PNB and Aadhar Housing Expand in Northeast to Boost Financial Inclusion

Chandigarh, 19 April 2025: PNB Housing Finance Ltd. and Aadhar Housing Finance Ltd. announced their foray into the North East region of the country with the inauguration of their first -ever branch in Guwahati, Assam. This expansion marks a significant milestone in advancing affordable housing solutions, aligned with the government’s mission of ‘Housing for All’ and driving financial inclusion through the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) agenda.

With a commitment to fostering home ownership in the underserved North East region, PNB Housing Finance and Aadhar Housing Finance will offer tailored, innovative affordable housing finance solutions as part of a strategic push to bridge the home finance gap in the region. The expansion will not only facilitate access to housing finance, but also boost real estate demand and support regional development.

Mr. Sanjay Shukla, MD, National Housing Board, said, “Thedistinct geographic challenges and developing infrastructure in the North East region presents both opportunities and responsibilities. Real estate and housing finance are complementary sectors which are not only pivotal for the sustainable development of this region, but also catalysts for unlocking its true potential. By widening their presence in this region, both PNB Housing and Aadhar Housing will significantly contribute in driving last-mile financial inclusion, thus empowering the local economy manifold.”

Mr. Girish Kousgi, MD & CEO, PNB Housing Finance, said, “The North East region – armed with a wealth of culture and resources – presents immense opportunities for growth and development. We are thrilled to expand our presence in this region, beginning with Guwahati, and further widening our distribution footprint across the North East. Our comprehensive affordable housing product ‘Roshni’ aims to make a meaningful difference in the lives of people here, ensuring that families can thrive in safe and sustainable environments. We are aligned with the government’s PMAY agenda, and are committed to help aspiring home owners achieve their dreams.”

Mr. Rishi Anand, MD & CEO, Aadhar Housing Finance, said, “Our foray into the Northeast with our first branch in Guwahati marks a significant milestone in our journey. We endeavour to provide home ownership to the Economically weaker segment and Lower middle-income group, empowering them to build a secure future. Guwahati, with its growing economy and vibrant community, is a key market for us, and we are excited to be part of its growth story. In alignment with the Government’s vision of Housing for All, we are committed to making low-income housing accessible to more families in the region. This new branch will bring us closer to our customers in the underserved Northeastern states.”

Navigating Motherhood with Occupational Therapy

By: Dr. Joseph Sunny Kunnassery- Founder of Prayatna, Kochi

Becoming a mother is one of life’s most beautiful and most challenging transformations. It isn’t just a new chapter,it’s a whole new book.From the first thought of starting a family to the reality of sleepless nights and diaper duty, the journey through pregnancy, birth, and early parenthood can feel like an emotional rollercoaster. Amid the flood of hormones, endless check-ups, and well-meaning advice, there’s one healthcare profession often overlooked yet quietly making a world of difference- Occupational Therapy.

Occupational Therapy is about helping people do the things that occupy their day,things that give life meaning. And during pregnancy and early parenthood, those “occupations” can be something as simple (and as overwhelming) as changing a diaper, powering through sleepless nights, figuring out how to shower with a newborn in the house, or navigating the emotional rollercoaster that comes with being someone’s everything.

Though largely overlooked in maternity care, occupational therapists are uniquely positioned to support women at every stage of this life-changing transition. Whether helping manage morning sickness and mental fatigue during pregnancy, guiding a safe and dignified birth experience, or building healthy routines and bonds with a newborn, occupational therapy brings a holistic and empowering approach to maternal health and wellbeing.

OT Through the Journey

Even before pregnancy, occupational therapists play a proactive role in supporting women especially those with pre-existing physical or mental health conditions. The preconception phase can be filled with both hope and uncertainty, and occupational therapists work closely with individuals or couples to consider how existing health issues might affect pregnancy, childbirth, and the experience of becoming a parent. For those undergoing fertility treatments like IVF, occupational therapy offers emotional and lifestyle support, helping prospective parents navigate stress, adjust routines, and prepare their environment for the changes ahead.

