30, Dec 2024
Breaking Stereotypes: Actresses Who Rocked the Pagdi On-Screen
Over the years, several talented actresses have broken gender stereotypes by donning a pagdi (turban) for their roles, showcasing strength, courage, and versatility on screen. From Bollywood blockbusters to gripping television dramas, these transformative looks have added depth to their characters while leaving an indelible mark on audiences. Whether it’s for undercover missions, challenging social norms, or taking a stand, these actresses have embraced the challenge of embodying male personas with finesse. Here’s a look at some iconic performances where leading ladies took on this unique and empowering avatar.
Rani Mukherjee – Dil Bole Hadippa!
Rani Mukherjee broke stereotypes with her portrayal of Veera in Dil Bole Hadippa!. Disguising herself as a man to join a men’s cricket team and chase her dream of playing in the World Cup, Rani donned a pagdi with flair, embodying the spirited Punjabi girl’s determination. Her transformation was not just physical but symbolic, representing the fight against gender barriers. The role remains one of Rani’s most inspiring performances, showcasing her versatility and dedication to challenging narratives in Indian cinema.
Radhika Muthukumar – Main Dil Tum Dhadkan
Radhika Muthukumar surprised viewers with her Sardarji avatar in Shemaroo Umang’s Main Dil Tum Dhadkan. Her character takes on this bold disguise to expose Baba’s true intentions toward women, adding a gripping twist to the storyline. Radhika’s transformation, featuring a turban, beard, and traditional attire, highlights her dedication and versatility as an actress. She effortlessly steps into the role, blending drama and intrigue while adding depth to the narrative. This move promises to keep audiences hooked.
Brinda Dahal – Chhathi Maiyya Ki Bitiya
Brinda Dahal impressed audiences with her stunning transformation into a Sardarji in Sun Neo’s Chhathi Maiyya Ki Bitiya. Her character, Vaishnavi, adopted the pagdi as part of a clever disguise to prevent Kartik’s wedding to Tina, creating a turning point in the show. Brinda’s performance was lauded for its authenticity and emotional intensity, adding layers of intrigue and drama to the plot. Her bold and innovative portrayal left a lasting impression on viewers.
Shraddha Arya and Anjum Fakih – Kundali Bhagya
Shraddha Arya and Anjum Fakih added a unique twist to Kundali Bhagya with their Sardar disguises. In this storyline, Preeta and Srishti take on turban-clad avatars to infiltrate Arjun’s house and uncover his true identity. Shraddha expressed her excitement about the challenging transformation, describing it as a fun yet different experience despite the initial discomfort. Their bold and quirky look kept fans intrigued as the suspense surrounding Arjun’s identity deepened, making it a memorable storyline.
Divyanka Tripathi – Yeh Hai Mohabbatein
Divyanka Tripathi added a memorable twist to her character in Yeh Hai Mohabbatein when she disguised herself as a Sardar to help expose a criminal plot. Playing the role of Ishita Iyer Bhalla, Divyanka’s transformation into a turban-clad, bearded man showcased her versatility as an actress. The disguise allowed Ishita to infiltrate situations she wouldn’t have been able to as herself, adding drama and suspense to the storyline. Divyanka’s performance was lauded by fans, who appreciated her commitment to the role and her ability to seamlessly pull off such a challenging transformation.
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30, Dec 2024
Sudhanshu Rai-Puneet Sharma, the makers of cult horror comedy Chaipatti, set to hit the theatres with sci-fi thriller BAIDA
30th December, 2024: The duo that delivered some of the most intriguing horror comedies in recent times, like Chaipatti and Chintaa Mani, storyteller-filmmaker Sudhanshu Rai and Director Puneet Sharma are back with a bigger dose of thrill this time. Known for their unique storytelling that hooks the audience to the edge of their seats, the makers have now announced BAIDA, a one-of-its-kind sci-fi supernatural thriller film set in the backdrop of India’s Hindi heartland. The film, starring actors like Mahabharat-fame Sourabh Raaj Jain, Hiten Tejwani and Lust Stories 2-fame Tarun Khanna, also popular as Mahadev, will hit the theatres early 2025.
