Shanthi Gears PBT up by 19% & Free Cash Flow up by 75% in FY 2024-25

The Board of Directors of Shanthi Gears Limited (SGL), a subsidiary of Tube Investments of India Limited (TII), met today and approved the financial results for the quarter and year ended 31st March 2025.

Highlights

The Company continues to focus on 4 key priorities of Revenue, Profitability, ROIC and Free Cash Flow (FCF).

·         Revenue of ₹ 153.2 Crores in Q4 at the same level as compared to ₹ 153.6 Crores in Q4 of previous year. Revenue of ₹ 604.6 Crores in the financial year with a 13% growth over previous year.

·         The Profit Before Tax (PBT) of ₹ 31.4 Crores in Q4 at the same level as compared to ₹ 31.9 Crores in Q4 of previous year. PBT of ₹ 130.1 Crores in the financial year with a 19% growth over previous year.

·         The Return on Invested Capital (ROIC) is 55% in this financial year from 57% in previous year.

·         The Company generated Free Cash Flow (FCF) of ₹ 75.5 Crores during the financial year and registered 75% growth over previous year.

Open order book as on 31st March 2025 was Rs.239 Crores.

The Board of Directors have recommended a final dividend of ₹ 2 per share (200%) for the financial year 2024-25. The total dividend including the interim dividend (₹ 3 already paid ) is ₹ 5 per share (500%) for FY 2024-25.

Neeraj Goyat Joins Amazon MX Player’s Battleground as Guest Mentor

Mumbai, India- April 25 2025: Following a week of intense drama and speculation, celebrated Indian boxer and mixed martial artist Neeraj Goyat has joined fitness reality show Battleground, on Amazon MX Player – Amazon’s free streaming service, as a guest mentor. Taking charge of the powerhouse squad UP Dabangs, Goyat steps in, bringing a new level of intensity and experience to the competition.

Known for his unflinching discipline, Neeraj joins the mentor panel alongside Rubina Dilaik, Abhishek Malhan, and Rajat Dalal. His entry follows a dramatic shake-up during the Weekend Fight Club episode and days of speculation from fans and participants alike.  As the first Indian boxer to feature in the WBC world rankings, Neeraj brings unmatched experience, tactical brilliance, and the mindset of a true fighter to the mentor panel. With his proven track record in both boxing and mixed martial arts, he is sure to shake up the dynamics of the competition. 

Speaking about stepping into the show as a guest mentorNeeraj Goyat shared, “I’ve fought through the toughest battles, both in the ring and in life. Now, I’m bringing that same relentless spirit and discipline to BattlegroundFitness isn’t just a hobby for me, it’s my lifestyle. I push myself every day to be better, faster, and stronger. And I expect the same from my team. We’ll train hard, think smart, and battle with everything we’ve got. Under my mentorship, UP Dabangs will rise, fight smart, and go all in. I’m here to make sure we crush every challenge, because that’s what winners do.”

As Battleground continues to capture the nation’s attention with its thrilling challenges, fierce rivalries, bold twists, and rising stakes, Neeraj Goyat’s arrival is set to add a fresh layer of grit to the game. Battleground is streaming now only on Amazon MX Player for free, available through its apps on mobile, Amazon’s shopping app, Prime Video, Fire TV, and Connected TVs.

 

Hero MotoCorp Bolsters Presence in Sri Lanka

Bengaluru, April 25, 2025: Demonstrating its commitment to providing world-class mobility solutions and deepening its presence in key global markets, Hero MotoCorp, the world’s largest manufacturer of motorcycles and scooters, today announced the launch of four new products – Xoom 110 scooter, Hunk 160R 4V, Xtreme 125R and HF Deluxe motorcycles in partnership with its long-standing distributor, Abans Auto in Sri Lanka.

Hero MotoCorp has been present in Sri Lanka since 2012 through its trusted distributor partner –Abans Auto. Strengthening this presence, the company will support its new product lineup with a robust sales and service network, reaching over 500 customer touchpoints across the country by May 2025. This wide-reaching network will ensure convenient access to genuine spare parts and high-quality after-sales service for customers across Sri Lanka.