As pregnancy progresses, occupational therapy becomes even more essential. This phase is not just about physical changes rather it involves a profound reconfiguration of daily life, roles, and routines. Expectant mothers may experience fatigue, aches, and a sense of being overwhelmed. Occupational therapists provide support in managing these physical symptoms while also helping women prepare for their shifting identities. They assist in modifying home environments for increased comfort and accessibility, suggesting ergonomic changes at work, and helping build flexible routines that balance rest, activity, and self-care. Their guidance empowers women to maintain a sense of control and well-being during a time of constant change.

When it comes time to give birth, occupational therapists continue to offer crucial, though often unrecognized, support. For women with disabilities, injuries, or health complexities, they ensure that the necessary equipment and support systems are in place to make the delivery process as safe, dignified, and empowering as possible.

But perhaps the postpartum period, often referred to as the fourth trimester, is where occupational therapy’s impact becomes most profound. It’s a time of immense transition, not just physically but emotionally and socially as well. While the spotlight tends to shift to the newborn, new mothers often face sleep deprivation, identity shifts, physical recovery, and mental health challenges. Occupational therapists work with mothers to support what are called co-occupations-activities that both the mother and baby engage in together, such as feeding, sleeping, and playing.

This way, occupational therapists help mothers regain confidence and competence in their new roles. They offer breastfeeding support, guidance in newborn care, pain management strategies, and help in setting up home routines that allow space for rest, bonding, and self-nurturing. They also recognize the signs of postpartum mood and anxiety disorders and provide early interventions, or collaborate with mental health professionals when needed and thereby provide holistic care that respects the mother’s physical health, emotional state, and personal environment.

As the first year of parenthood unfolds, occupational therapists remain vital companions in helping families find their balance. They support mothers returning to work, help create routines that actually work, and offer realistic ways to reintroduce exercise, hobbies, rest and support the ongoing development of the child.

Occupational therapists also bring a mental health perspective to their practice, with training that includes the recognition of trauma, anxiety, and depression. This allows them to provide tailored coping strategies that are practical and sustainable. They may lead therapeutic groups, connect families with community resources, or simply provide a space where a new mother can be heard and supported.

As the saying goes, when a baby is born, so is a mother. And yet, amidst the joy and chaos of new life, mothers often find themselves lost in the chaos. Occupational therapy helps them find their footing again not by prescribing a rigid formula for parenting, but by helping each woman build her own personal manual, helping mothers not just survive, but thrive.

Gateway Coorg Opens Its Doors

Chandigarh, APRIL 19, 2025: Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, today announced the opening of Gateway Coorg, a serene retreat nestled in the heart of Karnataka’s coffee country.

Ms. Deepika Rao, Executive Vice President, New Businesses and Hotel Openings, IHCL, said, “Coorg has fast emerged as one of India’s sought-after leisure and wellness destinations. Opening of Gateway Coorg captures this growing demand and strengthens IHCL’s multi-brand presence in the region.”

Enveloped by lush rainforests and scenic trails, Gateway Coorg features 55 spacious rooms and suites that reflect the tranquillity of their natural surroundings. Guests can indulge in regional and global flavours at Ghat’s Café, unwind at Coorg Cellar, or sip artisanal blends at the Coffee Lounge. The resort is a haven for food enthusiasts, with a menu that showcases the bold flavours of traditional Kodava cuisine alongside contemporary favourites. Wellness and recreation are integral to the experience with a spa, outdoor swimming pool, and a fully equipped fitness centre.

Mr. R Subbaiah Pandian, General Manager, Gateway Coorg, said, “Gateway Coorg is thoughtfully designed to provide a deep sense of connection with nature and local culture. We look forward to welcoming guests to this quiet escape in the lap of nature.”

Often referred to as the ‘Scotland of India,’ Coorg’s rolling hills and coffee estates offer a beautiful backdrop for exploration.

With the addition of this hotel, IHCL will have 26 hotels in Karnataka including 13 under development.

