ENTOD’s World Glaucoma Week 2025 Impacts 15,000 plus Lives

New Delhi, 31 March 2025: ENTOD Pharmaceuticals, in collaboration with the Matanand Welfare Foundation, successfully concluded its World Glaucoma Week 2025 campaign, held from March 9th to March 15th, 2025. The campaign focused on raising awareness about glaucoma and the importance of early detection, reaching over 2,000 doctors and 15,000 patients across India through free screenings, awareness programs, and educational initiatives.

In India, more than 10 million people have glaucoma, but over 90% don’t even know it because they don’t get regular eye check-ups. Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that can slowly damage vision without warning. It happens when pressure builds up in the eye and corrodes the optic nerve. If not treated in time, it can lead to permanent blindness. Unfortunately, most people don’t notice any symptoms until it’s too late. Some may experience blurry vision, eye pain, headaches, or difficulty with peripheral vision but many don’t realize they have it until significant vision loss has already occurred. Early detection can help catch the signs at an earlier stage before the condition worsens. Glaucoma can be managed with medications, laser treatment, or surgery to control eye pressure and protect vision.

Nikkhil K Masurkar, CEO of ENTOD Pharmaceuticals, on the campaign’s impact, said “Our goal with this campaign was to spread awareness about Glaucoma, which is a major cause of blindness, and make screenings easier to access. The response shows how much this was needed. At ENTOD, we believe that the right information and timely care can save vision. That’s why we are working closely with doctors, hospitals, and communities to ensure more people get tested and treated in time.”

Mrs. Anjula Masurkar, Clinical Director of ENTOD Pharmaceuticals, added, “We are extremely proud of the impact we made during the World Glaucoma Week 2025 but at the same time we do recognize that we must continue these patient-centric awareness activities regularly throughout the year. Serving and making a positive difference in our community forms an integral part of our duty and responsibility as human beings”

With campaigns like World Glaucoma Week 2025, ENTOD aims to expand its efforts to reach out more people, strengthen collaborations with medical professionals, and develop better ways to improve glaucoma detection and treatment. The company is committed to making glaucoma awareness an ongoing, year-round effort rather than a one-time initiative.

World Glaucoma Week 2025 marks another milestone in ENTOD Pharmaceuticals’ ongoing efforts to promote better vision care. With this momentum, the company is already looking forward to World Glaucoma Week 2026 and plans to further expand its reach and impact.

Hybrid Work Boosts Health, Productivity, and Reduces Sick Days

31 March 2025: Hybrid workers take fewer sick days, are less stressed and enjoy improved levels of health and wellbeing according to new research.

A study of more than 4,000 hybrid workers by International Workplace Group, the world’s largest operator of flexible workspaces, found that more than a third (36%) are taking fewer sick days now they have some flexibility over how and where they work. The benefits do not end there with 74% of hybrid workers making time for preventative healthcare such as regular screenings, check-ups and lifestyle changes.

Hybrid working, where workers split their time between a local workspace, their head office and home, offers greater flexibility, improved work-life balance and significant financial savings for workers and businesses, as well as important health benefits according to the latest research.

70% experience fewer stress-related healthcare conditions in the hybrid model, while 72% can better manage any existing health conditions.

The findings come as recent research showed that rising sick days are costing businesses and the economy billions annually and long-term sickness is taking a near $42 billion toll on productivity, a number that could double by the end of the decade**.

Beyond physical health benefits, hybrid employees also benefit from a significant reduction in stress and an improvement in their overall mental wellbeing.

The reduced time spent on long daily commutes is cited as a key factor in helping to reduce overall stress levels for 80% of hybrid workers, which is also providing employees with a better work-life balance and reduced feelings of anxiety (80%). This has had a direct effect on health conditions related to stress, with 70% of employees experiencing fewer symptoms such as severe headaches, digestive issues, and tension-related pain.

Dr Sara Kayat, TV doctor, said: “It’s clear from this research that hybrid working models are offering employees not only greater flexibility but also tangible health benefits. By reducing the physical and mental strain of long daily commutes, workers are able to better manage their existing health conditions, access preventative care, and reduce stress. This is not only improving their overall wellbeing but also helping businesses by reducing the costs associated with absenteeism and burnout.”

