5, Mar 2025
This Women’s Day, Treat Yourself to Superdry’s Signature Tees

This Women’s Day, it’s the perfect time to pamper yourself with something special from the anniversary Osaka 6 collection. Superdry, known for blending vintage Americana, Japanese graphics, and British tailoring, earlier this year marked 20 years of its most recognizable streetwear—the iconic Osaka 6 collection. These stylish tees, merging retro vibes with modern flair, are the perfect way to add a spark of joy to your wardrobe and celebrate the occasion in style Here’s a quick rundown of two must-have tees that are perfect for the occasion.
OSAKA 6 FLAG 90s TEE
Step into the world of retro with the Osaka 6 Flag 90s Tee. The tee brings nostalgic charm with its bold Osaka 6 graphic and flag-inspired detailing. Made from soft, premium cotton, it’s comfortable and versatile – ideal for Women’s Day gifting. Whether you’re pairing it with jeans or a skirt, this tee is perfect for any casual outing. With a regular fit, classic crew neck, and short sleeves, it combines comfort and style effortlessly.
OSAKA 6 EMB RS 90s TEE
If you’re looking to add a little extra sparkle, the Osaka 6 Emb RS 90s Tee is just what you need. This tee is designed with rhinestone embellishments that catch the light and elevate your style. With a slim fit and crew neck, it hugs your body in all the right places for a tailored look. The rhinestone Osaka print gives it a classy, chic feel – making it perfect for everything from a Women’s Day brunch to a stylish date night.
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5, Mar 2025
WeSchool Set to Host ACBSP Region 10 Conference 2025, Advancing Business Education
Hyderabad, 5th March, 2025– Prin. L. N. Welingkar Institute of Management Development and Research, (PGDM), WeSchool, proudly hosted the ACBSP Region 10 Conference 2025, a premier global platform fostering thought leadership, academic excellence, and industry collaboration. Centered around the theme “Bridges Across Borders: Collaborative Strategies for Academic and Professional Success”, the conference facilitated insightful and enriching discussions on the future of business education, cross-border partnerships, and the transformative role of research and innovation. The conference was jointly organised by WeSchool, Mumbai & Bengaluru campuses, under the aegis of their governing trust – SP Mandali, a renowned educational trust.
With over 300 registrations of individual authors comprising academicians research scholars and students, the two-day conference brought together participants from several South Asian countries and showcased around 150 research papers and entrepreneurial ideas under ‘Best of Region’ and ‘Student Showcase’, and business pitches under ‘School of Thought’. This significant engagement reinforced WeSchool’s commitment to a research-driven academic culture and global knowledge exchange.

The Region 10 winners of these competitions will be eligible an at the ACBSP Annual Conference in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA, competing against participants from 11 ACBSP regions worldwide.
Dr. Venugopal Reddy, IAS Officer, Additional Chief Secretary, Department of Higher Education, Government of Maharashtra an esteemed Chief Guest for the valedictory function, lauded the impact of ACBSP, expressing gratitude to WeSchool for organizing such a meaningful program: “My heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Uday Salunkhe for hosting this outstanding event that highlights the benefits of participating with ACBSP. It’s truly a great opportunity for educational institutions.”
Prof. Dr. Uday Salunkhe, Chair-Elect, ACBSP Region 10 & Group Director, WeSchool, emphasized the institution’s pursuit of academic excellence: “The theme of this conference is highly relevant in today’s evolving world. At Prin. L.N Welingkar Institute of Management Development and Research (PGDM), our brand identity as ‘WeSchool’ reflects our core belief in interdependence, co- creation, and togetherness. Over the past 22 years, we have grown rapidly, working with multiple global partners to shape future-ready leaders. ACBSP plays a crucial role in raising academic standards and empowering students with the skills needed for success. Our journey has been fueled by collective belief and collaboration, and we remain committed to fostering innovation, excellence, and inclusive growth.”
