Fruit Powder Market Demand Surge in Functional Food Industry

5th June 2025: The fruit powder market is experiencing remarkable growth, fueled by rising consumer interest in health and wellness, especially within the functional food industry. Functional foods, which provide health benefits beyond basic nutrition, have become a significant trend worldwide. As consumers increasingly seek convenient, nutritious, and natural products, fruit powders have emerged as an essential ingredient in functional foods, beverages, dietary supplements, and nutraceuticals. This blog delves into the dynamics of the fruit powder market, its rising demand in the functional food sector, key applications, drivers, trends, challenges, and future outlook.

According to Persistence Market Research, global fruit powder market is anticipated to reach a value of US$ 62.2 Bn by 2025. It is projected to witness a CAGR of 6.4% during the forecast period to reach a size of US$ 96.1 Bn by 2032.

What is Fruit Powder and Why is it Gaining Popularity?

Fruit powder is a dehydrated form of fruit that retains much of the original fruit’s flavor, color, nutrients, and bioactive compounds. Produced through various drying techniques like spray drying, freeze drying, and drum drying, fruit powders offer a longer shelf life, easier storage, and convenient usage compared to fresh or frozen fruit. They are versatile and can be incorporated into multiple product formulations without compromising taste or nutritional value.

The surge in demand for fruit powders can be attributed to the growing preference for natural, clean-label ingredients in the food and beverage sector. Consumers are increasingly avoiding synthetic additives and seeking products enriched with vitamins, antioxidants, and dietary fibers—qualities abundant in fruit powders. Functional foods utilize these benefits by incorporating fruit powders to enhance health attributes and offer added value.

Drivers Behind the Growing Demand for Fruit Powder in Functional Foods

  • Health and Wellness Awareness: With rising awareness of lifestyle diseases and the importance of preventive healthcare, consumers are gravitating towards foods that offer added health benefits. Fruit powders are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and dietary fibers, making them ideal for functional food formulations aimed at improving immunity, digestion, and overall well-being.
  • Convenience and Shelf Stability: Unlike fresh fruitsfruit powders do not spoil quickly and require minimal storage conditions. This convenience supports manufacturers in developing ready-to-eat and ready-to-drink functional food products that cater to busy lifestyles.
  • Clean Label and Natural Ingredients Trend: The modern consumer demands transparency and natural ingredients in their food choices. Fruit powders, being natural and minimally processed, align perfectly with the clean-label trend in functional foods.
  • Versatility Across Product Categories: Fruit powders can be easily blended into a variety of functional food products including smoothies, cereals, snack bars, bakery items, dairy products, and beverages. Their ability to impart flavor, color, and nutrition without compromising product texture makes them highly attractive to product developers.
  • Rising Demand for Plant-Based Products: The shift towards plant-based diets is propelling the use of fruit powders in vegan and vegetarian functional foods. They provide essential nutrients and sensory appeal in plant-based protein shakes, dairy alternatives, and meal replacements.
  • Technological Advancements in Processing: Advances in drying and encapsulation technologies have improved the quality and nutrient retention of fruit powders, enabling manufacturers to deliver superior products to the functional food market.

Key Functional Food Applications Utilizing Fruit Powder

  • Nutritional Supplements and Powders: Fruit powders are widely used in dietary supplements for their concentrated nutrient profile. These supplements often target immune support, antioxidant supplementation, or energy enhancement.
  • Beverages and Smoothies: Functional beverages incorporating fruit powders offer natural flavor and health benefits. Fruit powders enable the creation of ready-to-drink juices, protein shakes, and herbal infusions that are both nutritious and appealing.
  • Snack Foods and Bars: Fruit powders add natural sweetness, flavor, and nutrition to energy bars, granola bars, and baked snacks. Their inclusion helps manufacturers meet consumer demand for healthier snacking options.
  • Dairy and Plant-Based Alternatives: Fruit powders are used to enhance yogurts, flavored milk, kefir, and dairy-free alternatives like almond or oat milk, enriching the taste and nutritional profile.
  • Bakery and Confectionery: Functional bakery products benefit from fruit powders which improve color, aroma, and nutritional content without artificial additives.
  • Cereals and Breakfast Products: Inclusion of fruit powders in breakfast cereals and granola delivers vitamins and antioxidants while enhancing product flavor.

