As part of the Institution’s Innovation Council (IIC) initiative at MET Institute of Management, which aims to foster knowledge-sharing and inspire young learners to embrace innovation and entrepreneurship, a seminar titled “Own Your Innovation: The Power of Intellectual Property Rights” was conducted by Innovation Ambassador Mr. Sandesh Akre on 11th September 2025. The session was jointly organized by the Department of Commerce (Accounting & Finance), S.S.T. College of Arts and Commerce, affiliated with the University of Mumbai, and the MET Institute of Management.

The insightful online seminar, also live-streamed on YouTube, highlighted the critical importance of safeguarding innovative ideas through Intellectual Property Rights (IPR). Mr. Akre emphasized that protecting innovation enables individuals and organizations to Protect, Promote, and Prosper in today’s competitive ecosystem. He further introduced participants to the practical applications of IPR, underscoring its relevance to entrepreneurship, start-up growth, and value creation in business.

This initiative encouraged students to recognize the importance of owning their innovations, thereby fostering a culture of creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurial thinking among young learners.

On January 11th, 2025, MET Institute of Management in association with Leader\'s Guild, hosted an AI Symposium for the Semester II students of MMS 2024-26, centered around the theme \"Ethical AI: Building Trust in the World of Digitalization.\"

The session featured Mr. Udit Pahwa, CIO, Blue Star Limited, who provided an insightful knowledge on ‘Untrained ethics in Trained AI’. He highlighted the significance of maintaining ethical frameworks while developing AI systems to ensure trust and accountability in the digital age.

Additionally, Mr. Pahwa elaborated on AI-driven recommendation engines, which are increasingly shaping consumer experiences. By analyzing user behaviors such as browsing history, purchase patterns, and preferences - AI systems offer personalized recommendations tailored to individual needs. While these systems enhance convenience and satisfaction, they also raise ethical considerations regarding data privacy, transparency, and consent. Understanding the balance between innovation and ethical responsibility is crucial for building long-term trust in AI technologies.

At the AI Symposium, Mr. Umesh Parshetye, Chief Technology Officer, Enam AMC, shared his expertise on the area related to automation and transformation.

Mr. Parshetye explained how ethical AI is driving the shift from automation to goal-oriented transformation. He emphasized key aspects such as resilience, efficiency, productivity, and the role of independent and augmented automation in creating meaningful change.

The session also explored practical applications, such as Robotic Process Automation (RPA) in accounting, where invoices are scanned and data processed using natural entity recognition, with human intervention ensuring data accuracy. Furthermore, Mr. Parshetye discussed the potential of Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) to reshape automation, fostering a more ethical and efficient future. This engaging session provided valuable insights into the ethical application of AI in today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape.

AI Symposium hosted a compelling panel discussion on \'Addressing Data Privacy Challenges with Innovation\' as a part of the AI Symposium organized on 11th January 2025. The event brought together speakers from various companies with expert knowledge on the subject of AI and the emerging digital world.

Moderated by Mr. Rajendra Bhalerao, CISO - BFSI, the discussion focused on addressing data privacy and it\'s challenges with innovation and the panel featured notable speakers including Dr. Deval Mazumdar, Cybersecurity advisor - TJSB Bank, Mr. Udit Pahwa, CIO - Blue star limited,

Mr. Umesh Parshetye, CTO - Enam AMC, Mr. Ashish Desai, CIO - Aditya Birla Group and Mr. Vivek Vishwanathan, CIO - Work Store limited.

Dr. Deval Mazumdar focused on cybersecurity and its regulations by emphasizing on cyber laws, damage minimization when talking about data breach and quantum computing technologies.

Mr. Udit Pahwa focused on the profound impact of innovation in businesses by specifically focusing on \'AIfication - AI being a part of our daily lives\' in the near future and impacting human lives.

Mr. Umesh Parshetye focused on compassion and emotions which separates humans from AI in the real world keeping in mind the current challenges faced when using AI and emphasized the emergence of Dark Web and it\'s destructive effects.

Mr. Ashish Desai focused on the need for expanding our technological skills and how we can use AI and Machine Learning to enhance business operations.