Eye Safety Measures For The Women

Dr . Anchal Mitra,Consultant – Cataract & Pediatric Ophthalmology,Disha Eye Hospitals

1. Why should vision and eye health should be a priority amongst women?

Ans – Because vision affects the quality of life as well as our day to work and recreation. Women are unfortunately disproportionately affected by vision impairment. Many Eye diseases like ARMD & Glaucoma affect women more than men. These are diseases which can easily be detected on routine eye check-up.

Really important for women to get regular eye check-ups because some of these diseases have no symptoms in the initial stages.

2. Why are women more affected with eye diseases as compared to men?

Ans – Women are 1.5 times more likely to be visually impaired than men. As women live longer than men they live with visual disability for a longer time. The difference in the immune system can account for this. Hence, autoimmune diseases are more common in women.

3. How can these diseases be prevented or cured?

Ans – Regular eye examinations can definitely diagnose many diseases like ARMD, Cataracts, Retino pathics, Glaucoma, Dry Eyes in the early stages which can be cured. Women are the best to advocate for their eye health. Whenever, any vision problems or eye comfort happen it is always better to consult an ophthalmologist.

4. Why is vision & eye health a priority in women?

I. Because vision affects quality of life

II. Such an important sense

III. Affects our work & recreation

IV. Women are unfortunately disproportionately affected by vision impairment

V. Many eye diseases like ARMD & Glaucoma affect women more than men

VI. These are diseases which can be detected on a routine eye examination

VII. Really important for women to get regular eye check-ups because some of these diseases have no symptoms in the initial stages of the disease

5. Why are women more affected with some eye diseases as compared to men?

I. Women are 1.5 times more likely to be visually impaired than men are worldwide

II. As women live longer than men, they live with visual disability for a longer time

III. The immune system differences can account for some of these diseases happening more in women. Many autoimmune diseases are more common in women hence eye diseases related to autoimmune diseases are more common in women.

6. Why should women especially focus on eye health?

Women tend to ignore their own eye health or general health because they are the caregiver for an entire family and thus they put disproportionately lower effort for their own eye health. This scenario should change with increasing awareness & education in women. Women should understand that they need to first take care of themselves to be able to take care of others

7. How Cosmetics Affect Women’s Eye Health?

Ans – The Skin around the eye is extremely thin. So the Cream, Serum or makeup which you put in and around the eye can affect eye health and can lead to dry eyes, allergies and infection. So, it is always imperative to apply healthy products around the eyes. Kindly take a look at the expiry date.

8. Any conditions specific to Pregnancy and menopause ?

i. If in Pregnancy a woman suffers from Preeclampsia or high blood pressure they should also be referred to an ophthalmologist as these can affect the optic nerve and retina.

ii. During Pregnancy some women also develop Diabetes which can also affect the eyes.

iii. In Pregnancy the refractive error changes are much more frequent and should be checked.

iv. In Menopause the Dry Eye Symptoms increase significantly because of hormonal changes.

9. Is there any connection between Eye Health & Overall Health?

Ans – Eyes are the window to the soul. Regular Eye examinations tell a lot about body functions. We can literally diagnose multiple general health issues like hypertension, diabetes, autoimmune diseases, brain tumor or other infections.

10. Appropriate Diet and other lifestyle measures which need to be followed to boost the strength of vision amongst women?

i. Diet which is good for your heart is also good for your Retina. For example Green Leafy Vegetables which contain Lutein & Zeaxanthin and can prevent Macular Degeneration.

ii. Vitamin C rich food like oranges and berries can prevent the formation of cataract.

iii. Omega 3 fatty acids rich food like fish prevent dryness of eyes.

iv. Weary sunglasses are not only a fashion statement but they really do prevent the UV ray damage from the sun.

v. Regular exercise in any form helps to keep your blood pressure and blood sugar in control and thereby keeping a good eye health.

vi. Appropriate and minimal eye makeup can reduce the chances of dryness and infection.

vii. If you wear contact lenses, definitely get your eyes checked yearly.

viii. Limit screen time as much as possible.