Sharing a glimpse of what to expect this time, Sudhanshu Rai, widely touted as India’s favourite storyteller for sci-fi, detective and thriller stories, said, “Taking forward our signature of story being the king, BAIDA is a wholesome entertainer, an intriguing tale of unexpected twists, turns and some larger-than-life characters that will keep the audience glued to the screen. It was the constant encouragement from my fans and followers to convert my stories into films that prompted me to make my acting and directorial debut with Chaipatti, and with BAIDA, the universe of unheard & unimaginable stories is just set to get bigger.”
Adding to it, Puneet Sharma, BAIDA’s Director who was widely lauded for his last outing Chintaa Mani, said, “The Indian film audience is increasingly embracing stories based on out-of-the-box concepts and unique storylines. When we released Chaipatti, it was an instant hit across all platforms, including YouTube and OTTs, and later it organically crossed 1 million views, with innumerable encouraging comments asking for its sequel. The experience was similar for our subsequent releases, Detective Boomrah and Chintaa Mani. We are sure that BAIDA will be loved by the theatre audiences, who always crave for fresh and novel content.”
He further said that the cast of the film includes Manisha Rai, last seen in Detective Boomrah, and Shobhit Sujay, who was appreciated for his impactful performances in Chaipatti and Chintaa Mani, in pivotal roles, along with Siddharth Banerjee, Deepak Wadhwa, Akhlaq Azad and Pradeep Kabra. The film has been edited by Pratheek Shetty, who was also the editor of notable films such as Kantara and 777 Charlie. Interestingly, it is for the first time that concepts like sci-fi & time travel are weaved in a story based in the Hindi heartland, which usually sets the premise of rom-coms and political dramas. With a major portion shot near Gorakhpur in Uttar Pradesh, the film is believed to capture the true essence of the region as well as its people. Bhojpuri, the dialect most prevalent in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, has also been featured prominently as part of the Hindi feature film.
BAIDA’s makers had earlier revealed that local artisans and sculptors from around Gorakhpur were inducted in the Arts Department of the film as well to ensure a genuine representation of the region. Some portions of the film have also been shot in Delhi. The story of the film revolves around an assassin, who is on to taking an altogether different path in life. It is a series of events that unfolds with him, and some larger-than-life characters he encounters, that form the core of the enthralling sci-fi supernatural thriller film. Can’t wait for the first look? Dropping January 2025!
30, Dec 2024
Successful Conclusion of the International Cremation and Funeral Expo 2024 21st December 2024 | India International Center, New Delhi
New Delhi, 30th December 2024 – The International Cremation and Funeral Expo 2024, organized by Global Exhibitions and Conferences India (GECI) Pvt. Ltd., concluded successfully on 21st December 2024 at the India International Center, New Delhi. The event served as a platform to discuss advancements, challenges, and sustainable practices in cremation and funeral services, drawing over 80 delegates and key industry leaders.
The expo was honored to have the support of esteemed partners:
Associate Partner
• The Earth Saviours Foundation
Foundation Partners
• Shivang Furnaces and Ovens Pvt. Ltd.
• Kalyani Enterprises
• Crematorium Advisors
• Retirement India Foundation
• A-Radha Raman-C Cremation Co.
• Indian Council for Education and Culture
• India Skill Development Council
• All India Cremation Federation
• Abhya Life
• E&P Media Networks
The event showcased insightful discussions led by distinguished speakers, including:
• Mr. Mayank Chhatwal, CEO, GECI Pvt. Ltd.
• Dr. J P Singh Sahni, Director, Indian Council for Education and Culture
• Bhaktawar Singh Gill, President, All India Freedom Fighters Families Welfare Association
• Prof. Vikram Bansal, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi
• Mr. Suman Gupta, Management Head, Nigam Bodh Ghat
• Mr. Dhirenkumar Buch, Director, Shivang Furnaces and Ovens Industries
• Mr. Ashish Chauhan, Managing Director, DEFT Engineering
• Dr. Raaj Gulati, Director, Retirement India Foundation
• Mr. Raju Narula, Crematoriums Advisor, All India Cremation Federation
• Ms. Sushma Rishi, Chairperson, Gratitude Foundation
• Mr. Anil Newale, Owner, Kalyani Enterprise
• Mr. Sanjiv Kumar Singh, Owner, A-Radha Raman-C Crematorium Co., Patna
• Mr. Krishan Rathee, Trustee, Saviours of Pets Strays Foundation, Gurgaon
• Mr. Rajiv Gulati, General Secretary, Sat Kartar Satsang Ghar Charitable Society
The discussions revolved around key themes such as sustainable cremation practices, technological innovations in the funeral industry, and cultural considerations in end-of-life care. The event also highlighted the importance of collaboration among stakeholders to address environmental and societal challenges.