Mr. Vivek Vishwanathan focused on strategies to build innovation by learning from failures, investing smartly and how AI is used to automate our tasks and make good use of it.

The discussion provided valuable insights on AI and Data Privacy and how it is impacting the changing world with Innovation and sustainability.

MET Institute of Management (MET IOM), in collaboration with Ajman University, UAE, inaugurated the 8th Two-Day International Research Conference on ‘Entrepreneurship and Innovation’ on 4th April 2025. The conference was inaugurated with the lighting of the lamp in the presence of Mr. Ashish Singhal, CEO, IBDIC; Dr. Swati Lodha, Director, MET IOM; and Conference convenors Dr. Manmeet Barve, Dean - Academics, MET IOM, Dr. Nirmala Joshi, Associate Professor, MET IOM, Dr. Sagar Gaikwad, Assistant Professor, MET IOM. Our academic collaborator, Dr. Rajesh Mohnot, Professor & Head of Department, Finance, Ajman University, joined the inauguration virtually.

During the inaugural session, Dr. Lodha emphasized the importance of innovation, adaptability, and strategic thinking in entrepreneurship. She spoke about the concept of fluid entrepreneurship, highlighting the need for agility in business. She also discussed the role of Digital India in shaping the future and encouraged research and continuous learning as essential steps toward meaningful innovation. Additionally, she urged students to explore entrepreneurship and develop leadership skills.

The conference provided a platform for discussions on business growth, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

\"The future belongs to those who innovate with purpose.\" With these inspiring words, Dr. Rajesh Mohnot, Professor & Head of Finance at Ajman University, UAE, set the tone for conference. Dr. Mohnot emphasized the critical role of sustainable practices and green entrepreneurship, highlighting how artificial intelligence is driving the next wave of startups. He commended India’s efforts in financial inclusion, citing fintech solutions like TAMARA (Buy Now, Pay Later), which already serves over six million users, as transformative in bridging the gap for the unbanked population.

He further explored key themes in innovation and entrepreneurship, including government-led initiatives, climate tech-driven sustainability efforts, the fintech revolution, and inclusive financial systems. Reflecting on the Gulf Cooperation Council’s (GCC) rising influence in global financial innovation, he stressed that entrepreneurial success today demands a strategic focus on technology, sustainability, and inclusivity.

Dr. Mohnot’s address left students with a compelling message—innovation must be driven by purpose to create meaningful and lasting impact.

Mr. Ashish Singhal, CEO, IBDIC (Indian Banks\' Digital Infrastructure Company), provided a comprehensive perspective on how digital advancements and financial strategies can drive sustainable growth and innovation in entrepreneurship. He shared insights on value creation, key performance indicators (KPIs), the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), and the role of digital infrastructure in shaping modern businesses. He also encouraged students to explore Finternet, the emerging concept of the future of finance and digital currency, emphasizing its potential to transform financial systems and business operations.

Discussing the core principles of entrepreneurship, Mr. Singhal emphasized that successful ventures stem from identifying real problems, creating value, and continuously innovating. Using the analogy of an iceberg, he highlighted the importance of deep exploration in problem-solving, where the most significant challenges and solutions often lie beneath the surface. He urged students to embrace lifelong learning, encouraging them to read, adapt, and challenge conventional thinking.

Addressing financial inclusion, he stressed the need for a unified identity system for micro and small enterprises, underscoring the importance of bridging economic gaps and fostering equal opportunities for businesses of all sizes.

MET Institute of Management’s Institution Innovation Council (IIC) organized its Calendar Activity in the Pre-Conference Workshop during the Conference. The workshops focused on financial planning and legal compliance for startups, conducted for the MMS 2024-26.

A workshop on Raising Capital and Managing Finance for Startups was led by Ms. Priyanka Acharya, Chief Prosperity Officer, Laxmigyaan. She emphasized the importance of identifying a problem before launching a business and selecting suitable investors. She introduced frameworks such as the Business Model Canvas, Revenue Model Canvas, and Financial Model, highlighting the need for effective financial management to ensure business sustainability.

