BENGALURU, India ,2 May 2025: Remidio Innovative Solutions Pvt. Ltd., a leader in ophthalmic technology, has announced that it has received approval from the State FDA, Karnataka (CDSCO), the regulatory authority for medical devices, for its Medios HI (Humanizing Intelligence) Glaucoma AI and Medios HI AMD AI. This approval represents an important advancement in the use of artificial intelligence (AI) for early detection of glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in diverse healthcare settings.

Following the success of the CDSCO-approved Medios DR HI, AI for diabetic retinopathy, which has impacted nearly 2,50,000 patients in the past year, the newly approved AI solutions for glaucoma and AMD are also designed to function offline. This offline capability allows real-time analysis without relying on internet access, making it useful for providing eye care in remote and underserved areas with limited access to specialized ophthalmic diagnostics.

Medios HI Glaucoma AI exceeds conventional screening methods by analyzing optic nerve head and RNFL structures, generating heat map–based reports to detect early signs of referable glaucoma. This is vital in a country like India, which accounts for 12 million glaucoma patients, nearly one in eight globally. Yet over 90% of these cases remain undiagnosed, often leading to irreversible vision loss. Early detection using portable, AI-enabled tools can drastically change this trajectory.

The Medios HI AMD AI, detects early-stage age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a major cause of vision impairment among the elderly. With 2.1% of Indians over age 60 affected, amounting to nearly 6.7 million people at risk, this tool plays a crucial role in enabling timely referrals and preventive care by highlighting lesions with AI generated heat maps.

Medios HI Glaucoma and Medios HI AMD Al has been clinically validated across tertiary hospitals, eye institute and vision centres showcasing high level of sensitivity and specificity. With Medios HI on Remidio’s FOP NM 10, a single tap delivers results for screening AMD, Glaucoma, and DR in few seconds.  Three critical insights, one seamless experience.

Dr. R. Kim, Chief Medical Officer, Senior Medical Consultant, Retina & Vitreous Services Director, Aravind Eye Hospital, Madurai said “The Remidio fundus camera isn’t just an imaging device; it’s a portable gateway to early detection and prevention of vision-threatening conditions, bringing quality eye care closer to those who need it most” 

Dr Anand Sivaraman, CEO and Founding Director, Remidio said “The CDSCO‘s approval of our Medios HI Glaucoma AI and Medios HI AMD AI builds upon the foundation laid by our Medios HI DR AI, which was the first ophthalmic AI software to receive such approval in India. This achievement has enabled us to screen patients, particularly in underserved regions, bringing early detection and intervention to those who need it most. The success of Medios DR AI has demonstrated the transformative potential of AI in ophthalmology, and with these new approvals, we’re poised to further enhance eye care accessibility and precision across the country.“

Dr Divya Rao, Chief Medical Officer, Remidio added, “These CDSCO approvals are a testament to the clinical rigor and precision that underpins our AI solutions. Both the glaucoma and AMD algorithms have been evaluated through robust prospective studies and have demonstrated strong concordance with specialist diagnosis. What excites us is their ability to bring specialist-grade diagnostics to the primary care level, empowering early intervention, particularly in settings where access to ophthalmologists is limited.”

Sundeep Agarwal, Senior Vice President – Regulatory Affairs & Quality Assurance, Remidio, stated: “Securing CDSCO approvals for our Medios HI Glaucoma AI and AMD AI reflects Remidio’s deep commitment to regulatory rigor and patient safety. Navigating the complexities of AI regulation in India requires not just innovation, but robust documentation, compliance, and quality assurance at every stage. These approvals reaffirm our ability to deliver cutting-edge, regulatory-compliant solutions that meet the highest national standards, ensuring safe and scalable adoption in diverse healthcare settings.“

Remidio’s AI-powered solutions are integrated with its portable fundus imaging devices, facilitating seamless deployment in various clinical settings. The offline capability ensures that healthcare providers can conduct screenings without reliance on internet infrastructure, making it feasible to implement these solutions in rural and resource-limited environments.