Mr. Jeffrey Alderman, President & CEO, ACBSP, USA, highlighted the significance of collaboration: “It is a privilege to be in India, where the spirit of limitless possibilities thrives. Indians have always embraced me as part of their family, and that is the ‘We’ of WeSchool, which has organized this wonderful event. At ACBSP, we believe true progress comes from collaboration, and this summit—Bridges Across Borders: Collaborative Strategies for Academic and Professional Success—embodies that vision. More than a gathering, it is a bridge connecting institutions and thought leaders with a shared mission: empowering students, driving innovation, and shaping a future without borders. Opportunities like this are rare. When institutions unite with a common purpose, we don’t just exchange ideas—we build pathways for success, fostering a global community dedicated to lifelong learning and transformation.”
Dr. Uttara Sok, Chair of ACBSP Region 10 & Vice President for Internal Quality Assurance and Internal Audit (IQA-IA), CamEd Business School, Cambodia, commended WeSchool’s commitment to collaboration: “WeSchool truly embodies the spirit of ‘We’— fostering collaboration, innovation, and growth. With a strong commitment, we return to India in 2025, this time to Mumbai—a vibrant cultural hub and a fitting location for this gathering. As technology, particularly AI, rapidly transforms education, the need for collaboration has never been greater. This evolution enhances learning, drives knowledge exchange, and unlocks new opportunities, contributing to collective growth. This event serves as a dynamic platform for collaboration, recognizing talent and contributions while fostering excellence through competitions and more. Together, we shape the future of education in an interconnected world.”
Advocate Shri S. K. Jain, Chairman, Managing Council, Shikshana Prasaraka Mandali, Pune (the governing trust of WeSchool), & Chairman – College Development Committee, WeSchool, Mumbai, emphasized the importance of adapting to change: “Change is the rule of nature. While practices from the 1970s may still hold relevance, they must evolve to suit today’s environment. Adapting to change comes with challenges, and conferences like this play a crucial role in driving that transformation. Business, trade, and academics must keep pace with industry needs, global practices, and emerging disruptions. Professors must equip students to lead in this dynamic landscape, balancing ethical values with innovation. With insights from industry stalwarts, the ACBSP conference at WeSchool provides the knowledge and strategies to navigate change and shape the future.”
5, Mar 2025
Teach For India Announces Last Chance to Apply for 2025 Fellowship
Bengaluru, March 5th, 2025: Teach For India, a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing educational equity, has announced the final deadline for its 2025 Fellowship. Aspiring fellows have the opportunity to make a lasting impact on the future of children and inspire the leaders of tomorrow. The final deadline to apply is March 9, 2025.
The Teach For India Fellowship is a two-year, full-time, paid program that brings together individuals from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. Fellows are selected from more than 500 universities, colleges, and over 300 companies across the country. The Fellowship application process is very rigid, and receives applications from India’s brilliant and most promising individuals.
Once selected, fellows will teach full-time in affordable private schools or English-medium government schools, where they will focus on guiding students through the challenges of India’s inequities. The program also provides fellows with invaluable leadership training, focusing on emotional intelligence skills such as empathy, active listening, and relationship-building, which contribute to both personal and professional growth.
To date, over 670 fellow have joined the 2024 Cohort, united by a common goal: to build a more compassionate and equitable India through education. The fact that differentiates the Teach For India Fellowship is the unique opportunity to significantly reshape the education landscape and drive meaningful change.
5, Mar 2025
India Plant-Based Food Show 2025 Brings Together Experts to Drive Innovation in Health, Business, and Sustainability
New Delhi, March 5, 2025 – Marking a significant milestone in the country’s journey towards sustainable food innovation, the highly anticipated India Plant Based Foods Show 2025 concluded on March 4th, 2025, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. Organised by the Plant Based Foods Industry Association (PBFIA) in collaboration with the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI), Ministry of Micro, Medium and Small Enterprises (MoMSME), Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), and India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO), the event brought together policymakers, industry leaders, scientists, investors, and innovators to shape the segment of plant-based nutrition in India.
The event was graced by Honourable Shri Chirag Paswan, Minister of Food Processing Industries, as the Chief Guest, who inaugurated the Plant-Based Food Arena, demonstrating the government’s commitment to fostering a robust Plant-Based food ecosystem in India.