Dr Sara Kayat goes on to share her top tips for hybrid employees looking to optimize their health for the long-term:

  1. Schedule “me time” for preventative health: Take advantage of your flexible schedule to book those important health check-ups and screenings. Whether it’s a physical or a dental appointment, having the flexibility to fit these into your day means you’re not waiting for a sick day to prioritize your health. Small steps now can prevent big health issues later.
  2. Join a local workout group for fun and fitness: People are increasingly turning to exercise to for a sense of community and to build social connections. This can be seen through the rise in local running groups or community exercises. It’s about more than just moving, rather, about community and connection.
  3. Prepare foods that fuel your brain: One of the greatest benefits to hybrid working is that we now have more time to prepare balanced and nutritious meals that leave us feeling energized. Whole foods like leafy greens, nuts, and whole grains can improve focus and energy. Try a spinach and quinoa salad or a berry and almond butter smoothie for a brain-boosting meal. These don’t take long to make and can be enjoyed wherever you work or on the go.

A healthier and happier workforce is also translating into positive business outcomes. 75% of CEOs have acknowledged that hybrid work has led to improved productivity, while 77% say employees have become more engaged in their work as a result of the flexible work arrangements***.

Mark Dixon, CEO of International Workplace Group, said: “Hybrid and more flexible ways of working are incredibly beneficial for both employees and their employers. Not only is it universally popular with workers with higher levels of satisfaction and an improved work-life balance reported, but as this research shows, employees are taking fewer sick days, managing stress better, and adopting healthier lifestyles. Meanwhile, companies are enjoying higher levels of productivity and lower costs.”

International Workplace Group, the world’s largest provider of flexible workspace with brands including Spaces and Regus, added 899 new locations globally last year to meet growing demand for its workspace and business solutions.”

Ayodhya Prepares for a Grand Run: Join Run for Ram 2025

31st March 2025: In a special press conference held today in Delhi, the organizers of the third edition of Run for Ram unveiled key details and large-scale plans for the upcoming edition of India’s most spiritually inspired marathon, scheduled to take place on 13th April 2025 in Ayodhya.

 Organized by Kreeda Bharati Uttar Pradesh, the marathon is aimed at uniting faith, fitness, and Indian values in a grand spiritual run through the sacred city of Shri Ram. This year, the initiative expects over 10 lakh runners from India and around the globe, utilizing a series of pre-events, international outreach efforts, and regional engagements.

The marathon has 40,000 plus runners from Ayodhya, thus creating a wide congregation, physically spanned, of athletics in devotion and cultural celebration.

The 2025 edition will also feature attractive prize money worth ₹1,00,000, details of which will be soon announced in category-wise section. There are three categories in the race including, 21 KM Half Marathon; 10 KM Run; 3 KM Family & Fun Run.

With this thoughtfully designed route through the iconic spiritual landscape of Ayodhya, every step will speak a louder message, full of meaning and reverence. To further enhance global participation, several foreign embassies , cultural delegations, and global communities have been invited to make Run for Ram a never-before experience. The goal is to establish Run for Ram not just as India’s pride but as a global celebration of heritage and health.

A special initiative this year is the #FirseFit Challenge, designed to encourage people across the country to prepare for the marathon and make fitness a part of their lifestyle.

At the press conference, Shri Awanish Kumar Singh, President Kreeda Bharati (Uttar Pradesh), declared, “Run for Ram is not just an event-it is a spiritual movement connecting our heritage to the need today for health, for unity, purpose. It will not just be a race in Ayodhya but also a swelling wave of devotion and determination. Every individual, family, and organization is welcome to join this historic journey.”

 Preparations for this event are full swing and registration is open at www.runforram.com. to Run for Ram 2025. This milestone is poised to become part of India’s journey through culture and sport.

