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Yomiuri Shimbun
27-06-2025
- Business
- Yomiuri Shimbun
Southwest Japan's Challenges: Signs of Growth / ‘Endless Possibilities' as AI Robots in Kyushu Set Their Sights on the World in Rapidly Advancing Field
This is the third installment in a series of articles taking an in-depth look at industries with growth potential in Kyushu as well as Yamaguchi and Okinawa prefectures. *** KITAKYUSHU — 'Please bring me an apple.' 'OK, customer,' came the reply – not from a person, but from a robot. This robot could recognize the voice and movements of the man posing as a customer, detect an apple and then bring it back. This exchange was part of an experiment involving an AI-equipped robot conducted at the Kyushu Institute of Technology's Graduate School of Life Science and Systems Engineering in Wakamatsu Ward, Kitakyushu, on May 22. Hibikino-Musashi@Home (HMA), a research project team comprised of students at the institute and elsewhere, has been developing 'service robots' that can help people at home and in the office. In 2024, HMA won the RoboCup, an annual global competition for robots, for the third time. HMA has been developing new technologies as the team seeks to defend its title at the 2025 event, which is scheduled to be held in Brazil. At the RoboCup, each robot does actions such as taking an order from a customer and clearing away an item. The robots are judged on the accuracy of their movements. However, details of the type of competition are not revealed until just before the event starts, and the robots are also given instructions chosen at random. The development of these robots has reached a major turning point as artificial intelligence continues to make rapid advances. Kyushu Institute of Technology Prof. Hakaru Tamuko, 46, who is a supervisor for HMA, said, 'Things that we thought couldn't be done just a few years ago have suddenly become possible.' Akinobu Mizutani, a 27-year-old doctoral student at the institute, has high aspirations. 'In the future, I want to create robots that have 'memories' and can help people live enjoyable lives,' Mizutani said. Trump card Robots have previously been developed mainly for industrial use. Their ability to quickly, accurately and repeatedly perform actions such as bending metal and tightening screws has contributed to the mass production of industrial products. However, these robots can perform only operations they have been programmed in advance to do. Integrating AI with robots will dramatically expand the range of activities these machines can perform. At a time when Japan's labor shortage is becoming increasingly severe due to the chronically low birth rate and graying population, there are high expectations that such robots could be a trump card that supports both industries and people's daily lives. The Mitsubishi Research Institute Inc. estimates that the 'AI robotics' market, which currently stands at about ¥10 trillion, could grow to reach ¥60 trillion by 2040. In November 2023, Kitakyushu-based Yaskawa Electric Corp. announced the launch of its Motoman Next series of industrial robots that are powered by AI. Yaskawa, a front-runner in its industry, excels in robotic arms and jointly developed the series with Nvidia Corp., a major U.S. designer of AI semiconductors. These robots can handle tasks such as sorting washed items at a restaurant and carrying agricultural products, and Yaskawa is preparing to put them into practice. 'These products could change conventional thinking about industrial robots,' said Yumie Kubota, who is the manager of Yaskawa's AI Robotics Department and was involved in the development project. 'The possibilities are endless.' Promising new venturesKyushu has the potential to become a region at the cutting edge of the robotics industry. Major robotics companies are located in multiple places, and the island is home to many small and midsized firms possessing superb technologies used in automobiles and other fields. Startups also have popped up here and there. TriOrb Inc., a company founded in Kitakyushu in 2023, originated from the Kyushu Institute of Technology and is involved in developing delivery robots that can move freely in all directions. Several of TriOrb's units can work together to carry a large object. KiQ Robotics Inc., also based in Kitakyushu, specializes in parts for robot 'fingers,' which can replicate delicate gripping like a human hand. Made on a 3D printer from processed resin, these soft robotic fingers are being used by companies including major automakers. 'Big advances are being made not only in software for robots, but on the hardware side, too,' said Takashi Takimoto, 44, chief executive officer of KiQ Robotics. Some companies are chalking up success domestically and overseas. A company called tmsuk Co., which originated in Kitakyushu but has its head office in Kyoto and a research base in Munakata, Fukuoka Prefecture, is one of Japan's leading developers of service robots. The company has produced more than 50 robots capable of tasks such as checking water pipes and installing ceiling panels. The company's robots have been used in the construction of buildings in Fukuoka City. Yoichi Takamoto, the chairman of tmsuk, is confident that major achievements lie ahead. 'Robots will solve social issues and change the world,' Takamoto said. International competition The competition to develop robots is becoming increasingly fierce. In November 2024, a new company established by former employees of U.S. technology giant Google LLC and others released footage showing a robot that could perform complex and delicate movements such as folding laundry and putting eggs in a carton. The robot features a 'deep learning' model in which it uses AI to learn by itself. In April, the participation of humanoid robots in a marathon in Beijing generated a lot of headlines. 'If things continue as they are, the world will leave Japan behind,' tmsuk's Takamoto warned, expressing a sense of urgency shared by other people in the domestic robotics industry. In a bid to accelerate the development of robots integrated with AI, a group including Waseda University, the University of Tokyo and Toyota Motor Corp. launched the AI Robot Association in December. The Kyushu Institute of Technology is assisting in ways such as collecting data related to the development of AI for use in robots. In addition, tmsuk also plans to start development of a humanoid robot. 'We're getting closer to an era in which there will be a robot in every home,' said Tamuko, the Kyushu Institute of Technology professor. 'Robots in the future will require AI and semiconductors that can control AI, and all the superb technologies for building those units also will be needed. All those elements are in Kyushu, so the region could become a world-leader in this field. Industry and academic circles must make every effort [to achieve this goal].'