The event was proudly powered by leading industry sponsors, including NETZSCH, PALL Corporation, RELUS, SYMEGA, U.S. Soybean Export Council, Invest in Denmark and Giani’s. The event was also supported by Radio Mirchi as the Radio Partner and IPSOS as the knowledge partner.
Welcoming all the attendees and guests, Praveer Srivastava, Executive Director of the Plant Based Foods Industry Association, delivered a compelling address, underscoring the association’s role in driving innovation and policy advocacy for plant-based foods in India. He highlighted that this is not just a show – but a movement, a foundation for a very big cause, a change that we are going to witness in the next 5-10 years. “The progress which we have made is not the work of one individual organisation or person, but a collective effort of the industry that believes in better food, better health and the best of the planet” he stated, reaffirming PBFIA’s and associated members’ commitment to bridging the gap between stakeholders and government bodies to create an enabling environment for alternative proteins. He also highlighted that there are still challenges, including protein deficiency among Indians, growing popularity and easy accessibility of meat compared to plant-based items, and the lack of resources for setting up Protein Clusters in India.
The event was also a part of a Post-Budget Webinar addressed by the Honourable Prime Minister of India, Mr. Narendra Modi, who focused on three topics: MSMEs and their changing growth, Manufacturing Exports and Nuclear Energy Missions, and Regulatory Investments and Ease of Doing Business Reforms. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi emphasized the significance of manufacturing and exports in shaping the future of India’s plant-based food sector. He highlighted India’s strong
growth trajectory and the increasing interest of other countries in partnering with India for plant-based innovations. He also underscored the impact of Atmanirbhar Bharat reforms, which have strengthened research and development (R&D), employment generation, and support for entrepreneurship. The MSME sector, recognized as the backbone of the industry, was a key focus, with the Prime Minister stressing the importance of timely credit availability for small businesses. Additionally, he acknowledged that first-time entrepreneurs require not only financial investment but also structured mentorship and guidance to scale their ventures, reinforcing the government’s commitment to fostering a thriving ecosystem for sustainable food solutions.
Following his addressal, His Excellency Mr. Rasmus Abildgaard Kristensen, Ambassador of Denmark to India, graced the event and emphasised the immense potential of farm-based products and plant-based foods in driving sustainable growth. He highlighted how Denmark is a frontrunner and the increasing need for innovative solutions that not only strengthen India’s food ecosystem but also contribute to the nation’s development. By leveraging advancements in plant-based food production, India can create impactful solutions that promote health, sustainability, and economic growth. He also stressed the importance of exploring new avenues for partnerships with Denmark, both domestically and globally, to accelerate the sector’s expansion and position India as a leader in the plant-based food industry.
Mr. Abhishek Dev, Chairman of APEDA, also took the stage to showcase the significant growth in India’s plant-based food sector and quoted that “it is not the time to be spectator, but to act”. “With abundant raw materials such as soya, pulses, and millets, India is well-positioned to advance in this space”, he stated. However, the high cost of plant-based products remains a key challenge, necessitating improvements in quality, taste, and affordability to drive wider consumer adoption. He emphasized the “Lifestyle for Environment” project, in collaboration with the government, is actively working to integrate sustainability into everyday choices.
A Day For Sustainable Innovations: Engaging Sessions and Industry Insights
The event was also kickoff by a dedicated roundtable discussion over ‘Exploring Market Dynamics of Plant-Based Food Industry’, which included industry experts like Mr. Ashu Phakey, Vice President and Business Head, Frozen Foods, ITC who emphasised the importance of farm-to-table practices, the role of plant-based ingredients in ITC’s ready-to-eat portfolio, and the need for affordability in alternative protein products, citing ITC’s pioneering efforts in launching plant-based offerings like Shakarkandi Kabab. He was also accompanied by Ms. Prerna Bajaj, Director, Wesley Foods, who discussed the integration of sustainability into daily food habits and shared examples such as plant-based egg bhurji along with Mr. Simarjeet Singh, Founder and Director, Mr. Veg Foods, Mr. Aravind R, Category Head, Big Basket, Ms. Charu Mohan, Brand Manager Nestle, and Mr. Rohit Bhagat, Business Head, Life Health Foods Pvt. Ltd.