Hero MotoCorp’s new product line-up in Sri Lanka includes –

  • Xoom 110 – A sporty, compact scooter packed with features, designed to offer agility and ease for everyday urban commuting. The Hero Xoom will be Sri Lanka’s first and only scooter in the 110cc category.
  • Hunk 160R 4V – A muscular and performance-driven streetfighter built for thrill-seekers, now comes with ABS for an added safety
  • Xtreme 125R – A dynamic new contender in the 125cc segment, offering an ideal balance of power, performance, and style
  • HF Deluxe – A trusted and reliable commuter motorcycle, is now available in all-black edition with refreshed bold presence for a more striking road presence

Products

Xoom 110*

HF Deluxe*

Hunk 160R 4V

Xtreme 125R

Price

LKR 699900

LKR 577900

LKR 909900

LKR 776900

 

*Available immediately at Abans Auto dealerships

 

                              Coming Soon

To make ownership even more accessible, Hero MotoCorp will soon open pre-bookings for the muscular Hunk 160R 4V and the stylish Xtreme 125R.

Speaking on the development, Mr. Sanjay Bhan, Executive Vice President, Hero MotoCorp, said, Sri Lanka has held a position of strategic importance in our global plans. Our partnership with Abans Auto has not only established Hero as a trusted brand, but also helped us build deep-rooted confidence in the market. Our new line-up of cutting-edge motorcycles and feature-rich scooters bring together performance, style, and technology, delivering a world-class riding and ownership experience. With the launch of these new products and a robust sales and service ecosystem, we are confident of rapidly growing our presence and deepening our engagement with customers in Sri Lanka.”

Mr. Rusi Pestonjee, Managing Director, Abans Auto (Pvt) Ltd, said, “We are proud to strengthen our partnership with Hero MotoCorp, a brand that stands for innovation, reliability and customer trust. Over the years, Hero has become a highly respected name in Sri Lanka, and this exciting new range of technologically advanced, stylish, and performance-driven products further reinforces our shared commitment to delivering the high-quality two-wheeler offerings. With an expanding sales and service footprint of over 500 customer touchpoints across the country, we are confident that these new launches will resonate strongly with customers and accelerate Hero’s growth journey in Sri Lanka.”

 Xoom 110

The Hero Xoom 110 brings a refreshing burst of sporty styling and futuristic design to Sri Lanka’s scooter segment. Its aerodynamic bodywork, aggressive LED headlamps, signature H-shaped tail lamp, and bold color palette give it an unmistakably edgy look. Compact yet commanding, the Xoom is designed for young urban riders who seek a perfect mix of style, agility, and everyday practicality.

The Xoom is powered by a 110cc, air-cooled engine, delivering peppy performance and responsive acceleration suited for city riding. The scooter features Hero’s patented i3S technology for improved fuel efficiency, a front disc brake with CBS, and Telescopic Front Suspension for confident handling and ride comfort. With a digital speedometer, ample under-seat storage, and a lightweight frame, the Xoom 110 is engineered to offer a seamless and fun ride, making it an ideal choice for urban commuters in Sri Lanka.

Hunk 160R 4V

The Hero Hunk 160R 4V brings an unmistakable muscular streetfighter exuding raw attitude and athletic energy. With aggressive tank shrouds, an all-LED lighting setup, sculpted bodywork, and a sporty split seat, the Hunk 160R is built to stand out on city streets and highways alike. Its bold stance is complemented by premium finishes and dynamic colour options, making it the perfect expression of performance and style for the next-gen rider.

Powered by a 163cc 4-valve, air-oil cooled engine, the Hunk 160R delivers a thrilling 16.6 bhp power and torque-rich acceleration, ideal for spirited city rides and open stretches. The bike is equipped with a 5-speed gearbox, single-channel ABS, and a lightweight yet rigid diamond frame chassis—ensuring nimble handling and superior braking performance. Additional features such as a fully digital LCD display, side-stand engine cut-off, and a comfortable upright riding posture make the Hunk 160R a complete package.

Xtreme 125R

The Xtreme 125R, a dynamic and sporty motorcycle, brings a new dimension to the entry-level performance segment. At its heart is the powerful 125cc sprint engine delivering an impressive 11.4 bhp power, fast acceleration, and fuel efficiency. With a bold, chiselled design and first-in-segment LED lighting, it stands out on every street. The Bluetooth-enabled LCD instrument cluster brings smart connectivity to everyday rides.

