HCG Strengthens Commitment to Cancer Care Across India
New Delhi,5th March 2025:
Healthcare Global Enterprises Ltd (HCG) is a premium Oncology healthcare organization headquartered in Bangalore, mainly focusing on delivering quality cancer care and cureto its patients. The vision of HCG is adding life to years by redefining healthcare through global innovation.
Over the years HCGcontinues to set benchmarks in Oncology with its cutting-edge diagnostic, treatment, and surgical services. With a presence spanning more than 20 hospitals across the country, HCG has solidified its reputation as a leader in precision medicine, pioneering advancements in cancer treatment through state-of-the-art technology.
HCG was founded by renowned oncologist and entrepreneur Dr. B.S. Ajai Kumar, with a vision to revolutionize cancer care in India. The company has played a pivotal role in bringing specialized oncology services to patients, offering a multi-disciplinary approach that combines medical expertise with the latest innovations in radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology.
The HCG Jaipur Unit stands as one of the foremost cancer care facilities in Rajasthan, dedicated to providing comprehensive cancer treatment with the latest medical advancements. Equipped with cutting-edge radiation therapy, targeted chemotherapy, and advanced surgical oncology solutions, HCG Jaipur continues to deliver world-class healthcare services to patients in the region.
Speaking on the significance of medical record management in oncology care, Junaid Nazir, Medical Record Officer at HCG Jaipur, emphasized, “Accurate and efficient medical records management plays a crucial role in enhancing patient outcomes. At HCG Jaipur, we ensure that each patient’s treatment journey is meticulously documented, enabling personalized care and precision-based treatment plans. Our commitment to maintaining high standards of medical documentation directly contributes to the overall efficiency of cancer treatment.”
HCG’s relentless focus on research, innovation, and patient-centric care continues to position it at the forefront of the fight against cancer in India. With its ever-expanding network of specialized oncology centers, the organization remains committed to its mission of making world-class cancer care accessible and affordable to all.
Pokiddo Junior Expands in India with INR 40 Crore Investment
Mumbai, March 5th, 2025: Following its successful debut in Mumbai, The Esteemed Chinese brand Pokiddo Junior, an indoor entertainment brand, is gearing up for a major expansion in India. Prasuk Jain Hospitality Private Limited, the parent company of Snow World Entertainment, has made a substantial plan for investment of 40 crores to drive this growth, reinforcing its commitment to providing world-class indoor play experiences. As part of its expansion strategy, five new centers will open in cities like Delhi, and Bengaluru, and a second location in Mumbai, catering to the increasing demand for premium family entertainment.
India’s indoor amusement sector is witnessing remarkable growth, with over 6.6 million square feet of operational play spaces spanning 500 locations across 83 cities. The industry is projected to expand to 11 million square feet by 2028, reflecting a significant surge in demand for innovative, experience-driven entertainment. Pokiddo Junior is at the forefront of this transformation, bringing a fresh approach to the sector by combining play and learning in an immersive environment. As the industry expands, Pokiddo Junior’s rapid growth is perfectly aligned with this trajectory, ensuring that Indian families have access to world-class entertainment that caters to both fun and development. Considered to be one of the leading upcoming players, Pokiddo has expanded it’s footprint in India, USA, UAE, KSA, & Europe.
“At Pokiddo Junior, we believe that play is an essential part of a child’s growth and development. With India’s indoor amusement industry on a rapid growth trajectory, we see an incredible opportunity to set new benchmarks in experiential entertainment. Our expansion is not just about adding more locations, it’s about creating immersive spaces where families can connect, kids can explore, and the industry as a whole can evolve. We’re excited to bring Pokiddo’s world-class experiences to more cities and contribute to the growing demand for innovative indoor entertainment in India,” said Prasuk Jain, Managing Director of Prasuk Jain Hospitality Private Limited
With its expansion strategy focused on high-footfall metro areas, Pokiddo Junior is strategically selecting locations that offer accessibility, convenience, and a vibrant atmosphere for families. The brand aims to replicate the success of its Mumbai venue by maintaining high standards of quality, safety, and engagement in every new location.