The event featured a series of high-impact panel discussions and expert sessions aligned with the agenda, each providing valuable insights and actionable recommendations for the industry. It commenced with the session “The Soy You Deserve” which explored the growing role of soy in the plant-based food industry, moderated by Ms. Deeba Giannoulis of the U.S. Soybean Export Council. Industry leaders, including Mr. Gaurav Agrawal, Ms. Malavika Siddharth, and Mr. Suresh Itapu, discussed soy’s nutritional benefits, market expansion, and global trade opportunities. Powered by USSEC, the session highlighted soy’s potential in driving sustainability and food security. gut health trends pre- and post-COVID-19, the high prevalence of lactose intolerance in India, and the potential of soy as a crucial ingredient in plant-based diets. Sumit Agarwal focused on soy-based foods, including flavored yogurts, roasted beans, and the rapid rise of soy milk consumption. Suresh Itapu discussed the trend of adding protein to traditional foods, the growing demand for convenient nutrition products, and the functionality of soy in enhancing food quality. Christelle Cordahl spoke about the health benefits of soy, its role in cholesterol management, and the need for advanced agricultural practices to ensure accessibility and public health improvement.
A special highlight of the event was the launch of PBFIA-IPSOS Joint Report, “Sowing the Seeds of Growth: An Outlook on India’s Plant Based Foods Sector,” marking a significant moment in the event, offering valuable insights into the evolving landscape of plant-based foods in India. Mr. Deepak Hanumantharavappa, Partner and Country Head, IPSOS, delivered an insightful presentation on the report, a collaboration between the Plant Based Foods Industry Association (PBFIA) and IPSOS, and provided a comprehensive analysis of market trends, consumer behaviour, and future growth opportunities in the sector. Industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders gathered to discuss the findings, emphasizing the increasing demand for plant-based alternatives and the need for policy support to accelerate growth. The report serves as a roadmap for stakeholders looking to invest and expand in this dynamic industry.
A compelling presentation, “Denmark – A Plant Based Foods Nation”, on Denmark’s leadership in the plant-based food sector was presented by Ms. Katrine Dalsgaard Skovly, Special Advisor for Food & Agriculture at Invest in Denmark. The presentation outlined Denmark’s strides in innovation, sustainability, and market growth, emphasizing its role as a global pioneer in plant-based food production and provided valuable insights into how Denmark’s policies and advancements could serve as a model for India’s evolving plant-based ecosystem.
Following this, a panel discussion titled “Envisaging India’s Role in Global Supply Chain through Plant Protein Clusters” brought together industry experts, including Dr. Siddharth Pal, Mr. Gaurav Shisodia, Mr. Satyam Shivam Sundaram, Mr. Indranil Chatterjee, Mr. Srinivas Kuchibotta and Mr. Tejendre. Moderated by Mr. Rajesh Srivastava, Chairman of Prowess Advisors, the discussion examined India’s potential to integrate into the global plant-based supply chain, addressing critical
factors such as production scalability, international trade opportunities, and emerging industry collaborations.
A thought-provoking Fireside Chat featuring Good Dot, PROT Food, and Nourish You followed, moderated by sustainability strategist and climate activist Ms. Shreya Ghodawat. Another session of the event was a panel discussion on “Elevating the Sensory Functionality through Cutting-Edge Technologies in the Plant-Based Food Sector”, moderated by CS Jadhav, CEO of Nutricircle. The session featured leading experts who explored advancements in texture, taste, and overall sensory experience in plant-based foods.
The India Plant Based Foods Show 2025 underscored the growing significance of alternative proteins in India’s food industry. With commitments from policymakers, enhanced industry-government collaboration, and increased corporate investments, the event solidified India’s position as a frontrunner in sustainable nutrition. Key takeaways included the need for continuous policy support, increased funding for startups, and the establishment of dedicated protein processing clusters to reduce import reliance. The success of the India Plant Based Foods Show 2025 reflects the industry’s collective determination to make sustainable nutrition a mainstream reality. As India takes strides in alternative proteins, this event has set the stage for a transformation in food innovation.
