Category Archives: News

NSDC CEO Ved Mani Tiwari Emphasizes Ethical Migration Powered by Skilling Initiatives

Mumbai, Feb 17, 2025: The youths and job seekers should avoid illegal migration routes, commonly referred as “donkey routes” for seeking opportunities in foreign countries and instead leverage NSDC International’s skilling initiatives for ethical migration, said, NSDC CEO and NSDC International MD Shri Ved Mani Tiwari.

In a message to the youths of India, Shri Tiwari emphasised on the process of ethical migration, and shared with media personnel here, how NSDC International with support of the central government has been developing pathways in collaboration with international governments in streamlining the migration process, as global market has lots of opportunities for skilled Indian youths.

“The world values skilled professionals, and with the right training, certifications, and ethical migration, the youths of India can build sustainable and long-term careers abroad. Taking illegal migration route is not only dangerous but also puts lives at risk. The youths can enrol themselves in skilling programs of NSDC International, which offer skilling programs and courses that are in demand in the global market,” Shri Tiwari said.

He said skill assessment centres have been set up for 100 trades across the country. “So effectively, anybody who believes that the person in the job is ready to go to Israel or Japan or Germany, they can simply present themselves to these assessment centres… we can provide a list of these assessment centres where their skills will be assessed and certified, and this is that they can apply for work visa also,” Shri Tiwari said.

He highlighted that NSDC International has been actively collaborating with international governments to create structured job opportunities for Indian youth. Recognizing India’s skilled workforce, several countries have approached NSDC International with employment opportunities. Israel has asked for 5,000 healthcare workers, an indication of demand for Indiana abroad. On similar lines, Germany and Japan continue to seek trained healthcare professionals.

To increase global employability, NSDC International is setting up global language labs offering training in Russian, Italian, Korean, and French languages. The initiative aims to break language barriers and increase the chances of Indian candidates, securing high-paying jobs overseas.

Shri Tiwari also said that NSDC is going to open 10 new international academies to empower youth in foreign languages and soft skills.

Since its inception in October 2021, NSDC International has created 88,924 overseas job opportunities across 22 countries. Through strategic collaborations with international governments and organizations, over 64,000 skilled Indian candidates have been successfully placed in countries, including in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations, Japan, and the United Kingdom.

It has facilitated training and job placements across 19 industries, focusing on key sectors such as construction, mechanical, electrical & plumbing (MEP), and facility management.

“Skill yourself, choose the right path, and embrace global opportunities through ethical means. The future belongs to those who are prepared—let’s work together to shape a brighter tomorrow,” he concluded.

He said Isreal has asked for 20,000 skilled construction workers last year from India, besides the demand from the nation for 5,000 care workers.

He, further explained, about the enormous opportunities coming in the caregiving sector from across the globe, and NSDC International is in touch with agencies of foreign governments to inculcate right skills among the youths of our country to make them eligible for employment. “We believe that close to a lakh care-workers will start getting deployed (annually) in various parts of the world in about two years,” the NSDC CEO shared.

Describing it as an outcome of India’s soft diplomacy, he said, “Our care workers will be providing care and support to aging populations across the world.”

Shri Tiwari assured that NSDC International is working tirelessly to expand global employment avenues, ensuring a bright and prosperous future for India’s skilled workforce.

MEAI Hyderabad Chapter Hosts Insightful National Conference on Path to Atmanirbhar Bharat 2047 Through Mining

Hyderabad, February 17, 2025: The Mining Engineers’ Association of India (MEAI), Hyderabad Chapter successfully hosted the first day of a two-day National Conference on the theme “Mining the Marvels: Way Forward Towards Atmanirbhar Viksit Bharat 2047.” The event brought together industry leaders, policymakers and experts to deliberate on the future of the mining sector and its role in India’s journey towards self-reliance.

 The inaugural session was graced by Shri Amitava Mukherjee, Chairman-Cum-Managing Director (Additional Charge), NMDC Ltd., as the Chief Guest. Other distinguished guests included Shri D.B. Sundara Ramam, Vice President – I, MEAI & Vice President, Tata Steel; Shri Dr. N.K. Nanda, Former CMD (Additional Charge) & Director (Technical), NMDC Ltd.; Shri B. Veera Reddy, Former Director (Technical), CIL & Former CMD, CCL; G Dhananjaya Reddy, Vice President II, MEAI and Shri Joydeep Dasgupta, Director (Production), NMDC Ltd. The event was presided over by Shri Vinay Kumar, Director (Technical), NMDC Ltd. and Chairman, MEAI Hyderabad Chapter.

