Category Archives: News

Innovation Takes the Spotlight at SBI College Youth Ideathon 2025 Grand Finale

New Delhi | April 9th, 2025 – The Grand Finale of SBI College Youth Ideathon (CYI) 2025), India’s best entrepreneurship launchpad for college students, held at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, which has emerged as the academic capital of Indian entrepreneurship. The event brought together the country’s most promising student entrepreneurs in an inspiring celebration of innovation, ambition, and transformative ideas.

Jointly organized by IIT Delhi, MEPSC (under the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship), and ThinkStartup Foundation, with State Bank of India (SBI) as the title sponsor, CYI 2025 has been a landmark initiative fostering entrepreneurial spirit across India’s college campuses. More than 44,000 students from 1000 colleges across 200 cities participated in the SBI College Youth Ideathon 2025. It also witnessed submission of over 15,000 startup ideas.

Through rigorous rounds of evaluation, mentoring, and shortlisting, the top 100 student teams were invited to IIT Delhi for the two-day Grand Finale. These young entrepreneurs showcased their innovations, interacted with top mentors and investors, and competed in live pitch rounds. The Final Pitch featured the Top 15 student startups, who presented to a jury of VCs, founders, and innovation leaders. The Top 10 winners were announced at the closing ceremony, with each winning team receiving a prize of Rs. 1 lakh.

Delivering a stirring closing keynote, Vivek Wadhwa, renowned tech entrepreneur and futurist, inspired the finalists, saying, “The future belongs to those who dare to dream and execute. You have the power to build groundbreaking solutions that will define the world of tomorrow.”

According to Anil Pokhriyal, CEO, MEPSC, “These students are not just building startups—they are building hope, equity, and impact. The diversity and depth of ideas from across India have been truly inspiring.”

Prof. Narayanan D Kurur, Dean, Academics at IIT Delhi, emphasized the role of institutions in fostering innovation: “IIT Delhi is committed to empowering young entrepreneurs from all over India. CYI 2025 reflects this mission, bringing together the brightest minds to solve real-world challenges.”

Agendra Kumar, Managing Director, Esri India, said, “We are proud to be a part of this initiative that aids in transforming academic knowledge into innovative solutions and ventures. It’s encouraging to see the young generation understanding the importance of spatial intelligence and incorporating the same in their business ideas. This insightful thinking will lead to the creation of powerful solutions that will effectively solve the business and social challenges of the future. I congratulate the participants and winners and wish them the best for their future endeavors.”

Shivani Kapoor, Founder, ThinkStartup, added, “This generation of students isn’t waiting for opportunities; they’re creating them. Their fearless approach to problem-solving is truly inspiring.”

Sanjeeva Shivesh, Program Director, CYI, summed up the spirit of the event: “The Youth Ideathon has proven that India’s next wave of entrepreneurs is already here, driven, passionate, and ready to lead.”

CYI 2025 – TOP 10 WINNING TEAMS

1. Heat & Eat (Dayananda Sagar University)
   Startup: Self-heating food boxes for hot meals on the go – no electricity or fire needed.
2. GFoot (IIT Delhi)
   Startup: Low-carbon footwear tech reducing emissions by 80%, redefining sustainable fashion.
3. Neuroxo Labs (GL Bajaj Institute of Management)
   Startup: India’s smartest and most affordable muscle-controlled prosthetic arm.
4. The PathFinders (NIT Jalandhar)
   Startup: AI-powered autonomous robot for disaster relief, surveillance, and security.
5. Arvora (Delhi Technological University, NSUT)
   Startup: Wellness and lifestyle brand with offerings from organic sanitary pads to wildforest honey.
6. ReZen (Jaypee University of Information Technology)
   Startup: A mental health platform offering therapy, meditation, and emotional wellness tools.
7. Afforda (BITS Pilani – Pilani & Goa Campuses)
   Startup: Pay-as-you-stay hotel model offering hourly booking options for travelers.
8. MemoTag (Masters’ Union, ISB Hyderabad)
   Startup: Wearable device offering smart, real-time caregiving support for dementia patients.
9. Shakti Group (Chitkara University)
   Startup: AI-based disaster response tech using thermal imaging, LiDAR, and live 3D mapping.
10. SheSafe India (Madras Christian College, Karunya Institute of Science and Technology)
    Startup: Smart, accessible panic-alert system ensuring safety for women and children.