Mr. Mayank Chhatwal, CEO of GECI Pvt. Ltd., expressed his gratitude: “This expo brought together thought leaders and industry experts to foster dialogue on critical issues surrounding cremation and funeral services. We are grateful for the overwhelming support from our partners, speakers, and delegates who made this event a resounding success.”
Dr. J.P. Singh Sahni, Director, Indian Council for Education and Culture, “The International Cremation and Funeral Expo 2024 was a groundbreaking event that addressed one of the most culturally sensitive yet critical aspects of our society. It was an honor to be part of a platform that brought together experts, innovators, and stakeholders to discuss sustainable and meaningful solutions for cremation and funeral services.
The professionalism and dedication of the organizing team at Global Exhibitions and Conferences India (GECI) Pvt. Ltd. were truly commendable. The event was impeccably planned and executed, creating an environment conducive to impactful discussions and knowledge-sharing.
As a speaker, I found the audience highly engaged, and the topics covered were relevant and thought-provoking. This expo is a significant step toward fostering collaboration and innovation in an area that touches every life. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the organizers and look forward to participating in future editions.”
Mr. Suman Gupta, Management Head, Nigam Bodh Ghat, “The International Cremation and Funeral Expo 2024 was an insightful and well-organized event. It provided a much-needed platform to discuss advancements and challenges in cremation practices. I commend GECI Pvt. Ltd. for creating this space for meaningful dialogue and collaboration. It was an honor to be a part of such an impactful initiative.”
The International Cremation and Funeral Expo 2024 not only provided a platform for meaningful discussions but also reinforced the commitment to sustainable practices and innovation in the funeral industry.
27, Dec 2024
A Memorable Start to 2025: Celebrate the New Year with The Fern Hotels & Resorts
Mumbai, December 27, 2024: The Fern Hotels & Resorts, India’s leading environmentally sensitive hotel chain, invites guests to welcome 2025 with a celebration of togetherness, joy, and unforgettable experiences. With properties spread across India, The Fern Hotels & Resorts offers an ideal destination for every traveller to mark the beginning of the New Year in style—be it amidst serene mountains, tranquil beaches, coastal retreats, or the rich heritage of the country.
The thoughtfully curated New Year packages go beyond offering opulent accommodations. Guests can indulge in unique experiences tailored to their preferences, from cultural immersions and lively celebrations to serene getaways. The packages include engaging activities such as bonfire nights, live performances, themed dinners, and adventure sports, ensuring a vibrant and memorable start to the year. For those seeking relaxation, wellness offerings, including rejuvenating spa treatments and yoga sessions, provide the perfect balance of tranquillity and renewal.
Culinary excellence is at the heart of these celebrations. Specially crafted menus featuring gourmet delights, lavish buffet spreads and festive drinks promise a dining experience that complements the festive spirit. Whether guests prefer indulgent feasts or lighter, healthier options, the culinary offerings cater to every palate.
The Fern Hotels & Resorts is committed to creating moments that matter. Whether celebrating with family, friends, or embarking on a solo retreat, the New Year events promise to leave lasting impressions. Every detail is meticulously managed to ensure guests can focus on creating cherished memories with loved ones. Celebrate the magic of the season and step into 2025 with joy, hope and endless possibilities.
