Author: Team

India’s Health Needs a Preventive Overhaul, Not Just Symptom Management: Apollo Report Finds

Telangana, April 8, 2025: Apollo Hospitals today launched the fifth edition of its Health of the Nation 2025 (HoN-2025) report with a clear message: “Don’t wait for symptoms—make preventive health your priority.” Based on health screenings from over 2.5 million individuals across the Apollo ecosystem in India, the report reveals a silent epidemic—millions are living with undiagnosed chronic conditions despite showing no visible symptoms. Notably, 26% were found hypertensive and 23% diabetic despite being asymptomatic, underlining that a symptom-led healthcare model is no longer viable.

Preventive health checks have grown exponentially as recorded by Apollo Hospitals, rising from 1 million in 2019 to over 2.5 million in 2024 — a 150% increase in just five years. This reflects a growing shift in public awareness and proactive engagement with preventive healthcare.

The insights in HoN 2025 are drawn from de-identified electronic medical records (EMRs of preventive health checks), structured clinical evaluations, and AI-driven risk stratification across Apollo’s hospitals, clinics, diagnostics labs, and wellness centers.

The report zeroes in on three urgent health challenges: fatty liver disease, post-menopausal health decline, and childhood obesity, emphasizing the need for early personalized interventions and lifestyle-based care models.

Dr. Prathap Reddy, Chairman, Apollo Hospitals said, “India must rise to the opportunity of creating healthy, happy families by placing health at the heart of every household. Preventive healthcare is no longer a future ambition—it is the cornerstone of a nation’s well-being today. This report affirms our collective responsibility to act early, screen deeply, and empower every citizen with knowledge and access. It is time to integrate preventive care into every educational curriculum, corporate benefits, and family routines. Only then, can we shift from treating illness to preserving health and ensure a resilient, healthier India for generations to come.”

Dr. Suneeta Reddy, Managing Director, Apollo Hospitals added, “The Health of the Nation Report reaffirms Apollo’s long-standing philosophy that the future of healthcare is early, data-led, and personalized. When 66% of people screened have fatty liver, 85% of them being non-alcoholic; it signals the urgency for new diagnostics and early detection at scale. Traditional screening is no longer enough. Apollo’s ProHealth program is not just empowering individuals to take control of their health; it is laying the foundation for scalable and predictive healthcare. The results from ProHealth show that with consistent follow-up and nudges and real-time data, we can create measurable population-level impact. Prevention is India’s most scalable healthcare solution and Apollo’s mission is to democratize preventive health.”

Hidden Disease, Visible Numbers: Fatty Liver as India’s New Metabolic Signal

Once seen as a concern only for those who consumed alcohol, fatty liver appears to emerge as an important health issue linked to obesity, diabetes, and hypertension. Of the 257,199 individuals screened, a staggering 65% had fatty liver, and 85% of those were non-alcoholic. More than half had normal blood tests—meaning traditional diagnostics alone are not enough for a thorough evaluation.

Women’s Health: A Critical Turning Point Post-Menopause

The HoN 2025 report highlights a dramatic escalation in health risks for women post-menopause. Diabetes rates spike from 14% pre-menopause to 40% post-menopause, obesity climbs sharply from 76% to 86%, and fatty liver prevalence rises from 54% to 70%. These significant shifts underline hormonal changes’ profound impact on women’s long-term health, emphasizing the necessity for proactive, personalized health strategies for women as they approach menopause.

Rising Cases of Obesity in Kids’: The Truth We Can’t Ignore Anymore!

Obesity among students is rising rapidly, posing serious long-term health threats. The report found that 8% of primary school students were already overweight or obese—an early indicator. This prevalence increases significantly through adolescence, reaching 28% among college students, highlighting the compounding impact of lifestyle and dietary changes. Additionally, 19% of college students were found to be pre-hypertensive, showing that non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are taking root much earlier than previously recognized.

