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.

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

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

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

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

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

1. Bananas

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

2. Plain Yogurt with Live Cultures

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

3. Oatmeal

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

4. Ginger

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

5. Bone Broth

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

6. Papaya

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

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

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Anitha Thampi said, “AMRIT’s rebranding reflects our commitment to reliability, affordability, and increased reach. The name AMRIT embodies our eternal promise of trust, marking a new chapter in our journey.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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