Author: Rabindra

Inauguration of Tobacco Cessation Centre at Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital & Research Centre

Pune, 30th Sep 2024: The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) marked a significant milestone in the fight against tobacco consumption with the nationwide inauguration of Tobacco Cessation Centres (TCC) across all the medical colleges in India. The centres were inaugurated virtually by the Hon’ble Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Shri. Jagat Prakash Nadda, as part of the National Tobacco Control Program’s Tobacco Free Youth Campaign 2.0 (TFYC 2.0). TCC aims to provide accessible professional assistance to tobacco users who wish to quit.

Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital & Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune is proud to be part of this noble initiative. The Tobacco Cessation Centre at the institution, coordinated by the Department of Community Medicine along with Dept. of Psychiatry, was officially inaugurated on September 24, 2024, in line with the nationwide inauguration.

This initiative, which began in 2018 with the introduction of Tobacco Cessation Centres in dental colleges, has now expanded to include medical institutions, reinforcing the government’s commitment to public health and tobacco control. As per the guidelines, these centres will provide primary, secondary and tertiary prevention services to patients and their relatives, who may wish to quit tobacco but are unsure of how or where to start. This program ensures that anyone visiting a medical facility, whether for treatment or accompanying a patient, can access professional guidance and follow-up services to aid them in their journey to quit tobacco.

Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital & Research Centre has always prioritized giving back to society, a sentiment echoed by Dr. Yashraj Patil, Trustee and Treasure of Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Pimpri, Pune. “At our institution we have always believed in the importance of social responsibility. Our involvement in the National Tobacco Cessation Centre initiative is just one example of how we aim to positively impact the health of our communities. We are committed to providing accessible healthcare services and awareness programs to improve the overall well-being of society. This initiative is a crucial step towards a tobacco-free future and we are honored to be part of it.”

Dr. J. S. Bhawalkar, Dean, Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital & Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune, said, “This initiative by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare aligns perfectly with our vision to serve society and promote public health. Establishing Tobacco Cessation Centres in medical colleges across the nation will provide those in need with easy access to professional help, ensuring they receive the care, guidance and support required to overcome their tobacco addiction.”

Dr. Hetal Rathod, Professor and Head, Dept. of Community Medicine, Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital & Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune, said “At our institution, we are committed to leveraging our resources and expertise in community medicine to guide individuals through their journey to quit tobacco. This initiative will not only provide professional support but also empower people with the knowledge and tools to lead healthier lives. We are proud to be part of this transformative effort for the betterment of public health.”

Dr. Kavita Vishwakarma, Assistant Professor, Dept. of Community Medicine, Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital & Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune, stated, “At Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College, we are committed to playing a proactive role in reducing tobacco usage by offering specialized Tobacco cessation services. With the newly inaugurated center, our goal is to guide individuals—whether patients or visitors—through a comprehensive quitting process, offering professional support at every step of the way. This initiative aligns with the national effort to curb tobacco-related diseases and we believe that by providing accessible resources, counselling services and follow-up care, we can significantly contribute to reducing tobacco dependency. Our mission is to not only treat patients but also to educate and empower them to make healthier lifestyle choices.”

Dr. Suprakash Chaudhury, Professor & HOD Department of Psychiatry, Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital & Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune, said, “Tobacco addiction is both a physical and psychological challenge, and the establishment of Tobacco Cessation Centres within medical colleges is a crucial step in addressing this issue comprehensively. We are dedicated to providing evidence-based treatments and personalized counselling that address the mental and emotional aspects of quitting. Our aim is to offer continuous support to those seeking to break free from tobacco, helping them reclaim their health and well-being.”

This initiative aims to reach communities through community awareness campaigns and educational initiatives to prevent first-time exposure to tobacco, especially among young people. The government has mandated social media influencers also to become part of TFYC 2.0 and thus play a significant role in raising awareness among youths.

Celebrate the Festive Season with the OPPO Reno12 Pro 5G Manish Malhotra Edition: A Tribute to India’s Rich Cultural Heritage

New Delhi, 30th September 2024: This festive season, OPPO India unveils the OPPO Reno12 Pro 5G Manish Malhotra Limited Edition, the perfect smartphone to celebrate India’s vibrant culture and traditions. Inspired by Manish Malhotra’s iconic World Collection, this special edition reflects the opulence of Indian design heritage through intricate gold filigree and floral embroidery over an elegant black backdrop.