Time of India
24-06-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
HC: Can't void tribal MLA's win over 2nd wife's name in affidavit
Mumbai: Observing that Shiv Sena MLA Rajendra Gavit, who belongs to the tribal Bhil community, "candidly and honestly" disclosed information regarding his second marriage on his affidavit for the assembly election last year, Bombay HC on Monday dismissed a plea to declare his win void. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now "The addition of a column for giving particulars of income and income tax of spouse No. 2 in the affidavit does not constitute a valid ground of challenge," said Justice Sandeep Marne. Sudhir Jain, an activist from Palghar, an ST reserved seat, objected to the addition of the column 'spouse No. 2' in Gavit's affidavit filed in form 26 along with his nomination form. Gavit named Rupali Gavit as his second wife. Jain contended that Gavit's second marriage is void under Hindu Marriage Act (HMA) and, therefore, his declaration about Rupali is false. Such disclosure was not only incorrect but also against the prescribed format under the Conduct of Election Rules, he said. It rendered the nomination form defective and void under Section 100 of Representation of the People Act, said his petition. Jain said under Section 33B, candidates are required to disclose information only under the Act and Conduct of Election Rules. Senior advocate Neeta Karnik, for Jain, said there can be no room for tinkering with the format. Gavit's advocate, Nitin Gangal, said he made a true and honest disclosure of his second marriage. Also, while SC struck down Section 33B, it did not restrict a candidate from making any voluntary disclosure besides the given format, he said. Agreeing with him, Justice Marne said, "Mere disclosure of information in addition to the one required in the prescribed format would not ipso facto render nomination to be defective. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now " Gangal argued that HMA does not apply to tribals, and that the Bhil community that has a custom of polygamy. Karnik said the false declaration of the second marriage was made to exert undue influence on tribal voters since Rupali was from the local tribal community. Justice Marne said the issue is whether there is falsity in Gavit's claim and disclosure of the second marriage by adding a column in the form 26 affidavit would attract Section 100. "The answer to the question would emphatically be in the negative," he added. Justice Marne said there may be cases where a candidate belongs to a religion that does not prohibit polygamy. "If the contention of the petitioner about the impermissibility to add a column in the form 26 affidavit is accepted, such a candidate would never be able to contest any election as disclosure of information about an additional wife would attract Section 100." He disagreed with Karnik that prohibition under HMA would automatically render Gavit's disclosure of his relationship with Rupali to be false. He said it was necessary for Jain to state in the petition that Gavit's second marriage did not occur, adding: "The petitioner, in fact, admits the fact... that Rupali Gavit is the second wife of the respondent." Jain's plea also didn't state how by adding a second spouse's name the poll result was materially affected, he said. Neither was there a pleading on how undue influence was exerted on voters, he added.