Another workshop, How to Start a Startup Legally After Bootstrapping, was conducted by Ms. Anita Nair, Branch Head - Mumbai, Samisti Legal. She covered key aspects of legal compliance, including business registration, taxation, agreements, intellectual property, and funding regulations. She also addressed common legal challenges, emphasizing the importance of proper documentation and regulatory adherence for startups.

During the conference, MET Institute of Management\'s Institution Innovation Council (IIC) and MET Incubation Centre organized a dynamic reverse-thinking session titled \"Twisting Business Idea Over Its Head\", led by Dr. Vaishali Kulkarni, Head - MET Incubation Centre, and Dr. Manmeet Barve, Dean - Academics, MET IOM & Dean, MET Incubation Centre.

The session challenged conventional approaches to entrepreneurship, encouraging students to harness instinct, foster innovation, and embrace adaptability. Participants explored how service models could be transformed into product-based ventures and how logistical barriers could be reimagined as opportunities.

Innovative ideas such as water-repellent footwear, pop-up brand events, and experience-driven restaurant formats (including gym cafés and DIY kitchens) demonstrated the potential of creative thinking in building impactful ventures.

Through engaging activities like \"Twisting a Business Idea on Its Head\" and the \"Let’s Be Honest Survey\", the session successfully inspired participants to think beyond traditional frameworks, redefine business possibilities, and develop ideas ready for real-world application.

On April 5, 2025, Day 2 of the 8th International Research Conference, organized in collaboration with Ajman University, UAE, concluded with a series of enriching academic activities at MET Institute of Management (MET IOM).

The day featured three key events: the Poster Presentation Competition, the Book Review Competition, and the Research Paper Review Competition. In the poster competition, 203 students from the MMS 2024-26 presented 99 research posters, showcasing their analytical insights and innovative thinking. A distinguished panel comprising Dr. Priya Sengupta (Sasmira’s Institute of Management Studies & Research), Dr. Vijay Vishwakarma (S.M. Shetty College), Dr. Aftab Shaikh (Chetana’s Ramprasad Khandelwal Institute of Management and Research), Dr. Swapna Kadam (Vidyalankar School of Information Technology), and Dr. Sushmita Mukerji (Alkesh Dinesh Mody Institute for Financial and Management Studies) evaluated the posters.

The Research Paper Review Competition was judged by Dr. Anju Motwani (VES Institute of Management, Chembur), while the Book Review Competition was evaluated by Dr. Asha Agarwal (KES Shroff College, Mumbai).

The winners of the Poster Presentation Competition were

1st - to study the factors influencing the adoption of green energy products in Maharashtra by Shravani Devalekar, Zuhair Koya, And Shounak Moharil

2nd - Analysis on the correlations between gold prices and sectorial indices by Shreyas Chaugule, Pritish Ghorpade And Saifullah Khan

3rd - The impact of social media advertising on purchase decision – A study on GenZ by Awasthi khushi, Sakshi Joshi, Mitali Dundagekar

The winners of the book review competition was on the book, ‘The Design of Business’ by Dhruv Agarwal, Sharvin Athane, Sagar Baghel, Himanshu Baghel, Harshat Baghat, Saurab Bohite

The winners of the research paper review were Divya Patil, Sahil Pawar, Keyur perla, Barbie Raj, Prashik Rangari and Manmeet jaggi.

On April 5, 2025, Day 2 of the 8th International Research Conference, organized in collaboration with Ajman University, UAE, concluded on a high note with an engaging Poster Competition and Research Paper Presentation at MET Institute of Management (MET IOM).

The Research Conference was convened by Dr. Nirmala Joshi, Associate Professor, MET IOM, Dr. Manmeet Barve, Dean (Academics), MET IOM, and Dr. Sagar Gaikwad, Assistant Professor, MET IOM.

The conference featured two parallel tracks. The first track was chaired by Dr. Sushma Verma, Associate Professor, VES Institute of Management, and Dr. Susan Alex, Assistant Professor, Department of Economics, K.P.B. Hinduja College, Mumbai.