 Delivering the keynote address on the theme of the seminar, Shri Amitava Mukherjee, CMD (Addl. Charge), NMDC, said, “The role of mining in national development is crucial. He spoke about how the mining industry can bring social and economic impact in the communities. He emphasized the challenges of attracting young talent due to the remote nature of mining operations and urged MEAI to encourage students and professionals to consider careers in mining. Shri Amitava Mukherjee also highlighted NMDC’s commitment to Responsible Mining and spreading smiles through its community initiatives, setting industry standards as a leader in sustainable mining practices. He also resonated that it would be imperative to have a long term perspective to gain significant goals in the mining industry as it takes more than a decade, globally, to set up and generate thought-provoking revenues. Shri Mukherjee addressed policy challenges including India’s 100th ranking on the Fraser Index and the need for smoother policies to attract foreign direct investment. He stressed the importance of supporting local mining corporations to lower administrative costs and enhance resource utilization. Concluding his speech, he praised GoI’s ongoing efforts to improve exploration in critical minerals and technological advancements in mining, emphasizing the need for sustainability and innovation in the industry.”

 Shri Vinay Kumar, Director (Technical), NMDC Ltd. and Chairman, MEAI Hyderabad Chapter, in his inaugural address, set the tone for the conference by outlining the progress made in India’s mining sector over the past decade. He provided insights into the current status of mining block allocations and how expedited processes are boosting productivity. He highlighted the role of AI-driven database management in improving exploration efficiency and discussed government initiatives aimed at fostering startups and private sector participation. Shri Vinay Kumar, also emphasized the employment potential of the mining industry, stating that it currently engages around 1.3 million professionals and has the potential to generate an additional 1.5 million jobs by 2047. He reaffirmed NMDC’s commitment to responsible mining and its strategic partnerships aimed at achieving 100 MTPA as part of the vision for Atmanirbhar Viksit Bharat 2047.

Shri B. Veera Reddy, Former Director (Technical), CIL & Former CMD, CCL emphasized the urgent need to accelerate mineral exploration in India, citing how the country lags behind global mining leaders. He advocated for AI-driven data analysis and machine learning to improve exploration planning and highlighted the necessity of a single-window approval system to streamline administrative processes.

 Shri D.B. Sundara Ramam, Vice President – I , MEAI & & Vice President, Tata Steel commended NMDC for instituting the NMDC CMD Excellence Award and spoke on the need for deep-sea exploration and self-reliance in critical minerals. He stressed the importance of policies that enhance domestic mining while encouraging low-carbon mining and increased scrap utilization for sustainability.

 The conference also featured technical sessions with expert presentations from academia and industry, focusing on key advancements in mining technologies, policy frameworks, and sustainability initiatives. Additionally, an exhibition featuring leading mining and steel companies, including NMDC, AN/MS, JSW, and NMDC Steel was organized alongside the conference.

 The MEAI Hyderabad Chapter also recognized the contributions of stalwarts in the mining sector on the first day of the event by honoring Shri B. Veera Reddy, Former Director (Technical), Coal India Limited, Kolkata and Former CMD, Central Coalfields Limited, Ranchi, Shri V. Laxminarayana, Dy. Director General, DGMS, Dr. N.K. Nanda, Former CMD(Additional Charge) and Director Technical, NMDC, Shri B. Surender Mohan, Former CMD, NLC India Limited, Er. K J Amarnath, Former CGM, SCCL and Shri M. Fasihuddin, Resident Director, Tata Steel Mines, for their invaluable service to the industry.

 The first day concluded with insightful discussions on the road ahead for India’s mining sector, reinforcing the industry’s role in national progress. The conference will continue on February 15 with further deliberations on critical aspects of mining innovation, policy, and sustainability.

St. Xavier’s High School Commemorates Swami Vivekananda Through Powerful Annual Day Performance

St. Xavier’s High School, Ghaziabad, celebrated its much-anticipated Annual Day 2025 with grandeur on 15th February 2025. Themed “The Guru to the World: Swami Vivekananda”, the event gathered over 1,200 attendees, highlighting the life and teachings of Swami Vivekananda through a spectacular stage production.