The motorcycle features a lightweight diamond frame, a class-leading 120/80 rear tyre, and a precision-tuned 37mm Showa front suspension, offering unmatched handling and comfort. Safety is elevated with first-in-segment single-channel ABS, a robust 276mm front disc brake, and a hazard lamp, ensuring enhanced protection in all riding conditions.

HF Deluxe

The Hero HF Deluxe arrives in Sri Lanka with a striking new All-Black Edition, featuring bold graphics, black alloy wheels, and a contemporary design that reflects confidence and everyday toughness. Its ergonomically designed seat, stylish headlamp, and body-colored mirrors seamlessly blend utility with visual appeal, making it a perfect companion for both city commutes and rural rides.

Under the hood, the HF Deluxe is powered by a 97.2cc air-cooled, 4-stroke engine offering enhanced fuel efficiency without compromising on performance. With a 4-speed gearbox, superior ground clearance, and a longer front suspension, the motorcycle delivers a smooth, stable ride even on challenging terrains. HF Deluxe is equipped with tubeless tyres for higher on road safety. Designed for durability, performance, and comfort, the HF Deluxe is engineered to be the smart choice for the everyday Sri Lankan rider.

Hindustan Zinc Advocates Galvanization to Save 5% of India’s GDP

New Delhi, 25th April 2025: Ahead of World Corrosion Awareness DayHindustan Zinc Limited , India’s only and the world’s largest integrated zinc producer, launched a series of impactful initiatives under its campaign #ZungKeKhilaafZinc to raise public awareness about corrosion and its widespread impact. The campaign underscores the awareness on corrosion, a critical issue that costs India nearly 5% of its GDP annually, amounting to over $100 billion in preventable losses. Corrosion, a natural yet relentless process, deteriorates metals through chemical and electrochemical reactions caused by moisture, oxygen, pollutants, and salts. This leads to accelerated structural damage and threatens key assets such as infrastructure and vehicle bodies. Zinc galvanization is a proven, scalable solution to prevent such losses by forming a protective barrier that extends metal life and performance.

As part of the campaign, the world’s largest integrated zinc producer rolled out a week-long integrated activation including social media outreach, on-ground demonstrations, and a nationwide consumer survey. The company’s efforts aim to promote long-term, cost-effective protection for public infrastructure and private assets by advocating the use of galvanized steel—an affordable, highly durable alternative to costlier materials like stainless steel.

To raise customer awareness in the automotive sector, Hindustan Zinc conducted a live demonstration from 21st to 24th April in high-footfall areas of Zinc City, Udaipur, a city with over 2,500 years of zinc legacy. The company displayed 2 two-wheelers — one galvanized and one non-galvanized — were placed side by side. The contrast was evident: the non-galvanized two-wheeler showed visible rust, while the galvanized two-wheeler remained intact, protected by its zinc coating. This public experiment sparked curiosity and conversations, capturing real-time reactions to promote informed, zinc-smart decisions. The demonstration was targeted at youth, business owners, and the general public.

Commenting on the initiative, Mr. Arun Misra, CEO Hindustan Zinc Limited, said: “Corrosion poses a serious threat to our infrastructure and the nation’s economy at large. At Hindustan Zinc, we believe awareness is the first step toward real change. While it’s essential for manufacturers to adopt galvanization, consumers also play a vital role by asking the right questions – especially when it comes to long-term investments like homes and vehicles. Through #ZungKeKhilaafZinc, we’re committed to educating industries and individuals alike about the critical value of zinc protection.”

Observed annually on 24th April, World Corrosion Awareness Day is an initiative by the World Corrosion Organization (WCO) to spotlight the enormous economic and environmental cost of rust. Globally, corrosion results in economic losses exceeding $2.5 trillion, or approximately 3%–4% of industrial nations’ GDP. In India with its 7,800 km coastline and high-humidity zones faces a high risk of corrosion. However, countries like Japan and Australia have reduced their corrosion-related GDP losses to just 1.5%, primarily due to widespread use of zinc-coated steel. Studies suggest that up to 30% of corrosion-related damage can be avoided with proper prevention strategies.