Trends Driving Innovation in Fruit Powder Usage

  • Clean Label and Organic Fruit Powders: There is growing demand for organic and non-GMO fruit powders to cater to consumers seeking natural and ethically sourced ingredients.
  • Exotic and Superfruit Powders: Functional foods increasingly incorporate powders from exotic fruits like acai, maqui berry, mangosteen, and baobab to capitalize on their perceived superfood status and high antioxidant content.
  • Customization and Targeted Nutrition: Manufacturers are formulating functional foods with fruit powders tailored for specific health benefits such as gut health, heart health, cognitive function, or weight management.
  • Sustainability and Waste Reduction: Fruit powders made from surplus or imperfect fruits support sustainability initiatives by reducing food waste and creating value-added ingredients for the functional food industry.
  • Clean and Simple Formulations: Functional food producers emphasize minimal ingredient lists and transparent sourcing, with fruit powders helping deliver natural flavor and color without artificial chemicals.
  • Innovative Delivery Formats: Fruit powders are being incorporated into new formats such as instant mixes, sachets, and edible films to enhance consumer convenience and product appeal.

Challenges Faced by the Fruit Powder Market in Functional Foods

  • Nutrient Degradation During Processing: Although fruit powders retain many nutrients, some sensitive vitamins and phytochemicals may degrade during drying and storage, potentially reducing the functional efficacy of the finished product.
  • Flavor Stability: Maintaining the natural flavor and aroma of fruits in powder form can be challenging, as exposure to heat, oxygen, or moisture may lead to off-flavors or loss of sensory quality.
  • Cost and Pricing Pressure: High-quality fruit powders, especially those that are organic or derived from exotic fruits, may come at a premium price, impacting affordability for mass-market functional foods.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Functional food manufacturers must navigate complex regulations regarding health claims and ingredient safety. Ensuring fruit powders meet these standards while supporting functional claims can be a hurdle.
  • Supply Chain and Seasonality: Availability of raw fruits for powder production is often seasonal, and disruptions in supply can affect market stability and pricing.

Future Outlook and Market Opportunities

The fruit powder market’s growth trajectory in the functional food industry remains strong, driven by evolving consumer preferences, technological progress, and expanding applications.

  • Increased Product Launches: The next few years will see a surge in functional food products formulated with fruit powders, ranging from immunity boosters and digestive aids to beauty-from-within supplements.
  • Expansion in Emerging Markets: Rising health consciousness and disposable incomes in emerging economies present new growth avenues for fruit powder-based functional foods.
  • Advanced Processing Techniques: Innovations such as vacuum freeze drying, microencapsulation, and nanoencapsulation will improve nutrient retention and flavor stability, enhancing product quality.
  • Collaborations and Partnerships: Fruit powder manufacturers are likely to collaborate more with functional food brands to develop tailored ingredients that meet specific health and sensory requirements.
  • Digital and E-commerce Channels: Online retail and direct-to-consumer models will facilitate greater accessibility and awareness of fruit powder-based functional foods, driving demand further.
  • Focus on Personalized Nutrition: Personalized nutrition trends will encourage formulations featuring fruit powders customized to individual health needs, preferences, and genetic profiles.

Conclusion

The surge in demand for fruit powders in the functional food industry reflects a broader consumer movement toward healthier, natural, and convenient nutrition solutions. Fruit powders bring immense value by delivering concentrated nutrition, flavor, and color while aligning with clean-label and sustainability trends. Their versatility across a wide range of functional food applications—nutritional supplements, beverages, snacks, dairy alternatives, and bakery products—positions them as a vital ingredient for the industry’s growth.

Challenges such as nutrient retention, flavor stability, and cost need ongoing attention, but advances in technology and processing methods are steadily overcoming these barriers. With increasing innovation, sustainability focus, and consumer awareness, the fruit powder market is set for robust expansion, offering exciting opportunities for manufacturers, brands, and consumers alike. The functional food industry, powered by the natural goodness of fruit powders, is poised to make a significant impact on global health and wellness trends in the years to come.

Antara Senior Care Launches Care Home in Chennai for Assisted Living and Rehabilitation Care Needs

Chennai, 28th May 2025: Antara Senior Care, India’s leading provider of holistic seniorcare solutions and a wholly owned subsidiary of Max India Limited, has launched the first of its care homes in Chennai. The ~30,000 sq. ft., 43-bed facility on East Coast Road (ECR) addresses the growing demand for specialized senior care. It offers assisted living for seniors who need support with daily activities, as well as rehabilitative and recovery services for those recuperating after major health events.