The Mumbai center, located in Raghuvanshi Mills, quickly gained popularity as a destination for parents and children alike. Featuring state-of-the-art play zones, kids’ karting tracks, trampoline arenas, ball pits, and immersive arcade games, Pokiddo Junior offers an engaging and enriching environment for children aged 9 and below. Unique spaces such as the Princess Room, Supermarket Room, and Farmland encourage role-playing and imaginative play, making it more than just a fun experience—it’s also a space for learning and development. It is extending it’s current footprint by adding 3000 sq ft to its existing location to open the first kids salon, VR Zone, Sky Simulator, Carnival & Cafe.
The rapid expansion of the International brand Pokiddo Junior is a testament to its vision of redefining indoor entertainment in India. By seamlessly blending fun and learning, the brand continues to set new benchmarks in the children’s entertainment space, ensuring a memorable experience for both kids and parents.
The Science Behind Fasting and Jet Lag Recovery
By Dr. Pavan Yadav, Lead Consultant – Interventional Pulmonology & Lung Transplantation, Aster RV Hospital
The idea that fasting can help with jet lag stems from the connection between circadian rhythms and metabolic cycles. While there is limited direct evidence, studies on circadian biology suggest that fasting may reset the body’s internal clock. The “Argonne Anti-Jet-Lag Diet”, developed in the 1980s, popularized this idea, claiming that fasting for 12-16 hours before and during a flight can minimize jet lag.
How does fasting help individuals to prevent jet lag?
• Circadian Clock Reset: Our body has a secondary clock linked to metabolic activity. Fasting for an extended period (12-16 hours) can reset this clock. Once you eat at your destination, your body aligns to the local time zone more quickly
• Reduction in Gastrointestinal Disruption: Flying disrupts digestion due to cabin pressure changes and dehydration. Fasting prevents these issues, allowing the body to focus on adapting to the time shift.
• Minimizing Inflammation and Fatigue: Large meals during flights can cause bloating and fatigue. Fasting prevents postprandial (after-eating) sluggishness, which can exacerbate the feeling of jet lag.
• Synchronization: Breaking the fast at your destination during the local breakfast hours helps synchronize your body’s hunger cues with the local time zone.
What happens when an individual experiences jet lag? Effects of it on health?
Jet lag occurs when your body’s internal clock (circadian rhythm) is misaligned with the time zone of your destination. The condition arises because your body’s biological functions, including sleep, digestion, and hormone release, are still operating in your home time zone.
Symptoms of Jet Lag:
• Physical: Fatigue, insomnia, gastrointestinal distress (constipation, bloating), headaches.
• Cognitive: Difficulty concentrating, memory impairment, irritability, and mood disturbances.
• Sleep Disruption: Difficulty falling or staying asleep, early waking, or excessive drowsiness during the day.
What are the hacks that can be used to prevent jet lag?
1. Adjust Your Schedule Before Travel: Gradually shift your sleep and meal times to align with the destination’s time zone a few days before traveling
2. Fasting and Meal Timing: Fast for 12-16 hours before and during the flight. Break your fast at a meal time corresponding to the destination’s local time.
3. Use Light Strategically:
Morning Light for Eastward Travel: Seek sunlight exposure in the early morning at your destination to advance your circadian rhythm.Evening Light for Westward Travel: Seek sunlight exposure in the evening to delay your circadian rhythm.
4. Stay Hydrated: Dehydration exacerbates fatigue and other jet lag symptoms. Drink plenty of water during the flight and avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can disturb sleep.
5. Opt for Physical Activity: Exercise upon arrival to energize the body and signal the new day-night cycle.
6. Plan Your Flight Timing: If possible, choose flights that allow you to arrive in the evening. This makes it easier to sleep upon arrival.
7. Sleep During the Flight: Use noise-canceling headphones, eye masks, and travel pillows to sleep comfortably on the plane, aligning sleep with the destination’s nighttime.
Dr. Jyoti Kapoor & Riddhi Bhagat on Empowering Women’s Well-being
Dr. Jyoti Kapoor, Founder-Director and Senior Psychiatrist, Manasthali
Women balancing work and home often face stress and burnout, making mental well-being essential. Prioritising self-care through regular exercise, healthy eating, and quality sleep helps sustain energy. Setting boundaries at work and home prevents exhaustion, while delegating tasks reduces overload. Practicing mindfulness and relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing can ease stress. Building a strong support system, family, friends, or professional network offers emotional relief. Normalise mental health discussions in families, workplaces, and social circles. Creating a judgment-free environment empowers women to prioritise their mental health without fear.