The fusion of OPPO’s innovative material design with Malhotra’s signature motifs brings together luxury and craftsmanship in a stunning celebration of India’s festive spirit.

The smartphone’s body graphics draws from India’s rich artistic traditions, notably the floral motifs of Mughal art and the intricate embroidery techniques from regions like Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh. Patterns inspired by Zardozi and Parsi Gara embroidery in the black and gold colour palette embody elegance, sophistication, and prosperity – key elements in Indian celebrations. While black represents timeless beauty and versatility, gold symbolises luxury and grandeur, evoking the opulence and festivity associated with Indian celebrations.

This combination not only enhances the OPPO Reno12 Pro 5G’s visual appeal but also mirrors the regality of traditional Indian attire to make it the perfect companion for the festive season.

Savio D’Souza, Head of Product Communications at OPPO India, shared, “We are excited to introduce the OPPO Reno12 Pro 5G Manish Malhotra Limited Edition that blends functionality with aesthetics. This collaboration merges Manish Malhotra’s craftsmanship with OPPO’s advanced technology to deliver a product that is stylish, unforgettable and deeply resonates with our target audience.”

To create the Manish Malhotra Limited Edition Reno12 Pro 5G, OPPO combined its cutting-edge technology in material science with intricate artistry. OPPO used advanced double etching and annealing—a high-precision heat treatment process—to achieve a rich contrast between the gold filigree and the black background. This process allows for vibrant colours, finer detailing, and a smooth, flawless surface that showcases the floral motifs. The intricate patterned annealing process—a complex and high-cost technique—ensures the lines of the design remain continuous and uninterrupted. This is achieved through multiple rounds of optimisation, including adjustments to screen material, ink viscosity, and screen-printing parameters.

Manish Malhotra, sharing his excitement about the association, said, “I have always endeavoured to fuse tradition and opulence, and this collaboration with OPPO India captures that vision perfectly. The OPPO Reno12 Pro Limited Edition melds my passion for intricate detailing with the fine craftsmanship that OPPO brings to the table. With its luxurious design, this phone is the perfect companion for the festive season, combining beauty, elegance, and celebration. Together, we have created something that looks beautiful and feels luxurious to hold and flaunt.”

The Manish Malhotra edition goes beyond the standard design; it utilises an eight-layer process—compared to the usual six-layer construction of a Reno back—which includes two layers of plating (one for the gold and the other for the black) along with UV texturing, CounterPoint Screen Printing, and Stereo Etched Glass. This meticulous attention to detail elevates the design and makes the OPPO Reno12 Pro 5G a true masterpiece that embodies luxury and craftsmanship to celebrate the festive season in style.

TeamLease Services Reports 64% Workforce Expansion in India’s Travel and Hospitality Sector

Bengaluru, 30 September, 2024: India’s Travel and Hospitality sector is experiencing an unprecedented resurgence, spurred by a combination of rising air travel, religious tourism, and evolving consumer preferences for personalized, tech-driven experiences. According to TeamLease Services’ Employment Outlook Report (EOR) for H1 FY25, 64% of employers in the Travel and Hospitality industry are expanding their workforce as they adapt to growing demand, while 19% report reductions and 17% indicate no change in workforce size. This resurgence reflects a broader industry recovery, with the sector projected to grow by 8-10% annually.

This renewed hiring momentum is further fueled by tech-enabled services such as ghost kitchens, AI-driven personalized guest experiences, and expanding domestic travel. As a result, Travel and Hospitality has seen a net employment change of 9.86%, marking a significant rebound compared to previous years. The sector’s growth is being driven by adaptive strategies like off-season travel incentives and premium travel experiences.

Mr. Kartik Narayan, CEO- Staffing, TeamLease Services, remarked, “India’s travel and hospitality sector is at the cusp of unprecedented growth. The rising demand for premium travel experiences, coupled with innovations in technology, is creating a catalytic impact on how the industry operates. As more travelers embrace digital platforms, companies are focusing on roles that enhance customer experience, positioning the sector as a major employment generator in the coming years. We are committed to offering workforce solutions that align with this evolving landscape, enabling companies to meet the growing demand while driving job creation.”

The workforce expansion is especially prominent in key cities. Delhi leads the way with 58% of employers actively hiring, followed by Mumbai at 57% and Bengaluru at 55% in existing job locations. New hiring hotspots include Bengaluru at 16%, with Pune and Chennai at 12% each for emerging job markets. These cities are seeing robust hiring activity, driven by increased travel demand and the expansion of travel infrastructure.