List of participating properties:
| North & Central India |
| The Fern Residency, Ajmer |
| The Fern Hillside Resort, Bhimtal (Nainital) |
| SKK The Fern, Jaisalmer |
| The Fern Residency, Jodhpur |
| The Fern Brentwood Resort, Mussoorie |
| The Fern Residency, Udaipur |
| Goa |
| The Fern Kesarval Hotel & Spa, Verna Goa |
| The Fern Habitat, Candolim |
| South India |
| The Fern Residency, Vijayapura |
| West India |
| The Fern Royal Farm Resort, Anjar (Kutch) |
| The Fern Residency, Bhuj |
| The Fern Wisteria Resort, Dhari |
| The Fern Sattva Resort, Dwarka |
| The Fern Sardar Sarovar Resort, Ekta Nagar |
| Rakabi The Fern, Igatpuri |
| Bhanu The Fern Forest Resort & Spa, Jambughoda |
| The Fern Sattva Resort, Little Rann of Kutch |
| Meluha The Fern, Powai, Mumbai |
| The Fern Shelter Resort, Palghar |
| The Fern Sattva Resort, Polo Forest |
| The Fern Residency, Somnath |
27, Dec 2024
Experts Warn: Delhi’s Smog Poses Heart Health Risks
New Delhi, 27th December, 2024: Delhi, celebrated for its vibrant culture and historic monuments, is now battling a severe environmental challenge: air pollution. Recognized as one of the most polluted capitals globally, the city faces air quality indices (AQI) that frequently exceed safe limits. In 2019, Delhi was reported as the world’s most polluted capital, and recent trends indicate a worsening scenario, particularly during the winter months when AQI levels often soar to 500. These alarming levels of pollution pose a significant threat to public health, especially cardiovascular well-being.
The deteriorating air quality in Delhi, caused by vehicular emissions, industrial pollutants, construction dust, and stubble burning in neighboring states, has led to a surge in microscopic particulate matter, such as PM2.5 and PM10, in the atmosphere. These particles penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, causing inflammation and oxidative stress. According to the World Heart Federation’s World Heart Report 2024, air pollution was responsible for 22% of global ischemic heart disease deaths and 15% of stroke fatalities in 2019. For India, where cardiovascular diseases are already a leading cause of mortality, these figures underscore the urgent need for action.
Dr. Nityanand Tripathi, Ujala Cygnus Group of Hospitals, highlighted the critical impact of air pollution on heart health. He stated, “Prolonged exposure to polluted air significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular conditions like ischemic heart disease and stroke. Given the already high burden of heart disease in India, the deteriorating air quality in Delhi is a pressing public health concern. Individuals must take protective measures while collective action is taken to address the root causes of this crisis.”
Residents can adopt measures to safeguard their cardiovascular health, such as minimizing outdoor activities during high pollution days, wearing N95 masks, and using air purifiers to improve indoor air quality. Staying hydrated, consuming antioxidant-rich foods, and incorporating vitamin C into one’s diet can help strengthen the immune system and reduce the body’s toxin load. However, personal precautions alone cannot address the magnitude of the issue.
Collective action is essential to mitigate Delhi’s air pollution crisis. The implementation of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) is a significant step in this direction. Measures such as banning the use of coal and firewood, deploying water sprinklers to settle dust, and restricting vehicular emissions aim to curb pollution levels in the short term. Long-term solutions, including stricter emission norms, effective waste management, and a shift toward cleaner energy sources, are vital to creating sustainable change.
Dr. Nityanand Tripathi, emphasized the importance of regular cardiovascular check-ups to detect and address pollution-induced complications early. He also stressed the need for a collaborative approach, stating, “This is not just an individual fight but a collective one. While personal precautions are essential, systemic changes are necessary to improve air quality and protect public health. With concerted efforts, we can safeguard the health of millions and create a cleaner, healthier environment for future generations.”
The worsening air quality in Delhi serves as a wake-up call for both residents and authorities. The direct link between air pollution and cardiovascular diseases highlights the urgency for comprehensive preventive measures. Through a combination of lifestyle adjustments, protective strategies, and robust policy interventions, Delhi can work toward mitigating the health and environmental crises posed by air pollution.
27, Dec 2024
Rising Childhood Obesity: Urgent Action Needed!