Ms. Riddhi Bhagat, Founder, Binge on Baked (BoB)
“It’s high time that there should be collective forge to build a more inclusive world for women. Even today, women do not receive the same level of confidence as men when managing certain affairs. This is especially true in tier-two cities, where workplaces and businesses are men-dominated. Same level of confidence is not being placed in women workers/entrepreneurs. Therefore, you need to bring the change in yourself and stand up for injustice. Whatever you aspire to be in your professional life, be clear about it in your mind. The universe works in your favor only when you know exactly what you want. Don’t give up—define your strategy and align it with your goals. Sometimes, success may take a little longer because we, as women, are not always encouraged to be self-centric. But women can manage everything—family, personal space, and business—beautifully. The key is clarity, persistence, and the belief that you can have it all with the right balance.”
Crown Vet Launches in Gurugram, Elevating Pet Healthcare in NCR
Gurugram, India – 5th March 2025: Crown Vet, India’s leading chain of advanced veterinary clinics, has officially launched its newest state-of-the-art facility in Gurugram, reinforcing its commitment to elevating pet healthcare standards across the country. Known for its medical expertise, globally trained veterinary professionals, and premium pet care services, Crown Vet’s latest expansion marks a significant milestone in its journey toward redefining veterinary care in India.
Setting New Benchmarks in Pet Healthcare:
Strategically located in Sushant Lok 1, Gurugram, Crown Vet’s newest clinic offers unparalleled accessibility to pet parents in one of NCR’s most thriving residential and commercial hubs. Designed with modern infrastructure and the latest diagnostic and treatment technology, the2300sq.ft. facility ensures that pets receive the highest level of medical care with consultation rooms, treatment areas, surgical suites, imaging and inpatient care.
The Gurugram clinic is a small animal practice which caters to dogs, cats and exotics, providing specialized services tailored to their unique healthcare needs.
Speaking about Crown Vet’s expansion, Pratapsinh Gaekwad, Founder of Crown Vet, shared:
“Our vision has always been to provide pets in India with world-class veterinary care, matching global standards. The launch of our Gurugram clinic is an important step toward making high-quality pet healthcare accessible to more families. We are investing heavily in international training and cutting-edge medical advancements to ensure the best outcomes for pets and their owners.”
A Clinic Designed for Excellence
Crown Vet Gurugram specializes in surgeries, dermatology, inpatient care, and emergency services, ensuring that pets receive top-tier medical attention from highly trained professionals. The clinic also features in-house laboratory, digital radiology, and dental care to provide comprehensive, one-stop care.
Global Expertise, Local Care
What sets Crown Vet apart is its unwavering dedication to continuous learning and global best practices. Crown Vet’s veterinarians undergo specialized international training in Italy, France, Singapore, Dubai, United Kingdom, Thailand, and other leading veterinary institutions, bringing back the latest advancements in pet medicine.
Dr. Vanya, Head Vet at Gurugram, is a highly qualified Veterinary Surgeon (BVM&S, MRCVS), certified in Animal Welfare and Behavior (R(D)SVS), and Fear Free Certified, LLC
Practiced in Hong Kong’s leading 24 hour emergency hospitals with over 6 years of clinical experience. Her expertise spans internal medicine, behavior medicine, dermatology, integrative medicine, palliative care, and emergency surgical procedures.
Additionally, the team includesa highly skilled expatriate veterinary nurse – Dr. Rosalia from Spain, further enhancing the level of care and ensuring pets benefit from international expertise right here in Gurugram.
Comprehensive Services That Set Crown Apart
At Crown Vet, we offer a full spectrum of veterinary services, including:
✅General Consultations & Preventive Care
✅Emergency & Critical Care
✅Soft tissue Surgeries
✅Diagnostics & Imaging
✅Dentistry & Oral Health
✅Dermatology & Allergy Management
✅Pet Wellness & Nutrition Counseling
Ashwini Vaishnaw ‘Nation First’ at IIMC’s 56th Convocation
New Delhi, March 5th 2025: “With new opportunities come ups and downs, but always remember-Nation First, Always First” said Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, Union Minister for Information & Broadcasting, Railways and Electronics & Information Technology, as well as the Chancellor of IIMC, during the 56th Convocation Ceremony at IIMC, New Delhi. Shri Vaishnaw exhorted the students to be entrepreneurial and said that each student has the potential to set up a media venture. He emphasized the importance of digital advancements and responsible media practices in today’s evolving communication landscape.