With these approvals, Remidio continues to lead in the development of AI-driven ophthalmic diagnostics, aiming to bridge the gap in eye care delivery and contribute to the global effort in combating vision impairment.

Rohit (name changed), a 39-year-old professional in the automotive industry, never imagined that a routine company health checkup could change his life. As a tee-totaler who stays active and has no family history of any lifestyle diseases, he always considered himself healthy. Checkups had been regular before, and this one appeared to be no different—until he received an unusual call from the hospital asking him to see a doctor. He thought it was nothing major and postponed the appointment because he was busy with work.

Several weeks later, he was shocked to hear from his family doctor that his results revealed kidney cancer, which was completely different from what he had ever thought. He was directed to Dr. Ankit Sharma, Consultant – Urology, Manipal Hospital, Kharadi, Pune, who did a contrast CT scan to confirm the diagnosis. Renal cancer is usually treated with surgery that removes the whole kidney or a big portion of it, usually through a wide abdominal incision. This procedure can significantly affect how a person functions in day to day activities.

However, Dr. Ankit Sharma had a different approach. A minimally invasive laparoscopic procedure was possible due to the tumor’s early detection and relatively small size.  Instead of removing the entire kidney, only the affected portion could be excised while preserving the organ’s function. Rohit underwent a laparoscopic left partial nephrectomy and was discharged within 48 hours. Due to the minimal incisions, he recovered quickly and was able to return to work within a few days. He still has no reccurence six months after surgery.

Regular health checkup plays an important role in identifying hidden health issues before they worsen. Many diseases, including cancers or heart conditions, progress slowly without any noticeable symptoms. These medical conditions could go undiagnosed until they require complex and life-altering treatments if screening is not conducted promptly. Early detection helps doctors to take appropriate action, which can lead to minimally invasive procedures and more successful treatment. It gives a higher quality of life while increasing survival rates.

May 1, 2025: Rasayanam, India’s leading wellness brand, introduces the Glow Pack, a powerhouse blend of beauty and wellness that supports hair strength, skin radiance, and overall vitality from within. This transformative duo features Liquid Biotin + Collagen and Pure Amla Juice, designed to simplify your daily routine while delivering visible results.

Crafted with premium ingredients, the Glow Pack combines two essential formulations:

Liquid Biotin + Collagen: A vegan-friendly, highly absorbable liquid that supports hair growth, skin elasticity, and nail strength. Biotin derived from Sesbania agati and collagen from Soya make it vegetarian-approved and effective in boosting natural beauty.

Pure Amla Juice: Cold-pressed from premium Francis amla, this juice delivers 2X Vitamin C, helping to boost immunity and brighten skin naturally while balancing Pitta dosha for holistic wellness.

Key Benefits of the Glow Pack:

Thicker, stronger hair with reduced hair fall

Improved skin elasticity and a visible glow

Strengthened nails and radiant complexion

Boosted immunity with natural Vitamin C

Enhanced collagen production and nutrient absorption

Balanced Pitta dosha for inner harmony

“Glow Pack is more than a beauty product—it’s a wellness solution designed to nourish your body from the inside out,” says Ayush Aggarwal, Founder of Rasayanam. “We’ve combined two potent, natural formulations to help users achieve a healthier, more radiant version of themselves—effortlessly and naturally.”

This unique blend simplifies your wellness routine while delivering maximum efficacy, purity, and absorption—making it a must-have in every beauty-conscious household.

Hyderabad, 30^th April, 2025 – ekincare, India’s leading AI-powered integrated digital health gateway, announces the raising of a strategic, undisclosed investment led by global healthcare leader MSD (tradename of Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA) through MSD IDEA Studio Asia Pacific, an initiative by the MSD Global Health Innovation Fund (MGHIF). The round also saw participation from ekincare’s existing investor, HealthQuad, a venture capital fund focused on healthcare innovation. This investment round will empower ekincare to advance its mission of revolutionizing corporate primary and preventive healthcare through AI-driven, personalized Outpatient Department (OPD) solutions.