By: Dr Mounica Reddy Mandadi, Consultant Pediatric Endocrinologist, Ankura Hospital for Women and Children
Do you find it difficult to control your children from consuming junk food, sugary delicacies etc compared to healthy home cooked meals? It’s quite common to witness children who frequently prefer consuming packaged, unhealthy and oily food rather than eating healthy meals. Apart from that, nowadays, majority of children are constantly working in a high stress related environment (academics) and addicted to electronic gadgets without any physical activities thereby developing obesity at younger ages. Despite awareness generated by educational institutions and healthcare experts, doctors etc, we are unable to reduce the obesity rates in children especially in urban areas in Telangana. Children who developed obesity at younger ages are prone to other critical diseases like Diabetes , Cardiovascular diseases, Gestational ailments, PCOD , hormonal imbalances and many more.
As per the latest news reports, the Centre’s Economic Survey 2023-24 — identified Telangana as one of the few states where its people suffer from severe overweight and podgy issues. The National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) reveals an increase in obesity rates in Telangana, with the proportion of overweight women and men rising to 30.1 percent and 32.3 percent respectively. A study published in the Lancet stated that about 12.5 million children – 7.3 million boys and 5.2 million girls in the country aged between 5 and 19 were grossly overweight in 2022, up from 0.4 million in 1990. Additionally, a comparative study done by Prashant Kokiwar, Sushma Narsing Katkuri on the prevalence of obesity and its correlates among government and private school children in Hyderabad stated that obesity was found in 21.09 percent among private school children and 19 percent in government school children.
Before we delve into the precautions for tackling obesity in children, let’s discuss obesity, causes and symptoms. Obesity occurs when there is an imbalance between calories consumed and calories burned, leading to excessive fat accumulation.
The causes of Obesity are –
Lifestyle Choices
• High-calorie diets laden with sugary treats, junk food, and baked goods.
• Sedentary activities such as excessive screen time and minimal physical exercise.
Family and Environmental Influences
• Genetic predisposition to obesity, particularly in families with unhealthy eating habits.
• Lack of access to nutritious food in low-income neighbourhoods.
Psychological and Socioeconomic Factors
• Stress from academics and personal issues.
• Overeating as a coping mechanism for emotional challenges.
Medical and Pharmaceutical Causes• Certain medications can lead to weight gain.
Symptoms
Not all children with a higher weight are obese. Body composition and developmental stages differ, making a comprehensive evaluation essential. Body Mass Index (BMI) and growth charts are primary tools used by healthcare providers to assess a child’s weight-related health risks. The common symptoms of children who developed obesity are
1. Physical Symptoms
o Excessive weight gain relative to height and age.
o Increased body fat visible in the arms, abdomen, and thighs.
o Difficulty in participating in physical activities due to fatigue or breathlessness.
o Development of stretch marks on the skin.
2. Behavioural and Health Indicators
o Complaints of joint pain or musculoskeletal discomfort.
o Increased sweating without much physical exertion.
o Signs of low self-esteem, including reluctance to participate in social or school activities.
3. Health Risks
o Elevated Body Mass Index (BMI) beyond age-appropriate levels.
o Indicators of related health issues, such as high blood pressure, pre-diabetes, or abnormal lipid levels.
To combat this escalating childhood obesity, the precautionary measures are
1. Balanced and Nutritious Diet
o Replace junk food, sugary beverages, and fried snacks with fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
o Practice portion control and avoid overfeeding.
o Reduce consumption of high-calorie, low-nutrient foods such as chips, candies, and processed items.
2. Encourage Regular Physical Activity
o Ensure at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous exercise daily (e.g., cycling, swimming, or playing outdoor sports).
o Limit sedentary behaviours like TV watching and screen time to less than 2 hours a day.
o Make physical activity fun by involving the entire family in activities like hiking or dancing.
3. Promote Healthy Habits at Home
o Encourage family meals to foster healthy eating patterns and reduce mindless snacking.
o Educate children on making informed food choices, like reading nutrition labels.
4. Manage Academic and Emotional Stress
o Help children balance academics and extracurricular, allowing time for relaxation.
o Teach stress-management techniques like mindfulness, yoga, or deep-breathing exercises.
5. Create a Supportive Environment
o Avoid using food as a reward or punishment to develop a healthy relationship with eating.
o Provide access to safe outdoor spaces for play and exercise.
o Involve schools in promoting physical education programs and offering nutritious meals.
6. Regular Medical Check-Ups
o Monitor growth and BMI during routine health visits.
o Seek guidance from pediatricians or dietitians if your child is overweight or obese.