5, Mar 2025
Central Government Officials Empowered Through Rashtriya Karmayogi Seva-Bhav Training by MSDE
Mumbai, March 5, 2025 – In a significant step towards strengthening governance through capacity building, the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) successfully conducted a training session today under the Rashtriya Karmayogi Seva-Bhav Program of the Capacity Building Commission (CBC). This initiative is part of the government’s broader Mission Karmayogi framework, which aims to enhance the effectiveness and responsiveness of public service by instilling a deep sense of service, accountability, and collaboration among government officials.
During the session, Shri Atul Kumar Tiwari, Secretary, Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship said, “Skilling is not just about individuals – it’s about empowering institutions, strengthening governance, and ensuring that every decision we take aligns with the larger goal of national development. This session reaffirmed our commitment to proactive leadership and transforming governance into a purpose-driven, people-first mission. I extend my gratitude to our Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for his vision of Mission Karmayogi, which is modernizing civil services and equipping officials with the right mindset and skills to drive India towards Viksit Bharat @2047.”
The National Karmayogi Seva-Bhav Program is designed as a large-scale intervention that focuses on shaping mindsets rather than merely imparting skills. The objective is to reinforce the spirit of Seva-Bhav among government employees, ensuring that their everyday responsibilities are aligned with the larger goal of citizen welfare. Under Phase – I of this initiative, Shri Pritam Dutta, Director, MSDE, was trained as a Master Trainer by CBC. The training session held today at Kaushal Bhawan, New Delhi, was conducted under his leadership for nominated officers across the Ministry.
Through a structured and interactive format, the session engaged participants in reflective discussions, experience-sharing, and problem-solving exercises. The training was structured into four modules, each lasting 1.5 hours, and emphasized a collaborative approach to governance. By focusing on the real-world challenges faced by officials, the program encouraged participants to develop solutions that enhance public service delivery, improve inter-departmental coordination, and strengthen citizen engagement.
With today’s successful session, the Ministry has set the stage for continued engagement under this initiative. As the program unfolds in the coming months, it is expected to bring about a meaningful shift in the way government officials perceive their roles and responsibilities, ultimately leading to more effective, transparent, and accountable governance.
5, Mar 2025
Akshara Singh Inaugurates Senco Gold and Diamonds’ New Varanasi Store as Brand Expands
Varanasi, 05th March 2025: Senco Gold and Diamonds, one of the largest jewelry retail chains in India proudly announces the grand opening of its second store in Varanasi at Bhelupur and 174th store in India. Spanning an impressive 4600 sq. Ft, this expansion marks a significant step in the brand’s commitment of providing customers with exquisite jewelry and impeccable craftsmanship across the city.
Adding glamour and excitement to the grand celebration, the new showroom at H.K. Das Shopping Plaza, Bhelupur, was inaugurated by renowned actress and Bhojpuri film star Akshara Singh. The newly opened store features an extensive collection, ranging from modern lightweight designs in the Everlite collection to timeless wedding classics like the Shagun and Gathbandhan collections, making it the perfect destination for every occasion.

Commenting on the launch, Joita Sen, Director of Senco Gold & Diamonds said, “Varanasi holds a special place in our hearts, and we are delighted to expand our presence in this culturally rich city with our second store. At Senco Gold & Diamonds, we are committed to offering our customers exquisite craftsmanship, timeless designs, and an unparalleled shopping experience. This new store will showcase a blend of traditional and contemporary jewelry, catering to the diverse preferences of our valued customers. We are pleased to have Akshara Singh grace this occasion, adding to the celebration of our growing legacy.”
Dhaval Raja, Chief General Manager of Senco Gold & Diamonds, shares, “As we are expanding our presence in the northern region this was the best time during the ongoing wedding celebrations, we are thrilled to present our latest collection of handcrafted jewelry in the city with the new store. With Bhelupur store we are now at 174 stores across India. Senco Gold & Diamonds continues to uphold its legacy of trust, craftsmanship, and excellence. This new store will offer an exquisite range of jewelry, from traditional favourites to modern designs, ensuring that every customer finds something special. We look forward to welcoming jewelry enthusiasts and providing them with a premium shopping experience”.