The press conference was attended by Rajat Dixit, Regional Coordinator, Kreeda Bharati Eastern Uttar Pradesh; Vikas Agarwal, Minister, Kreeda Bharati Uttar Pradesh; Geeta Singh, Founder Director, TYC Communication; Bhanu Sachdeva, President, Kreeda Bharati Delhi Province; and Rakesh Goswami, All India Para Head, Kreeda Bharati.

Sony Music India and Tiger Baby Launch Tiger Baby Records Joint Venture

Sony Music Entertainment India and Tiger Baby announced today the launch of Tiger Baby Records, a new joint-venture music label dedicated to nurturing emerging talent, fostering creative storytelling, and building connections between artists, audiences, and brands. This collaboration merges the creative vision of acclaimed filmmakers Zoya Akhtar and Reema Kagti, and singer-songwriter, music supervisor, Ankur Tewari, with Sony Music Entertainment India’s global reach and industry expertise.

As one of its earliest projects, Tiger Baby Records has partnered with the renowned jewelry brand Tanishq featuring a wedding song composed by Abhishek-Ananya and performed by Poorvi Koutish. Directed by Reema Kagti, the music video offers a distinctive blend of music and storytelling. Tiger Baby Records has also recently released the soundtrack for Superboys of Malegaon, a film based on the life of Nasir Shaikh, a filmmaker from the town of Malegaon. The soundtrack is composed by the talented duo Sachin-Jigar and penned by the legendary Javed Akhtar.

The label will also feature original music curated by Ankur Tewari, showcasing a variety of styles and spotlighting the distinct perspectives of emerging artists. In its ongoing mission to support emerging talent, Tiger Baby Records is also set to launch the “City Sessions” Initiative in partnership with Mumbai’s iconic Island City Studios. This program will provide a space for artists to experiment and collaborate in a dynamic, unfiltered environment. City Sessions will offer singer-songwriters the opportunity to refine their craft, collaborate with established artists in the studio, and connect with wider audiences

The Indian music industry has seen exponential growth in recent years, driven by factors like increasing internet penetration, rising disposable incomes, and a diverse population with varying musical tastes. The joint venture leverages Sony Music Entertainment India’s global resources and Tiger Baby Records’ distinctive creative approach to cultivate a new generation of artists and amplify diverse voices in the Indian music landscape.

Vinit Thakkar, Managing Director, Sony Music Entertainment India, said, “Tiger Baby Records represents a new era of music in India, where compelling storytelling and groundbreaking collaborations take center stage. We are thrilled to be part of this journey, pushing boundaries and bringing fresh, authentic voices to the forefront of the industry and are excited to partner with Zoya, Reema, and Ankur, who have an exceptional track record in music and creative storytelling.”

Zoya Akhtar, Co-Founder of Tiger Baby, also shared her thoughts, commenting, “Music has always been a vital part of our storytelling, and with Tiger Baby Records, we want the music to be the main story. Partnering with Sony Music India allows us to bring our vision to life and provide a platform for indie, homegrown talent to shine.”

Reema Kagti, Co-Founder of Tiger Baby, added, “This partnership marks an exciting new chapter for us at Tiger Baby. With Tiger Baby Records, we aim to delve into the diverse soundscapes of the subcontinent and represent them globally. By collaborating with brands and upcoming artists, we hope to have this music reach a large audience.”

Ankur Tewari, Singer-Songwriter and Music Supervisor at Tiger Baby, said, “Tiger Baby Records is all about fostering an environment where creativity thrives. I’m thrilled to be a part of this journey where we get to build a legacy with artists who are using the power of their voice to express freely.”

RS 60,000 Cr Initiative: Centre & UP Advance Skill Training

March 31, 2025 |  In a major push to accelerate skill development initiatives, Shri Jayant Chaudhary, Hon’ble Minister of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (I/C) and Minister of State, Ministry of Education, met today with Shri Kapil Dev Agrawal, Hon’ble Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Vocational Education and Skill Development, Government of Uttar Pradesh, at Kaushal Bhawan, New Delhi. The high-level meeting, attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) and the Uttar Pradesh government, focused on enhancing Centre-State collaboration for seamless execution of key skilling programs, including Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY), National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS), PM Vishwakarma, and the Swavalambini Women Entrepreneurship Programme.