By integrating these preventive measures into daily life, parents and caregivers can significantly reduce the risk of obesity and its associated health problems in children.
27, Dec 2024
Condolence Message from Dr. Azad Moopen, Founder Chairman, Aster DM Healthcare on the demise of Dr. Manmohan Singh, former Prime Minister of India
By-Dr. Azad Moopen, Founder Chairman, Aster DM Healthcare
“I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Dr. Manmohan Singh, former Prime Minister of India. His immense contributions as an economist, statesman, and humble leader have left a lasting mark on the nation’s development. As Finance Minister and Prime Minister, he played a pivotal role in shaping India’s economic reforms and global standing. His legacy of service, integrity, and vision will continue to inspire generations. May his soul rest in peace.”
27, Dec 2024
Manufacturing Temp Workforce Sees 5.6% Annual Growth in Pay, Reflecting Industry’s Rising Demand for Skilled Talent, Finds Teamlease Staffing Report
Mumbai, December 27, 2024: TeamLease Services, India’s leading staffing solutions company revolutionizing employment and workforce dynamics, has released its latest report, “A Staffing Perspective on Manufacturing.” The report provides an extensive analysis of the manufacturing sector’s contractual workforce, revealing key trends, challenges, and opportunities. As the manufacturing sector aims to achieve a $1 trillion valuation by 2025-26, addressing workforce dynamics will be pivotal in ensuring sustained growth. This growth is led by strategic government initiatives, technological advancements, and an evolving workforce landscape.
The report highlights how diverse industries drive growth in manufacturing, including automotive, chemical, textile, electronics, and machinery and equipment, all of which play pivotal roles in employment and economic development. Coupled with Industry 4.0 technologies like IoT, AI, robotics, and automation, these sectors are rapidly transforming operations through smart factories, enhancing productivity and efficiency. This evolution requires large-scale upskilling and reskilling initiatives to bridge the growing skill gap. The report reveals that the sector’s workforce is predominantly young, with most individuals in the 28-37 age group (43.6%). This demographic is well-positioned to embrace technological changes but requires urgent capacity-building efforts in technical and analytical domains.
The workforce is also diverse in terms of educational backgrounds, with nearly half being graduates. Both genders show the highest representation at the graduation level, 48.5% for males and 46.4% for females. Meanwhile, Maharashtra (17.2%) and Tamil Nadu (14.6%) are the leading states in contractual workforce contributions, followed by Uttar Pradesh (9.6%) and Karnataka (9.4%). This reflects the industrial prominence of these regions. Smaller contributions come from states like Delhi (3.6%), Rajasthan (3.5%), and Bihar (3.4%), while other contributors (24%) include West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Kerala.
Despite the impressive progress, the report also lists the challenges. One of the most notable findings is the gender disparity within the temporary workforce. A significant 89.5% of employees in temporary roles are male, highlighting a significant underrepresentation of women. Females in the workforce, however, demonstrate higher representation in postgraduate qualifications (24.3% compared to 10.5% of males). In comparison, males dominate in technical roles with greater representation in diplomas (13.5% vs. 5.7%) and ITIs (11.5%, absent for females). This imbalance calls for targeted efforts to foster gender parity and encourage women to take up technical roles.
The report also highlights attrition as a persistent challenge for the sector, with more than 43% of temporary workers leaving within a year and 8.7% exiting within the first three months of employment. Overall, more than half of the temporary workforce has a tenure of less than one year, indicating long-term retention challenges. Female employees face additional hurdles, with 66% leaving their jobs within a year, often due to safety concerns, commuting difficulties, and the physical work requirement of the sector. The report highlights the urgent need for women-friendly workplaces to improve retention rates.
One of the notable positive trends is the compensation landscape in the manufacturing sector. The CTC has grown from FY21 to FY24 with a 5.6% CAGR. This growth is driven by inflation, increased demand for skilled workers, and the need for competitive pay to retain talent. However, the gender pay gap persists, with males in the temp workforce earning higher average CTCs than females, further emphasizing the need for equitable pay practices.