Luxeglamp Munnar Unveils Luxe Nova: A New Star in Luxury Glamping in India

Munnar, 19 April 2025: Luxeglamp Eco-resorts, pioneers of luxury glamping in India, has announced the launch of Luxe Nova at Luxeglamp Munnar, Kerala. Set against the stunning backdrop of Anayirangal Dam and rolling cardamom hills, surrounded by misty tea estates and untouched wilderness Luxe Nova at Luxeglamp Munnar is a one-of-a-kind romantic escape designed to redefine the era of Glamping in India

The Luxe Nova by Luxeglamp is a full Bubble Glamping suite experience offering 360° views of the sky, forest, and mountains in a climate-controlled dome designed for those who crave luxury, nature, and complete privacy, Nature and experiences. Featuring a plush king-size memory foam bed, pinewood flooring, and a telescope for intimate stargazing, it also offers a private Seating lounge area—perfect for sipping coffee, reading, or simply soaking in the panoramic views in complete romantic privacy.

Antony Thomas, CEO and Founder of Luxeglamp, stated, “Luxeglamp started with Munnar as a luxury glamping destination, and now we are launching a new concept that will change and redefine the glamping era in India as Luxe Nova.” This bold step marks the beginning of a transformative journey in the Indian glamping industry, promising experiences that are both memorable and luxurious.

This new innovative, romantic concept offers couples an immersive, nature-connected experience where every detail is thoughtfully curated to create unforgettable moments, setting a new benchmark in the Glamping industry. Offering Romantic Outdoor (open-air shower ) Shower & Alfresco Dining Deck

Amidst Luxury Interiors, it offers heated Infinity Plunge Pool with Chromotherapy, detox session in private sauna, or a chance to sway in hammocks with a cup of cardamom tea to completely unwind.

Luxe Nova heralds a new era of romantic getaways, elevating the glamping experience with a host of exclusive offerings. Guests begin their journey in an exquisitely decorated romantic suite, adorned with fresh flowers and complemented by complimentary homemade chocolates, setting the perfect ambiance for an enchanting escape. Upon arrival, couples are welcomed with a delightful high tea by the infinity pool, followed by a floating breakfast experience, and a private movie night under the open sky. As evening falls, the retreat culminates in an intimate candlelit dinner under the stars, featuring a specially curated five-course gourmet meal paired with non-alcoholic wine.

To enhance the overall guest experience, Luxe Nova has also introduced a unique drone video service, allowing couples to capture and cherish their special moments. Furthermore, a private sauna bath adds an extra layer of indulgence, offering a rejuvenating retreat amidst nature.

As eco-conscious travel gains momentum, Luxe Nova seamlessly integrates luxury with sustainability, ensuring that guests experience romance and environmental responsibility in perfect harmony. The retreat is designed with a focus on minimal ecological impact, incorporating innovative, eco-friendly measures into every aspect of the experience.

Luxe Nova’s fully recyclable PVC igloo structures are designed to be temporary and removable, ensuring that the natural landscape remains undisturbed. The flooring is made from fast-growing pine wood, a renewable and sustainable resource, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to responsible tourism. To further reduce energy consumption, the retreat is equipped with LED lighting, providing a warm and intimate ambiance while remaining energy efficient.

Water management is another key focus area, with guests receiving glass water bottles, eliminating the use of single-use plastics. The commitment to sustainability extends to the dining experience, where organic and locally sourced ingredients are used to create gourmet meals. Even the complimentary homemade chocolates are crafted from organic ingredients, free from artificial additives, ensuring that luxury and sustainability go hand in hand.

In an effort to minimise waste, Luxe Nova enforces a strict no-plastic policy, replacing single-use packaging with biodegradable alternatives and reusable materials. Organic waste is managed through a composting system, further enhancing the retreat’s eco-friendly waste disposal efforts. Additionally, guests are encouraged to participate in eco-awareness initiatives, such as tree planting and conservation workshops, reinforcing the commitment to low-impact tourism and environmental preservation.

