norway, Malaysia, Scotland, and Singapore. Through these engagements, they explored international business practices, experienced different cultural mindsets, and developed critical leadership skills, equipping them to make an impact wherever they go. Semester abroad and semester exchange programmes Twice a year, UPES students and faculty participate in semester abroad and semester exchange programmes with partner universities such as UC Berkeley (Berkeley Global), University of Nottingham, University of Bologna, University of Gothenburg, University of Warsaw, Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP), Higher School of Economics (HSE), and EPITA Graduate School of Computer Science. These exchanges enable students to experience new teaching methods, interact with international peers, and gain fresh perspectives on their domains. The semester-abroad initiative offers UPES students the opportunity to study for a full semester at an international university while earning credits toward their degree. This experience allows students to immerse themselves in a new academic culture, build international networks, and explore diverse fields of study. Student voices and impact Shubhransi Kumar, a BA LL.B. (Hons.) student from the Class of 2025, who spent a semester at University of California, Berkeley, shares, 'Living and studying in a multicultural environment pushed me beyond my comfort zone, helped me grow into a more independent and self-aware individual, and gave me clarity about my future. From engaging academic discussions and courtroom visits to Coldplay concerts and cultural exchanges, every experience shaped me in ways I'll carry for life.' Reflecting on her experience at The University of Edinburgh, Ananya Pandey, a BBA Global student (2024–2027), shared, 'This was an enlightening experience that provided valuable insights into the institution's offerings and academic environment. The enthusiasm of the faculty and students was infectious, making learning truly enjoyable! The immersion program left an indelible mark on me, inspiring me to push my boundaries and explore global opportunities.' At UPES, international exposure isn't a privilege, it's a promise. A promise to shape globally competent leaders who don't just adapt to the world but lead it. Click here to learn more about how we empower our students, and secure your place in an exciting program designed to transform your learning journey. Apply now !
Time of India
14-05-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Empowering global leaders: How UPES unlocks International education opportunities for future innovators
Global exposure has become an essential aspect of higher education, as the modern professional landscape increasingly demands individuals who can thrive in multicultural environments and collaborate across borders. With businesses operating on a global scale, students must be equipped with the skills and experiences needed to navigate diverse academic, cultural, and professional contexts. Addressing this need, UPES offers a structured global learning approach through international programmes, strategic partnerships, and real-world experiences—preparing students to succeed in an interconnected world. Global Pathway Programme The Global Pathway Programme (GPP) is a standout initiative that offers students the flexibility to start their academic journey at UPES and complete it at one of its prestigious international partner institutions. With options in countries like the UK, Germany, Australia, Canada, and the USA, this programme offers unmatched value and opportunity. Students have previously continued their education at esteemed institutions such as the University of Edinburgh , The University of Queensland, The University of Auckland, University of Aberdeen, The University of Essex, Nottingham Trent University, and Goldsmiths, University of London, among others. For instance, BTech students have the option to pursue their final years at The University of Queensland, which ranks in the top 50 globally (QS World University Rankings 2024), or at the University of Essex, known for its excellence in data science and analytics. UPES provides end-to-end support, from helping students shortlist universities and navigate visa processes, to offering guidance on fee structures and accommodation. One of the most impactful aspects of the program is the significant fee advantage; students can save up to 45% to 65% on total education costs, making world-class education more accessible. Additionally, students are well-prepared to face academic and cultural shifts abroad, ensuring they transition smoothly and represent UPES on the global stage. Seamless Master's progression through global university