DS Group concludes ASCEND 2026, reinforces enterprise-wide digital transformation strategy

The three-day technology event brought together over 5,000 employees, industry experts and technology partners, highlighting AI, cloud, cybersecurity and digital innovation as key drivers of business growth, operational efficiency and long-term enterprise transformation.

Dharampal Satyapal Group (DS Group) has concluded the inaugural edition of ASCEND 2026, a three-day technology event aimed at accelerating digital transformation across its businesses. Organised from July 27 to 29 at the company's headquarters, the event brought together more than 5,000 employees, business leaders, industry experts and technology partners to explore the role of emerging technologies in shaping the future of enterprise operations.

Held under the theme "Diversified by Business. United by Technology," the event underscored the company's strategy of positioning technology as a core business enabler to improve operational agility, efficiency and long-term competitiveness.

Focus on emerging technologies and enterprise innovation

ASCEND 2026 featured demonstrations and discussions on a broad range of digital technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Generative AI, Agentic AI, Machine Learning, Data Analytics, Cloud Computing, Cybersecurity, Data Privacy, Enterprise Applications, Robotic Process Automation (RPA), Industry 4.0 and sustainability-focused technologies.

Several technology companies and consulting firms, including SAP, Microsoft, Salesforce, Snowflake, PwC, EY, Deloitte, Grant Thornton, Bizom, Mitsubishi, PeopleStrong and o9 Solutions, participated in the event. They showcased enterprise solutions and practical use cases illustrating how digital technologies are helping organisations improve productivity, streamline operations and support informed decision-making.

The programme also included interactive product demonstrations, innovation labs, workshops, panel discussions and expert-led sessions designed to encourage knowledge sharing and promote wider adoption of digital technologies across different business functions.

Digital investments to support long-term growth

According to the company, DS Group has accelerated its digital transformation efforts over the past three years by substantially increasing investments in technology, expanding its technology partner ecosystem from around 20 to more than 50 organisations, and implementing enterprise-wide digital initiatives across multiple business verticals.

As the company approaches its centenary year, it plans to further increase investments in technology, viewing digital innovation as a critical pillar for future business growth and operational excellence.

Santosh K Singh, Senior Vice President, Information Technology, DS Group, said, “Technology today is not merely about digitising processes; it is about reimagining the way businesses create value. At DS Group, every technology investment is guided by one principle, business impact. Whether it is AI-powered decision-making, intelligent supply chains, cloud transformation or enterprise-wide data capabilities, technology must enable faster decisions, greater efficiency and sustainable growth. As we move towards becoming a ₹20,000 crore organisation by our centenary year, technology will be one of our strongest growth enablers. Our objective is to build a future-ready enterprise where innovation is embedded across every business, every function and every employee. ASCEND 2026 reflects that vision by bringing together people, ideas and technology on one platform to accelerate learning, collaboration and transformation.”

Sustainability and digital-first approach

The event was organised as a paperless, digital-first initiative, reflecting the company's efforts to integrate sustainability into its operational practices while leveraging technology to improve efficiency. Beyond showcasing digital tools, ASCEND 2026 also aimed to foster a culture of continuous learning, innovation and cross-functional collaboration among employees.

With the conclusion of its first edition, ASCEND 2026 marks another step in DS Group's broader digital transformation roadmap. The initiative reflects the company's focus on embedding technology across its business operations as it prepares for its next phase of growth, while reinforcing the increasing role of digital capabilities in strengthening enterprise resilience and long-term competitiveness.