The social experiment highlighted how over 70% of a vehicle’s body is steel, which corrodes easily without protection. In the automotive sector, Indian automakers are increasingly adopting zinc coatings for the body-in-white (BIW), the structural skeleton of a vehicle and its components. Galvanized steel not only provides robust corrosion protection but also enhances durability, safety, and resale value. With galvanization costing less than 0.1% of a vehicle’s price, it pays for itself within a year through reduced maintenance. The company is also conducting a nationwide survey on corrosion’s impact, especially in India’s harsh climate. The initiative brings industry experts together to stress the need for galvanized steel in cutting long-term repair and infrastructure costs.

Hindustan Zinc Limited, a Vedanta Group company, is the world’s largest integrated zinc producer and amongst the top 5 silver producers globally. The company supplies to more than 40 countries and holds a market share of about 75% of the primary zinc market in India. Hindustan Zinc has been recognized as the world’s most sustainable company in the metals and mining category for the second consecutive year by the S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment 2024. The company also launched EcoZen, Asia’s first low carbon ‘green’ zinc brand, produced using renewable energy. As an energy transition metals company, Hindustan Zinc is pivotal in providing critical metals essential for a sustainable future.

Paytm Celebrates Akshaya Tritiya with ‘Golden Rush’ and 100g Gold Prize Pool

Paytm (One97 Communications Limited), India’s leading payments and financial services distribution company and a pioneer of mobile payments, QR codes, and Soundbox, has launched ‘Golden Rush’ — a special campaign to promote digital gold savings during Akshaya Tritiya, a festival known for auspicious gold purchases.

Through this initiative, individuals investing ₹500 or more in gold on Paytm can earn reward points, with 5% of the transaction value credited as points on every purchase. These points contribute to a dynamic leaderboard, where top participants stand a chance to win from a total prize pool of 100 grams of gold.

Whether it’s for a wedding gift, festive tradition, or long-term wealth planning, Paytm Gold provides a simple and secure way to invest in 24K, 99.99% pure gold, sourced from MMTC-PAMP, India’s only refinery accredited by the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA). The gold is stored in fully insured, world-class vaults, ensuring complete safety and transparency.

Paytm Gold also enables disciplined saving through its Daily Gold SIP from Rs 9 onwards, allowing small, regular investments to accumulate over time. With real-time pricing, secure storage, and flexible investment options, it serves a variety of needs — whether it’s setting aside gold for future milestones, festive gifting, or building long-term financial security.

 How to Invest in Paytm Gold

  1. Open the Paytm app and use the search bar to find ‘Paytm Gold’ or ‘Daily Gold SIP’.
  2. Tap ‘Buy More’ and enter the amount you want to invest. The minimum investment starts at just ₹9.
  3. Review the live gold price, inclusive of GST, displayed on the app. Choose to invest either as a one-time purchase or through a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) with daily, weekly, or monthly frequency.
  4. Select a payment method — UPI, net banking, or debit card. Once the payment is made, the gold is securely stored in fully insured vaults.
  5. Receive confirmation of your transaction via SMS and email.

 

 

 

 

 

Freeze the Fatigue: How Ice Baths At Squat Up Can Boost Recovery and Performance

Mumbai, 25th April, 2025:  Recovery is just as important as the workout itself, and Squat Up in Ghatkopar is introducing fitness enthusiasts to a game-changing way to bounce back stronger—ice baths. This age-old practice, embraced by elite athletes and fitness lovers worldwide, isn’t just about braving the cold. It’s a science-backed recovery method that helps reduce muscle soreness, fight fatigue, and sharpen mental resilience. With expert guidance and a focus on holistic wellness, Squat Up is making the benefits of cold therapy accessible to all, proving that sometimes, the fastest way forward is through the ice.

The science behind ice baths is as compelling as the results. When you step into water chilled to 10-15°C, your blood vessels constrict, flushing out waste products like lactic acid that build up during intense exercise. As your body warms up afterward, fresh, oxygen-rich blood rushes back to the muscles, reducing inflammation and speeding up repair. For marathon runners, weightlifters, or anyone pushing their limits, this process can mean the difference between days of stiffness and a swift return to peak form.  

At Squat Up, the approach is practical yet personalized. Members are guided through sessions lasting 5 to 10 minutes, often after high-intensity workouts like HIIT or endurance training. It’s not about enduring the cold for the sake of it, it’s about timing it right—using it when your body needs it most, like after a tough leg day or a long run. That’s when you really feel the magic. 