Sales roles are at the forefront of this hiring boom, with 82% of employers prioritizing these positions in the Travel and Hospitality sector. Marketing roles also remain crucial, with 44% of employers focusing on digital and offline promotion efforts to capture new market opportunities. Additionally, as gig work participation is expected to increase to 15-20% by the end of 2025, there’s a growing reliance on seasonal hires, with a 25-30% increase in seasonal hiring projected during peak travel periods.

Mr. Balasubramanian A, SVP and Business Head at TeamLease Services, stated, “The Indian travel industry is entering an exciting phase of growth, driven by innovations in air travel, religious tourism, and the rising popularity of solo travel. Our data shows that employers are ramping up their hiring efforts, particularly in customer service, sales, and operations roles, which are set to account for 30-40% of new jobs over the next year. This hiring uptick aligns with the sector’s anticipated growth trajectory, and with government initiatives like UDAN making air travel more accessible, we expect even more roles in airlines, airports, and related travel services.”

Furthermore, religious tourism is set to be a major growth driver, with faith-based travel becoming increasingly popular across regions. Solo travel is also contributing to this hiring boom, particularly for personalized tech-driven experiences, leading to an increase in roles centered on digital marketing, data analytics, and AI-driven platforms.

As the Travel and Hospitality sector continues its growth trajectory, TeamLease Services remains committed to providing industry insights and staffing solutions, helping businesses navigate the complexities of this rapidly evolving market and meet the demands of modern travelers.

Bajaj Finserv donates Rs. 2 crore to Wayanad Landslide Relief

Hyderabad, September 30, 2024: Bajaj Finserv Ltd., one of India’s leading and most diversified financial services groups, today donated Rs. 2 crore in support of communities impacted by the recent tragic landslides and floods in Wayanad.

An online contribution to the Kerala State Disaster Mitigation Fund for Wayanad Landslide Relief was made ahead of a meeting of the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Kerala, Shri Pinarayi Vijayan with Dr. N Srinivasa Rao, Chief Economist & President – Corporate Affairs, Bajaj Finserv Ltd., and Mr. Anil PM, Senior President, Legal & Compliance, Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance.

Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance and Bajaj Allianz General Insurance have been expediting the processing of all claims filed by customers impacted in Wayanad.

Bajaj Finance, the lending arm of Bajaj Finserv, had declared suo-moto a moratorium on all loan repayments for customers from Wayanad, as a goodwill and humanitarian gesture. The ongoing moratorium is applicable for customers living in Punjirimattom, Mundakkal, Chooralmala, Attamala, Meppadi and Kunhome villages in Wayanad.

Dr. N Srinivasa Rao, Chief Economist & President, Bajaj Finserv, said, “Our social impact programmes are focussed on addressing the most pressing needs of society. The Wayanad landslide has swept away homes, lives and livelihoods of residents. With this contribution to Wayanad relief fund and various initiatives taken up by Bajaj Finserv companies, we hope to provide meaningful support to those impacted.”

Daisy Shah, Kanika Mann, Helly Shah, Tina Datta Among Others Attend the Success Bash with Hungama Digital Media

Hungama Digital Media, one of the most popular digital entertainment companies, celebrated the success of its streaming service Hungama OTT with an exclusive success party. The event assembled the biggest names from the entertainment world including Daisy Shah, Kanika Mann, Helly Shah, Tina Datta, Nyra Banerjee, Ali Gony, Yukti Kapoor, Krissann Barretto, Rohan Mehra, Karan Sharma, Aabhaas Mehta, Monalisa, Shilpa Tulaskar, Himanshu Malhotra, Shaleen, Rohit Khandelwal, Sanam Johar and Abigail, amongst others. Held in the evening of September 25, an exciting slate of new web series for the coming weeks were also unveiled at the event.

Hungama OTT has captivated audiences with its diverse range of original shows, films, and music. The upcoming content lineup promises to continue this trend, offering viewers an engaging mix of genres. The platform will offer something to cater to every taste, from gripping dramas to heartwarming comedies and everything in between. Its latest lineup includes highly anticipated shows such as Red Room, a suspense-filled drama where danger lurks around every corner; Personal Trainer, a fitness-themed drama with a comedic twist; Checkmate, a crime thriller with shocking cliffhangers; Mona Ki Manohar Kahaaniyan, an anthology of quirky and heartwarming tales centred around the lives of ordinary people; after a resounding success with its first season, Hasratein 2; Ratri Ke Yatri 3, one of the most loved shows of anthology of the platform; Khadaan, a mystery set in a coal mining village; and Pyramid, set against the backdrop of a cryptocurrency exchange.