Founded in 2015 by Kiran Kalakuntla, Co-Founder & CEO, Srikanth Samudrala, Co-Founder & CTO, Noel Coutinho, Co-Founder & CBO, ekincare has emerged as a leader in integrated digital health solutions. The platform leverages AI, data analytics, and telemedicine to make preventive healthcare more personalized and accessible. Since its inception, ekincare has partnered with over 1,000 companies and built a network of 40,000+ healthcare providers across India.

“Healthcare in India is at a turning point. Lifestyle diseases are on the rise, demand for preventive care is growing, and digital solutions are becoming a necessity. This investment from MSD IDEA Studio, with continued support from HealthQuad, is a visionary step forward for us. Their expertise in medicines, vaccines, and digital health, combined with our AI-driven, customer-centric approach, will help us deliver seamless, personalized healthcare to millions”, said Kiran Kalakuntla, Co-founder & CEO of ekincare.

With this investment, ekincare aims to expand its cashless OPD network and enhance AI-powered analytics to drive better preventive care, chronic disease management, and employee wellness outcomes. Over the last five years, from 2020 to 2025, ekincare has grown its corporate client base tenfold as organizations increasingly recognize the value of preventive health benefits, expanded the range of services and benefits offered by four-fold to address diverse healthcare requirements, increased its network coverage by six times to improve accessibility and reach, and onboarded 11x more healthcare and wellness partners to deliver integrated, end-to-end care solutions. This sustained growth reflects the company’s deep commitment to building a future-ready, scalable healthcare infrastructure that meets the demands of India’s evolving healthcare ecosystem.

“We see strong potential in our investment in ekincare to accelerate the shift toward personalised and preventive healthcare in India by harnessing the power of technology for both individuals and enterprises,” said Saumick Pal, Head of Digital, Data Analytics & Innovation, MSD Asia Pacific. He added, “India’s vibrant start-up ecosystem is not only growing rapidly but also redefining healthcare through bold innovation and entrepreneurial energy. At MSD, we are committed to expanding access to high-quality care, and investments in platforms like ekincare reflect our belief that scalable, tech-enabled solutions can make healthcare more proactive, affordable, and inclusive. We look forward to supporting visionary start-ups like ekincare that are reshaping the future of health in India by making it more accessible.”

HealthQuad, a leading healthcare-focused venture capital fund, has been instrumental in supporting health-tech startups transforming the Indian healthcare landscape. Ajay Mahipal, Partner at HealthQuad, said, “ekincare’s AI-powered platform is at the forefront of digital health innovation. Our investment will support their mission of integrating preventive care into the everyday lives of individuals and enterprises, enhancing affordability and access to quality healthcare.”

 

Bengaluru – A 33 week pregnant lady with foetal distress was admitted and delivered a preterm baby in a private hospital. But, the newborn started facing breathing difficulty, and was immediately referred to Sakra World Hospital for further diagnosis of the newborn. The infant weighed only 2.18 kg at birth.

The breathing difficulty was due to a huge swelling inside the abdomen, which was compressing on the lungs. The baby was put on ventilator support and on evaluation it was found to be an intra-abdominal tumor, but the origin of it was not clear. Therefore, Dr. Anil Kumar Pura Lingegowda, HOD & Senior Consultant – Paediatric Surgery; Dr. Shruthi Reddy, Consultant Hepato-Biliary Pancreatic and Liver Transplant Surgeon; Dr Shishir Chandrashekhar, Director & HOD – Anaesthesia & OT Management; and, Dr. Shivakumar Sambargi, Senior Consultant- Pediatrics & Neonatology of Sakra World Hospital, Bengaluru, decided to perform surgery on the baby to remove the swelling because of its pressure effect on vital organs.

Dr. Anil shared, “The swelling was arising from the left lobe of the liver and occupying 70% of the abdominal cavity, that is the size of the tumour was 10*8*7 cm. But the challenge was to perform resection of the tumor, which was very risky for a 3–day–old, 2 kg preterm baby because of bleeding and low weight of the baby.”