partnerships UPES has strategically partnered with top-ranking global universities to help students prepare for and transition into a Master's degree program, prominent among them being Cranfield University, The University of Queensland, Nottingham University, Moritz College of Law (Ohio State University), University of Sussex , Maurer School of Law (Indiana University Bloomington), Higher School of Economics (HSE), and Nottingham Trent University. Driving innovation through global research collaborations At UPES, international exposure is not confined to classrooms. From classifying bone X-ray images using convolutional neural networks (CNN) to analysing brain signals and developing smart home automation solutions, students work on cutting-edge international projects that challenge their thinking and expand their horizons. These hands-on experiences not only sharpen technical abilities but also cultivate cross-cultural sensitivity and adaptability. UPES has collaborations with institutions such as the University of Auckland, University of Glasgow, University of Adelaide, University of Nottingham, University of Bologna, University of Gothenburg, University of Sussex, Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP), and University of Windsor . For example, the School of Engineering has collaborated with Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP) on sustainable energy research and smart grid solutions, while the School of Health Sciences works closely with the University of Gothenburg on research in neurodevelopmental disorders. Shaping global leaders through immersive international experiences The Global Immersion Programme at UPES is designed to help students develop leadership acumen, foster digital thinking, and sharpen their creative and analytical abilities. These programmes place students in the heart of global business ecosystems, helping them understand market dynamics from a broader perspective. UPES offers Summer School and Immersion programs at University of Edinburgh, King's College London, University of Gothenburg, Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP), Malaysia, Higher School of Economics (HSE), Russia, and Nottingham Trent University. Recently, MBA students from UPES participated in immersion programs across Norway, Malaysia, Scotland, and Singapore. Through these engagements, they explored international business practices, experienced different cultural mindsets, and developed critical leadership skills, equipping them to make an impact wherever they go. Semester abroad and Semester Exchange Programmes Twice a year, UPES students and faculty participate in semester abroad and semester exchange programmes with partner universities such as UC Berkeley (Berkeley Global), University of Nottingham, University of Bologna, University of Gothenburg, University of Warsaw, Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP), Higher School of Economics (HSE), and EPITA Graduate School of Computer Science. These exchanges enable students to experience new teaching methods, interact with international peers, and gain fresh perspectives on their domains. The semester-abroad initiative offers UPES students the opportunity to study for a full semester at an international university while earning credits toward their degree. This experience allows students to immerse themselves in a new academic culture, build international networks, and explore diverse fields of study. Student voices and impact Shubhransi Kumar, a BA LL.B. (Hons.) student from the Class of 2025, who spent a semester at University of California, Berkeley, shares, 'Living and studying in a multicultural environment pushed me beyond my comfort zone, helped me grow into a more independent and self-aware individual, and gave me clarity about my future. From engaging academic discussions and courtroom visits to Coldplay concerts and cultural exchanges, every experience shaped me in ways I'll carry for life.' Reflecting on her experience at The University of Edinburgh, Ananya Pandey, a BBA Global student (2024–2027), shared, 'This was an enlightening experience that provided valuable insights into the institution's offerings and academic environment. The enthusiasm of the faculty and students was infectious, making learning truly enjoyable! The immersion program left an indelible mark on me, inspiring me to push my boundaries and explore global opportunities.' At UPES, international exposure isn't a privilege, it's a promise. A promise to shape globally competent leaders who don't just adapt to the world but lead it. Click here to learn more about how we empower our students, and secure your place in an exciting program designed to transform your learning journey. Apply now !