Business Standard
10-06-2025
- Business
- Business Standard
Dr. Raj P. Narayanam named Entrepreneur of the Year 2024-25 by HMA
PRNewswire Hyderabad (Telangana) [India], June 10: Dr. Raj P. Narayanam, Founder and Executive Chairman of Zaggle, has been honoured with the prestigious Entrepreneur of the Year Award 2024-2025 by the Hyderabad Management Association (HMA). This esteemed recognition celebrates Dr. Raj's exceptional entrepreneurial vision, leadership, and his impactful contributions to the industry, reaffirming his role as a driving force in India's business and fintech landscape. The Entrepreneur of the Year Award was conferred upon Dr. Raj P. Narayanam at the 52nd HMA Annual Awards ceremony, held at the Marigold Hotel, Hyderabad. The award selection followed a rigorous evaluation process conducted by an independent and distinguished jury comprising Mrs. K. Vijaya Lakshmi (Retired Judge), Prof. S. Sreenivasa Murthy (Director, IPE), Mr. V. N. Vishnu (IAS, Retd.) and Mr. Prakash Chandra Baror (General Manager, SBI). After a thorough assessment of the nominees, the jury unanimously recommended Dr. Raj P. Narayanam for this honour in recognition of his outstanding entrepreneurial achievements and industry contributions. Expressing his gratitude on the recognition, Dr. Raj, said, "I am deeply honoured and humbled to receive the 'Entrepreneur of the Year Award' from HMA. This recognition is a reflection of the collective dedication, innovation and hard work of the entire team at Zaggle. The award celebrates impactful business leadership in the region, and I am proud to be among those acknowledged. This recognition inspires us to keep pushing the boundaries of innovation and to continue contributing meaningfully to India's ever-evolving business landscape." Conceptualized in 1964, HMA has a legacy of fostering managerial excellence and professionalism. The 'Entrepreneur of the Year Award' category recognizes outstanding leadership and significant growth in the entrepreneurial landscape. Past recipients of this award include notable figures such as Dr. Manne Satyanarayana Reddy, Founder & Chairman of MSN Group, Mr. V. Venkatram, MD & CEO, SeedWorks International and A. Sridhar Reddy Managing Director, Esennar Transformers. With over two decades of experience in global finance and technology, Dr. Raj has been a trailblazer in developing innovative solutions that drive efficiency and ensure compliance within the SaaS and FinTech sector. His visionary leadership has earned him multiple prestigious accolades, including the 2024 Hurun Industry Achievement Award for Financial Solutions. He was also recently named 'FinTech Leader of the Year' at both the Bharat FinTech Summit and by Business World, further cementing his reputation as a leading force in the fintech landscape. About Hyderabad Management Association The Hyderabad Management Association (HMA), established in 1964, is a prominent professional organization dedicated to fostering managerial excellence and spreading professionalism among executives, academia, and students in Hyderabad and Secunderabad. Affiliated with the All India Management Association (AIMA), HMA provides a vital platform for knowledge sharing, skill development through various programs, and recognizing outstanding contributions to the management and entrepreneurial landscape. The 'Entrepreneur of the Year Award' is one of its most distinguished accolades, celebrating leaders who demonstrate exceptional performance and drive significant growth in their respective fields. For more information, visit their website About Zaggle Founded in 2011, Zaggle (BSE: 543985) (NSE: ZAGGLE) is a leading player in spend management, offering a differentiated value proposition with a diversified user base. Operating within the business-to-business-to-customer (B2B2C) segment, Zaggle stands out as one of the few companies with a comprehensive range of financial technology products and services. Zaggle is one of India's top issuers of prepaid cards, collaborating with banking partners to drive its card offerings. The company also boasts a diverse portfolio of SaaS products and an extensive network of touchpoints. As of March 31, 2025, Zaggle has issued over 50 million prepaid cards, serves more than 3,400 corporate enterprise clients and supports a user base exceeding 3.2 million. With a robust corporate client base spanning various industries, including banking and finance, technology, healthcare, manufacturing, FMCG, infrastructure and automobiles, Zaggle is well-positioned as a leading player in the spend management sector.
Business Upturn
10-06-2025
- Business
- Business Upturn
Dr. Raj P. Narayanam named Entrepreneur of the Year 2024-25 by HMA
HYDERABAD, India , June 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Dr. Raj P. Narayanam, Founder and Executive Chairman of Zaggle, has been honoured with the prestigious Entrepreneur of the Year Award 2024–2025 by the Hyderabad Management Association (HMA). This esteemed recognition celebrates Dr. Raj's exceptional entrepreneurial vision, leadership, and his impactful contributions to the industry, reaffirming his role as a driving force in India's business and fintech landscape. The Entrepreneur of the Year Award was conferred upon Dr. Raj P. Narayanam at the 52nd HMA Annual Awards ceremony, held at the Marigold Hotel, Hyderabad . The award selection followed a rigorous evaluation process conducted by an independent and distinguished jury comprising Mrs. K. Vijaya Lakshmi (Retired Judge), Prof. S. Sreenivasa Murthy (Director, IPE), Mr. V. N. Vishnu (IAS, Retd.) and Mr. Prakash Chandra Baror (General Manager, SBI). After a thorough assessment of the nominees, the jury unanimously recommended Dr. Raj P. Narayanam for this honour in recognition of his outstanding entrepreneurial achievements and industry contributions. Expressing his gratitude on the recognition, Dr. Raj , said, 'I am deeply