The launch of Luxe Nova comes at a time of significant growth in the Indian glamping market. The global glamping industry is projected to reach INR 964.5 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 11.69%. Meanwhile, India’s glamping sector is forecasted to grow at an impressive CAGR of 20.7%, outpacing other countries in the Asia Pacific region. The rise of domestic tourism and an increasing demand for unique, eco-conscious travel experiences are further fuelling this expansion.

Gulf Pride Engine Oil Relaunched with Advanced Formula, MS Dhoni Leads New Campaign

Chandigarh, April 17, 2025 – Gulf Oil Lubricants India Limited, a leading player in the lubricants industry, has rolled out a fresh 360–degree campaign for its flagship two-wheeler engine oil, Gulf Pride. The relaunch introduces a new look and an enhanced formulation—now upgraded to meet the latest API SP specifications. With claims of up to 10,000 km drain interval, 40% better engine protection, and insta pick-up, this is one of Gulf’s most advanced product offerings yet. These upgrades reinforce Gulf Pride’s positioning as the engine oil of choice for riders who demand consistent performance and lasting reliability.

The campaign features Gulf’s long-time brand ambassador MS Dhoni who brings to life the deep emotional bond between a biker and their motorcycle, highlighting the message – “Bike se pyaar rahega hamesha, naye jaisa.” Conceptualized as a love story between a biker and his motorcycle, the campaign celebrates the nostalgic first-bike connection every rider treasures. With its enhanced formula and new look, Gulf Pride is repositioned as the engine oil that keeps your bike’s pick-up like new, ensuring every ride feels as fresh as the first.

Taking the storytelling a notch higher, the TVC for the campaign has been directed by Bollywood filmmaker Punit Malhotra and produced by Dharma 2.0. It presents MS Dhoni in a never-seen-before romantic avatar, capturing his deep love for bikes. The film beautifully juxtaposes MS Dhoni’s passion for motorcycles with the emotional connection riders have with their two-wheelers, delivering a compelling narrative around Gulf Pride’s core promise.

Speaking about the campaign, MS Dhoni shared, “My association with Gulf Oil has been a long and special one. As a biker, I know how important it is for riders to have a machine they can rely on, that performs like new, ride after ride. Gulf Pride plays a vital role in keeping the engine smooth, the pickup strong, and extends the bike’s life—exactly what you need for a machine that becomes a trusted companion over time. The campaign beautifully essays this bond.”

Mr. Ravi Chawla, MD & CEO, Gulf Oil Lubricants India Limited added. “At Gulf, our consumers are at the heart of everything we do. Their evolving needs and bond with their motorcycles drive us to innovate continually. With the all-new Gulf Pride, we are reinforcing a trusted legacy of superior performance and unwavering reliability that bikers have come to love, reaffirming our commitment to cutting-edge engine oil solutions. This campaign celebrates the enduring rider-machine connection, perfectly embodied by MS Dhoni. By blending nostalgia, innovation, and MS Dhoni’s deep connection with motorcycles, we have tried to create a powerful narrative and a strategic campaign that strengthens our brand’s promise while deepening consumer engagement across touchpoints.”

The Gulf Pride relaunch campaign is set to roll out across multiple touchpoints, ensuring maximum reach and impact. The campaign will be aired across leading TV channels and digital platforms. Additionally, retail and BTL initiatives, including specially designed trade engagement programs and mechanic outreach activities, will further strengthen the campaign’s presence across key markets.

As Gulf’s flagship two-wheeler engine oil, Gulf Pride has been a household name among bikers for years. Now with an enhanced formulation, the oil offers 40% better engine protection, extends engine life, and ensures instant, long-lasting pick-up, making every ride feel as smooth and powerful as the first. The new packaging, launched as part of the campaign, reflects Gulf Pride’s refreshed identity and commitment to innovation.