Chennai is one of India’s leading medical tourism hubs. It draws a significant number of domestic medical tourists with its robust medical infrastructure, and attracts a large number of international patients, many among them seniors. However, despite the strong medical setup, the infrastructure that aids structured recovery and rehabilitation remains underdeveloped. Additionally, Chennai has a growing population of senior citizens, underlining the urgent need to create systems that support those without relevant care backup at home to regain health with ease and dignity.

Ishaan Khanna, CEO, Antara Assisted Care Services, said, “With the launch of our new Antara Care Home on the East Coast Road, we are excited to bring to Chennai a facility that is built to deliver the highest standard of rehabilitative and recuperative care to seniors, as well as assisted living services for those requiring long-term support. Antara‘s commitment to high-quality clinical governance in coordination with the treating doctor, and professional caregiving is directed to help residents get the support needed to tide over health setbacks, even when they live independently. For those needing ongoing assistance with daily activities, our assisted living solutions provide a secure, dignified environment with 24/7 professional care. We aim to provide seniors and their children a stress-free recovery experience and quality assisted living option in an environment built around their needs.” 

AHPI and MedLern to Host Digital Health Workshop for Healthcare Professionals

New Delhi, 27th May ’25: The Association of Healthcare Providers – India (AHPI) the largest representative of private hospitals in the country, in collaboration with MedLern, a leading digital learning and training platform for healthcare professionals,  hosted a System Integration Digital Health (SIDH) Class in Bhopal at Enrise by Sayaji. The workshop engaged over 150 healthcare CXOs from 80+ hospitals and institutions, reinforcing the growing momentum for digital transformation in India’s healthcare ecosystem.

This one-day workshop was a part of Koita Foundation’s ongoing initiative to enable healthcare providers—particularly those in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities—to adopt digital tools and improve service delivery. The session focused on practical applications and implementation strategies for technologies such as Hospital Management Information Systems (HMIS), Electronic Medical Records (EMRs), and clinical decision-support systems.

Participants at these workshops gain a leadership perspective with digital solutions designed to enhance patient care, streamline hospital workflows, and strengthen institutional resilience. In addition, discussions addressed common barriers to digital adoption and explored pathways to long-term digital maturity in healthcare.

Dr. Sunil Khetarpal, Director, AHPI, shared “System Integration Digital Health (SIDH) is an initiative developed by Koita Foundation and PwC in association with AHPI, which has consistently been committed to capacity building across the healthcare sector. Operating through its 20 state chapters, AHPI has already trained over 250 healthcare professionals from more than 120 hospitals across four states—Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and Karnataka. The goal is to expand these workshops to various cities across the country.

This time, AHPI and MedLern have partnered to bring digital health education to the forefront and make it more accessible to healthcare providers beyond the major metropolitan areas. Over 150 registrations were recorded for the workshop in Bhopal, thanks to the strong support of the AHPI Madhya Pradesh Chapter, MedLern and the MP Nursing Home Association (MPNHA). 

The Association of Healthcare Providers – India (AHPI), a key partner in this initiative, emphasized the importance of strengthening digital capabilities across hospitals of all sizes.

Mr. Deepak Sharma, Co-Founder & CEO of MedLern, stated “This collaboration with Koita Foundation and AHPI is a testament to our shared vision of transforming healthcare through continuous learning and digital readiness. We are creating a local network and ecosystem in each city to provide ongoing support and knowledge resources to Hospital CXOs to help them approach digital transformation with confidence. Indian healthcare’s opportunity to achieve significant gains in patient care and delivery efficiency is possible only with rapid digitization.”

The session focused on serving as a platform for peer learning, allowing professionals to exchange insights and rethink traditional care models in light of emerging technologies. With a strong emphasis on real-world impact, the workshop highlights the role of knowledge-sharing in driving systemic change.

Tata AIA Expands ‘Bimarath’ Initiative to Empower West Bengal with Insurance Awareness and Health Support

Kolkata, 27th May 2025: Tata AIA Life Insurance Co. Ltd. (Tata AIA), one of the leading insurers in India, has launched its fourth ‘Bimarath’ campaign, to boost life insurance awareness and reach among young professionals, homemakers, seniors, entrepreneurs, and MSMEs in Kolkata Metropolitan Region.