Dr. Preetha Reddy, Executive Vice Chairperson, Apollo Hospitals said, “The Health of the Nation 2025 report highlights the critical issues that we must address, particularly regarding women’s health and childhood obesity. The rise in metabolic risks post-menopause is a clear indicator that we need more than just routine screenings. It is essential to have age-appropriate, gender-sensitive protocols that can truly address the unique needs of women. At Apollo, we are committed to integrating these findings into a life-stage-based care model, offering support for women at every phase of their health journey. The report also underscores the increasing rates of obesity and pre-hypertension among children, which is deeply concerning. These are not just statistics but signs that we must act swiftly. As a pioneering institution, Apollo is determined to make a difference in the lives of individuals and communities across the nation.”

Beyond the Obvious: A Deeper Look at India’s Evolving Health Landscape

Hypertension: A Quiet but Persistent Risk

Screening around 450000 individuals in 2024 revealed that 26% were hypertensive, often without any symptoms. Hypertension continues to be a key contributor to India’s cardiovascular burden and remains underdiagnosed and undertreated. The report calls for standardized blood pressure monitoring and public health campaigns that make BP check a routine part of wellness.

Heart Disease Hiding in Plain Sight

Among asymptomatic individuals who underwent coronary calcium scoring, 46% had calcium deposits, which are early signs of atherosclerosis. Of these, 25% had obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD). Even more striking, 2.5% of those with calcium deposits were under the age of 40. These figures reinforce the importance of advanced imaging techniques like calcium scoring and CT angiography for detecting early risk.

Mental Health: A Growing but Under-Recognized Challenge

Mental health has long lingered in the shadows of India’s public health conversation, but the latest data shines a much-needed spotlight. Of the 47,424 individuals screened for depression using the PHQ-9 scale, 7% of women and 5% of men exhibited signs of clinical depression, with the burden peaking in the middle-age bracket (40–55). These figures highlight not just a growing prevalence but also the deep societal stigma that continues to hinder early intervention. Apollo Hospitals is advocating for integrated mental health assessments in routine check-ups, wider use of digital mental health platforms, and community-level awareness to foster openness and timely care.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): The Sleep Disorder India Can’t Ignore

The Health of the Nation 2025 report reveals a startling trend: 1 in 4 Indians are at high risk for Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)—a disorder closely linked to obesity, cardiovascular disease, and daytime fatigue. Based on screenings of 53,000 individuals, 33% of men and 10% of women were identified as high-risk. Risk levels rise sharply with age, affecting 68% of men and 22% of women over 55. Despite its high prevalence, OSA remains underdiagnosed, often mistaken for general fatigue or stress. Apollo is calling for routine sleep risk assessments in metabolic screenings, stronger public awareness about OSA symptoms, and workplace wellness programs that address sleep hygiene as a core pillar of preventive care.

Cancer Detection: Age Trends Offer New Insights

In 2024, the median age for cervical cancer diagnosis was 49, for breast cancer 57, and lung cancer 61—a full decade earlier than global averages. The report advocates lowering the age threshold for routine screening and driving awareness in urban and rural populations alike.

Micronutrient Deficiencies: A Foundation Health Issue

Anemia affected 45% of women and 26% of men, while Vitamin D deficiency impacted 77% of women and 82% of men. Vitamin B12 deficiency was also significant, with 38% of men and 27% of women showing low levels. Among those under 40, the deficiency was even more pronounced—49% of men and 35% of women were vitamin B12 deficient. These gaps, if left unaddressed, can impair energy, cognition, and metabolic function. Apollo recommends widespread education as an essential first step towards improving national nutrition and long-term health.

Obesity and Metabolic Dysfunction: The Cascade Continues

The report highlights that 61% of individuals screened were obese, with another 18% overweight. Obesity continues to act as the root cause of a range of NCDs. Apollo supports expanding physical literacy in schools and workplaces and making BMI and metabolic screenings part of every annual health check.