 Gulf Oil has a rich history of innovative marketing and disruptive storytelling, making it one of the most recognizable brands in the lubricants industry. The Company’s association with MS Dhoni spans over a decade, creating a strong emotional connect with Indian consumers. With a sharp focus on innovation and consumer-first marketing, Gulf Oil continues to strengthen its position, driving brand love through engaging campaigns, high-performance products, and meaningful industry collaborations.

Grand Lord Jagannath Temple to Rise in Shri Shyam Township, Khatu Shyam Ji

Khatu Shyam Ji, Rajasthan | April 19, 2025: In a spiritually significant milestone, the Bhoomi Pujan for the construction of a magnificent Lord Jagannath Templewas held at Shri Shyam Township, Jalund Maganpura, in District Sikar, Rajasthan, near the sacred pilgrimage town of Khatu Shyam Ji. The auspicious ceremony was conducted by Shri Bhawani Prasad Das Mahapatra, the Chief Priest of the historic Shri Jagannath Puri Mandir, Odisha, invoking divine blessings for this spiritually transformative project.

The temple will be built within the heart of Shri Shyam Township, an emerging spiritual and residential hub being developed by OmShri Real Tech Group. With its serene surroundings, thoughtful planning, and close proximity to Khatu Shyam Ji — one of North India’s most visited pilgrimage sites — the township is envisioned as a modern, integrated spiritual habitat. The addition of the Jagannath Temple will not only enhance its spiritual aura but also contribute to the township’s long-term vision of becoming a faith-led community space for families, saints, and spiritual seekers.

The land for the temple was generously offered by Mr. Praveen Kumar Bhati, Founder of OmShri Real Tech Group, whose deep-rooted devotion and commitment to spiritual service inspired this noble gesture. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Bhati shared: “I have always believed that our land and resources should serve a greater purpose — one that uplifts society spiritually and culturally. Donating land for the construction of the Lord Jagannath Temple in Shri Shyam Township is not just a personal offering, but a step towards building a center of faith, unity, and devotion for generations to come. We hope this temple becomes a spiritual anchor in the region, inspiring values of compassion, service, and cultural pride.”

The Bhoomi Pujan was led with great reverence by Shri Bhawani Prasad Das Mahapatra, Chief Priest of the Jagannath Puri Temple, who remarked:“It is a moment of immense joy to witness Lord Jagannath’s blessings reach the sacred land of Khatu Shyam Ji. The establishment of this temple will serve as a bridge between two spiritually powerful pilgrimages — Puri and Khatu. It is not just a structure; it is a path toward devotion, discipline, and divine connection for devotees in Rajasthan and beyond.”

Also present at the ceremony were Ms. Mamta Bhati, Co-founder, Om Shri Real Tech Group, Mr. Mohit Mittal, Chief Executive Officer, and Ms. Shweta Mittal, Chief Operating Officer of MORES, who extended their support to the initiative.

Mr. Mohit Mittal expressed: “Being part of this historic moment fills me with deep humility and pride. At MORES, we believe in aligning our efforts with purposeful causes, and supporting the construction of a temple that will touch countless lives is a true honour. The Lord Jagannath Temple will not only serve as a spiritual destination but also as a place for peace, cultural unity, and inner transformation.”

With the Bhoomi Pujan complete, the construction of the Lord Jagannath Temple in Rajasthan marks a new chapter in India’s spiritual journey — one that offers a sanctuary for seekers, pilgrims, and communities alike.

Knowledge transfer and technology sharing are key pillars to collective growth

19th April 2025: Africa’s largest tech and startup show, GITEX provided a platform for policy leaders, changemakers and visionaries to collectively discuss and deliberate on the opportunities to collaborate and further the imperative of inclusive and equitable growth of the global economy. India, where the pace of digitalization is higher relative to some other developing economies, with established open-source Digital Public Infrastructure systems, have the potential to catalyze speed of digitalization in other developing countries seeking to develop such systems through collaboration and knowledge sharing. Also, India has is a key resource talent hub for AI professionals leading the way with 33.39% YoY growth in AI talent hiring as per AI Stanford Index 2025, which is a clear indicator of the efforts of the government and the industry to nurture an environment for adoption on AI.