Expressing her excitement for the store’s launch, Actress Akshara Singh said, “I’m thrilled to be a part of Senco Gold & Diamonds’ new store launch in Varanasi. The city’s rich heritage and love for jewelry make it an ideal destination. I’m excited to witness the unveiling of their stunning collections. Senco Gold & Diamonds is synonymous with excellence and elegance. Their designs are a perfect blend of tradition and modernity, which will surely appeal to the people of Varanasi.”
Senco Gold & Diamonds has established itself as a trusted name in the jewelry industry, with a strong legacy of over eight decades. The brand continues to expand its footprint across India, offering intricately designed collections that blend tradition with modern aesthetics.
5, Mar 2025
Aster Medcity Offers Free Treatment for Lymphatic Filariasis at Dedicated Health Camp
Kochi, 05-03-2025: As part of World Lymphedema Day, Aster Medcity’s Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery is organizing Lymphatic Filariasis treatment camp from this month 5th to 12th. The camp offers a 50% discount on doctor consultations, and a 30% discount on Lymphedema related procedures.
5, Mar 2025
CaratLane Empowers Women to Shine with the WearYourWins Movement
5.03.2025 – Mumbai: CaratLane – A TATA Product, India’s leading omni-channel jewellery brand, reignited the spirit of its evocative movement #WearYourWins—just ahead of International Women’s Day. Building on the momentum of its widely acclaimed campaign, the brand is once again championing the power of self-recognition. It seeks to remind women of their forgotten wins—the deeply personal yet often overlooked victories that define their journeys.

To reinforce this message, CaratLane conducted its first-ever social experiment featuring three inspiring women—Gul, a teacher; Neha, a single mother, actor, and RJ; and Tarannum, a single mother and entrepreneur. It explored how women fail to acknowledge their own achievements, not recognising their own worth. Initially hesitant due to self-doubt, their perspectives shifted when their loved ones reminded them how their accomplishments had impacted them and the world around them. This powerful moment reinforced the #WearYourWins message—every win, big or small, deserves recognition.
To reach out to and inspire more women, CaratLane collaborated with renowned artists from UnErase Poetry, including Priya Malik and Sainee Raj, thus amplifying the message through compelling storytelling.
Shaifali Gautam, CMO – CaratLane, said, “Women often downplay their wins—only 30% of women celebrate their wins. That insight was too powerful to ignore! With #WearYourWins, we want to create a cultural shift, redefining self-celebration by encouraging women to honour their victories with jewellery. In the larger picture, this effort even aligns with our brand motto of Khul Ke Karo Express, helping women express their wins by rewarding themselves.”
5, Mar 2025
Arnesh Ghose Brings the Rich Tradition of Bengali Folk Music and Stories to Mumbai
Indiawide Release, 05 March 2025: To uphold the folk music roots of India, Arnesh Ghose, a multi-disciplinary artist, in collaboration with Mythopia, one of India’s leading organisations and authorities on Indian and world mythology, is bringing a memorable evening of Bengali folk music Baul to Mumbai. Celebrating the vivid colours of spring and the spirit of Holi, an evening filled with Bengali folk songs, and storytelling is awaiting on March 9th, 2025, at Mukti Manch in Versova.
India is a mosaic of cultures, and there have been many cultural legacies that remain underrepresented in the mainstream. Baul music is one of those untapped musical legacies that has inspired many who hailed from West Bengal, including the works of Rabindranath Tagore. The Baul songs are listed under UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Through the Bombay Baul Project, Ghose is attempting to introduce folk music hailing from Bengal to a metropolitan, young audience, helping them to stay connected with India’s cultural heritage. Arnesh, a writer and storyteller, has also been a trained Hindustani Classical singer, along with receiving training in Rabindrasangeet. From an early age, due to his visits to Shantiniketan, where he first absorbed the melodies, writings, and teachings, Arnesh has taken interest in its philosophy and music. Through the Bombay Baul Project, he wants Bengal’s folk experience to be celebrated by a wider audience. He aims to spread the message embedded in the music’s philosophy that different faiths and philosophies often convey the same truths.