The Principal Secretary, Skill Development, Government of Uttar Pradesh, presented an overview of the state’s achievements in skilling and highlighted areas where additional support from the Centre could drive greater impact. Uttar Pradesh has trained over 24.73 lakh candidates under PMKVY to date. Under the latest PMKVY 4.0 initiative, more than 93,000 individuals have enrolled in futuristic job roles, including Drone Service Technician, AI – Machine Learning Engineer, Electric Vehicle Service Technician, and Solar PV Installer (Electrical), among others.

Furthering the government’s commitment to empowering traditional artisans, 405 training centres under PM Vishwakarma have successfully trained nearly 1.08 lakh craftspeople across Uttar Pradesh. To boost entrepreneurship, the state has also conducted 450+ Entrepreneurship Awareness Programs and 145 Entrepreneurship Development Programs, equipping aspiring entrepreneurs with essential business skills and financial literacy.

A key highlight of the meeting was the discussion on the National ITI Upgradation Scheme, a transformative initiative that aims to modernize 1,000 ITIs across India under a hub-and-spoke model. The scheme, with a total outlay of ₹60,000 crore over five years, will be financed through ₹30,000 crore from the Central Government, ₹20,000 crore from State Governments, and ₹10,000 crore from industry partnerships. This initiative will elevate ITIs into world-class skill development centers, ensuring high employability for youth and a steady pipeline of skilled talent for industries. With 3,258 ITIs spread across 75 districts, Uttar Pradesh is set to play a pivotal role in this ambitious transformation.

Emphasizing the importance of industry collaboration, Shri Jayant Chaudhary stressed the need for industry-driven curriculum development, hands-on training methodologies, and real-time skilling aligned with market demands. He further highlighted the integration of vocational education with mainstream education as envisioned in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and called for greater AI-driven course offerings to prepare youth for the evolving digital economy.

Both Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening Centre-State synergy in skill development, with a shared vision of making Uttar Pradesh a leading hub for skilled workforce development. The discussions concluded on a positive note, with a roadmap for enhanced coordination between the Central and State Governments to drive India’s skilling agenda forward in alignment with national priorities and global industry demands.

OnMobile Global Board Grows Stronger with CFO Radhika Venugopal’s Appointment

March 31, 2025, OnMobile Global Limited, a leader in cutting-edge mobile gaming & entertainment, announced the appointment of Radhika Venugopal as an Additional Director (Non-Executive & Non-Independent), effective March 27, 2025. She currently serves as the Chief Financial Officer of OnMobile, bringing nearly two decades of extensive experience in financial planning, analysis, reporting, mergers, acquisitions, and investor relations, among other areas.

Radhika is a qualified Chartered Accountant. Her previous roles include key positions at Vodafone and IFB Industries Ltd. Her appointment will be for two years, subject to shareholder approval, and she will be liable to retire by rotation.

Aster Volunteers, Vijaya College NSS Host Medical Camp at Chudanahalli

Bengaluru, March 31, 2025: Aster Volunteers from Aster RV Hospital jointly, in collaboration with the Vijaya College NSS unit, recently conducted a medical check-up camp at Chudanahalli Village at Sarjapur Road. The camp was conducted using the Aster Volunteers Mobile Medical Service, a mobile clinic equipped with the latest equipment, aimed at helping marginalized communities across the country.

Commenting on the initiative, J Parashuram, Assistant Manager, CSR, Aster RV Hospital said, ” We are proud to have hosted this free medical camp, reflecting our commitment to improving the health and well-being of the community. By offering accessible healthcare services to those in need, we aim to empower individuals with the knowledge and resources they need for a healthier life. This initiative is a testament to our hospital’s dedication to making healthcare more inclusive and ensuring that quality medical care is available to everyone, regardless of their background. Together, we can build a healthier, stronger future for all.”