Empowering Education and Sustainability: HORIBA India Awards Scholarships, Launches Eco-Farming Project at IIT Roorkee

IIT Roorkee, India – April 08, 2025: Continuing its commitment to empowering education through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), HORIBA India awarded the HORIBA Talent Hunt Scholarship 2024-25 to 30 meritorious students of the Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT Roorkee).

The scholarship, launched in 2023 under the theme ‘Together We Grow’, is the brainchild of Dr. Rajeev Gautam, an illustrious alumnus of IIT Roorkee and President, HORIBA India and Senior Corporate Officer, HORIBA Ltd., Japan. It extends a one-time partial tuition fee waiver to deserving students, thereby recognizing academic excellence and easing financial constraints. The recipients belong to 12 different departments, exemplifying the academic diversity at IIT Roorkee.

The occasion also witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between IIT Roorkee and HORIBA India to collaborate on a pioneering project titled “Sustainable Farming”. The MoU was exchanged by Prof. K.K. Pant, Director, IIT Roorkee; Dr. Rajeev Gautam, President, HORIBA India and Senior Corporate Officer, HORIBA Ltd., Japan; and Prof. R.D. Garg, Dean of Resources and Alumni Affairs (DORA), IIT Roorkee.

The MoU signed between IIT Roorkee and HORIBA India marks a significant step forward in addressing environmental and agricultural challenges through scientific innovation. The joint initiative, titled “Sustainable Farming”, aims to develop and promote advanced technologies that enhance agricultural productivity while preserving natural ecosystems.

The project will focus on deploying cutting-edge analytical instrumentation and data-driven techniques to monitor soil health, optimize water usage, and reduce dependency on chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Leveraging IIT Roorkee’s expertise in agricultural engineering, environmental sciences, and data analytics, alongside HORIBA’s global leadership in analytical solutions, the collaboration is poised to deliver scalable, sustainable solutions for Indian farming communities.

As part of the MoU, both institutions will also work towards establishing a research and demonstration facility that will serve as a living lab for testing innovations in real-world farming conditions. The project will involve faculty, researchers, and students, promoting hands-on learning and translational research with direct societal impact.

“It’s a privilege to give back to my alma mater through initiatives that empower students and support sustainable innovation. With the Talent Hunt Scholarship and our new MoU on sustainable farming, we aim to nurture young minds, promote climate-resilient practices, and build science-driven solutions for the greater good of the agricultural sector and the environment. I also encourage students to approach HORIBA India or HORIBA Japan for any learning support or internship opportunities and if they find alignment with our vision, they are most welcome to continue being a part of the HORIBA family in the long run,” said Dr. Rajeev Gautam, President, HORIBA India.

“IIT Roorkee thanks Horiba for supporting our students. We also deeply value the continued contributions of our alumni Dr. Rajeev Gautam; whose efforts are helpful in shaping a better future for the next generation of innovators. This MoU reflects our shared vision for sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship, aligned with India’s national goals. It also reaffirms IIT Roorkee’s growing collaboration with global industry leaders to foster innovation that directly benefits society.” added Prof. K.K. Pant, Director, IIT Roorkee.

By bridging research excellence with industry application, the MoU underscores how global alumni partnerships can pave the way for future-ready, environmentally responsible innovations.

“Initiatives like the HORIBA Talent Hunt Scholarship not only provide vital financial support to students but also inspire them with the real-world impact of our alumni. The addition of the sustainable farming project strengthens our ecosystem of research, alumni engagement, and socially meaningful collaboration,” said Prof. R.D. Garg, Dean of Resources and Alumni Affairs, IIT Roorkee.

The ceremony was graced by Prof. Yogesh Vijay Hote, Chairperson, Senate Committee for Scholarship & Prizes (SCSP); Ms. Kanika Thakur (Lead – Corporate Communications and Marketing In-charge (Materials and Semiconductor) and Ms. Stuti Gulati (Senior Executive – Corporate Communications) from HORIBA India; staff from the DORA and SCSP offices, and Ms. Sonika Srivastava Media Cell In-charge, IIT Roorkee.