VC, IIMC Dr. Anupama Bhatnagar along with Registrar, Dr. Nimish Rustagi, Regional Directors and Faculty Members were also present. Dr Bhatnagar said that as India’s premier media training institution, IIMC continues to equip aspiring media professionals with the knowledge and skills needed for the dynamic media industry.
The convocation marked a momentous occasion as 478 students from the 2023-24 batch were conferred Post Graduate Diplomas. The graduating students belonged to IIMC New Delhi and its five regional campuses – Dhenkanal, Aizawl, Amravati, Kottayam, and Jammu. In recognition of academic excellence, 36 outstanding students were honoured with medals and awards.
The convocation concluded with an air of pride and optimism as graduates embarked on their professional journeys, ready to contribute meaningfully to the field of media and communication.
Srishti Garg Launches Pookie Clinic India’s New Web Show
Srishti Garg, one of the most loved, relatable, and rising stars in the influencing industry, has left fans in awe with the newly released trailer of her hilariously unique show,
“Pookie Clinic.” This one-of-a-kind series sees Srishti donning the role of a Pookie Doctor, diagnosing the alpha sigma men of the internet—the ones with strong opinions, red-flag tendencies, or just a little too much confidence.
With an exciting lineup featuring internet stars like Santanu Hazarika, Hamza Sayed, Sufi Motiwala, and Kevin Zingkai, fans are already in splits over the wild transformations that await. Each guest is assigned a syndrome, from Mean Posting Syndrome to Bohot Bada Playboy Syndrome, before being put through laugh-out-loud challenges—whether it’s parodying an Espresso video, delivering an ASMR apology to an ex, or surviving a ridiculous karaoke session.
The ultimate test? A surprise date with an internet baddie, who determines whether they’ve truly reformed. If they pass, they earn the prestigious Certified Pookie Award; if not, they receive an apple—because an apple a day keeps the doctor away, and Dr. Srishti doesn’t want to see them again!
Speaking about her latest venture, Srishti shared, “This project is my baby. I’ve poured my heart into every detail, from the script and guest list to the tiniest set elements like wallpapers, trays, and props. Seeing it all come to life has been surreal, and I couldn’t have done it without my amazing team.”
Startup Mahakumbh Invites Colleges to Join Futurepreneurs Initiative
India, [March 05 2025]: Startup Mahakumbh, India’s largest innovation and entrepreneurship event, has announced the Futurepreneurs Initiative as part of its second edition, scheduled from April 3–5, 2025, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. Centered around the theme ‘Startup India @ 2047—Unfolding the Bharat Story’, this initiative aims to empower the next generation of entrepreneurs by encouraging grassroots `innovation and providing a platform for student-led solutions to local challenges.
Colleges across India are invited to apply by March 7th 2025, for a chance to be among the Top 100 institutions selected for this prestigious initiative. Each participating college will nominate 10 students, guided by a faculty mentor, to develop and present innovative solutions to critical local issues, preferably using AI. With a ₹1 crore prize pool, the initiative provides students with funding, mentorship, and Industry exposure, empowering students to turn their ideas into impactful ventures.
Highlighting the significance of this initiative, Madan Padaki, President TiE Bangalore and OC Member, said, “India’s transformation into a global innovation hub begins at the grassroots level, and students are at the heart of this change. The Futurepreneurs Initiative is a remarkable platform that nurtures young talent, equips them with critical problem-solving skills, and connects them with the right networks to scale their ideas into impactful solutions.”
The selection process will conclude with the Top 100 colleges being announced on April 1, 2025. Faculty and student orientation sessions will be held between March 10- March 15, followed by pitching rounds from March 28–31, 2025. The top 10 winning teams will be unveiled on April 1, 2025, ahead of their participation in Startup Mahakumbh 2025.