Dr. Anil added, “The intra-operative phase posed a significant challenge, particularly due to the need for massive blood transfusion, which was managed by Dr. Shishir Chandrashekhar and his team. Additionally, the tumor resection from the liver was successfully performed with the expertise of liver transplant surgeon Dr. Shruti Reddy.”

Dr. Shruthi Reddy, Consultant Hepato-Biliary Pancreatic and Liver Transplant Surgeon, shared, “Liver surgeries are no longer formidable like it was a few decades ago. Tumour resections or transplants during extremes of age like this newborn baby or an elderly person are much safer now with the recent advances in surgical technology and techniques. Caregivers should keep an open mind if such surgeries are offered by an expert. The trust afforded in us by the parents of this baby enabled us to save the baby’s life”.

The post-operative period was equally challenging, requiring careful management to maintain homeostasis. The neonatology team, led by Dr. Shivkumar Sambargi, provided exceptional care to save the child.

Dr. Shivakumar Sambargi, Senior Consultant- Pediatrics & Neonatology, shared, “The tumor was identified as a mesenchymal hamartoma, a rare occurrence in neonates, with complete excision being the definitive cure. This is usually discovered in infancy, mesenchymal hamartoma of the liver (MHL) is a rare, benign developing tumour in infants that has a mixture of solid and cystic areas. After infantile haemangioma, it is the second most frequent benign liver tumour in children.”

Dr Shishir Chandrashekhar, Director & HOD – Anaesthesia & OT Management, shared, “Managing anesthesia and blood transfusion in such a tiny newborn was extremely challenging, but our team ensured the baby remained stable throughout the procedure.”

“Notably, there are no reported cases worldwide of liver tumor resection in a 3–day–old preterm baby weighing just 2 kg. And the operating process should always be carried out in a well-equipped centre under expert supervision,” said Dr. Anil.

Ms. Sunitha (Name Changed) shared, “I’m truly grateful to Dr. Anil and team for curing my baby. He explained the case and procedure, which made us have faith in him, and now my baby is recovering healthy.”

Mumbai / Kolkata, April 29, 2025 – At an age when most people are expected to slow down, an 85–year–old man has redefined what it means to fight for life. Frail in appearance but strong in spirit, the long-term dialysis patient arrived at Manipal Hospitals, Dhakuria, unconscious and battling an acute brain haemorrhage—his survival chances slim. Yet today, he is awake, speaking, and standing with support, preparing to return home. His story is a powerful testament to modern medicine, multidisciplinary teamwork, and the unyielding will to live, proving that age, however advanced, is no longer a limit to recovery.

A known hypertensive with prior cardiac stenting and chronic kidney disease (stage 5 dialysis–dependent), and a history of seizure-related hospitalizations, the patient had already weathered numerous health storms. His condition took a sudden and alarming turn when he lost consciousness at home.  On arrival, doctors noted that one of his pupils was dilated — an ominous sign — prompting immediate action.

Upon arrival at the hospital, a CT scan revealed a massive acute subdural haemorrhage—an internal brain bleed that had plunged him into a coma. Given his critical condition, compounded by chronic kidney disease requiring regular dialysis and the use of antiplatelet medication, which is known to significantly heighten bleeding risks, the outlook was bleak. Nevertheless, after extensive discussions with the family, the medical team decided to fight for his life.

Led by Dr. Nirup Datta, Consultant – Neurosurgery, high-risk, two-hour decompressive craniotomy was performed the same day under the observance of Dr. Ritesh Kauntia, Consultant, Nephrology, Transplant Physician, and Dr. Prakhar Gyanesh, Consultant, Anaesthesiology.

“The surgery was a race against time,” said Dr. Nirup Datta, Consultant – Neurosurgery, Manipal Hospital, Dhakuria, who led the neurosurgical team. “There were so many variables stacked against him. Given his advanced age, chronic kidney disease, dual antiplatelet therapy, and poor neurological status, the surgery carried extreme risks. However, we believed he deserved a fighting chance, so we gave it everything.  Luckily, the patient’s family also supported our decision after we explained the risks to them. We removed a large clot and preserved the bone flap in his abdomen for future replacement.”