Baul culture, with its roots in history dating back several thousand years, is a harmonious confluence of various philosophies and progressive spiritual movements. These wandering minstrels, often called bauls, spread the message of the philosophy that is a vibrant mix of Sufism, Vaishnav, Buddhist, and Tantric traditions.
Their hymns celebrate the spirit of being a human, divine longing, and the quest for enlightenment, centred on the search for moner manush (inner man). Their music, accompanied by ektara (a one-stringed instrument) and khomok (hand drum), reveres gods merely as a path to enlightenment and not an end itself.
5, Mar 2025
Simplifying Health Insurance Claims: Your Complete Guide to the Process
Navigating the health insurance claims process doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right knowledge and preparation, you can ensure a smooth, hassle-free experience while getting the support you need. Here’s a detailed, actionable guide to help you avoid common pitfalls and make the most of your health insurance policy. This article will give insights into pre-purchase and post-purchase stages, supported by the latest updates from the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI).
Setting the Foundation for a Smooth Claims Process
- Know Your Policy Inside Out: Before purchasing a health insurance policy, familiarise yourself with coverage details, waiting periods for specific illnesses or pre-existing conditions (PEDs), and cost-related limits like room rent caps.
- Additionally, review the IRDAI’s updated Customer Information Sheet (CIS) which provides a simplified, easy-to-read overview of these terms.
- Check Claim Settlement Ratios and Co-Payment Details: Always review the claim settlement ratio of the insurer to assess their track record in settling claims. Understand co-payment clauses, where a portion of the claim amount needs to be paid by the policyholder, to avoid surprises during claims.
- Look for No-Claim Bonus (NCB) Options: Opt for policies that offer a No-Claim Bonus, which rewards you with increased coverage for every claim-free year. This can be a valuable benefit when you don’t file a claim.
- Room Rent Limits: Choose policies with higher or no room rent limits to avoid out-of-pocket expenses for room upgrades during hospital stays. Understanding these limits at the pre-purchase stage helps prevent unexpected costs.
Ensuring a Smooth Claims Experience
- Opt for Network Hospitals for Cashless Claims: Choosing a network hospital significantly eases the claims process by enabling cashless treatment, where the insurer directly settles bills with the hospital. For emergency hospitalisations, notify the insurer or Third-Party Administrator (TPA) within 24 hours. For planned admissions, inform them at least two to three days in advance.
- Keep the Documentation Ready: Accurate and complete documentation is crucial for a successful claim. Ensure you collect and organise:
Doctor’s prescriptions
Lab test reports
Detailed hospital bills and discharge summaries For accident-related claims, precise documentation becomes even more critical to prevent delays or rejections. - Leverage Relationship Manager Support: Many insurers and brokers provide dedicated relationship managers who can assist with the claims process, including documentation and claim filing. Seek their guidance for faster and smoother resolutions.
- Be Transparent with Information: Always make full and honest disclosures when purchasing a policy and during claims. Concealing pre-existing conditions, family medical history, or past surgeries can lead to claim rejections. For example, a claim involving a condition linked to undisclosed health issues may fall under the pre-existing waiting period clause and be denied.
- Room Rent Compliance: Avoid choosing rooms beyond your policy’s room rent limits. Opting for higher-priced rooms can result in additional expenses for doctor fees and medicines. Always confirm your room eligibility with your insurer or broker.
- Get Cost Estimates and Advice for Planned Treatment: Before undergoing planned treatments, get cost estimates from multiple hospitals and consult your insurer or broker to select one that aligns with your policy coverage. This helps minimise out-of-pocket expenses and avoids disputes with insurers over charges deemed unreasonable.
- Avoid Unnecessary Hospitalisation: Ensure outpatient care is not wrongly converted into in-patient hospitalisation. For genuine cases, gather supporting proof like diagnostic reports and doctor’s certificates to validate your claim.
- Stay Updated with Digital Tools and Technological Advancements: Embrace the digital features offered by insurers, such as mobile apps for claim filing and status tracking. These tools provide a faster and more transparent claims experience.
- Seek Assistance When in Doubt: If you face challenges during the claims process, contact your insurer’s helpline or customer service. Unresolved issues can be escalated to the insurance ombudsman for resolution.