38th AIU National Youth Festival ‘Amity Utsav’ Inaugurated with Enthusiasm
5th March 2025: The environment was filled with excitement as the 38th AIU Inter University National Youth Festival-2024-25, “Amity Utsav”, under the aegis of the Association of Indian Universities (AIU), being held from 3rd-6th March 2025, was inaugurated at Amity University.
During the Festival, over 2407 students from 148 Universities from across India are participating in 28 Competitions such as Classical Music, Vocal Music, Western Music, Folk Dance, Classical Dance, Quiz Competitions, Debate Competitions, Plays, Skits, Poster Making, Collage Making, Clay Modelling, Installation Art, Mehendi and Rangoli Making amongst others.
Inaugurating the festival, Renowned Kuchipudi Dancer, Padma Bhushan Shri Raja Reddy, averred, “India is famous across the world for its dynamic, vibrant, colourful and diverse customs, languages, culture and traditions. It is also known as the country of “Universal Enlightenment” and “Nectar of the East”. In dance, forms, poetic expressions speak through rhythmic patterns and facial gestures, and it is an expression of the various human emotions and sensitivities. Amity is one of the best institutions in the world and has provided a wonderful opportunity to the students from various parts of the country to showcase their talent, which will also shape them as human beings.”
Dr. Mahesh Sharma, Member of Parliament and Chairman, Kailash Group of Hospitals, said, “Amity University has organized this Mega Youth Festival which is truly commendable, and I congratulate all the participants. India is known for its rich cultural heritage across the world, and we strongly believe in our traditions and culture which make India a unique country in the world. Students from different parts of the country have gathered here today to showcase their incredible talent, which is a proud moment for all of us. Students are the ambassadors of Indian culture, and we must nurture their talent and creativity so that they can make our country proud.”
Prof. Vinay Kumar Pathak President, Association of Indian Universities (AIU), stated, “Youth Festivals serve as a vibrant platform for the expression of creativity, talent, and innovation among our young minds. It is a time when the energy and enthusiasm of the youth take centre stage, showcasing the incredible potential that resides within each of you. This festival is not merely an event, it is a testament to the vitality and dynamism that characterize our young student’s community. AIU has been annually organizing the Inter-University Youth Festivals (UNIFESTs) at the zonal and national levels every year, wherein a large number of youth artists from member universities and affiliated colleges participate.”
Dr. Balvinder Shukla, Vice Chancellor Amity University Uttar Pradesh said, “The AIU Inter-University National Youth Festival 2024–25 is a vibrant and highly anticipated event that brings together students from universities across India to showcase their talents, creativity, and cultural diversity, with an aim to celebrate the spirit of unity, national integration, and youth empowerment. This annual event highlights the rich cultural heritage of our nation through a wide array of competitions in music, dance, theatre, fine arts, and literature. It stands as a jubilant tribute to our cultural legacy, showcasing the talent and collaborative spirit of university students from across the country, transforming fleeting moments into cherished memories.”
Renowned Kathak Dancer Duo Padma Shri Ms. Nalini Asthana & Ms. Kamalini Asthana, said, “The festival offers a platform to the artists to showcase their skills, encouraging appreciation and support for one another’s unique abilities. It also provides an opportunity to celebrate this diversity, fostering a sense of unity and understanding among students from various backgrounds. Bookish knowledge is not enough, and students must hone their skills and talent for their holistic development. It is the responsibility of educational institutions to recognize the talent of the students and provide them with the opportunity to display their creativity.”
Before the Inauguration, a Cultural Procession took a round of the Amity campus, wherein the participants from various Universities showcased their talent for two minutes. Students enthralled the audience with their mesmerising classical dance, scintillating western vocal, outstanding Indian solo vocal performances and many other activities, thereby showcasing their exceptional talent.
Approximately 1,000 universities from across India were divided into 08 Zones i.e. Central, Southeast, South, West, East, Northeast, North and Northwest Zone. Zone-wise competitions were hosted by different Universities and the winners from these Zones have been selected for the grand finale at Amity, where they are competing for the championship trophy. The Inaugural Ceremony was attended by Ms. Pankaj Mittal, Secretary General AIU, Dr. Mamta Rani Agarwal, Additional Secretary AIU, and thousands of Amity students.