Veteran actress Shabana Azmi stays at Radisson Blu Pune Hinjawadi on her visit to Pune

Pune, September 2024— The renowned Radisson Blu Pune Hinjawadi once again solidified its status as the premier destination for luxury and comfort, welcoming legendary Bollywood actress Shabana Azmi during her recent visit to the city. Known for its unparalleled service, contemporary design, and lavish amenities, the hotel is a preferred choice among celebrities and high-profile guests.

 Joining Ms. Azmi at the property was acclaimed actor Kanwaljit Singh, adding to the hotel’s reputation as the go-to destination for elite guests visiting Pune. The presence of both stars underscores Radisson Blu Pune Hinjawadi’s growing appeal within the celebrity circuit.

 On her stay at Radisson Blu Hinjewadi- Ms Azmi said, “I had a truly wonderful experience at Radisson Blu Pune Hinjawadi. The warmth and hospitality of the staff made me feel like home. Every detail was thoughtfully taken care of, and I was deeply touched by their impeccable service. Everything was class apart and the team had given attention to detail in arranging everything for me. It’s rare to find such a perfect blend of comfort and personal attention. I am very happy with my stay at Radisson Blu Hinjawadi and I wish more and more success to this wonderful team.”

 “We are deeply honored to host Ms. Shabana Azmi and Mr. Kanwaljit Singh. Their stay is a testament to our dedication to delivering exceptional hospitality and a truly luxurious experience,” said Mr. Amit Raman, General Manager, Radisson Blu Pune HInjawadi.

 Located in Pune’s thriving IT hub, the hotel offers an impressive range of services, including spacious, elegantly furnished rooms, gourmet dining experiences, a rooftop pool with stunning city views, and a rejuvenating full-service spa. With its commitment to excellence, Radisson Blu Pune Hinjawadi continues to set the benchmark for luxury hospitality in Pune.

International Clown Festival in Mangalore from 4th to 6th Oct

Mangalore, September 30, 2024: The International Clown Festival is here! Prepare for a fantastic time filled with laughter and entertainment from a stellar lineup of award-winning clowns. Enjoy interactive performances, engaging workshops, and a variety of activities designed to delight audiences of all ages. A theatre show with 25 Clowns from 10 Countries and 120 minutes of non-stop laughter, comedy, juggling and music, the International Clown Festival will be held between 04th October to 06th October, 2024 at Father Muller Convention Center, Mangalore, with daily shows at 11AM, 3PM and 7PM.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the International Clown Festival, celebrating a decade of spreading joy and laughter to audiences worldwide. Over the past ten years, the festival has grown into a beloved event, showcasing the best of international clowning across the country. The festival is curated and produced by Martin Flubber D’Souza, an award-winning international clown, former Vice President of the World Clown Association, and the recipient of the International Clown of the Year award. Flubber has performed on the biggest stages across 7 countries and now brings his wealth of international entertainment experience to your city. “Clowning is far more than just makeup and costumes; it involves a high level of skill and practice, which the professional clowns performing at this festival have developed over years of dedication. We hope that our characters can bring as much happiness and delight to your lives as they do to ours,” says Martin Flubber D’Souza, also known for his beloved clown persona, Flubber.

The International Clown Festival aims to make the world a better place by bringing people together through family-friendly live entertainment. The festival’s mission is to create joyous, shared experiences for families. The vision is to spread happiness, one family at a time. This year’s event proudly features 10 talented female clowns, highlighting the festival’s commitment to celebrating women’s contributions to the arts.

The International Clown Festival is an annual festival that aims to showcase the art of clowning while providing a fun and engaging experience for attendees of all ages. It is a gathering of International Clowns from across the Globe: USA, Canada, Brazil, Peru, Argentina, Italy, France, Germany, Russia, Spain and India. Over 100 shows, each bringing their unique culture to the stage, this year’s festival promises to be bigger, better, and more entertaining than ever before. Get ready to laugh, be amazed, and rediscover the magic of live entertainment. Don’t miss out on the fun – book your tickets early and secure your spot at this one-of-a-kind event!