The event was graced by Chief Guest Mahamedhaa Nagar, Spokesperson BJP UP and DUSU Secretary 2017, who commended the school for its efforts in promoting cultural and intellectual enrichment.

The theatrical presentation explored Swami Vivekanand’s journey from childhood to becoming one of India’s most influential spiritual leaders, offering a profound message of spiritual awakening, self-confidence, and national pride. Under the team of teachers and staff, the play’s production took 3 months of ideation, playwriting, and auditions, followed by a month of intensive rehearsals, all while maintaining the students’ regular academic schedule.

With a cast and crew of over 400, the play was a testament to in-house direction, scriptwriting, choreography, and live music playback, making it an immersive and emotionally charged experience. The audience was deeply moved by the passionate performances, intricate stage design, and soulful musical renditions, all of which combined to make the production truly unforgettable.

Ms. Sudha Murugkar, Principal of St. Xavier’s High School, Ghaziabad, said, “The play was a beautiful fusion of history, culture, and talent. We are incredibly proud of our students for their dedication to bringing this important story to the stage. Swami Vivekananda’s vision continues to inspire and challenge us to strive for greatness in all that we do, and it’s heartening to see our students embrace these ideals.”

The Annual Day celebrations served as a perfect blend of cultural heritage, artistic brilliance, and educational excellence, leaving parents, teachers, and the larger community inspired. As St. Xavier’s High School concluded its annual day on a successful note, the event reaffirmed its vision of providing education to students that encompasses the development of the whole individual: academic, aesthetic, creative, social, physical, emotional and spiritual.

Dietary Suggestions For Managing Anxiety and Sleeplessness During The Exams

By-Dr Payel Kumar Roy, Chief Dietician & Critical Care Nutritionist Techno India DAMA Hospital

Confidence during exams,one should focus on a diet rich in whole grains, lean protein, healthy fats, fruits, and vegetables, prioritizing foods like: whole oats, berries, fatty fish (salmon), nuts, eggs, leafy greens, yogurt, and avocado as they provide sustained energy, essential nutrients, and antioxidants to support brain function and focus.

Key components of an exam-boosting diet:

i. Complex carbohydrates:

ii. Whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, whole wheat bread

iii. Oats

iv. Sweet potato

v. Lean protein:

vi. Fish (salmon, tuna, mackerel)

vii. Chicken breast

viii. Eggs

ix. Tofu

x. Lentils

xi. Healthy fats:

xii. Avocados

xiii. Nuts (walnuts, almonds)

xiv. Seeds (chia, flaxseed)

xv. Olive oil

xvi. Fruits and vegetables:

xvii. Berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)

xviii. Citrus fruits (orange, grapefruit)

xix. Leafy greens (spinach, kale)

xx. Broccoli

xxi. Bell peppers are included into

Important considerations

I. During exam time, one should have foods that are brain-healthy, provide energy, and helps to focus.

II. Brain-healthy foods

III. Eggs

IV. Contain choline, which is important for brain function

V. Leafy greens

VI. Contain vitamins that can improve alertness and memory

VII. Berries

VIII. Contain anthocyanins, which may help promote academic performance

IX. Nuts

X. Contain vitamin E and zinc, which can help with cognitive functioning

Other Important Suggestions

i. Stay hydrated

ii. Avoid excess sugar, salt, processed foods, and aerated drinks

iii. Eat small & frequent meals that are easy to digest

iv. Eat high-fiber foods to prevent indigestion and bloating.

From Panic to Peace: Simple Ways to Alleviate Exam Anxiety

By-Ms Pragya Priya Mandal, Counseling Psychologist, Monoshij – A Mental Health Unit Of Techno India Group

With exam season round the corner, how small weekend activities/small outings can help their kids reduce exam anxiety.

One vital piece of knowledge that has been kept in the dark for long is the dangers of overlearning. While learning and repeated rehearsal can strengthen synaptic connections, overdoing it leads to synaptic saturation- meaning, further learning will not only fail to strengthen neural circuits, it will actually weaken the person’s ability to recall the learnt material. If our memory can be thought of as a box filtering necessary information into it, overlearning clogs the filter.