Throughout the month of May, the Bimarath, a mobile van, equipped with loudspeakers and a large LED screen, will travel through 15 key locations in the city, playing educational videos about the importance of life insurance. Over 500 Leaders and Advisors of Tata AIA’ extensive Agency network will engage directly with residents through one-on-one sessions, helping them understand why life insurance is a crucial part of their financial planning.

Free health check-up camps will complement the campaign, providing on-the-spot basic health assessments to thousands of citizens. With over 50,000 individuals expected to be reached throughout the month and more than 1,000 people benefiting from health check-ups, this initiative stands out not only as a means to secure the future but also as a way to encourage overall well-being.

In FY25, Tata AIA conducted three Bimarath campaigns, engaging over 1.5 lakh people and onboarding 420+ new Insurance Advisors. The first phase (May-June 2024) covered 15 districts, followed by a dedicated Kolkata drive led by Tata AIA Advisors in Nov-Dec 2024. The third phase, held in January 2025, focused on districts like Purulia, Birbhum, Malda, and Darjeeling, extending outreach beyond traditional financial hubs.

Girish Kalra, Chief Marketing Officer of Tata AIA, said, “Tata AIA remains deeply committed to spreading insurance awareness across West Bengal and bringing more individuals under the protective umbrella of life insurance. Through initiatives like Bimarath, Masik Bima Diwas and collaborative efforts with our Advisors, we are reaching diverse segments of society. Our latest Bimarath campaign covering 15 key locations in the Kolkata Metropolitan Region will reinforce our promise to help the people of West Bengal live more secure and ‘Fikar-free’ lives.”

This campaign is a continuation of the successful Bimarath initiative conducted in Kolkata last year, which led to the recruitment of over 115 young advisors and generated INR 1 crore in new business premium. By building strong relationships with the community, Tata AIA is helping more people understand the value of life insurance in securing their futures.

As part of Tata AIA’s commitment to IRDAI’s vision of ‘Insurance for All by 2047’, the company has launched multiple initiatives across the state in FY25, including Masik Bima Diwas, targeted media outreach, and on-ground engagement activities.

 Masik Bima Diwas:

  • Masik Bima Diwas, a monthly insurance awareness initiative, engaged over 2,500 consumers in FY25.
  • Held on the second Thursday of each month since November 2023 at Tata AIA branches statewide, the event aims to educate the public on the importance of life insurance.

 Social and Digital Media Campaign:

  • ·       Tata AIA ran Social Media and Digital campaigns on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, using local influencers and cultural themes in English and Bengali to raise life insurance awareness.
  • ·         These campaigns reached nearly 3.5 crore users, boosting engagement and awareness.

Aahwahan Foundation’s CERVIVOUR Initiative Aims to Eradicate Cervical Cancer

“Protecting WomenPreventing Cervical Cancer“: Aahwahan Foundation’s Initiative CERVIVOUR to eradicate cervical cancer

 ~The Initiative CERVIVOUR aims to vaccinate 500,000 females by 2030~

May 22, 2025, New Delhi:  The commitment of raising awareness and eradicating cervical cancerAahwahan Foundation has started an initiative, “Protecting WomenPreventing Cervical Cancer“, aimed at empowering women against the battle of cervical cancer. According to a research conducted by India Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and Related Cancers in 2021, every year 1,23,907 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer and 77,348 die from the disease. The situation of women and children in rural areas and the underprivileged section of society, remains most affected due to lack of proper treatment, facilities, financial aid, etc.  Through this initiative, the foundation provides free HPV vaccinations to thousands of women and children in rural and financially disadvantaged communities who face barriers to accessing healthcare facilities. It is not just a vaccination drive; it is a symbol of empowerment, a statement that every individual, regardless of their background, deserves access to life-saving healthcare.

Aahwahan Foundation has come forward to address the need to provide HPV (Human Papillomavirus) vaccination to the underprivileged. The vaccination, priced at Rs.12, 000 approx. is being provided free of charge by the organization to young girls in schools and colleges. Over 17,650 individuals have received the vaccine so far. The Initiative CERVIVOUR aims to vaccinate 500,000 females by 2030, with significant progress already made in Haryana, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Kerala. Through collaboration with the government and medical experts, the program conducts baseline studies, identifies target schools and colleges, raises awareness through group counselling sessions, and implements tailored projects, followed by continuous monitoring and follow-up to ensure sustained impact.