 The Sheatwork Award was conferred upon Team Vitality from Government Polytechnic Jehanabad, Bihar. Their startup, Vitality, is creating a portable support system to help women manage PCOD and PCOS symptoms, empowering menstrual health awareness from the grassroots level.

Beyond student awards, CYI 2025 also recognized key contributors to India’s entrepreneurial ecosystem including Entrepreneurship Catalyst Awards (Presented to colleges fostering student entrepreneurship), Innovation Evangelist Awards (Recognizing faculty mentors guiding student innovators), E-Cell Awards (Honouring top-performing student entrepreneurship clubs). Collectively 50 teams were felicitated as part of the CYI 2025 to motivate spirit of entrepreneurship in youngsters.

Top 10 student startups during CYI 2025 showcased bold, impact-driven innovations — from self-heating meal kits and low-carbon footwear to AI-powered rescue bots and digital mental health platforms. Standout ideas included Heat & Eat’s fire-free food box for travelers, GFoot’s sustainable shoe soles from IIT Delhi, Neuroxo Labs’ affordable prosthetic arm, and ReZen’s all-in-one wellness app. Whether redefining safety with SheSafe, empowering caregiving through MemoTag, or reimagining hospitality with Afforda, these ventures reflect the creativity, compassion, and technological prowess of India’s youth.

Ujala Cygnus Puts Spotlight on Kidney Health with Statewide Screening Campaign

Delhi, Apr 9, 2025: Ujala Cygnus Kulwanti Hospital, Kanpur, in collaboration with Noble Hospital, Kanpur, successfully concluded their month-long Kidney Health Screening Campaign at the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly on Wednesday, April 2, 2025. This impactful campaign, which commenced on March 1, 2025, has screened over 5,000 individuals across various locations in and around Kanpur, besides the UP Assembly in Lucknow, raising crucial awareness about kidney health and the early detection of kidney diseases.

 On its concluding day, the campaign facilitated 250 kidney health screenings at the UP Legislative Assembly, where staff members, delegates, and other guests underwent free diagnostic tests assessing their kidney function and metabolic health. The initiative aimed to emphasize the importance of proactive healthcare and early detection, particularly in Uttar Pradesh, where kidney disease remains a significant public health concern.

 Dr. Yuvraj Gulati, a Nephrologist and Kidney Disease Specialist at Ujala Cygnus Kulwanti Hospital and Noble Hospital spearheaded this initiative with his team of medical professionals. He emphasized the urgent need for greater kidney health awareness and the role of preventive healthcare measures in reducing the burden of kidney disease in India.

 “Kidney disease is often a silent ailment that progresses unnoticed until it reaches an advanced stage. Through this campaign, our goal was to educate people about the significance of routine health screenings and lifestyle modifications to prevent kidney-related complications. The response has been overwhelming, and we are committed to continuing our efforts in promoting kidney health awareness,” said Dr. Yuvraj Gulati.

 Dr. Shuchin Bajaj, Founder & Director, Ujala Cygnus Group of Hospitals, expressed: “At Ujala Cygnus, we believe that quality healthcare should not be a privilege but a basic right for every individual—irrespective of where they live. This campaign is a reflection of our commitment to taking preventive care to the grassroots. By reaching over 5,000 people, including those who shape public policy, we’ve taken a meaningful step toward building a healthier Uttar Pradesh. We will continue to lead such impactful initiatives across underserved regions.”

 Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a growing concern in India, with millions of individuals unknowingly suffering from impaired kidney function due to diabetes, hypertension, and unhealthy lifestyle choices. This campaign aimed to bridge the gap in early detection and treatment by bringing healthcare directly to the community.

 The free-of-charge screenings conducted throughout March reached various communities, educational institutions, corporate offices, and public spaces in and around Kanpur. The initiative not only provided valuable diagnostic services but also educated participants about healthy dietary habits, hydration, and risk factors associated with kidney disease.