Representing India at the summit in Morocco, Shri Jayant Chaudhary, Hon’ble Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Minister of State, Ministry of Education, Govt. of India took part in high-level bilateral meetings, panel discussions and interacted with Indian startups showcasing their innovations.

In his discussions, he expressed, “India’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) has driven transformative changes across areas especially through developments of digital identity (Aadhaar), digital payments (UPI), e-commerce (ONDC) and healthcare. And we are increasingly integrating advanced technologies – AI, cybersecurity, fintech, and digital infrastructure – into our skilling ecosystem. These are areas, rich with potential, for collaboration with our African partners and we can collectively grow our economies through sustained partnerships.”

On the sidelines of the summit, Shri Chaudhary held productive bilateral meetings with Ms. Amal El Fallah Seghrouchni, Minister of Digital Transition and Administrative Reform; Prof. Azzedine EL Midaoui, Minister of Higher Education, Scientific Research and Innovation; Mr. Younes Sekkouri, Minister of Economic Inclusion, Small Business, Employment and Skills; and Mr. Mohammed Saad Berrada, Minister of National Education, Preschool and Sports. In his discussions, Shri Chaudhary touched upon broadly on exploring synergies in AI, research and capacity; discussed insights on how Digital Public Infrastructure can be a catalyst for inclusion, innovation and equitable growth; and shared India’s experience in building scalable, inclusive technology for public good.

India’s participation at GITEX Africa 2025 reaffirmed its role as a global leader in skilling and digital innovation. Through pathbreaking initiatives like Skill India, Digital India, and the creation of scalable Digital Public Infrastructure such as Aadhaar, UPI, DigiLocker, and DIKSHA, India has demonstrated how inclusive, technology-driven models can empower citizens at scale. These initiatives are increasingly being recognized as global best practices, offering adaptable frameworks for developing nations seeking to build resilient, future-ready societies.

All-IIT Registrars Conclave Begins at IIT Market-In

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India Leads in Liver Disease — ‘Food is Medicine’ Marks World Liver Day 2025

Mumbai, April 19, 2025 – On World Liver Day 2025, the global health community is turning its focus to a critical yet often overlooked issue: liver health. This year’s theme, “Food is Medicine,” highlights the powerful link between nutrition and liver function. In India—where liver disease has reached alarming levels—the message carries even greater urgency.

World Liver Day is observed every year on April 19 to raise awareness about liver health and promote prevention strategies. With liver-related deaths rising worldwide, the emphasis on food as a tool for prevention and healing is both a wake-up call and a practical solution. According to current estimates, India records approximately 268,580 liver disease deaths each year, accounting for 3.17% of all deaths in the country. More strikingly, this represents 18.3% of global liver-related deaths, making India the highest contributor to liver disease fatalities worldwide.

Commenting on the situation, Dr. Aditya Verma, Consultant Gastroenterologist at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, said: “India is facing a silent epidemic of liver disease, and much of it is driven by what we eat. Everyday food choices can either fuel liver damage or support healing.” The leading causes of liver disease in India include fatty liver disease , hepatitis infections, alcohol-related liver damage, and lifestyle-related metabolic conditions. A major contributing factor is a poor diet—often high in processed foods, sugar, and unhealthy fats.

This year’s World Liver Day theme promotes simple, sustainable dietary changes, such as:

  • Reducing intake of refined sugars, white flour, and fried foods
  • Eating more whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and legumes
  • Choosing healthy fats like those in nuts, seeds, and olive oil
  • Staying well-hydrated and limiting alcohol consumption

Dr. Aditya Verma, Consultant Gastroenterologist added, “Food is our first and most effective medicine. By shifting to a balanced, nutrient-rich diet, people can reduce their risk of liver disease—and in many cases, even reverse early-stage damage.” As liver diseases continue to rise across the country, medical experts are urging individuals to take control of their health through mindful eating. World Liver Day 2025 serves as a reminder that prevention often begins on our plates.