The second track was chaired by Dr. Shanti Suresh, Vice Principal (Commerce), SIES College of Arts, Science and Commerce (Empowered Autonomous), Sion (W), Mumbai, and Dr. Rajesh Bhoite, Assistant Professor and Head of Business Economics, Akbar Peerboy College, Mumbai.

The winners of the Research Conference were:

1st Place: Mr. Mandar Choudhari and Ms. Kanchan Taksale from Vidyalankar School of Information Technology, presented a paper on Critical Analysis of Winter in VC-PE Ecosystem in India.

2nd Place: Dr. Vedika Sharma from Sasmira Institute of Management, presented a paper on Exploring Gen-Z presence for the Gig Economy as the future of Work Culture.

3rd Place: Mr. Rajiv Chaitanya from Dayanand Sagar College of Engineering presented a paper on The power of AI and ML in entrepreneurial growth.

The successful culmination of the conference not only celebrated research excellence but also reinforced MET IOM’s commitment to fostering a culture of inquiry, innovation, and academic rigor among future management professionals

Dr. Farida Virani, Professor, MET Institute of Management participated in the prestigious 2nd International Mind, Brain & Consciousness Conference, organized by the Indian Knowledge System and Mental Health Applications Centre (IKSMHA) from 4th to 7th June 2025 at IIT Mandi.

Dr. Virani presented a thought-provoking research paper titled “Unmasking Narcissism: Perspectives Rooted in IKS”, which explored the intersections of modern psychological insights with ancient Indian wisdom. Her paper was widely appreciated by a diverse audience of scholars, practitioners, and neuroscientists for its innovative integration of Indian Knowledge Systems into contemporary personality studies.

Her participation in this international academic forum reflects MET’s commitment to fostering interdisciplinary research, promoting indigenous knowledge systems, and contributing meaningfully to global discourse on mental health and behavioural studies.

Dr. Rashmi Bhadani, Assistant Professor, MET Institute of Management, Mumbai, presented her research paper titled “Yoga, Mindfulness, and Students\' Success Explored Through PLS-SEM and fsQCA” at the International Conference on Management and Information Systems (ICMIS-25), held on 28–29, 2025, in Bangkok, Thailand. The conference was organised in collaboration with INFOMS and AIMS International. Delegates from Japan, Dubai, Jordon, India, Bangkok and other countries participated in the Conference.

The paper examined the role of yoga and mindfulness practices in influencing academic performance and emotional well-being among 325 HEI students. Using mixed methodologies - PLS-SEM and fsQCA-the research highlighted the relevance of these practices in supporting student success.

The paper was aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goal 3: Good Health and Well-Being, reflecting MET Institute of Management’s commitment to advancing research that integrates well-being with academic excellence.

Dr. Nirmala Joshi, Head - Research & MET SEVA, MET Institute of Management, participated as a distinguished panel member at the Business Analysis Impact Conference 2024. The conference was organised by the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA), Mumbai Chapter and held at Pune in June 2024.

During the conference, Dr. Joshi contributed her valuable expertise and perspectives in a panel discussion titled ‘I’m an AI Powered Analyst’. Her insights into the integration of AI in Business Analysis highlighted the evolving role of AI in enhancing analytical capabilities and decision-making processes within the industry.

MET Institute of Management in collaboration with Zimbabwe Open University and NSE Cogencis organised the ‘Two Days International Research Conference on ‘Role of Artificial Intelligence in Management Research’ on 1st - 2nd December 2023.

The Research Conference was inaugurated in the presence of Mrs. Vishakha Bhujbal, Senior Management Representative, Mumbai Educational Trust, Mr. Mukesh Jain, CTO, VP and Global Head of People Analytics, Capgemini, Mr. Raghav Mallick, Senior Product Manager, ideaForge Technology Pvt. Ltd., Mr. Anand Mohta, VP - Accounts Management, NSE Cogencis, Dr. Rajendra Deshpande, CEO, Business Value India, Mr. Sangam Upadhayay, VP, Infiheal, Dr. Swati Lodha, Director, MET IOM (Online Presence), Dr. Nirmala Joshi, Head Research & MET SEVA, MET IOM, and Dr. Sagar Gaikwad, Assistant Professor, MET IOM.