Therefore, as correctly guessed, taking breaks is indeed the way out. Short weekend outings after days of studying can actually help relieve stress. The breaks and times spent experiencing fun with family and friends lowers levels of stress hormone and gives a boost to the secretion of happy hormones! And that lays the foundation for better focus and a calmer mind, enhancing more active learning- exactly what a student needs before an examination.

Imagine having to constantly study with nothing else to do for days on end- no TV, no storybooks, no phone calls, no interruptions from family and relatives. Waking up and sleeping to text-books alone. All it will lead to is mental fatigue, anxiety, and inevitably, a setting sense of dullness in a person.

Outings and family time function like a reset button for the mind, boosting alertness and a spark of motivation. In fact, it is also during these breaks that memory consolidation happens- meaning that if newly learnt material is like wet cement, breaks allow it to harden and preserve the imprint, securing it in long-term memory.

Sleeping after a period of study is known to be highly beneficial when it comes to memory consolidation and also one of the most effective antidotes to anxiety.

The best ways to utilise breaks in between studies could include having a hearty conversation with best-friend, laughing wholeheartedly, stretching, doing light yoga, taking short walks or dancing to one’s favourite tunes.

For the little readers and writers out there, journaling one’s heart, hurling out all worries on the pages and light reading fiction novels are just as helpful to bring oneself back to focusing on the endless series of chapters.

Signs OF exam anxiety & How to balance motivation and relaxation?

Coming to the role of parents. Encouraging the students to study harder, be that through affection or strictness, it is just as crucial to watch out for the key indicators of anxiety and mental fatigue. Youngsters, before exams, might be found to get easily irritable or suddenly fall silent, keep uttering “I’ll probably fail” from time to time, or may be experiencing bouts of crying.

Some are seen to withdraw from people altogether or show a tendency to avoid studying. Others resort to binge-eating food to battle the anxiety or fall ill right before exams- clear signs of anxiety and burnout. Several students complain about difficulties falling asleep or constantly feeling sleepy and dizzy. Naturally so, since exams and the pressure to score well consume their waking and sleeping thoughts.

In times like that, the solution is to balance it out- motivate them but also encourage taking breaks. The worst possible poison is pulling an all-nighter the day before the paper. Using the popular POMODORO technique to study, mixing different subjects instead of sticking to the same one all day, and integrating breaks with creative outlets can help dial down the anxiety and fatigue.

It can help the child if the parent surprises them with movie tickets, asking to go out together for grocery shopping or to the mall, taking mindless TV breaks together, or a quick trip about two weeks before the final day crashes in. It is also essential to ensure that they are getting adequate sleep and healthy meals, especially the night before examination.

Parents can actively take part in disengaging their children from hours of learning. They can call the kids over for a chitchat, remind them to take water-breaks from time to time, praise the efforts throughout the process and resist every external pressure to be the ‘victorious competitive cousin’ in the clan- more than enough for starters.

This is no ‘Alice In Borderland’ where it’s a ‘game over’ unless they win it; one can relax. It is rather the need of the hour to ensure that their young ones feel reassured. Before the exam, showing a bit of faith in them, perhaps with a loving pep-talk, without attaching it to a high percentage goal can actually give them the needed boost in confidence.

Swan Defence and Heavy Industries Achieve Early Completion of 2nd Indian Coast Guard Vessel Refit

Mumbai, 15th February 2025: Swan Defence and Heavy Industries Limited (“SDHI”), a key private player in commercial & defence shipbuilding, ship repairs, and heavy fabrication in India, has successfully completed the refit of the Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) SAJAG, an Offshore Patrol Vessel, ahead of schedule. This marks SDHI’s second consecutive early project completion, following the refit of the Indian Coast Guard’s fast patrol vessel, Raj Ratan. The successful delivery further reinforces SDHI’s expertise in managing complex ship repair operations with efficiency and precision. The dry docking and refit of ICGS SAJAG also represent a key milestone in the shipyard’s ongoing revival.