Southern Peripheral Road Sees 125% Property Price Surge, Poised to Become Gurugram’s Next Cyber City

Southern Peripheral Road (SPR) in Gurugram is undergoing a game-changing transformation! In just five years, property prices have soared by an impressive 125%, fueled by the rapid rise of major corporate hubs. This growth is quickly positioning SPR as the next Cyber City, a vibrant hub of business and development that’s capturing the attention of investors and professionals alike.

PropEquity research shows that in just a few years, property values on Gurugram’s Southern Peripheral Road have more than doubled. Jumping from ₹7,690 per sq. ft. in 2020 to a whopping ₹17,300 by mid-2024, SPR is now a top real estate hotspot and a smart place to invest.

With property values skyrocketing, SPR is set to benefit from Haryana Government’s ₹2,000 crore infrastructure infusion in the 2025-26 Budget. This game-changing investment will revamp road networks, boost connectivity, and upgrade civic amenities, solidifying SPR’s reputation as a leading real estate and business hotspot.

Boosting SPR’s position as a top real estate and business hub, the GMDA has approved an ₹8.25 crore project to upgrade the Vatika Chowk to NH-48 stretch. The plans also include a 2km footpath and cycle track along sectors 58/61 and 59/61, along with a 56km cycling and pedestrian corridor from Sector 58 to 67.

Sharing his views on SPR’s growth, Mr. Pradeep Aggarwal, Founder & Chairman, Signature Global (India) Ltd., said, “Southern Peripheral Road (SPR) has become one of Gurugram’s prime real estate corridors, fueled by infrastructure growth, excellent connectivity, and increasing commercial activity. Its strategic location enhances commuting, attracting both homebuyers and investors.

We have strategically positioned our residential project, Titanium SPR, in Sector 71, offering modern amenities and seamless connectivity. The region, with premium developments like SPR Estate, is transforming into a well-integrated urban hub, making it a top destination for homeowners and investors alike.”

Southern Peripheral Road (SPR) is rapidly transforming into “Cyber City 2,” supported by developers like DLF and the upcoming DLF Mall of India, which will be the largest mall in India and boost retail and business activity.

The area already has major corporate hubs, including offices for American Express and Air India’s training center, along with 18 commercial projects. Key developments like Skyview Corporate Park, Pioneer Square, and Bestech Business Tower house top companies like TCS and PepsiCo, employing over 82,000 people.In the last five years (2020–2024), new project launches on SPR surged by 584%, rising from six in 2015–2019 to 23 in 2020–2024. Housing supply also grew nearly sixfold, from 1,602 to 10,962 units, according to PropEquity.

Mr. Ashok Kapur, Chairman, Krishna Group and Krisumi Corporation, said, “In recent years, Gurugram has emerged as a hotspot for real estate, witnessing a remarkable surge in demand, particularly across key micro-markets such as Southern Peripheral Road, Dwarka Expressway, Central Peripheral Road, and areas around the Sohna Elevated Corridor. These areas have garnered strong interest from both investors and homebuyers, driven by rapid infrastructure development and promising future growth. As a result, property prices have risen manifold, with some locations experiencing exponential appreciation.

With continued government support for infrastructural growth in these regions, the future prospects look promising for the housing and allied sectors. Sustained growth would reaffirm Gurugram’s emergence as a premier real estate hub, promising high returns and strong long-term investment potential.”

SPR, a 16-km corridor from Gurgaon Faridabad Road to NH-48, enhances accessibility and real estate value. It connects key roads like Golf Course Road and Sohna Road at Badshahpur Chowk, easing traffic and reducing travel with 20 minutes to Sohna Road, 14 minutes to Golf Course Extension, and 16 minutes to New Gurugram.

Mr. Garvit Tiwari, Director and Co-Founder of Property Consulting Firm InfraMantra, said, “The Southern Peripheral Road (SPR) has emerged as a key micro-market in Gurugram. The exponential rise in supply with close to 11,000 units being launched in the last five years suggests the growing demand owing to increased commercial activity, infrastructure development and connectivity to all parts of NCR. High-end luxury projects like Tulip Crimson in Sector 70 has been drawing investors and end-users owing to its locational advantage, trusted legacy and good return on investment.”