The days following surgery were fraught with complications. The patient developed a serious infection and went into septic shock, requiring intensive critical care, close renal monitoring, and advanced antibiotic support. A tracheostomy was considered but ultimately avoided, thanks to his gradual improvement and successful early extubation—a crucial milestone in reducing recovery time and complications.

Dr. Ritesh Kauntia, Consultant – Nephrology, Transplant Physician, Manipal Hospital, Dhakuria stated, “Managing dialysis in such a critically ill patient was extremely challenging. His kidneys needed ongoing support, even as his body fought the infection and trauma. Close coordination between the neurology, nephrology, and critical care teams ensured continuity of care at every step. Despite the odds, the patient slowly began to show signs of progress—first regaining consciousness, then following simple commands, and later attempting to speak. With sustained physiotherapy and medical support, he regained enough strength to sit up and stand with assistance.”

Dr. Prakhar Gyanesh, Consultant, Anaesthesiology, stated, “Because of his chronic kidney disease and dialysis dependency, we could only administer about a third of the usual medications safely. Managing this delicate balance between treating his brain injury and protecting his kidneys was immensely challenging — but essential. Despite all limitations, his spirit pulled him through.”

Despite his frailty and high risk of re-bleeding (due to antiplatelet medications), the patient recovered enough to stand with support and breathe spontaneously without assistance. He was discharged after 14 days with a structured homecare plan: ongoing dialysis thrice weekly, regular physiotherapy, and scheduled follow-ups. A second surgery to replace the bone flap is planned after two months, once his condition stabilizes further. This extraordinary case stands as a beacon of hope for families of elderly patients, showcasing that even the most fragile lives can bounce back with the right care.

New Delhi, April 29, 2025 — In a landmark moment for Indian healthcare, Dr. Girdhar Gyani, Director General of the Association of Healthcare Providers (India) (AHPI), has been awarded the IMC Juran Medal, one of the most esteemed honours in the field of quality management. With this recognition, Dr Gyani joins an elite circle of Indian visionaries who have previously received the medal, including Mr Mukesh Ambani, Dr Devi Shetty, Mr Anand Mahindra, Mr. Ratan Tata, Mr Narayana Murthy, Mr Azim Premji, Dr Jamshed Irani, Mr K. Sivan, Mr N. Chandrasekaran, and Dr Sudha Murthy. Dr Gyani’s tireless efforts in promoting healthcare quality and patient safety have now been recognized on the global stage, marking a proud milestone not only for him but for the entire Indian healthcare community.

Often referred to as the Pioneer of Healthcare Quality in India, Dr Gyani has dedicated his life to building a healthcare system rooted in trust, transparency, and patient-centric care. He is the architect behind the National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers (NABH)—a landmark initiative under the Quality Council of India that brought international quality standards into Indian healthcare. Recognised globally by the International Society for Quality in Health Care (ISQua), NABH has empowered healthcare organisations to prioritise clinical excellence and continuous improvement, ultimately raising the bar for patient safety and service delivery.

Today, as Director General of AHPI, Dr Gyani continues to lead with vision and purpose. AHPI represents over 20,000 hospitals across India and is committed to building capacity in national healthcare system that ensures universal access to safe, ethical, and affordable care. The association actively works with policymakers, state governments, and healthcare providers to shape reforms in areas such as infrastructure, insurance, medical regulation, and digital health.

Reflecting on the honour, Dr Girdhar Gyani said, “This recognition is not just a personal milestone—it is a tribute to the idea that quality and safety must be at the heart of healthcare. When we created NABH, the goal was to establish a framework that patients could trust. Through AHPI, that mission has evolved into a broader movement—one that focuses on advocacy, education, and equity in care. We are working to build a healthier India where no one is left behind, and every citizen has access to quality healthcare.”

Under Dr Gyani’s leadership, AHPI has grown into one of the most influential voices in Indian healthcare. It serves as a platform for collaboration, driving meaningful change by uniting providers and guiding them toward ethical, efficient, and patient-focused care.