This conference endeavoured to explore the diverse applications and implications of AI in management research, aiming to elevate the quality and efficiency of the research process. It offers a platform for researchers, academicians, practitioners, and students to engage in dialogue and exchange ideas on the latest advancements and trends in AI and management research.

At the conference, the participants witnessed an exceptional lineup of esteemed speakers shedding light on AI\'s transformative impact.

During the inaugural address Mr. Mukesh Jain, CTO VP and Global Head of People Analytics, Capgemini, graced the event with his profound expertise. His insights delved into the pivotal role of AI and ML in reshaping the business landscape, emphasising the significance of user-centric approaches, analytics, innovation, and essential AI competencies. Highlighting AI\'s significance in product management and everyday life, he concluded with a focus on three fundamental skills for success in this realm: Attitude, Aptitude, and Curiosity. His enlightening discourse, his words resonated with attendees, leaving an indelible mark on our conference.

Mr. Anand Mohta, VP - Accounts Management, NSE Cogencis showcased a demo highlighting an NSE product tailored to bolster fund managers in their investment endeavours. This demonstration likely encompasses tools or strategies aimed at refining decision-making processes, potentially integrating predictive models to optimise investment results. Notably, Mr. Mohta emphasised that the product\'s goals surpass a sole emphasis on the Nifty index. This display signifies a dedication to nurturing a holistic comprehension of market dynamics and strategies among financial experts. It illuminates how the product caters to the requisites of fund managers and institutional investors, empowering them to navigate the ever-evolving terrain of financial markets effectively.

Mr. Sangam Upadhayay, VP, Infiheal, emphasised on HEALO, an AI mental-health assistant. Integrated advanced AI capabilities to deeply analyse users\' emotions and psychological nuances during conversations. This AI swiftly identifies blind spots, fears, motivators, personality traits, and even past traumas within minutes of interaction, enabling highly personalised advice tailored to each individual\'s unique circumstances. This solution surpasses conventional AI applications by harmonising Large Language Models (LLM) with expert judgement, forging a comprehensive approach that combines cutting-edge technology with human insight. Moreover, the platform encompasses features such as therapist matching, granting users access to mental health professionals who align with their specific needs. In essence, Infiheal HEALO offers a comprehensive mental health solution by seamlessly integrating AI, expert judgement, therapist matching, self-work sessions, mood tracking, journaling, and personalised recommendations. This multifaceted approach aims to empower users on their mental health journey.

The first day of the conference featured a Panel Discussion focusing on the far-reaching impact and indispensable role of Artificial Intelligence in advancing the realm of Management Research. The distinguished panel comprised experts from diverse fields including Dr. Rajendra Patil, Principal at Bunts Sangha Anna Leela College of Commerce & Economics and an AI Consultant & Trainer; Mr. Rajendra Deshpande, CEO, Business Value India, Aurangabad; Mr. Alok Ranjan, Co-Founder & Partner, Tarun Advisor; and Capt Albert Louis, Founder & CEO at Specialist Advisory & Intervention - KnowledgeArk.AI.. The panel was moderated by Dr. Chandrika Parmar, Director of Development of Corporate Citizenship & Associate Professor at S P Jain Institute of Management and Research.

Dr. Parmar navigated the dialogue, shedding light on the pros and cons of AI and its profound impact on our personal and professional spheres. The panellists\' collective enthusiasm and curiosity about AI\'s potential to unveil new opportunities and innovations, illustrated by the advent of self-driving cars, resonated throughout the discussion.

Moreover, the discussion thoughtfully addressed pressing issues surrounding AI, encompassing transparency, reliability, accountability, security, and privacy, while Mr. Alok Ranjan emphasised a key point: ‘AI isn\'t meant to replace, but to empower.’ Recognizing how AI can enhance our work remains pivotal in leveraging its benefits effectively.

The discussion extended to AI\'s role in creating value and addressing challenges pertaining to women\'s participation and engagement in the workforce, elucidating its significance in fostering inclusivity and empowerment.

