At the 2023 Asteroids, Comets, Meteors Conference in Arizona, Mr. Aswin Sekhar, India's leading meteor astronomer, received the prestigious honor of having a minor planet named after him by the IAU. Recognized for his groundbreaking research in meteoroid stream dynamics, focusing on relativity and resonances, Sekhar joins a select group of Indians celebrated in scientific achievement, including CV Raman, Subrahmanyan Chandrasekhar, Srinivasa Ramanujan, Vikram Sarabhai, and Manali Kallat Vainu Bappu. This distinction underscores his significant impact on the field and marks a historic moment in Indian astronomy, highlighting Mr. Sekhar as the first professional meteor astronomer from India in modern times as per the official IAU citation

Sharmila Oswal, hailed as India's Millet Evangelist, is a pioneering force in sustainable agriculture. With a relentless commitment to empowering rural communities, she has transformed the lives of over 1.5 lakh farmers through innovative water management and millet cultivation practices. In 2008, she founded the Green Energy Foundation, empowering women in agriculture and implementing sustainable solutions and subsequently, launched the first sustainable water management plan in Buchkewadi, Maharashtra. Her entrepreneurial spirit is showcased through her co-founding of Gud Mom, a pioneering venture in the millet-based food industry. Recognized as one of India's top 20 agricultural startups by the Government of India, and distinguished as 'Best Startup in Organic Farming 2021, Gud Mom serves as a catalyst for rural prosperity, providing employment opportunities to thousands. Oswal's visionary leadership and dedication to social impact have earned her widespread recognition and accolades including the 'Poshak Anaj Award 2022'.

Shrinidhi Ghatate became a musical sensation who has captured hearts both nationally and internationally. Hailing from Nagpur, her journey to stardom began at the tender age of nine. With a voice that resonates with pure talent, Shrinidhi has risen through the ranks, captivating audiences with her performances on platforms like 'Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Lil Champs (Marathi)', 'The Voice', and 'Asia's Singing Superstar'. Shrinidhi has released albums and singles with AHAIBAM Records and collaborated with renowned names like Shankar Mahadevan. Her own successful band, 'Shrinidhi & the Band', have solidified her position as a leading figure in India's music industry.She has performed in various countries, including the UK, USA, Mauritius, Israel, and Abu Dhabi and her journey continues to serve as a guiding light for aspiring young singers today

Jigar Solanki stands as a celebrated magician and mentalist, commanding attention at corporate events with his exceptional talents and captivating stage presence. His flawless illusions and mind-bending techniques leave audiences in awe and excitement, transforming ordinary moments into unforgettable experiences. Jigar's interactive shows engage the audience, creating a lively and captivating atmosphere, ensuring every event is memorable. With appearances on the Kapil Sharma Show, his diverse repertoire and engaging style make every occasion magical and immersive, leaving the audience with delightful memories.

Dr. Shankar Ramchandani, honored with the Odisha Citizen Award in 2023, a doctor by profession but a God figure for the public in recognition of his selfless dedication. Founder of the 'One Rupee' clinic that provides free treatment and medicines to underprivileged individuals, he has become a symbol of hope and compassion in the community.. The doctor's unwavering commitment to providing free care beyond duty hours has garnered widespread attention and appreciation. In 2020, he went above and beyond by treating a COVID-19 patient after hours and personally driving them to VIMSAR.

Renowned Indian cartoonist Dr. Jitheshji is celebrated for his witty and satirical drawings in print and on television. His incisive commentary on societal and political issues has been featured in prominent magazines like Mathrubhumi. Dr. Jitheshji has received several prestigious awards for his contributions to cartooning, including the Kerala Cartoon Academy Award and Professional Achievement Awards and is celebrated as the world's fastest-performing cartoonist for his ability to sketch fifty celebrity caricatures within five minutes. His notable work continues to influence and entertain readers across various major publications.

Sneha Harsh is a dedicated leader in nonprofit initiatives, driven by her personal experiences as a first-generation college graduate. She has spent a decade enhancing education for marginalized students in India, Nepal, Japan, and the U.S, excelling in project management, strategic direction, leadership development, and advocacy storytelling. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she led an e-learning STEM platform, impacting over 1,000 high school students. Sneha's journey from a tribal village in Jharkhand to attending Lady Shri Ram College, Fukuoka Women's University, and graduating from Harvard University highlights her dedication. Currently, as the Global Advisor at TLC Global Foundation and working with Nyaka in Uganda, she champions education and equity. Recognized as a Sustainability Fellow and Emerging Climate Leader at Harvard, and a 2024 BeVisioneer Fellow at Mercedes Benz, Sneha is developing a sustainable menstrual hygiene venture.

Dr. Somdutta Singh's remarkable journey and achievements resonate deeply with the theme of resilience and innovation. As a pioneering first-generation serial entrepreneur, investor, and visionary leader who got listed in the 2023 Forbes Select 200 and receiving the prestigious Champions of Change Award, India 2023, her work in founding and leading Assiduus, a trailblazing company in cross-border e-commerce distribution and supply chain, along with her numerous accolades, exemplifies these qualities. Her contributions to fostering entrepreneurship, supporting women-led ventures through initiatives like Bhavi, and advocating for digital transformation and social innovation perfectly embody the Pharos spirit. Her story promises to inspire the audience to navigate their own paths with courage and creativity.

Renowned conservation architect Vikas Dilawari is a pivotal figure in preserving Mumbaïs iconic skyline. His meticulous restoration work has breathed new life into the city's architectural treasures, including the majestic Victoria Terminus and the ornate Rajabai Clock Tower. Dilawari's dedication to preserving India's cultural heritage is exemplified by his numerous award-winning projects and being recognised by the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation, including the 2019 work on the Flora Fountain. His journey began with the meticulous restoration of the Army and Navy Building in Kala Ghoda, a testament to the vision of architect Frederick William Stevens. A true visionary, Vikas Dilawari continues to shape Mumbai's urban landscape while honoring its rich history.

Dr. Phillip, the Chairperson of the Department of Chemistry, Earth Sciences, and Environmental Sciences at Bronx Community College/City University of New York, holds a Ph.D. and a Master's degree in Environmental Engineering, along with dual Bachelor's degrees in Chemistry and Meteorology. His research areas include atmospheric and water pollution, STEM pedagogy, and climate change monitoring. He has led initiatives like the CUNY Greenhouse Gas monitoring program and the installation of weather stations in India. Additionally, Dr. Phillip has secured significant grants and actively participated in Antarctic research workshops and sustainability conferences