Despite these challenges, the sector’s demand for skilled roles continues to rise. Blue-collar and grey-collar positions such as assembly line workers, welders, and CNC operators remain critical. At the same time, white-collar roles like production supervisors, quality control inspectors, and supply chain managers are also in high demand.
Kartik Narayan, CEO-Staffing, TeamLease, said, “As the manufacturing sector evolves with advanced technologies, it is also redefining the value of its workforce. The 5.6% annual pay growth is a clear indicator of the growing value placed on skilled talent. To support this progression, there is a greater need to create environments and work cultures where career longevity and adaptability can thrive. By addressing gaps in retention and promoting diversity in technical roles, the sector has an opportunity to build a resilient workforce that is ready for the next phase of growth.”
The report outlines actionable strategies to address the challenges in India’s manufacturing sector. Companies are encouraged to enhance workplace safety, foster inclusivity, and invest in career development initiatives such as structured mentorship programs. Workforce outsourcing is identified as a critical tool for reducing costs, with potential savings of 50-60%, while improving operational efficiency. At the same time, employers are urged to implement data-driven feedback systems, employee recognition programs, and tailored retention strategies to reduce attrition and improve engagement.
27, Dec 2024
Homebuyer affordability improves in 7 of 8 cities in 2024, fuelled by steady income growth amid property price hikes: Knight Frank India
National, December 27, 2024: Knight Frank India, in its proprietary report, Affordability Index, cited that home affordability has remained favourable for homebuyers in 2024 as interest rates have stayed relatively steady since the end of 2023. According to the Index, Ahmedabad is the most affordable housing market among the top eight cities, with an affordability ratio of 20%, followed by Pune at 23% and Kolkata at 24%. Mumbai was the only city to exceed the affordability threshold, standing marginally higher at 50%, albeit affordability has improved. Knight Frank India’s Affordability Index tracks the EMI (Equated Monthly Instalment) to income ratio for an average household. Home affordability witnessed steady improvement from 2010 to 2021 across the eight leading cities of India, especially during the pandemic when the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) reduced the policy repo rate (REPO) to decadal lows. However, the RBI raised the REPO rate by 250 basis points (bps) over nine months starting May 2022 to tackle high inflation, thus affecting affordability across cities in 2022.
Since February 2023, however REPO rate has remained unchanged, while income has seen healthy growth which has helped offset rising home prices and relatively high interest rates, supporting affordability. Housing demand has grown at an annualised rate of 23% since 2020 and is expected to scale multi-year highs in 2024. The stable interest rate scenario is likely to persist in the near term, as the India’s economy remains on a healthy growth trajectory.
Affordability Index of leading eight cities of India
| City | EMI to Income Ratio | ||||||
| 2010 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | |
| Mumbai | 93% | 67% | 61% | 52% | 53% | 51% | 50% |
| NCR | 53% | 34% | 38% | 28% | 29% | 27% | 27% |
| Bengaluru | 48% | 32% | 28% | 26% | 27% | 26% | 27% |
| Pune | 39% | 29% | 26% | 24% | 25% | 24% | 23% |
| Chennai | 51% | 30% | 26% | 24% | 27% | 25% | 25% |
| Hyderabad | 47% | 34% | 31% | 28% | 30% | 30% | 30% |
| Kolkata | 45% | 32% | 30% | 25% | 25% | 24% | 24% |
| Ahmedabad | 46% | 25% | 24% | 20% | 22% | 21% | 20% |
Shishir Baijal, Chairman and Managing Director, Knight Frank India said “Affordability plays a crucial role in sustaining homebuyer demand and driving sales, which significantly contribute to the country’s economic growth. While property prices have seen a considerable rise, the steady increase in income levels has helped individuals maintain the financial confidence needed to invest in properties. As incomes grow and the economy strengthens, end-users are more inclined to make long-term financial commitments toward asset creation. With the RBI projecting a healthy 6.6% GDP growth for FY 2025 and a stable interest rate environment, affordability levels are expected to continue supporting homebuyer demand in 2025.”
The COVID-19 pandemic became a catalyst for the residential real estate market, triggering a recalibration of both property prices and lending rates that significantly boosted demand. This residential sales momentum has persisted, supported by factors such as effective inflation control, and strong economic growth and changing preference for home ownership. All markets have shown improved or stable affordability, leading to sustained demand for homes. The pandemic has thus instilled an enduring shift in homebuyers’ sentiments, keeping demand buoyant.