 The event at the UP Legislative Assembly was particularly significant as it ensured that lawmakers, administrative personnel, and government officials—who play a vital role in shaping healthcare policies—received firsthand experience of the importance of kidney health awareness. The success of this campaign highlights the importance of regular health check-ups and proactive healthcare initiatives in curbing the rising incidence of kidney diseases.

 Ujala Cygnus Group remains steadfast in its mission to provide quality, accessible, and preventive healthcare solutions to the people, especially in North India. This campaign is part of a larger continuum of efforts under the Ujala Cygnus umbrella, which regularly conducts such initiatives not only in major cities but also in smaller towns and remote villages.
Through its focused approach to last-mile healthcare delivery—reaching patients in underserved or hard-to-reach areas with essential services and medical supplies—the hospital group addresses challenges such as poor infrastructure and limited access to care.

 By delivering tertiary-level healthcare to tier 2 and 3 cities under a holistic, inclusive model, Ujala Cygnus is actively working to bridge the urban-rural healthcare divide and improve health outcomes at the grassroots level.

Remedium Lifecare Announces ₹49.19 Cr Rights Issue for Expansion

Mumbai, India April 8, 2025: Remedium Lifecare Limited, a fast-growing company trading into  pharmaceutical intermediates and specialty chemicals, is pleased to announce that it has received approval from the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) for its proposed rights issue.

The approval paves the way for the company to raise growth capital from its existing shareholders, further strengthening its financial foundation and supporting its strategic initiatives, including manufacturing expansion, product development, and global market penetration.

Key Highlights of the Rights Issue (as approved):

• Record Date: Tuesday, April 15, 2025
• Issue Size: ₹4,919.04 Lakhs (Assuming Full Subscription)
• Price per Share: ₹1.00 per Equity Share
• Total Number of Shares: 49,19,04,000 fully paid-up equity shares of face value ₹1/- each
• Rights Ratio: 61 Rights Equity Shares for every 50 fully paid-up equity shares held as on the Record Date
• Instrument: Fully paid-up equity shares having a face value of ₹1/- each
• Purpose: Working capital Requirements, Equipment for R&D and expansion

“This approval from the BSE marks a significant milestone in our journey. We remain committed to enhancing shareholder value while scaling up our operations responsibly and sustainably,” said Adarsh Munjal , Managing Director, Remedium Lifecare Ltd.

The rights issue comes at a time when Remedium Lifecare is gaining strong traction in international markets. In February 2025, the company secured a multi-year export contract worth ₹182.7 crore with a leading UK-based pharmaceutical distributor. The company is well-positioned to capitalize on rising global demand in key therapeutic segments such as anti-infectives, cardiovascular, CNS, and oncology-supportive drugs.

Sofitel Mumbai BKC Triumphs at the Times Food & Nightlife Awards 2025 with Four Prestigious Wins

Mumbai, April 8, 2025 – Sofitel Mumbai BKC has once again solidified its position as a culinary powerhouse, emerging victorious at India’s most prestigious and longest-running food and nightlife celebration, the Times Food & Nightlife Awards 2025. The awards, held on March 29, 2025, recognized the exceptional dining experiences offered by Sofitel Mumbai BKC’s signature restaurants and bar, bestowing an impressive four accolades upon the luxury hospitality destination.

Renowned for curating exquisite culinary journeys that blend authenticity with innovation, Sofitel Mumbai BKC proudly announces its prestigious wins for Suburbs – Western, Eastern & Central:

• Jyran – Best North Indian Premium Dining 
• Pondichéry Café – Best All-Day Premium Dining 
• Pondichéry Café – Best Sunday Brunch 
• Le Bar Diamantaire – Best Wine Bar 

Expressing gratitude for the recognition, Sofitel Mumbai BKC’s General Manager, Manish Dayya, shared, “These awards are a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence in hospitality and gastronomy. Our culinary team constantly strives to craft immersive dining experiences that delight and inspire our guests. We are honored by this recognition and will continue to elevate Mumbai’s fine dining landscape.”