Ice baths not only aid in physical recovery but also enhance mental toughness. The initial shock can be intense, but once you emerge from the ice, you feel invincible and ready to tackle anything. This boost in resilience is a significant advantage, particularly for those striving to achieve their personal bests.

Of course, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Ice baths work best when paired with a smart recovery plan, proper nutrition, stretching, and rest. It’s a tool, not a cure-all. But when you use it right, it’s like giving your body a head start. 

As Squat Up continues to innovate in fitness and recovery, they invite all fitness enthusiasts to experience the benefits of ice baths firsthand. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just beginning your journey, a cold plunge could be the game-changing recovery tool you’ve been searching for.

6 Gut-Friendly Foods That Soothe an Irritated Stomach

Ms. Veena V, Chief Clinical Dietician, Aster Whitefield Hospital, Bengaluru

Ms. Veena V, Chief Clinical Dietitian, Aster Whitefield Hospital, Bengaluru

 

If you’ve experienced bloating, cramping, or that unpleasant “off” sensation in your stomach, you are not alone. Every day many patients come in complaining of stressed guts— invariably caused by stress, specific foods, or even IBS, reflux, or other chronic conditions.

Your gut is not solely a digestive function unit. It has the digestive system, the immune system, hormone levels, and even your mental state intricately linked together. During a flare-up, the imbalance magnifies issues with concentration, energy levels, skin condition, mental health, and much more – in other words, the entire body suffers. Adhering to a balanced diet, which fails to neglect any part of an individual’s well-being, is essential to achieving optimal holistic health, especially pertaining to gut health.

What is relieving to know is the fact that while at times treatment is required, combatting inflammation and promoting digestion largely depends on dietary choices. For your gut’s well-being, reconsider how you categorize food – transform it from thinking of it as “fuel” for sustenance to medicine for gut.

Here are six everyday foods that can help soothe an irritated digestive system, and why they work.

1. Bananas

Bananas are a gentle, easy-to-digest fruit that’s often recommended during digestive flare-ups. It is largely due its gentle and easy to digest properties. Soluble fiber like pectin that assists in bowel movement comes in rich quantities in bananas. Additionally, bananas are not highly acidic; hence, they can be consumed freely by heartburn and acid reflux patients.

2. Plain Yogurt with Live Cultures

When your gut’s irritated, replenishing your good bacteria is key. These probiotics can restore balance to your inflammation-marked microbiome, reducing (and supporting smoother) digestion all with the help of plain yogurt that has live and active cultures listed on the label. Just be sure to skip flavoured varieties as it is loaded with sugar, which can worsen symptoms.

3. Oatmeal

Soluble fiber-packed oatmeal effortlessly fits the bill when it comes to soothing gut comfort foods, and you really cannot get any gentler than that. Oats also happen to be incredibly mild on the digestive tract and aid in reducing excess stomach acid, and while that makes oats a smart option if you are feeling sensitive, it also makes them a go-to.

4. Ginger

This isn’t just a remedial approach your grandmother would suggest—ginger indeed works wonders on gut. It has been utilized for centuries to manage nausea, alleviate bloating, cramping, and inflammation. Whether enjoyed as ginger tea, fresh root chunks, cooking ginger, or as an ingredient in cuisine, ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory that will benefit your stomach.

5. Bone Broth

Bone broth is a wonder for the gut lining, being rich in collagen, amino acids, and minerals. Because it’s hydrating, easy to digest, and promotes sealing and healing the intestines, it’s especially useful after a stomach virus or a digestive flare-up. The additional benefits for joints and skin are a plus!

6. Papaya

An enzyme in papaya called papain assists in digestion and protein breakdown. Along with being anti-inflammatory, papaya boasts a rich vitamin C content that nourishes a distressed bowel while enhancing recovery speed. Struggling with regular bouts of indigestion? A pair of ripe papaya slices after a meal will work wonders.

A happy gut doesn’t happen overnight, but small, smart choices every day can go a long way. While these foods do not offer substitute medical care for chronic digestive disorders, they are proven to aid support the body and help alleviate discomfort.