With 23 ongoing projects, SPR is a prime investment hub. PropEquity recommends DLF Privana West (Sector 76) for long-term growth, Signature Global Titanium SPR (Sector 71) for mid-term returns, and Eldeco Fairway Reserve (Sector 80) for spacious, well-priced homes.

SPR also offers a well-rounded ecosystem with top schools like St. Xavier’s and DPS International, healthcare facilities like CK Birla Hospital and Artemis, and premium hotels like Lemon Tree and Grand Hyatt, making it ideal for living, business, and lifestyle.

In conclusion, SPR is a prime real estate hub with strong connectivity, growing infrastructure, and rising property values. Its transformation into “Cyber City 2” positions it as a key driver of Gurugram’s growth and investment potential.

Empowering Technicians: K J Somaiya ITI & IPMMI Roll Out Skill-Driven Packaging Course

Mumbai, 7th April, 2025 –K J Somaiya Private Industrial Training Institute (KJSPITI), operating under the rich 83-year-old legacy of Somaiya Vidyavihar, is proud to announce the launch of a new course in the Operation and Maintenance of Packaging Machinery. This 11-month (6 months at the institute and 5 months of paid on-the-job training in the industry) certificate course is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge required to operate, maintain, and troubleshoot packaging machinery. Admissions to the course are open from May 2025, and interested candidates can contact the institute for more information.

The course is designed for ITI graduates in Electrician, Electronics Mechanic, or Instrumentation, diploma holders, and 12th-grade science students, offering a combination of six months of intensive training at KJSPITI and five months of paid on-the-job training at IPMMI’s associate companies. The curriculum will include key industry topics such as Programmable Logic Controllers, Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition, Human-Machine Interface, automation, and pneumatics. Students will gain hands-on experience in operating and maintaining packaging machinery during their on-the-job training in the industry, as well as learn about safety procedures, troubleshooting techniques, and machinery optimization.

“The packaging industry is growing rapidly, and there is a huge demand for skilled technicians who can operate and maintain packaging machinery efficiently,” said Mr. Shaji Mathew, Principal, K J Somaiya Private ITI, Vidyavihar. “We are excited to introduce this new course, which will provide our students with a competitive edge in the job market. The course will be conducted by experienced faculty members who have extensive industry experience.”

IPMMI has more than 280+ associated members, with leading packaging companies providing students with hands-on training and placement opportunities. The program also guarantees 100% placement assistance, with a minimum package of ₹3 lakh per annum for successful candidates.

Mr. Mahadevan Iyer, President of IPMMI, commented, “We are very happy to collaborate with K J Somaiya Private Industrial Training to start a technical course for the Operational and Maintenance of Packaging Machinery. This would be a great idea to cater to the needs of the industry. The Technical part of it would be explained in detail, including how to operate and maintain packaging machinery in the institute, and a huge amount of on-hand work would also be explained in our member’s factory within Mumbai. We hope that this program churns out a good number of the best technicians from this Institute. It’s a great initiative taken by the industry to get associated with the Institute.”

As per the MoU, KJSPITI will provide state-of-the-art lab facilities and faculty support, while IPMMI will contribute by developing course content, supplying equipment, and arranging on-the-job training with a stipend of ₹10,000 per month. The initiative highlights a shared commitment to addressing industry challenges such as automation, sustainability, and efficiency in packaging technology.

Shri Samir Somaiya, Chancellor of Somaiya Vidyavihar University, emphasized the importance of industry-academia collaboration, stating, “Somaiya Vidyavihar believes in education that extends beyond the classroom. By partnering with industry leaders like IPMMI, we are equipping our students with relevant skills and practical exposure, preparing them for promising careers in the manufacturing sector.”