From the rich flavors of Jyran, which presents an ode to India’s North Indian culinary heritage, to the indulgent offerings at Pondichéry Café, and the sophisticated wine selection at Le Bar Diamantaire, each Sofitel Mumbai BKC venue delivers an unparalleled dining experience.

As Sofitel Mumbai BKC continues to set new benchmarks in hospitality and dining, these accolades reinforce its reputation as a distinguished culinary destination in the heart of Mumbai.

FTCCI to Feature DGP Dr. Jitender in Discussion on Advancing Public Safety and Vigilance

Hyderabad, April 8, 2025: The Federation of Telangana Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FTCCI) is set to host an interactive session with Dr. Jitender, Director General of Police, Telangana State, on April 9, 2025, at 3:30 PM at FTCCI’s Surana Auditorium.

The theme of the session is “Innovation for Better Vigilance and Public Safety.” This dialogue aims to bridge the gap between law enforcement and the business community by fostering collaborative approaches toward enhanced vigilance and public security.

Key Focus Areas:

•  Innovative vigilance mechanisms
• Technological interventions in modern policing
• Security challenges in today’s business environment
• Strengthening public-private sector collaboration

The session will be graced by Dr. Suresh Kumar Singhal, President, FTCCI, R. Ravi Kumar, Senior Vice President, K.K. Maheshwari, Vice President, and Ajay Kumar Agarwal, Chair – PR Committee, among other distinguished members.

This vital interaction is expected to bring valuable insights into evolving strategies for a safer and more secure society.

Scaling Smart: When and How Startups Should Consider M&A By Manali Jain

Manali Jain leads key TMT investment banking transactions at SMBC, including Blackstone’s $1.5B  bid for Hipgnosis Songs Fund. With a background in M&A at Deloitte and early-stage investing  across India, she brings deep expertise across deal stages. A Columbia MBA and social impact  

advocate, she co-founded Kala Akshar to drive financial literacy in rural communities.   

In the startup world, the path to growth often feels like you’re trying to build a  rocket while it’s already lifting off. You’re scaling, expanding, and hustling to stay  ahead, but sometimes it feels like you’re running on fumes. That’s when M&A  (mergers and acquisitions) can step in—not as a last-ditch effort, but as a smart way  to supercharge growth and stay competitive. 

For most startups, M&A isn’t something you wake up thinking about in the early  stages. It’s more of a “what if?” option that gets tucked away until growth demands  something bigger. But sometimes, the right time to consider M&A is when you want  to scale smart—not just fast. So, when should startups think about merging or  acquiring? 

The Right Moment to Think M&A 

Startups get to a point where organic growth can’t keep up with the ambition  anymore. You’ve built a solid foundation, but to grow into your next chapter, you  need something more—a larger market, new talent, or additional technology. That’s  when M&A can be a game-changer, offering a shortcut to things that would take  years to build from scratch. 

Here are some key moments when M&A can make sense: 

When You’re Ready to Scale Faster: Think of M&A as a rocket booster. You don’t  have to reinvent the wheel; you can acquire companies with the technology,  expertise, or market presence you need to accelerate. Instead of building from  ground zero, you can immediately tap into new resources. 

When You’ve Outgrown Your Current Model: A startup, like any living thing, needs  to evolve. At some point, your current model might not be enough to take you to  the next level. M&A can help diversify your business, provide the talent you lack, or  bring in new products that bolster your offering. 

When Competitors are Gaining on You: When you’re up against competitors  nipping at your heels, acquiring a competitor—or a company with complementary 

strengths—can help you stay ahead. It’s not just about survival; it’s about staying on  top of the game. 

How to Approach M&A with Confidence 

If you’re ready to scale smart through M&A, it’s time to break it down. Just because  it’s a powerful tool doesn’t mean you should dive in headfirst. Here’s how to do it  right: 

Know Your Value: Before making any move, get crystal clear on your own strengths.  What makes your startup tick? What can you offer in an acquisition, and what do  you need in return? M&A should fill the gaps, not just increase the headcount. 