The medical camp provided services and checkups of height, weight, BMI, blood pressure, sugar testing, eye testing, dental checkups, audiometry test. The camp also organized a blood donation drive. Over 140 villagers benefitted from the medical camp, not only showcasing the reach of the Mobile Medical Service, but also the reach of primary healthcare to rural communities in Karnataka.

Aster RV Hospital and Aster Volunteers, through this initiative, reiterate their commitment towards better access to quality healthcare, especially to those in need. By promoting a culture of good health and well-being, the medical camp aims to create a lasting positive impact on the overall welfare of such communities.

Chhattisgarh’s Energy Boost: PM Lays Foundation for NTPC’s Sipat-III

31st March 2025: Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today laid the foundation stone for NTPC’s Sipat Super Thermal Power Project Stage-III (1x800MW) in Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh.

The project is being constructed with an investment of Rs 9791 Crore to supply affordable and reliable power to Chhattisgarh as home state and other beneficiary states, such as Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra & Goa.

Hon’ble Prime Minister laid the foundation stone and dedicated to the nation multiple developmental and transformative projects related to Power, Oil & Gas, Rail, Road, Education and Rural Housing worth more than Rs 33,700 crore at a public programme in Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh in the presence of Hon’ble Governor of Chhattisgarh Shri Ramen Deka, Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai, Hon’ble Union Minister of Power and Housing & Urban Affairs Shri Manohar Lal, Hon’ble Speaker of Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly Dr Raman Singh, Hon’ble Minister of State for Housing & Urban Affairs Shri Tokhan Sahu, Hon’ble Ministers of the Govt of Chhattisgarh and  Hon’ble MPs and MLAs.

The pit-head power project of NTPC Sipat is based on the latest state-of-the-art Ultra-Supercritical Technology with highest power generation efficiency.  The commissioning of Sipat III – (1×800 MW) power plant will bring the total installed capacity of Sipat STPS to an impressive 3,780 MW.

The project highlights NTPC’s commitment to sustainable development, energy security and socio-economic growth. By advancing Chhattisgarh’s power infrastructure, the project is set to elevate the state as a leading player in India’s development journey, while fuelling its broader economic progress and shaping a brighter future for its people

IIM Jammu Celebrates Milestone Achievement with BGA Accreditation

 31st March 2025: The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Jammu awarded the prestigious Business Graduates Association (BGA) Accreditation for five years on 28th March 2025. IIM Jammu has the distinction of being the first third-generation IIM to receive an International Accreditation.  This international recognition, endorsed by the BGA Accreditation Advisory Board, is awarded to business schools that demonstrate measurable impact on students and the community while upholding the highest standards of quality in management education.
Expressing his pride in this achievement, Dr. Milind P. Kamble, Chairman, Board of Governors, IIM Jammu, stated that the accreditation is a testament to the Institute’s relentless pursuit of academic distinction, research excellence, and industry collaboration. He commended the leadership team, faculty, officers, staff, students, alumni for their dedication to enhancing the Institute’s global standing. He further emphasized that this recognition will not only strengthen IIM Jammu’s reputation but also open new avenues for international partnerships, student mobility, and industry engagement, reinforcing the Institute’s role as a driver of transformative education and leadership development. He added that this milestone reflects IIM Jammu’s commitment to advancing innovation and thought leadership in management education.
Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu, emphasized that the BGA Accreditation reflects the Institute’s unwavering commitment to excellence, global benchmarking, and societal impact. He highlighted that IIM Jammu is dedicated to promoting innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability in management education, aligning with international best practices. He further noted that this accreditation reaffirms IIM Jammu’s vision of becoming a globally recognized center for transformative learning and impactful research, further strengthening its position as a leader in management education. He recognized the invaluable support and guidance of Dr. Milind P. Kamble, Chairman, Board of Governors, IIM Jammu, and all Board members. He also highlighted the dedicated efforts of the faculty, officers, staff, students, alumni, National Partners, International Partners, Corporate Partners, Recruiters, and all Stakeholders in achieving this significant milestone.
Prof. Jabir Ali, Dean Academics, IIM Jammu, stated that the BGA Accreditation reflects the collective efforts of the IIM Jammu fraternity in upholding the highest academic standards. He emphasized that this milestone will further enhance the Institute’s curriculum, pedagogy, and research, ensuring globally relevant, industry-aligned education.
The accreditation process under the leadership of Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu was led by Prof. Jabir Ali, Dean Academics, IIM Jammu, Dr. Gaana J., Chairperson, Accreditation, Dr. V. Rajkumar, Co-Chairperson, Accreditation with support from the academic office, IIM Jammu. This milestone further strengthens IIM Jammu’s global standing, paving the way for enhanced international collaborations, academic exchanges, and greater opportunities for students and faculty. As IIM Jammu continues its journey of excellence, this accreditation reaffirms its mission to nurture future leaders equipped with knowledge, skills, and values to drive transformative chang