Commenting on the milestone, Vivek Merchant, Director, Swan Defence and Heavy Industries Limited, said, “The successful completion of ICGS SAJAG’s refit highlights our engineering precision, operational agility, and commitment to strengthening India’s maritime defence. As the industry experiences a pivotal shift with increased government investments in shipbuilding and defence infrastructure, SDHI is poised to play a crucial role in this evolution. Our expertise in executing complex overhauls positions us as a trusted partner in India’s shipbuilding ambitions. With a strategic focus on modernization and self-reliance, we are committed to expanding our capabilities beyond ship repairs and soon resuming full-scale shipbuilding operations to shape the future of the maritime sector.”

Originally scheduled from 15 November 2024 to 15 March 2025, the refit was completed ahead of schedule following a successful sea trial. Over three months, the vessel underwent extensive repairs and testing, carried out in collaboration with M/s Krasny Defence Technologies Ltd., the official repair partner. As part of this overhaul, SDHI provided end-to-end services, including berthing, dry docking, undocking, and other critical yard operations essential to its completion.

MUMBAI’S ICONS, CAPTURED IN TIME

AN EXHIBITION BY PRADEEP CHANDRA AT MUSEO CAMERA

Gurugram, Feb 14: Museo Camera will present “Bombay Through the Eyes of Pradeep Chandra,” a captivating exhibition showcasing the photography of Pradeep Chandra. The exhibition, curated by Aditya Arya, Director of Museo Camera, will run from February 16th to 27th, offering a unique glimpse into the vibrant tapestry of Mumbai (then Bombay) through the lens of one of India’s most celebrated photographers.

Pradeep Chandra, a veteran photojournalist, returns to Delhi after 45 years to share his extraordinary collection of images. Having spent a decade in Delhi in the 1970s, contributing to publications like Hind Pocket Books, Saptahik Hindustan, Kadambini, Sushma Shama, and Youth Times, and working with Delhi Press as a staff photographer, Chandra’s return to the city of his early career is a homecoming. His lens has captured the essence of Bombay’s dynamic culture, its influential personalities, and its transformative moments over the years, making this exhibition a significant cultural event.

“Bombay Through the Eyes of Pradeep Chandra” is a visual chronicle of the city’s evolution, featuring iconic figures from various fields. The exhibition features an impressive array of portraits, including luminaries from the art world such as M.F. Husain, Tyeb Mehta, F.N. Souza, and Mario Miranda. Film enthusiasts will recognize legendary actors like Ashok Kumar, Dev Anand, Amitabh Bachchan, and Sanjay Dutt, alongside glimpses of cinematic moments, such as Rajat Sharma interviewing Sharad Pawar on the sets of Aap Ki Adaalat.

Beyond the realm of arts and entertainment, Chandra’s lens has also captured historical and spiritual figures. The exhibition features poignant portraits of the Dalai Lama, Mother Teresa, and spiritual leader Osho Rajneesh. Music aficionados will appreciate images of maestros like Hariprasad Chaurasia, Amjad Ali Khan, Bhimsen Joshi, Zubin Mehta, and Ustad Zakir Hussain. The political landscape is also represented, with photographs of prominent leaders from Indira Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi to L.K. Advani and Narendra Modi.

This exhibition is more than just a collection of photographs; it is a journey through time, offering a unique perspective on Bombay’s rich history and its diverse population. Pradeep Chandra’s work, borne from his time with esteemed publications like The Indian Post, The Indian Express, The Illustrated Weekly of India, and Bombay Times, encapsulates the spirit of the city. His images are not merely snapshots; they are stories frozen in time, capturing the essence of their subjects and the era they represent.

Curator Aditya Arya’s vision brings these powerful images together, creating a narrative that resonates with both long-time residents and those new to the city. “Bombay Through the Eyes of Pradeep Chandra” is a must-see exhibition for anyone interested in photography, history, and the vibrant culture of Mumbai.

Exhibition Details:
Title: Bombay Through the Eyes of Pradeep Chandra
Venue: Museo Camera
Dates: February 16th – 27th
Time : 11 am to 7 pm
Curator: Aditya Arya

How Hikvision’s ‘See Smarter’ Technologies Empower the Future of AIoT Solutions

The combination of artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) opens new possibilities for solving real-world problems. At Hikvision, we refer to this combination as the AI-powered Internet of Things (AIoT). Hikvision has expanded our focus from visible-light perception to more perception dimensions. Hikvision has also integrated AI analytics into various products and solutions. Systematically, we have built a comprehensive AIoT technology system and product portfolio.

