Tech Explained: ‘AI is the necessity of this moment’: Silicon plains summit 2026 puts Marathwada on the global tech map in Simple Terms

Lokmat News NetworkChhatrapati Sambhajinagar

“Artificial intelligence is not just the future it is the necessity of this moment,” declared the Divisional Commissioner, as the Silicon Plains International Summit on Applied AI–2026 drew to a close on Saturday at the Rukmini Auditorium.

Organised jointly by Mahatma Gandhi Mission University and Discover Labs AI, the summit witnessed a wave of groundbreaking student innovations that left attendees reimagining the region’s technological horizon. Among those present were Discover Labs AI founder Madhup Mudiraj, vice-chancellor Dr Vilas Sapkal, CMIA president Utsav Machhar, registrar Dr Ashish Gadekar, summit coordinator Dr. Parminder Kaur, Dr. Uday Khodke, Mithil Mane, Kedar Ravangave, along with entrepreneurs, researchers and students. The summit was organised under the guidance of MGM vice-president Dr. P. M. Jadhav and chancellor Ankushrao Kadam. In the Agri-Tech track, Team Supreme from Sanjivani College of Engineering, Kopargaon, won the Rs 1.5 lakh first prize. A panel discussion on ‘Marathwada Rising’ featured Dr. Dimitrios Salampasis, Nishad Mehare, Utsav Machchar, Kedar Ravangave, Dr. Ashish Gadekar, Imran Ansari, and Terry Tow, who shared their insights on the region’s growing technological ecosystem.

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AI smart warehouse solution

Team Supreme presented an AI-based smart warehouse monitoring system using IoT sensors to track temperature, humidity, gas and moisture, helping prevent spoilage, reduce post-harvest losses and improve storage efficiency.

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AI driving future solutions

Experts at the summit said artificial intelligence is transforming key sectors. Raj Gore, Operating Partner at Advent, noted that AI expands human capabilities by analysing massive data and identifying hidden patterns, and will help transform India’s healthcare system. Scientist Dr. Dilipkumar Kushwaha said AI-based variable rate application can cut 30–40% chemical waste in farming. Dr. Uday Khodke of VNMKV said AI can assess seed quality before release and predict germination failures. Mithil Mane, CEO of Mega Engineering, added that AI can analyse past design data to detect inconsistencies and make engineering processes more efficient and accurate.

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Funding through storytelling

Haje Kamps, founder of Pitch Guide, interacted virtually with students and spoke on ‘The Magical Art of Raising Funding.’ He emphasised that effective storytelling is crucial for startups seeking investment. Founders must clearly explain the idea, its purpose, market need, and value creation. He noted that a strong vision, originality, and clear use of funds are essential to gain investor confidence.

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Precision grinding with AI

CEO Sameer Kelkar of Grind Masters, interacted with the School of Engineering and Technology(SOET). On ‘Solving the $1M Precision Grinding Challenge Through Applied AI,’ he said conventional CNC achieves 65–82% consistency, while AI-based adaptive systems reach 99.5% accuracy. Real-time adjustments improve precision, quality, efficiency, and reliability in aerospace and automotive production.

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Robotics efficiency with AI

Kailash Desai, managing director of Endress Hauser, interacted with MGM SOET students. Speaking on ‘Robotics and Automation,’ he said human operations achieve about 65% accuracy, while AI-based systems can reach 99.9%. AI improves quality, reduces costs, and enhances efficiency, especially in calibration and embedded systems.

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Marathwada is rising

“Marathwada is witnessing growing innovation and participation in technology initiatives. The summit received numerous applications, reflecting strong interest in artificial intelligence. AI has the potential to enable knowledge sharing while maintaining productivity.”

– Terry Tow, AI head, Discoverlab AI, Malaysia.

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(ADDITION REMAIN)

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