Adding to the celebration, Mr Neeraj Bajaj, Chairman, Bajaj Auto Ltd CMD, Mukund Ltd, remarked, “Dr Gyani’s work is a masterclass in healthcare leadership. From setting national quality standards to empowering thousands of institutions, his vision has consistently emphasised people over process, ethics over expediency. The IMC Juran Medal not only honours his past achievements—it reinforces the critical role he continues to play in shaping the future of healthcare in India.”

This recognition reaffirms that healthcare transformation doesn’t happen in isolation. It requires visionary leadership, system-wide collaboration, and a relentless focus on quality. Dr Gyani’s journey is a powerful example of what happens when those forces come together.

By Clelia Cecilia Angelon, Founder and CEO, Surya Brasil

With rising pollution, increasing use of chemical-based haircare products, and trending fad diets, most people are facing major hair issues such as dry, frizzy, limp, and lifeless hair. They also deal with hair loss, dandruff and itching of the scalp. While shifting to natural haircare products such as shampoos and conditioners can give a new lease of life to your hair, the hair needs nutrients that can be provided by hair masks.

Henna is a natural hair mask that has been in use in India since time immemorial, and the wisdom has now spread across the globe. Modern times need modern solutions, and henna too has evolved with changing times. In the past, henna enthusiasts would soak the henna overnight in iron utensils, with coffee and tea powders, and add herbs like amla and shikakai to get the best results. Pre-mixed henna, also known as henna cream is now available in the market. It comes with easy to apply applicator that gives one a truly mess-free experience. Each strand is easily covered, and you won’t have to worry about discolouring your hands thanks to the convenient applicator that comes with it.

The orangish tint that henna gives is another issue that frequent users, particularly those with greyer hair, deal with. Shades that lean more towards natural brown and black are preferred by many. Combining ayurvedic herbs like amla, henna with Amazonian forest herbs like guarana, acai, jaborandi, cumaru, and babacu oil can produce a variety of colours, including copper, dark brown, natural black, chocolate, and even red. Therefore, this type of henna cream is suitable for fashionistas who enjoy showing off their newest hair colour in addition to covering greys. The henna cream is cruelty-free, vegan, and a natural substitute.

Because it leaves hair feeling soft, henna cream is a natural hair conditioner. Additionally, it strengthens and ensures that there is less hair loss by nourishing the scalp and the hair from root to tip. In addition to giving your hair hydration, the deep conditioning with henna cream eliminates frizz. Your hair will be further nourished by the additional herbs, giving you gorgeous locks.

Henna is safer to use than the harsh chemical dyes that are more common these days. Ammonia and its byproducts, including ethanolamine, diethanolamine, and triethanolamine, are present in these harsh chemical-based hair dyes. You can be certain that using henna cream won’t expose you to any harmful chemicals. In actuality, it is free of heavy metals, parabens, ETDA, synthetic fragrances, PPD, and resorcinol. In addition to affecting hair health, they can cause cancer if used for an extended period of time. You can be certain that henna cream is a fantastic, all-natural product with no negative effects.

Due to its numerous advantages, henna cream is growing in popularity among consumers. Because you can apply it yourself, unwind, or finish any unfinished tasks, and then wash it off in one and a half to two hours, it also provides the comforts of home. Applying it in the evening and washing it off before bed is another option. This convenience is only made possible by the fact that applying it doesn’t require going to a salon. After a day, wash your hair with a gentle shampoo. Actually, using a post-coloration hair care line that includes shampoo and conditioner is preferable. They guarantee that the hair colour lasts longer because they are gentle.

When used with the appropriate products, henna cream can produce long-lasting effects. The colour can withstand up to ten washings or two to three months. As your hair grows, you will only need to touch up the roots. Who wouldn’t want to use it in their hair care routine given its many advantages? In addition to colouring your hair, henna cream nourishes it, takes care of all your hair woes, giving you a gorgeous, flowing mane. Thus, it truly is a natural saviour.