The foundation strives to empower women with the knowledge and resources needed to prevent cervical cancer, improve early detection rates, which ultimately save lives. The initiative fosters a supportive environment for women to discuss concern related to reproductive health concerns and encourages proactive health management within communities. The team also educates women about essential information of cervical cancer, its causes and risks through regular screenings, such as Pap tests and HPV vaccinations.

Ragini, a beneficiary of the initiative, said, I never knew about cervical cancer or the vaccine until the camp came to our village. When the doctors explained how this simple injection could protect my daughters from a dangerous disease, I felt a sense of relief and hope. We could never afford such a vaccine, but this initiative gave it to us for free. My daughters now have a future where they can be healthy and strong, and as a mother, that means everything to me.”

“Our target to vaccinate 90% of eligible girls and women in the state by 2030, focusing on underserved and high-risk communities. “We are actively engaging with the ground level, covering rural and urban locations in Karnataka, and strategizing outreach programs to ensure a smooth rollout in the coming months. We are carrying out extensive awareness campaigns in different parts of these states, and we are looking forward to meeting a target of 10,000 girls & women in the initial phase of this project and 1,00,000 from each of the states soon.” said Mr. Braja Kishore Pradhan, CEO, Social Activist and Founder of the Aahwahan Foundation.

Through this project, Aahwahan Foundation is actively working towards creating a new India where cervical cancer is eliminated. They are committed to empowering women with knowledge and resources to prevent this disease, ensuring that no woman has to struggle with its devastating effects. By fostering awareness and promoting regular health screenings, they aim to build a supportive community where women can thrive, free from the fear of cervical cancer.

Palomar Medical Center Escondido Awarded on Newsweek’s World’s Best Hospitals 2025 List

For seven consecutive years, this recognition has reflected Palomar Health’s global leadership in innovation, compassionate care and clinical excellence.

SAN DIEGO –– May 22, 2025 –– Palomar Medical Center Escondido has been awarded on Newsweek’s World’s Best Hospitals 2025 list, marking seven consecutive years of international recognition and reinforcing Palomar Health’s legacy of excellence in healthcare. This prestigious honor is presented by Newsweek and Statista Inc., one of the world’s leading data analytics and industry ranking providers.
 
This year’s list honors the top hospitals in 30 countries and recognizes institutions that have consistently delivered high-quality care, adapted to global health challenges and embraced innovation at every level. Palomar Medical Center Escondido stands proudly among these leaders, continuing to set the standard for excellent medical care in Southern California and beyond. Palomar Medical Center Escondido
“Being named one of the world’s best hospitals for seven years in a row speaks to the dedication and incredible work ethic of the staff at Palomar Medical Center Escondido,” said Diane Hansen, president and CEO of Palomar Health. “Our patients count on us for consistent, high-quality care, and this recognition reinforces the trust they place in us every day. It also reflects our mission of reimagining the healthcare experience to better serve our communities.”
Newsweek and Statista selected the best hospitals based on four key data sources:
  • Recommendations from medical experts: An online survey of tens of thousands of doctors, healthcare professionals and hospital managers in 30 countries
  • Results from patient surveys: Patient satisfaction with their hospitalization experience
  • Hospital quality metrics: Indicators such as quality of care, hygiene standards, patient safety and wait times
  • Statista PROMs Implementation Survey: An optional survey assessing the use of patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) in hospitals
In 2025, Palomar Medical Center Escondido joins a select group of hospitals worldwide recognized for sustained excellence. With seven consecutive appearances on Newsweek’s World’s Best Hospitals list, Palomar Health continues to demonstrate its reliability and leadership in delivering trusted, high-quality care.
 
As the largest public healthcare district in California, Palomar Health remains focused on advancing care through innovation, compassion and continuous improvement. Serving an 800-square-mile region, the system is anchored by two medical campuses committed to improving lives and elevating the patient experience.

Customer Experience Takes Center Stage for Health Insurance: From Claims to Care

May 15, 2025: Hansa Research, India’s leading consumer insights firm, has released the 1st edition of Health Insurance Customer Experience Score (CuES) 2025 report. This comprehensive study offers a deep dive into the evolving preferences, expectations, and satisfaction levels of health insurance customers across the country, drawing insights from over 3,800 respondents across 12 health insurance brands, and presents a robust framework for insurers to sharpen their strategies and drive stronger customer engagement.