NDTV
08-05-2025
- Sport
- NDTV
How UPES Is Building A Sports Legacy Fuelled By Passion And Grit
At UPES, education is not confined to the classroom. The university believes that true growth stems from a holistic blend of academic rigour and physical excellence. Recognising the transformative power of sport, UPES fosters an environment where students are encouraged to pursue athletic ambitions alongside their professional dreams. With a vibrant sporting culture deeply embedded in campus life, UPES nurtures discipline, teamwork, resilience, and leadership, qualities that shape successful individuals, both on and off the field. Whether through world-class facilities, scholarships for budding athletes, or flagship sporting events, UPES ensures that passion for sport is not just encouraged, but celebrated, making it an integral part of the student journey. The culture of sports at UPES is nurtured through regular sporting events, intra-campus competitions, and a robust network of mentors and coaches. At the heart of UPES' sporting philosophy is the belief in equal opportunities for both men and women. This emphasis on inclusion ensures that students, irrespective of gender, have the chance to excel in their chosen disciplines. It's not just about performance; it's about creating a community where sports are an ideology, something that is ingrained in everyday campus life. Whether through encouragement to participate or the push to perform at the highest level, UPES fosters a culture where sports are seen as a vital part of education, leadership, and personal growth. The university boasts professional-grade facilities that are a significant asset to its sporting culture. The natural turf cricket ground and well-maintained football fields are complemented by basketball and volleyball courts, as well as state-of-the-art gym facilities. These facilities provide a conducive environment for students to train, compete, and excel in their chosen sports. The infrastructure is carefully designed to mirror the standards of professional sports, giving student-athletes the opportunity to hone their skills and pursue excellence at the highest level. Project Vijay stands as a testament to UPES' commitment to sports excellence. This initiative offers scholarships ranging from 35% to 100% of tuition fees for deserving student-athletes, ensuring that the pursuit of sporting excellence is not hindered by financial constraints. The scholarships are based on both academic and athletic merit, with the selection process rigorously assessing the student's sporting achievements and potential. By offering this support, UPES empowers student-athletes to pursue their academic and sporting aspirations simultaneously, helping them balance their passion for sport with the pursuit of professional growth. UPES has long been a breeding ground for sporting talent, with students excelling across a range of disciplines. Take Deeya Chopra and Sejal Maan, for instance. At the 18th Uttarakhand State Inter-College Shooting Championship, Deeya bagged the Gold medal in the Women's 10m Air Rifle category, while Sejal Maan clinched the Bronze. These students' remarkable accomplishments reflect the level of dedication and skill nurtured within the walls of UPES. A standout success story is Aryan Kapoor, a first-year MBA student and the captain of the UPES Cricket team, who made history as the first UPES player to represent Dehradun in the BCCI-affiliated Cricket Association of Uttarakhand (CAU) Senior Men's Inter-District League. His dedication and leadership have made him a trailblazer in the university's cricketing community. Moreover, UPES alumnus Navneet Singh, who clinched a silver medal at the Commonwealth Games 2022 in Lawn Bowls, continues to shine on the international stage. Most recently, he secured another silver medal at the 16th Asian Lawn Bowls Championship 2025 held in Clark City, Philippines. Singh, part of the Indian Men's Fours team, credits UPES' sporting infrastructure and mentorship for playing a pivotal role in his journey as a professional athlete. UPES' commitment to promoting sports extends beyond its own student community. As part of its larger vision to support rising sporting talent, the university has extended sponsorships to promising athletes like Raghvi Bist and Nandini Kashyap, both of whom now represent the Indian Women's Cricket Team. UPES also brings the spirit of sports alive through its flagship events, such as the President's Cup, which pits students against faculty and staff in a fun, competitive environment. These events are a way to celebrate not just performance but the shared joy of sport, regardless of skill level. Additionally, through an annual cricket tournament the university extends support to the families of bravehearts who have sacrificed their lives in service to the nation, offering scholarships to ensure that the children of these heroes have access to world-class education and sporting opportunities. To further promote a culture of recognition, UPES hosted for the first time Laurels Night - Sports Excellence Awards, a prestigious evening dedicated to celebrating outstanding student-athletes. This annual event honours excellence across various sports disciplines and showcases the achievements and spirit of UPES athletes. Through Laurels Night, the university not only appreciates current talent but also inspires future generations to strive for greatness. At UPES, sport is not a diversion, it is an integral part of shaping individuals who are resilient, dynamic, and prepared for the complexities of life. It is through the rigour of training, the thrill of competition, and the values learnt on the field that students evolve into confident leaders and empathetic changemakers. By embedding sports in the fabric of campus life, through infrastructure, mentorship, scholarships, and spirited events, UPES continues to nurture not just successful professionals, but well-rounded human beings who understand the value of teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. The game, after all, is only the beginning.