Nourishing Choices For Women Suffering From PCOS

By-Dr. Kavitha Kovi, Head of Department – Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Aster Women & Children Hospital, Bengaluru

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex hormonal disorder that affects millions of women worldwide, causing a myriad of symptoms like irregular menstrual cycles and weight gain along with insulin resistance. A woman suffering from PCOS may sometimes feel terribly overwhelmed, but some simple and thoughtful dietary changes can greatly assist in improving the symptoms as well as the overall health of women. Understanding the connection between a balanced diet and hormones can empower women to make informed choices. Here are six effective dietary changes to consider.

1. More Whole Foods – Consuming unprocessed whole foods like fresh fruits, colourful vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help level blood sugars. Nutritionally-dense food sources also offer added support of vitamins and minerals, improving hormonal balance. They are often packed with antioxidants to help combat oxidative stress which is another common threat among people suffering from PCOS. A diet abundant in whole foods also has another benefit – maintaining a healthy weight becomes less of a chore and people start feeling more energetic and in control.

2. Increase fiber consumption – Fiber-rich foods like legumes, nuts, seeds, and whole grains can bring about a positive difference in the body. Fiber helps your intestines digest food in addition to keeping the insulin levels within normal range. It also helps in slowing down carbohydrate uptake of an individual and reduce blood sugar spikes. Food products with higher fiber is associated with a sense of fullness, allowing people to feel satisfied and consequently eat less. Incorporation of different such foods in the diet can further support gut health and ensure general well-being of women as well.

3. Choose Healthy Fats – Healthy fats such as avocados, olive oil, and fatty fish when added in meals can provide people with great advantages. Healthy fats help to reduce inflammation which is also a common issue in women suffering from PCOS. They are also positively associated with hormone production and the health of cells. Including a variety of sources of fat such as nuts and seeds will help to provide essential fatty acids for proper body function, enabling a woman to feel her best.

4. Low Consumption of Carbohydrates and Sugar – Refraining from consuming high refined carbs and sugar has been studied to be a very effective approach. Foods such as white flour bread, cakes or confections, and simple sugar tempts promote insulin sensitivity as well as obesity. On the contrary, complex carbs like quinoa and sweet potatoes are healthier alternatives that curtail any energy dips during the day and keep people active. Whole wheat diets, beans and other sources of whole grains and legumes contain very less amount of refined sugar, thus forming a better nutritional profile.

5. Emphasize Protein – One practice is to incorporate lean sources of protein like chicken, fish, paneer or legumes at each meal since these foods can stabilize blood sugar levels and invoke satiety levels. This is very helpful for women who are concerned about their weight and have PCOS. Protein plays an additional role in tissue repair, building the muscle content and ensuring a healthy metabolic function.

6. Stay Hydrated – Ample amount of water intake is perhaps one of the most essential components to ensure optimum health. Hydration benefits gut digestion and reduces cravings, supporting metabolic functions. Herbal teas can also be a soothing addition to everyday routines, providing warmth and flavor. Hydration can also improve skin health, especially important for women with PCOS, or even improve energy levels and cognitive function that may heighten alertness and engagement in daily life.

Celebrate the Extended Weekends and Festive Season with Rosetta

As the festive season and extended weekends approach, Rosetta invites guests to indulge in the perfect blend of luxury and nature at its premier destinations—Rosetta Sakleshpur and Elements by Rosetta Goa.

Rosetta Sakleshpur, located in the heart of the Western Ghats in Sakleshpur, Karnataka, offers a serene escape amidst 100 acres of lush coffee plantations. Ideal for families, couples, and nature enthusiasts, the resort features 100 elegantly designed rooms. Guests can enjoy a rejuvenating experience with world-class amenities, wellness treatments, nature trails, and plantation tours in tranquil surroundings.

For those seeking a coastal getaway, Elements by Rosetta Goa is situated in the picturesque North Goa, offering a perfect fusion of beachside relaxation and festive celebrations. With upscale accommodations, the resort provides exquisite dining experiences, access to pristine beaches, and a luxurious, laid-back retreat. Visitors can savour Goan and Mangalorean culinary delights, unwind by the pool, or immerse themselves in the vibrant festive atmosphere.

Whether looking for a peaceful escape to the Western Ghats or a tropical experience on Goa’s coastline, Rosetta Sakleshpur and Elements by Rosetta Goa promise unforgettable holiday memories this festive season.