Turkish Airlines Wraps Up India Edition of Global Bowling Tournament

India, 25 April 2025: Turkish Airlines, flag carrier of Turkiye, holder of the Guinness World Records™ title as the airline that flies to more countries than any other, has recently finalised India edition of its Annual Bowling Tournament in New Delhi and Mumbai. The New Delhi leg of the tournament was held at Smaaash, Aria Mall, Gurugram, while the Mumbai edition took place at Amoeba Sports Bar, Phoenix Market City. These vibrant city events are part of Turkish Airlines’ prestigious Global Bowling Tournament, which spans 80 countries and 167 cities worldwide, and serve as an exciting lead-up to the Grand Finale in Istanbul on May 9–10, 2025.

Now in its 13th year, the Turkish Airlines Bowling Tournament strengthens relationships with local business partners while fostering camaraderie among travel industry professionals. A total of 23 agencies participated in this year’s edition in India.  

Akbar Travels emerged victorious in India after the New Delhi and Mumbai editions with a total score of 867, securing a coveted spot in the grand finale in Istanbul. Representing India on the global stage, the winner will showcase the nation’s bowling talent to the world.

Commenting on the tournament, Fatih Karakoc, General Manager Mumbai at Turkish Airlines, said “As a global airline, we believe in the power of sports to unite people across cultures and borders. The Turkish Airlines Bowling Tournament is a testament to this spirit, it is a celebration of sportsmanship, teamwork, and friendly competition. and we’re thrilled to have Mumbai as part of this journey.”

With semi-finals held across the globe, this year’s tournament has drawn participants from 80 countries, including India. The Grand Finale in Istanbul will crown the ultimate champion, who will be rewarded with a flight ticket and a luxurious getaway to Antalya, complementing the grandeur of the event. Top-ranking agencies will also compete for exclusive prizes, elevating the excitement of this highly anticipated tournament.

Started in 2012 to build bridges and connections among Turkish Airlines‘ esteemed business partners worldwide, the Turkish Airlines Bowling Tournament has been delivering enjoyable experiences for all participants. Through friendly competition and camaraderie, the tournament continues to strengthen bonds between global partners.

HLL revamps Its Affordable Pharmacy network AMRIT; Plans Pan-India Expansion

Thiruvananthapuram, April 24, 2025: In a strategic move marking its Diamond Jubilee year and commemorating a decade of the AMRIT initiative, HLL Lifecare Limited, a Central Public Sector Undertaking under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, has introduced a refreshed visual identity for its flagship affordable pharmacy chain, AMRIT (Affordable Medicines and Reliable Implants for Treatment) Pharmacies.
 
 
As part of this upgrade, AMRIT Pharmacies have been given a refreshed brand identity, reinforcing HLL’s commitment to accessible and affordable healthcare. The new logo and visual identity were formally unveiled by Dr. Anitha Thampi, C&MD, HLL, at a special function held at Thiruvananthapuram.
 
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Anitha Thampi said, AMRIT’s rebranding reflects our commitment to reliability, affordability, and increased reach. The name AMRIT embodies our eternal promise of trust, marking a new chapter in our journey.”
 
Ajit N., Director (Marketing), and Benny Joseph, VP & GH (Pharma), were present at the occasion.
 
Since its inception in 2015 as an initiative under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare executed by HLL AMRIT Pharmacies, have played a pivotal role in providing quality medicines, medical devices, and implants for critical illnesses at highly affordable prices, particularly benefiting economically disadvantaged sections. With this brand transformation, HLL has outlined ambitious plans to strengthen and scale the AMRIT pharmacy network across the country. With 220+ outlets already operational in premier institutions like AIIMS, JIPMER, and major government hospitals, the company aims to broaden its footprint to bring affordable healthcare closer to millions more.
 
The new phase of AMRIT will also focus on enhanced customer experience, including home delivery, improved product availability, digital integration, and wider presence, aligning with the Government of India’s healthcare accessibility goals.
 
AMRIT’s Impact at a glance 
   
•          Provides life-saving medicines and implants for critical illnesses at up to 50% lower prices. 
•          Benefitted 600 lakh patients with medicines and healthcare commodities worth Rs 13,104 crore.
•          Enabled patient savings of approximately ₹6,500 crore. ·       
•          222 stores across 25 states and 4 union territories
•          Created employment for 1,700+ individuals.
 