K J Somaiya Private ITI is a leading Industrial Training Institute that offers a range of courses in various trades like Electrician, Welder, Plumber, Electronics Mechanic, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technician, Computer Hardware, Solar and CCTV Technician, and Multi-Skill Technician. The institute is committed to providing high-quality training and education to its students and has a strong reputation for producing skilled and employable technicians.

Elevate Your Cleaning Routine – Explore Our New Home & Garden Range with Innovative Vacuums

India, 07th April 2025- Kärcher India expands its Home & Garden category with two innovative cleaning solutions designed to redefine cleanliness and improve indoor air quality. The DS 6 Water Filter Vacuum Cleaner and the SE 5 Spray Extraction Cleaner offer advanced cleaning solutions that go beyond just surface-level dirt removal. Whether you’re looking for an allergy-friendly vacuum that delivers fresh, dust-free air or a powerful spray extraction cleaner that ensures deep hygiene for textiles, Kärcher’s latest additions are tailored to meet your needs.

Vacuum cleaner with innovative water filter technology, providing fresh exhaust air that has been cleaned to 99.5%. A great benefit – not only for allergy sufferers.

The DS 6 vacuum cleaner with water filter ensures not only thoroughly clean floors, but also fresher, up to 99.5% dust-free exhaust air. And therefore a much more pleasant indoor climate. In contrast to conventional vacuum cleaners with filter bags, the DS 6 vacuum cleaner with water filter relies on the natural force of water which is whirled around the filter at high speeds. The dirt taken in is guided by the whirlpool, reliably filtered from the air and bound in the water. The result: extraordinarily fresh, clean exhaust air.

Features and benefits

· Multi-stage filter system consisting of innovative water filter, washable intermediate filter and HEPA 12 filter – Filters 99.5% of dust from the air for fresh, clean air and a pleasant indoor climate. Particularly suitable for allergy sufferers.

· Removable water filter- Easy to fill and clean.

· Practical parking position- Quick and easy intermediate parking of suction tube and floor nozzle during working interruptions. Space-saving storage.

The SE 5 spray extraction cleaner makes light work of cleaning textile surfaces such as carpets or upholstery for a hygienic level of clean right down to the fibres. Ideal for families, allergy sufferers and households with pets.

Deep cleaning impact combined with ergonomic design and multifunctionality: the SE 5 spray extraction cleaner with its attractive pull-behind design ensures a hygienic clean on many textile surfaces, such as fitted carpets, upholstery and upholstered furniture, rugs, carpeted stairs, mattresses, wall hangings and car seats. Tried-and-tested spray extraction technology from Kärcher delivers the best cleaning results: fresh tap water and the Kärcher Carpet Cleaner RM 519 are sprayed deep into the textile fibres under pressure and then vacuumed back up together with the loosened dirt – ideal for families, allergy sufferers and households with pets. The SE 5 is a multifunctional 3-in-1 product that can also be used as a fully-fledged wet and dry vacuum cleaner with its extensive range of accessories. Other equipment features: 2-tank system with removable fresh and dirty water tank, ergonomic carrying handle for easy transport and practical accessory storage on the device. After use, the device is easy to clean for a long product life.

Features and benefits

· Proven Kärcher technology for optimum cleaning results- Cleaning deep into the fibres of textile surfaces. Efficient spray extraction technology for quick and effortless cleaning. Low residual moisture for quick drying of textile surfaces.

· Easy-to-use 2-tank system- Two separate tanks for fresh and dirty water, and a carrying handle. Convenient removal and emptying of the dirty water tank without any contact with dirt.

· Ultra-flexible 2-in-1 hose- Integrated spray hose for added convenience when cleaning. Long, highly flexible suction hose for added convenience when cleaning. Handle with lock function for continuous spraying when cleaning large textile surfaces.

With these new additions to Kärcher’s Home & Garden range, achieving professional-level cleanliness at home has never been easier. Whether it’s fresh, purified air or deep-cleaned textiles, Kärcher ensures that every cleaning task is handled with precision and efficiency.