India’s health insurance sector, which saw a surge in adoption during the pandemic, continues to expand since then, (albeit at a moderated pace), as consumers prioritize financial protection amidst rising medical costs. According to the report, nearly half (48%) of health insurance buyers cited ‘protection from rising healthcare expenses’ as the primary driver for purchasing insurance, reflecting heightened concern over medical inflation. Moreover, customers increasingly view health insurance not just as a financial product, but as a gateway to access quality healthcare and better health outcomes. We are also seeing that nearly 30% of Policyholders supplement existing corporate health coverage with additional policies.

As the health insurance landscape in India becomes increasingly competitive — with a mix of public sector giants, private insurers, and standalone health firms, understanding and improving customer experience is no longer optional.

The Health Insurance CuES 2025 report pegs the Industry Net Promoter Score at 55% and among the top-ranked brands, Bajaj Allianz General Insurance, SBI General Insurance, and ICICI Lombard General Insurance emerge as standout performers. These brands are not only perceived as ‘trustworthy’ but also excel on product related aspects, ease of claim filing, hospital network access and customer support responsiveness among other things.

Among these, Bajaj Allianz General Insurance is leading the rankings with an impressive Net Promoter Score (NPS) of 68%, winning customer loyalty through strong product delivery, digital support, excellent claims experience, and a well-rated hospital network. The brand has successfully positioned itself as a customer-centric insurer, fostering high levels of satisfaction and loyalty.

Sharing some insights on the Hansa Research, Health Insurance CuES report, Praveen Nijhara, CEO, Hansa Research said, “The Health Insurance CuES 2025 report is a timely benchmark for the industry. It reflects a major shift in consumer mindset. Customers today are informed, vocal and expect seamless experiences and this highlights the importance of transparency, service quality and innovation in building lasting trust.”

Key Findings from the Health Insurance CuES 2025 Report

Evolving Customer Expectations
Customer expectations are rapidly changing, driven by a digital-first mindset for policy purchase and management. There is a clear preference for personalized, flexible, and wellness-oriented plans, which are associated with higher satisfaction and stronger brand affinity. Insurers that align offerings with these preferences are more likely to attract and retain today’s informed and health-conscious consumers.

Consumers’ brand preferences for health insurance

Consumers’ preferences for health insurance brands are shaped by three core factors: the product offering—particularly the range and coverage of critical illnesses and plan flexibility; a strong and trustworthy brand reputation; and convenient access to 24/7 customer service. Notably, younger millennials place greater emphasis on round-the-clock support and seamless digital experiences, making these critical differentiators for insurers targeting this demographic.

Portability Empowers Consumers

The growing ease of health insurance portability has shifted the balance of power toward the consumer, pushing insurers to focus on delivering value across the entire policyholder journey—not just at the point of acquisition. Increased competition is driving accountability. The study finds that premium increases, lack of transparency, and unsatisfactory claim experiences are the top reasons consumers switch providers. This highlights a growing demand for fair, transparent, and consistent service.

Claims Experience Remains a Key Challenge

The claims process continues to be a critical friction point, with 55% of claimants reporting difficulties. Key concerns include limited hospital networks, pre-authorization delays, and slow payouts. These issues are even more pronounced among millennials, who have higher expectations for speed and simplicity. A smooth and efficient cashless claims process is strongly linked to overall satisfaction, underlining the need for insurers to invest in both digital capabilities and operational efficiency.

Barriers Among Non-Policyholders

Despite rising awareness, several barriers continue to prevent non-policyholders from entering the health insurance ecosystem. The most cited concerns include a lack of perceived need/ benefits of health insurance, affordability, and complexity of terms and conditions. Addressing these barriers through clear communication, affordable micro-products, and simplified onboarding processes will be essential for expanding coverage and inclusion across demographics.

Piyali Chatterjee, Executive Vice President, CX, Hansa Research said, “Expansion of network coverage, simplifying pre-authorization protocols, and ensure timely settlements will improve customer trust. Addressing these issues is critical for strengthening India’s healthcare financing ecosystem and delivering a seamless insurance experience.