In Mumbai, the affordability index improved by 17 percentage points, moving from 67% in 2019 to 50% in 2024. Affordability has reduced in Bengaluru, albeit marginally, compared to last year with households now expected to pay 27% of towards home purchases up from 26% in 2023. This is largely due to the sharp rise in residential prices over the past year, which has put pressure on affordability. While affordability has come down marginally, it is still well within the affordability threshold of 50%, over which a city’s residential market is deemed unaffordable. The enduring shift in homebuyers’ preferences and sentiments since the pandemic has kept demand resilient and the residential market buoyant.
27, Dec 2024
Intuitive Brings Global Experts to India for Robotic Surgery Training
Mumbai, 27 December, 2024: Intuitive, a global leader in minimally invasive care and the pioneer in robotic-assisted surgery (RAS), brought together a team of global experts led by Dr. Rockson Liu, MD, FACS General Surgeon, to train Indian general surgeons in advanced robotic surgery techniques. This initiative aimed to equip surgeons with hands-on experience using the state-of-the-art da Vinci system, fostering innovation in procedures such as hernia repairs and cholecystectomies.
The roadshow spanned key cities like Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Delhi, featuring intensive training sessions, live demonstrations, and mentorship opportunities for over 170 surgeons and healthcare executives from key hospitals like St John’s Hospital, Hiranandani Hospital, Gleneagles Hospital, Yashoda Hospital, Max Hospitals and Manipal Hospitals. Highlights of the programme included hands-on training with the da Vinci Xi system at cadaver labs, proctor events, and insightful discussions with eminent surgeons.
While talking about this training programme, Dr. Rockson Liu, MD, FACS General Surgeon, one of the experts who came to India for this purpose, said, “I am glad to engage with the talented surgeons from India, and share my experience with them. I thank Intuitive for bringing me here, and I would be grateful if this roadshow could make a difference to the general surgery ecosystem in India. As a surgeon who has done over 1,250 robotic-assisted general surgeries with da Vinci, I can vouch for the profound benefits of robotic-assisted approach in general surgery, especially in procedures such as hernias and cholecystectomy. The advanced da Vinci system offers enhanced precision, and smaller incisions for general surgery procedures. It helps surgeons minimize tissue damage, and see the anatomy in a better way, which reduces pain and the risk of recurrence in case of hernia surgeries as we are able to offer better techniques for these procedures. This modality can also enhance the recovery times for patients.
By understanding these benefits, the majority of surgeons in the USA have moved to robotic approach in general benign surgery. I am sure that this roadshow will help us train more surgeons in India on the innovative techniques of robotic hernia surgery and the safer approaches to cholecystectomies., which will eventually lead to better patient outcomes.”
The da Vinci system includes a magnified 3D high-definition vision and tiny wristed instruments that bend and rotate much more than the human hand. As a result, surgeons have better vision, precision, and control. Benign general surgery with the da Vinci system is supported by more than 800 peer-reviewed publications, with studies also showing that robotic-assisted patients returned to normal activities faster than open repair patients.
Dr. Jignesh Gandhi, Professor of Surgery, KEM Hospital & Robotic and GI Surgeon, Gleneagles Hospital, Mumbai, said, “I want to express my gratitude to Dr. Rockson Liu and Intuitive for bringing this invaluable training program to India, providing hands-on experience in advanced robotic-assisted surgery techniques to general surgeons with across the country. The opportunity to pursue cutting-edge technologies like the da Vinci system is transformative for general surgery. This innovation allows surgeons to perform general surgery procedures, such as hernia repair and cholecystectomy, with greater precision, minimal invasiveness, and improved patient outcomes. Programs like these not only enhance the skills of surgeons but also elevate the entire field of general surgery, paving the way for safer and more efficient care for patients.”
Recent estimates suggest that 3,646 surgeries are carried out per 100,000 Indian population every year, out of which 26% is attributed to general surgery procedures like hernia repair and cholecystectomy. Innovative, cutting-edge solutions like the da Vinci can help address the growing demand for precision and efficiency in general surgery, while reducing the burden on healthcare systems.