Hikvision’s ‘See Smarter’ technology leverages advanced AI and deep learning algorithms to enhance physical security and provide deep insights. Here’s how it works:
Object Detection and Classification: The technology automates the detection and classification of objects, improving response times and reducing costs.
Motion Analysis: It analyzes motion to provide more accurate and timely information.
Perimeter Protection: Using a large-scale AI model, it offers classified object detection algorithms to enhance perimeter security2
Self-learning Analytics: The system continuously learns and optimizes its algorithms to improve accuracy.
AcuSense Technology: This distinguishes between humans and vehicles to trigger accurate alarms.
Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR): This technology revolutionizes vehicle management by recognizing license plates.
Facial Recognition: It identifies individuals from a preconfigured list, enhancing security in restricted areas.
These features collectively enable Hikvision’s technology to provide deep insights and improve overall security.
‘See Smarter’ Technology
AI analytics refers to a subset of artificial intelligence that uses machine learning to gain insights, find patterns, and discover relationships in the data. In practice, it is the process of automating the analysis that a human would typically perform.
In the field of physical security, Hikvision’s ‘See Smarter’ technology uses powerful deep learning algorithms to automate the detection, classification, and further examination of objects and their motions in both the camera’s view and back-end devices. It reduces costs, speeds up responses, and facilitates new practices and processes.
Key Offerings of ‘See Smarter’ technology
Perimeter protection with a large-scale AI model: Advancing perimeter security by offering classified object detection algorithms optimized using a large-scale AI model.
Self-learning analytics: It is fully automated learning by Hikvision algorithms, embedding an inference engine in the back-end device to automatically optimize algorithm accuracy in fixed cycles.
AcuSense: Distinguishing persons and vehicles from other moving objects so as to trigger accurate trespass alarms at perimeters.
ANPR: Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR), also known as License Plate Recognition (LPR), is a technology that has revolutionized vehicle management.
Switchable AI analytics: With multiple deep learning algorithms in one camera, up to two algorithms can be enabled or scheduled to work at a time.
PPE detection: Detection of persons without personal protective equipment (PPE) and triggering instant alarms in critical workplaces such as construction sites and factories.
People counting: Providing insightful customer flow data in real time to maintain a friendly business environment for a better customer experience.
Facial recognition: Recognition of stored faces from a preconfigured list of persons – for example, employees authorized to enter a restricted area.
Hikvision’s ‘See Smarter’ technology offers several key advantages and benefits:
Enhanced Security: The technology automates object detection, classification, and motion analysis, improving response times and reducing costs.
Perimeter Protection: It uses a large-scale AI model to offer classified object detection algorithms, enhancing perimeter security.
Self-learning Analytics: The system continuously learns and optimizes its algorithms to improve accuracy.
AcuSense Technology: This distinguishes between humans and vehicles to trigger accurate alarms.
Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR): This technology revolutionizes vehicle management by recognizing license plates.
Facial Recognition: It identifies individuals from a preconfigured list, enhancing security in restricted areas.
Cost Efficiency: By automating various security processes, the technology reduces the need for manual intervention, leading to cost savings.
Thus, features collectively enable Hikvision’s ‘See Smarter’ technology to deliver better outcomes.

Veer Pahariya Talks Bollywood Debut and Breaking Barriers on Grazia India’s February Cover

Grazia India’s February issue turns the spotlight on Veer Pahariya, who made his big Bollywood debut alongside Akshay Kumar in the action-drama Sky Force. It may be Veer’s first film, but his journey as a performer began at the age of five when he fell in love with dance and the stage. In this exclusive cover feature, Veer reflects on his path so far, sharing how, as a first-generation artist in his family, the absence of an industry legacy only fueled his determination to forge his own identity. Known for celebrating individuality and ambition, Grazia India provides the perfect platform for his story, one of passion, resilience and breaking boundaries.

For his role as a Squadron Leader in Sky Force, Veer underwent a transformative process to embody the mindset of a fighter pilot. Recalling the process, he shares, “I needed a lot of emotional training to get into the psyche of a fighter pilot. I did a lot of workshops and spent a lot of time in solitude to get to know myself better.”

Talking about staying true to himself, he says, “I really don’t care what anyone thinks. I’m here to have a voice, and in an occupation where everyone is trying to shoot you down for being different, I want to maintain that throughout my career.”