MediBuddy Appoints Sidhartha Mehra as CFO to Boost Growth

Mumbai, 15 May, 2025: MediBuddy, India’s leading digital healthcare company, has announced the appointment of Sidhartha Mehra as Chief Financial Officer (CFO). With over 20 years of global and Indian experience across multinational corporations and high-growth enterprises, Sidhartha has led Finance, Legal, Compliance, HR, Investments, and Procurement functions. He brings a rare blend of financial acumen and cross-functional leadership, with expertise in IPO, M&A, and strategic financial management.

In his role at MediBuddy, Sidhartha will lead MediBuddy’s financial strategy, capital management, and regulatory compliance. His proven expertise in managing large-scale M&A, corporate restructuring, finance transformation, and strategic capital allocation will be instrumental in driving long-term value creation for the company and its stakeholders.

Satish Kannan, Co-founder and CEO of MediBuddy, said, “Sidhartha’s strategic foresight, combined with his cross-functional expertise, makes him the ideal partner to help MediBuddy navigate its next phase of growth. His ability to align financial performance with broader business strategy will be key in building a financially resilient organisation that can scale sustainably.”

Commenting on his new role, Sidhartha Mehra, CFO, MediBuddy, said, “I’m thrilled to join MediBuddy as it accelerates its mission to make high quality healthcare accessible to all. Aligned with this vision, my focus will be on building a world-class finance function that enables scale, drives strategic growth, and unlocks long-term enterprise value. I look forward to driving measurable impact at scale—both within the business and across the communities we serve. It is deeply fulfilling to be associated with a purpose-driven company that is transforming lives through empathetic and tech-led healthcare.”

Sidhartha has held senior leadership positions across global financial institutions and leading Indian companies. Most recently, he served as the CFO and CHRO at Zolo, where he played a pivotal role in leading enterprise-wide transformation, driving operational efficiency and governance frameworks. Prior to this, he held leadership roles at Jupiter Capital, GE Capital, and Barclays, managing financial planning, regulatory compliance, and business analytics across global markets including the UK, Ireland, Belgium, and India.

In addition to his corporate leadership, Sidhartha also serves as a Professor of Practice at the Manipal Centre for Innovation, Leadership, and Entrepreneurship, highlighting his passion for shaping future leaders in finance and strategy.

Hinduja Hospital Expands Program for Children with Type 1 Diabetes

Mumbai, May 13, 2025: P. D. Hinduja Hospital & Medical Research Centre, in collaboration with the Hinduja Foundation, today expanded its groundbreaking Type 1 Diabetes Initiative (T1DI) by donating insulin pumps to 20 underprivileged children as part of its Insulin Pump Therapy Initiation Program. Presently, the management and maintenance of these pumps will be fully supported for a period of five years. In addition to this, the hospital offers full medical care for diabetes management at no cost to close to 400 children with type 1 diabetes.

Through Type 1 Diabetes Initiative, P. D. Hinduja Hospital and Hinduja Foundation have been at the forefront of a transformative healthcare initiative for children and young adults living with Type 1 Diabetes since 2019. Since its launch, the initiative has supported over 400 children and invested over INR 11 crore to create a strong, sustainable model of care. It has helped improve average HbA1c levels from 10.2% to 7-8%, reduced hospitalizations by 75%, and strengthened treatment adherence through regular counselling and life skills education.

Mr. Gautam Khanna, CEO, P. D. Hinduja Hospital & MRC, said“Today’s event marks an important milestone in our ongoing efforts to assist underprivileged children and their families in managing Type 1 Diabetes. The Hinduja Foundation and P. D. Hinduja Hospital have worked tirelessly over the years to develop a comprehensive and sustainable model of care and research as part of the Type 1 Diabetes Initiative. We remain deeply committed to expanding equal access to quality healthcare and doing scientific research that will define the future of diabetes care in India and around the world. The quality of life of these kids and even their families has had a positive impact with this program. With this program we aim to contribute to therapy management, research and therapy cure solutions for Type 1 Diabetes.”

Dr. Phulrenu Chauhan, Head – Department of Endocrinology, P. D. Hinduja Hospital & MRC, said, “With the support of Hinduja Group and Hinduja Foundation, we are proud to donate insulin pumps to 20 children as part of our Insulin Pump Therapy Initiation Program. This is just one step in our broader Type 1 Diabetes Initiative, which has been providing comprehensive, free-of-cost care to about 400 children. With the insulin pumps, we are ensuring better blood sugar control, fewer complications, and a higher quality of life for these children, while the T1DI clinic continues to offer life-changing treatment, education, and ongoing support.”