honoured and humbled to receive the 'Entrepreneur of the Year Award' from HMA. This recognition is a reflection of the collective dedication, innovation and hard work of the entire team at Zaggle. The award celebrates impactful business leadership in the region, and I am proud to be among those acknowledged. This recognition inspires us to keep pushing the boundaries of innovation and to continue contributing meaningfully to India's ever-evolving business landscape.' Conceptualized in 1964, HMA has a legacy of fostering managerial excellence and professionalism. The 'Entrepreneur of the Year Award' category recognizes outstanding leadership and significant growth in the entrepreneurial landscape. Past recipients of this award include notable figures such as Dr. Manne Satyanarayana Reddy , Founder & Chairman of MSN Group, Mr. V. Venkatram, MD & CEO, SeedWorks International and A. Sridhar Reddy Managing Director, Esennar Transformers. With over two decades of experience in global finance and technology, Dr. Raj has been a trailblazer in developing innovative solutions that drive efficiency and ensure compliance within the SaaS and FinTech sector. His visionary leadership has earned him multiple prestigious accolades, including the 2024 Hurun Industry Achievement Award for Financial Solutions. He was also recently named 'FinTech Leader of the Year' at both the Bharat FinTech Summit and by Business World, further cementing his reputation as a leading force in the fintech landscape. About Hyderabad Management Association The Hyderabad Management Association (HMA), established in 1964, is a prominent professional organization dedicated to fostering managerial excellence and spreading professionalism among executives, academia, and students in Hyderabad and Secunderabad. Affiliated with the All India Management Association (AIMA), HMA provides a vital platform for knowledge sharing, skill development through various programs, and recognizing outstanding contributions to the management and entrepreneurial landscape. The 'Entrepreneur of the Year Award' is one of its most distinguished accolades, celebrating leaders who demonstrate exceptional performance and drive significant growth in their respective fields. For more information, visit their website About Zaggle Founded in 2011, Zaggle (BSE: 543985) (NSE: ZAGGLE) is a leading player in spend management, offering a differentiated value proposition with a diversified user base. Operating within the business-to-business-to-customer (B2B2C) segment, Zaggle stands out as one of the few companies with a comprehensive range of financial technology products and services. Zaggle is one of India's top issuers of prepaid cards, collaborating with banking partners to drive its card offerings. The company also boasts a diverse portfolio of SaaS products and an extensive network of touchpoints. As of March 31, 2025 , Zaggle has issued over 50 million prepaid cards, serves more than 3,400 corporate enterprise clients and supports a user base exceeding 3.2 million. With a robust corporate client base spanning various industries, including banking and finance, technology, healthcare, manufacturing, FMCG, infrastructure and automobiles, Zaggle is well-positioned as a leading player in the spend management sector. For more information, please visit the company website or follow us on LinkedIn View original content: Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with PR Newswire. Business Upturn takes no editorial responsibility for the same.
Mint
10-06-2025
- General
- Mint
My parents' marriage was not valid under Hindu law. Can I inherit property from my late father?
If you were born out of a void marriage or a voidable marriage that was annulled, you would have a share in the inheritance of your late father's properties as per Hindu law. The Hindu Marriage Act, 1955 (HMA) confers legitimacy upon children born out of such void or voidable marriages. A void marriage has no legal status from the outset (e.g., if a party has a spouse at the time of the marriage); whereas a voidable marriage is considered valid until it is annulled by court decree (e.g., if a party was incapable of giving valid consent to marriage owing to unsoundness of mind). Accordingly, under the HMA, you would be treated as the 'legitimate' child of your parents as if the marriage had been valid, and would have rights in your late father's properties in the same manner as any other child born to your father from his subsequent valid marriage. However, this does not confer on you rights in relation to the property of other relatives such as your grandparents (unless they specifically name you as a legatee in their will). With respect to ancestral/HUF property, you will not be considered as a coparcener even though your father may have been the karta or coparcener. Your rights (shared with other legal heirs) are limited to your father's share in such joint family/HUF property, which would be ascertained as if a notional partition of such property had taken place immediately before his death. This is assuming that your father belonged to a joint Hindu family governed by Mitakshara law. This position on the inheritance rights of a child born from a void or voidable Hindu marriage who is deemed to be 'legitimate' under the HMA differs from that of 'illegitimate children' under the Hindu Succession Act, 1956 (HSA). Under the HSA, 'illegitimate children' are deemed to be related to their mother and to one another and therefore can inherit only from the mother and not the father. This does not apply in your case, given your status as a child born from a marriage that is void or voidable. Please consult a lawyer to understand the application of these general legal principles to the facts and circumstances of your case. Shaishavi Kadakia is a partner and Sachi Shah is a Senior Associate at Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas, Mumbai.