Have a Clear M&A Strategy: It’s not about doing a deal for the sake of it. McKinsey  suggests that startups need a focused approach—whether it’s acquiring technology,  entering new markets, or bolstering your talent pool. Whatever it is, make sure it fits  your bigger picture. 

Programmatic M&A Over Large Deals: You don’t need one giant acquisition to  change the game. Instead, a series of smaller acquisitions can add up over time,  building a portfolio that accelerates your growth. This gives you flexibility and  reduces the risk of overextending yourself. 

Pick the Right Targets: This is where strategy meets art. You want to acquire  companies that complement your strengths, not duplicate them. The right target  can enhance your capabilities, whether it’s adding customers, improving products,  or opening new markets. 

Integration Without Overcontrol: One of the biggest mistakes in acquisitions is  trying to integrate too aggressively. The best acquisitions keep the spirit of the  startup alive. McKinsey highlights how the acquired team should maintain their  autonomy in key areas, ensuring that their innovation and drive stay intact. 

Governance and Alignment: Setting up a dedicated team to oversee the integration  process can make or break your success. McKinsey talks about having a Growth  Management Office (GMO) that keeps things on track—setting clear goals,  responsibilities, and ensuring that the integration process aligns with the company’s  broader strategy. 

Incentives and KPIs: Aligning incentives is crucial to ensuring everyone is on the  same page. You want to create the right incentives for both the acquired company 

and your team. Think performance-based bonuses or equity offers to keep the focus  on growth and integration. 

Final Thoughts 

M&A is not a magic bullet that solves all startup problems, but it’s a tool that, when  wielded with precision, can propel your startup into a whole new realm of growth.  It’s about choosing the right moment, having a clear strategy, and executing with  care. Done well, M&A is not just a path to faster scaling—it’s a way to expand your  business, strengthen your position, and keep innovating. 

So, when you’re thinking about scaling smart, consider M&A as your rocket booster.  But make sure you’re ready to manage the flight.

Rare Disease Mystery Cracked in Major Medical Advancement

The groundbreaking study, which was published in Nature and involved Newcastle University, used a novel analytical technique to pinpoint the genetic foundation of uncommon diseases, potentially leading to more patient diagnoses and the creation of novel therapeutic interventions. Globally, between 4% and 6% of people suffer from rare diseases. Even after genome sequencing, up to 80% of persons with uncommon diseases go undetected due to a lack of knowledge about the genetic variants that could cause the condition, despite advancements in genetic testing.

 An international team of researchers has created rare variant gene burden analysis, an analytical framework for determining the genetic aetiology of Mendelian disorders (mutations in a single gene), to address the problem. The framework was then applied to 34,851 individuals and their family members’ genomic records (a total of 72,690 genomes) from Genomics England’s 100,000 Genomes Project.

 The study found genetic variations in 69 genes that were previously thought to be linked to rare diseases. In 30 of these instances, the innovative approach’s accuracy was confirmed by the new genetic discoveries being corroborated by pre-existing experimental data. The newly identified genetic variations for rare forms of diabetes, schizophrenia, epilepsy, Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) illness, and anterior segment ocular abnormalities were, crucially, backed by the strongest overall genetic and experimental data.

 John Sayer, Clinical Professor of Renal Medicine at Newcastle University and Consultant Nephrologist at The Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, stated: “Newcastle has established itself as a global leader in rare disease research, continually advancing genomic medicine to identify new genetic causes and enhance diagnostic and treatment strategies for rare conditions. Our study demonstrates how we are harnessing the power of genetics to improve patient outcomes.”

 Recruitment of patients for the rare disease component of the Genomics England 100,000 Genomes Project was greatly aided by Newcastle University and Newcastle Hospitals.

 Neil Rajan, Professor of Dermatogenetics at Newcastle University and Consultant Dermatologist at Newcastle Hospitals, said: “For patients with rare diseases lacking a known genetic cause, this research highlights how large-scale national genome sequencing projects can provide crucial answers. The ‘diagnostic odyssey’ remains a significant challenge for the rare disease community, and identifying new genes is an essential step toward improving diagnosis and outcomes for these patients.”