Type 1 diabetes is a chronic, lifelong condition that necessitates intensive management. This includes four insulin injections, and 2-4 blood glucose checks per day, regular lab monitoring and consultations, and education in carbohydrate counting, insulin titration, and lifestyle modification. The high cost of insulin, syringes, blood glucose strips, and consultation fees makes it nearly impossible for patients from lower socioeconomic strata to effectively manage T1D. Many children suffer complications or early mortality due to lack of access to even basic care. To ensure access to quality and lifesaving treatment, the P. D. Hinduja Hospital and the Hinduja Foundation remain committed to cover the entire cost for these underprivileged children.

Dr. Ashish Mendhi, Program Director, Hinduja Foundation, underscored“This initiative stands as a beacon of what targeted, compassionate, and evidence-based care can achieve, especially when directed toward vulnerable populations. In collaboration with P. D. Hinduja Hospital, today’s event underscores Hinduja Foundation’s commitment to continue expanding the program’s reach, advancing scientific research, and shaping dialogue on equitable and effective T1D care.”

The Type 1 Diabetes Initiative by P. D. Hinduja Hospital and the Hinduja Foundation is a pioneering, life-transforming program that serves as a model for accessible, sustainable, and evidence-based chronic disease care. With robust clinical outcomes, scientific contributions, and a commitment to equity, this program demonstrates what is possible when care and compassion meet scientific rigor.

Ujala Cygnus Launches Mother’s Day Campaign Across Hospitals

New Delhi, May 8, 2025: Ujala Cygnus Group of Hospitals, North India’s largest NABH accredited healthcare providers, has announced a special Mother’s Day campaign dedicated to honouring the invaluable role of mothers and mothers-to-be. The initiative will be held on Saturday, 10th May (a day ahead of Mother’s Day on 11th May- Sunday), across more than 15 prominent Ujala Cygnus hospitals in 5 states, offering a host of complimentary and discounted services to ensure that every mother feels celebrated and cared for.

As part of the campaign, mothers and expecting mothers visiting Ujala Cygnus hospitals on May 10 will be entitled to a free gynecology consultation, a 50% discount on ultrasounds, and a 50% discount on any additional investigations recommended during the visit. The initiative aims to encourage women to prioritize their health while enjoying a warm and welcoming experience.

Commenting on the initiative, Mr. Probal Ghosal, Chairman, Director, and Co-Founder of Ujala Cygnus Healthcare Services, said: “The Mother figure is the defining figure in Indian families, and we at Ujala Cygnus recognise this; we see Mother’s Day as an opportunity to serve and empower her and encourage her to begin the healthcare transformation of the family starting with herself. Accessible healthcare can make a meaningful difference to families, but it is only possible if the mother in each house prioritizes her health first.”

Echoing this sentiment, Dr. Shuchin Bajaj, Founder Director, Ujala Cygnus Hospitals, added: “Too often women place their own health needs last while caring for their families. This Mother’s Day, we’re offering them a moment to focus on themselves, with access to essential gynecological  services and guidance. Whether it’s understanding the importance of balanced nutrition, safe exercise during pregnancy, or simply learning how to prevent common summer ailments, preventive healthcare is key. Our goal is to build awareness and make these conversations part of every woman’s journey to motherhood.”

Some of the key hospitals offering these benefits include Ujala Cygnus Kulwanti Hospital, Kanpur; Ujala Cygnus Central Hospital, Haldwani; Ujala Cygnus Rainbow Hospital, Agra; Ujala Cygnus Laxmi Hospital, Varanasi; Ujala Cygnus Sonia Hospital, Nangloi (New Delhi), alongside other participating hospitals in the network.

In addition to healthcare services, mothers visiting the hospitals on this special day will enjoy free transportation from designated city locations, as well as complimentary refreshments and a small gift as a token of appreciation.

Ujala Cygnus has always prioritized maternal healthcare and educating women on how to navigate their pregnancy journey in a better way by taking care of their mental and physical well-being. The hospital chain celebrates Mother’s Day every year with events and promotions, often emphasizing the importance of maternal health and safe childbirth.