Opening up about his deep fascination for biopics, Veer shares, “I really enjoy biopics because I get to dive into the character I’m playing. It also scares me to get into the shoes of people who are recognised and followed – that is something that excites me.”

But his journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Having faced media scrutiny from an early age, Veer remains unfazed by the noise. He says, “I’ve seen a lot of ups and downs in my family and personal life. I’ve had bad things written about me in the press since I was very young. The good, the bad – nothing affects me. I want to work and make a name for myself. So, I cut the noise and focus on myself.”

With an insatiable hunger for new experiences, Veer constantly seeks opportunities to reach his limits and wants to embrace roles that demand emotional and physical extremes. He remarks, “I like experiencing different things and pulling myself to extremes; so, I quite enjoyed living the life of a fighter pilot.”

The Spectrum of Epilepsy: Diagnosis to Advanced Therapeutic Solutions

By- Dr. Ramya Bandi, Consultant Paediatric Neurologist, Ankura Hospital for Women and Children

Epilepsy is a neurological condition characterized by/or tendency to have recurrent seizures, which result from abnormal electrical activity in the brain. These seizures can manifest in various forms, affecting awareness, muscle control, sensations, emotions, and behavior.

Approximately 12 million people in India, about 1% of the population, live with epilepsy, with higher prevalence in rural areas. Globally, epilepsy affects around 50 million individuals, contributing significantly to the global disease burden. Importantly, for up to 60% of individuals, the cause of epilepsy remains unknown, and around 30% of people with epilepsy do not respond well to medication treatments. People with epilepsy are 15-19 times more likely to drown than the rest of the population. One third of every 73 people with epilepsy experience depression and anxiety, the most common comorbidity of the disease.

Seizure is a symptom whereas epilepsy is a disorder. Seizure symptoms vary depending on the type and can include temporary confusion, staring spells, muscle stiffness, uncontrollable jerking movements, loss of consciousness, and psychological symptoms like fear or déjà vu. Some individuals may experience behavioral changes or symptoms of psychosis.

The causes of epilepsy are diverse and include structural brain damage from birth complications, genetic conditions, severe head injuries, strokes, brain infections, genetic syndromes, and brain tumors. However, the cause remains unknown in about 50% of cases globally. Thanks to advances in genetics, we are able to diagnose persons with no diagnosis earlier. Epilepsy can significantly impact the lives of those affected, and for women and children, the challenges may be compounded due to unique health considerations. Ankura Hospital for Women and Children, known for its comprehensive care approach, plays a crucial role in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of epilepsy in this demographic.

Women with epilepsy face specific concerns, particularly during pregnancy. Seizures and the use of anti-seizure medications can impact fetal development and maternal health. Ankura Hospital offers specialized care to women with epilepsy who are planning pregnancies or are already pregnant, providing a multidisciplinary approach to ensure optimal health outcomes for both the mother and child. The hospital’s expert team of neurologists and gynecologists work together to manage medications, address seizure triggers, and monitor the pregnancy closely.

Ankura Hospital also focuses on early detection and intervention for children with epilepsy. The hospital provides personalized care, considering each child’s unique needs, which includes not only medical treatments but also emotional and psychological support. Given the high co-occurrence of depression and anxiety with epilepsy, Ankura ensures that mental health is a key part of the treatment process, offering counseling and support services for both children and their families.

Seizure triggers are events or circumstances that can precipitate seizures, such as stress, sleep disturbances, undue travel, alcohol use, hormonal changes, illness, flashing lights, and certain medications.

Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, medical history review, and possibly blood work to rule out other conditions. Treatment options include anti-seizure medications, dietary therapies like the ketogenic diet, and in severe cases, surgery or implantation of medical devices to modulate brain activity.

Anti-seizure medications are effective in controlling seizures for 60-70% of people with epilepsy. The choice of medication depends on seizure type, medical history, potential interactions, side effects, age, health, and cost. For individuals who do not respond to medications, alternative treatments such as dietary therapies or surgery may be recommended.

Epilepsy management requires a personalized approach tailored to each individual’s specific symptoms, medical history, and response to treatment. Ongoing research and advancements in medical science continue to improve understanding and treatment outcomes for people living with epilepsy.