The new logo features a capsule and medical cross positioned above the word ‘AMRIT.’ The refreshed identity, rendered in vibrant red and green, reflects the initiative’s core values: red symbolizes passion, speed, and dependability, while green represents eco-friendliness, reliability, and growth.”
 
AMRIT is operated by HLL’s Retail Business Division, which also manages the HLL Pharmacy and HLL Opticals networks nationwide.

Wockhardt Hospitals Saves 14-Year-Old Snakebite Case with Rare Stroke Complication

Palghar/Mumbai: Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, successfully saved the life of a 14yearold boy who was admitted in critical condition following a venomous snakebite in Manor. The child, bitten in the evening, collapsed immediately and sustained facial trauma and dental injuries due to the fall.

He was initially treated at the local Primary Health Center (PHC), he was administered approximately 10 vials of antivenom before being referred to Wockhardt HospitalsMira Road. Upon arrival, he was in a coma, unresponsive, and bleeding profusely—a clinical picture often associated with viper bites. He was also found to have multiple facial fractures, including a fractured nasal septum.

Dr. Ankit Gupta, Consultant – Pediatric Critical Care Medicine at Wockhardt HospitalsMira Road, said: “Our critical care team immediately administered additional antivenom, provided life support, and placed the child on a ventilator. As his condition stabilized, we observed weakness in his left arm and leg. This prompted an MRI of the brain, which revealed that he had suffered a stroke—a rare but known complication of viper envenomation. We started treatment with blood thinners and initiated intensive physiotherapy.”

The patient steadily improved over the following days. He remained under close observation and care at Wockhardt HospitalsMira Road for about 15 to 16 days before being discharged in a stable condition.”

The patient steadily improved under continuous monitoring and care. After a hospital stay of 15 to 16 days, he was discharged in stable condition.

Dr. Ankit Gupta further added, “Today, the young patient is doing well and continues to recover through rehabilitation and physiotherapy. This case highlights the importance timely medical intervention and specialized critical care can make a life-saving difference in managing complex snakebite cases”

Raising Awareness on Snakebite Reporting Dr. Aklesh Tandekar, Head Consultant Critical Care at Wockhardt Hospitals Mira Road, emphasized the public health importance of snakebite awareness and reporting.“Snakebites and related deaths are now classified as a Notifiable Disease in India. It is mandatory for both government and private healthcare facilities to report all suspected and confirmed snakebite cases and fatalities.”

He added that globally, someone is bitten by a snake every 10 seconds. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), snakebites cause an estimated 81,000 to 138,000 deaths annually and leave around 400,000 people with permanent disabilities. In India, nearly 90% of venomous snakebites are caused by the ‘big four’ species—common krait, Indian cobra, Russell’s viper, and saw-scaled viper.

“Effective measures—especially community education and timely access to antivenom—can significantly reduce snakebite mortality in India,” said Dr. Aklesh Tandekar.

Wockhardt Hospitals Mira Road, remains committed to providing specialized and emergency care, equipped to handle complex, time-sensitive medical cases like this one.

Immediate Action to be taken
1. Remain calm: Panicking can increase heart rate, which may spread the venom faster.
2. Remove constricting items: Loosen tight clothing, jewelry, or watches that may constrict the affected area.

Immobilization and Positioning
1. Immobilize the affected limb: Use a splint or sling to keep the limb still and prevent movement.
2. Keep the affected limb below heart level: This can help slow down the spread of venom.

Wound Care
1. Clean the wound: Gently clean the bite area with soap and water.
2. Apply a clean dressing: Cover the wound with a sterile dressing or bandage.

What Not to Do
1. Do not attempt to suck out the venom: This method is ineffective and can cause more harm.
2. Do not apply a tourniquet: Tourniquets can cut off blood flow and worsen the situation.
3. Do not apply ice or heat: These can also worsen the situation.

Seek Medical Attention
1. Call for emergency help: If possible, call for an ambulance or seek immediate medical attention.
2. Get to a hospital: Even if the bite seems minor, it’s crucial to get medical attention as soon as possible.

Additional Tips
1. Try to remember the snake’s appearance: If possible, take a picture or remember the snake’s color, shape, and size to help medical professionals identify the species.

2. Do not delay medical treatment: Prompt medical attention is essential for effective treatment and minimizing potential complications.