Digital transformation, AI, And Smart Cities: Dilip Pungliya, Co-Founder And CBO At Ztudium, In Dinis Guarda YouTube Podcast

Dinis Guarda interviews Dilip Pungliya, Co-Founder, VP, and Chief Business Officer at ztudium, in his YouTube Podcast series. In this podcast, they talked about Dilip’s family-owned public company in India and his pioneering work in smart cities and AI. The podcast is powered by Businessabc.net and citiesabc.com.

Dilip Pungliya is a leader, author, investor, and entrepreneur known for his profound impact on various industries through his expertise in data and technology. As the Co-Founder, VP, and Chief Business Officer at ztudium Group, Dilip plays an important role in directing the company's advancements in Web 3.0, AI, blockchain, and the Metaverse. His extensive experience spans investment and commercial banking, oil and gas, and government sectors, highlighting his broad knowledge and strategic insight.

During the interview, Dilip Pungliya discusses his journey and insights into data optimisation and business transformation with Dinis:

"Through my work in data optimisation and business transformation, I have always strived to drive innovation and create value across various sectors, including investment banking, oil and gas, and government. My commitment extends beyond business to making a positive impact through philanthropy and social responsibility,” said Dilip.

Vishnu Prakash R. Punglia Limited (VPRPL) is a family-owned public construction company in India that has evolved from its modest beginnings into a major player in India’s infrastructure sector. Established with a focus on water irrigation, road infrastructure, and railway development, VPRPL has significantly impacted the construction industry in India. 

Dilip also shares his family's journey and personal growth with Dinis:

"Our company began with modest means, focusing on bringing water to people’s homes. From those humble beginnings, my father and uncle built it into a significant player in the construction industry. My own journey started in the family business, but my passion for technology and data led me to explore new fields, eventually merging my background in finance and technology with global opportunities.

In 2014, we began planning our public listing, which involved rigorous strategic efforts to ensure consistent growth and transparency. We focused on maintaining high-quality standards and preparing for extreme weather conditions to safeguard our infrastructure.”

A tech-enabled journey of transformation

Dilip Pungliya's journey from a local businessman to a global leader is marked by his forward-thinking approach to integrating technology into traditional business practices.

"Integrating technology into our traditional business model was not just about keeping up with trends; it was about fundamentally transforming how we operate and deliver value.

The digital age is not just about adding new tools; it’s about rethinking how we approach problems and find solutions. Technology has allowed us to expand our reach and efficiency in ways that were previously unimaginable. By leveraging data, we have been able to make more informed decisions, optimise our operations, and ultimately provide better services to our clients."

Dilip is deeply connected to social impact:

"I don't want to be disconnected from society just because I don't have time; that's not a good excuse. You can always devote 1 hour or more to help society and bring social impact. I have been an entrepreneur in the past and today I am an investor. I have got full backing of my family from India and that investment is helping me to drive my passion towards business in technology, but the humanity part stays as well."

Dilip also shared how he blended his Indian educational roots with the global perspective he gained in the UK:

“Building a community in London and adapting to a new educational environment was a rewarding experience. Despite the initial hurdles, including language barriers and cultural adjustments, I found that the inclusive and diverse nature of London made it easier to integrate. The opportunity to engage with people from various backgrounds and to participate in a supportive neighbourhood ecosystem has enriched my experience and professional journey.”

Advancing smart cities with AI

Dilip aims to enhance both infrastructure and the quality of life in urban environments. Dilip’s research explores how AI can be harnessed to make cities smarter while maintaining ecological and environmental balance. Dilip explains to Dinis:

“To truly benefit society, AI must be used in a way that is both humane and practical. My research involves developing smart cities from an ecological and sustainability perspective. We aim to create an infrastructure that not only leverages AI for efficiency but also enhances the lives of its citizens. Learning from history, such as the sophisticated urban planning of Mohenjo-Daro in the Indus Valley, informs our approach. By understanding past achievements, we can build smarter and more sustainable cities for the future.

AI should not be about adding complexity but rather about simplifying and improving the quality of life. The real success of smart cities will come from integrating AI in a way that complements and enriches human experiences. Our vision is to create urban spaces where technology and nature coexist harmoniously, ensuring that advancements serve both people and the planet.

Smart cities must go beyond just technological upgrades; they need to be designed with a deep respect for the environment and historical insights. By applying lessons from ancient urban designs to modern AI applications, we are not just creating efficient cities but ones that are resilient and adaptable for future generations.”

As the interview comes to a close, Dilip Pungliya shares his wisdom with young aspirants:

Dilip advises: “To young people, I would say that you don’t need to start with big dreams. Focus on small, manageable goals and take baby steps. Passion and persistence are key—keep moving forward and gradually, your small achievements will build up to realise your bigger dreams. It’s not about planning your future in 50-year chunks but setting goals for the next 2 or 6 months. Each success you achieve will pave the way for more success, and that’s the approach I’ve applied throughout my life and career.”