Brushing Secrets: Avoid These Common Mistakes

Dr. Sindhu U Muktamath, HOD – Dental Science, Aster Whitefield Hospital, Bengaluru

Brushing does so much more than simply keep your mouth fresh and healthy throughout the day. From the start, there are over one million different types of bacteria inside our mouth. While some like the bacteria assisting with digestion are friendly, there are those that cause severe damage to your gums and teeth and result with serious health disease. These species also proactively work for plaque and cavities. Not taking proper precautions also hinders the formation of plaque which will eventually turn worse into tartar. Tartar leads to a variety of oral diseases alongside bad breath which alters your normal day to day activities. Brushing your teeth helps to treat plaque and freshens breath.

Q & A

  1. How Many Times Is Too Many? How Many Is Too Little?
  2. Brushing twice a day– once when you wake up, and once before sleeping is optimal. Try to brush after each meal if time allows. Over brushing can speed up enamel erosion while not brushing at all for long periods results in plaque and bacteria buildup which can cause cavities and gum disease.

What Happens When You Don’t Brush Your Teeth?

  1. Not brushing leads to bad breath and can negatively impact your health in the long run. From my own experience, this is what happens when someone does not take care of their teeth.
  • Plaque Buildup:For each hour of not brushing, plaque begins formation on one’s teeth. This layer of bacteria produces acid that leads to cavities, and without brushing, enamel is damaged.
  • Gum Inflammation (Gingivitis):With poor brushing habits, plaque spreads to ground layer where it causes redness, swelling, and bleeding. If untreated it leads to periodontitis, with later stages having wider symptoms such as loosening teeth and in the worst case, losing them.
  • Tooth Decay:If left untreated, decay can reach the inner layers of the tooth which can cause severe pain and infection from bacteria. Over time, unlike the above example, the acid from the bacteria breaks down enamel causing cavities.
  • Issues with Health Complications:The gap between the mouth and rest of the body is huge from the point of view of healthcare. Serious issues can arise which include heart complications, breathing infectious diseases, and diabetes. Bacteria from one’s mouth may travel to the blood streams and trigger inflammation.

 What Is the Right Way to Brush?

Brushing technique matters as much as frequency. Brushing too hard or with the wrong motion is a common mistake people make. Here’s the proper circular technique for effective brushing:

  • Use small circular motions instead of scrubbing side to side or up and down. This minimizes the risk of damaging the enamel while helping remove plaque.
  • Ensure that you brush for an adequate amount of time, two minutes at least to fully clean the brushings surfaces. Most people fail in this regard, brushing only 30-45 seconds.
  • To remove plaque that may be hiding at the gum line, hold the brush to the gums while angling it at 45 degrees.
  • Be sure not to neglect the tongue and back teeth. The tongue is bacteria rich that causes bad breath.

What Kind of Toothbrush Bristles is Best?

Brush bristles come in soft, medium and hard options. Here is to whom each category applies:

  • Soft bristles:  Best for a majority of people as they remove plaque while also not damaging the enamel or agitating the gums.
  • Medium bristles:  people with good eyesight are able to use but should only if they are able to exert a gentle touch.
  • Hard bristles:  Generally, not suggested as they can shorten the life of your gums and enamel as well as recession. Some people with heavy plaque may need it, but if only their dentist allows them to use it.