On the day 2 of conference, MET Institute of Management welcomed Mr. Hemant Tendolkar, Enterprise Architect, TCS AWS BU and Ms. Abhrekha Jain Sahlot, an MNC professional.

Mr. Tendolkar shared valuable insights into the transformative impact of technology on industries and the future of AI. His discussion encompassed several key aspects, including the significance of effective management, the traditional life cycle of Artificial Intelligence (AI), and the challenges encountered from data collection to model deployment. While discussing the impact of technology, Mr. Tendolkar emphasised the ‘perfect storm’ of multiple technologies coming together that has a more comprehensive impact on the industry. Mr. Tendolkar talked about the discussion on Generative AI and its potential impact on job transformations by the year 2029. By drawing parallels between human and AI intelligence, he accentuated the need for precise commands in mastering AI capabilities.

Ms. Sahlot actively engaged in discussions surrounding the ethical implications of artificial intelligence (AI). She emphasised amplifying human connections in the era of AI as a social aspect associated with technological advancements. She explored case examples where AI presented ethical challenges, especially in cases where the technology showed bias. She emphasised the need for algorithms to be transparent and unbiased. She dwelled on ideas of job displacement and environmental impact to emphasise on the concept of ethics in artificial intelligence. In essence, she pushed for a future where technology and ethics went hand in hand for the well-being of society.

MET Institute of Management under the aegis of Center of Excellence - Operations organised ‘Operations Conclave 2023’ on the theme \"Efficiency Unlocked: The Power of Operational Excellence.” The conference was held on 14th October 2023 and witnessed eminent industry leaders in realms of Operations such as Mr. Rampraveen Swaminathan, MD & CEO, Mahindra Logistics, Mr. Gaurav Rathod, Joint Managing Director, Cello World, Mr. Akhilesh Bhargava, Director, AVI Global Plast Pvt. Ltd., Dr. Manish Lunker, Senior VP, Procurement, Welspun Corp. Ltd., to deliberate & discuss the latest innovations in the field of operations and supply chain.

On 14th October 2023, the conclave commenced by lighting the lamp in the presence of Dr. Swati Lodha, Director, MET IOM, Mr. Sandesh Akre, Assistant Professor (Systems), MET IOM and esteemed guests Mr. Gaurav Rathod, Joint Managing Director, Cello World, Mr. Akhilesh Bhargava, Director, AVI Global Plast Pvt. Ltd., Dr. Manish Lunker, Senior VP, Procurement, Welspun Corp. Ltd.

During the inauguration of ‘Operations Conclave 2023’, Dr. Swati Lodha, Director, MET Institute of Management, paved the way for an exciting event. In her address, she highlighted the paramount importance of the Operations field, offering invaluable insights and urging students to explore its promising career opportunities.

Esteemed guest, Mr. Gaurav Rathod, Joint Managing Director, Cello World, shed light on the pivotal role of logical thinking in Operations, describing it as the lifeblood of an organisation. Drawing inspiration from his own experiences and his grandfather\'s remarkable journey, he shared success stories and highlighted the importance of role clarity. Mr. Rathod also underscored the significance of loyalty, fostering productive discussions, and the unwavering commitment of individuals to the organisation\'s success.

Dr. Manish Lunker, Senior VP, Procurement at Welspun Corp. Ltd., delved into the dynamic realm of supply chain and procurement during an engaging session at MET IOM’s ‘Operation Conclave 2023’. He underscored the pivotal role it plays in the end-to-end process and the essential need to maintain equilibrium between supply and demand. Resilience in supply chains emerged as a central theme, particularly in the face of global challenges where robust backup communication is imperative.

MET IOM’s Operations Conclave 2023, had the honour of hosting Mr. Akhilesh Bhargava, Director, AVI Global Plast Pvt. Ltd. He delved into the intricate world of the packaging industry, stressing the pivotal role of quality and safety in packaging practices. An eco-conscious approach was also highlighted, with a strong commitment to upcycling.

In his inspiring session, he emphasised that operations fundamentally revolve around managing people and finances, underscoring the significance of Operations as a controllable element in our journey to success.