 To find individuals who would benefit from the trial, Newcastle University’s established Rare Diseases Centre and expertise in genetics and clinical genomics were essential. The project team recruited patients and gathered a lot of clinical data by working directly with patients and their families.

 The study’s principal author, Damian Smedley, a professor of computational genomics at Queen Mary University of London, commented, “The 100,000 Genomes Project data has provided a singular chance to illustrate the clinical utility of extensive statistical techniques in rare illness research. Finding novel genetic connections and ending the diagnostic journey that many patients with rare diseases and their families must endure are made possible by this strategy.”

Apollo Hospitals Champions Preventive Healthcare in Landmark 2025 Health Report

India, April 7, 2025: Apollo Hospitals today launched the fifth edition of its Health of the Nation 2025 (HoN-2025) report with a clear message: “Don’t wait for symptoms—make preventive health your priority.” Based on health screenings from over 2.5 million individuals across the Apollo ecosystem in India, the report reveals a silent epidemic—millions are living with undiagnosed chronic conditions despite showing no visible symptoms. Notably, 26% were found hypertensive and 23% diabetic despite being asymptomatic, underlining that a symptom-led healthcare model is no longer viable.

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

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

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

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

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

Key Findings at a Glance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 Hypertension: A Quiet but Persistent Risk

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

 Heart Disease Hiding in Plain Sight

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

 Mental Health: A Growing but Under-Recognized Challenge

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

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

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

 Cancer Detection: Age Trends Offer New Insights

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

 Micronutrient Deficiencies: A Foundation Health Issue

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

 Obesity and Metabolic Dysfunction: The Cascade Continues

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

 Aim Toward a Preventive, Data-Led Healthcare System

Apollo Hospitals’ ProHealth program aims to advocate for a paradigm shift in India’s healthcare approach—from curative to preventive, and from symptom-led to data-driven. The organization’s ProHealth program has been setting the precedence and proven its effectiveness by integrating advanced diagnostics, expert doctor driven path to wellness, AI-powered predictive risk scores, personalized health nudges, and early interventions. The program tracks key health metrics in real time and provides actionable recommendations tailored to each individual, enabling proactive management of chronic conditions.

• 59% of diabetics reduced HbA1C levels
• 51% of hypertensive participants lowered their blood pressure
• 47% of overweight participants achieved weight loss

By addressing health risks early and guiding individuals with personalized interventions, the program aims to reduce the progression of diseases before they require complex treatment. Overall, the findings of HoN-2025 build a strong case for embedding preventive healthcare into public health policy, health insurance coverage, and workplace wellness. The way forward lies in early risk identification, lifestyle modification, and equitable access to diagnostics.

 State-wise microcosm representation based on screenings conducted across Apollo Hospitals over the past year.

Ahmedabad

• Vitamin D Deficiency: 81% of individuals screened had low Vitamin D levels—raising long-term concerns for bone, immune, and metabolic health.
• Obesity: 54% were found to be obese, highlighting the need for better physical activity and nutrition engagement.
• Hypertension: 24% diagnosed with hypertension; 52% are pre-hypertensive.
• Diabetes: 17% are diabetic and 36% pre-diabetic, signaling early metabolic dysfunction.

Lyrical Landscapes Water colors by Bikash Poddar at Gallerie Ganesha, New Delhi External

Gallerie Ganesha is set to host “Lyrical Landscapes: Watercolours by Bikash Poddar” from April 4th to May 7th, 2025 at E-557, Greater Kailash II, New Delhi. This exhibition will showcase the evocative watercolour landscapes of Bikash Poddar, a distinguished artist from Bengal renowned for his harmonious blend of natural scenery and human figures
Born in 1954 in Kaliyaganj, North Bengal, Poddar pursued his studies at the College of Art and Craft in Kolkata, earning a diploma in Applied Art with a gold medal. After a successful career in advertising, he transitioned to full-time painting in the 1990s, gaining acclaim through exhibitions in Delhi, Mumbai, and internationally.

Poddar’s artistry is characterized by the fusion of Indian miniature art’s intricate detailing with the fluidity of Chinese and Japanese calligraphy techniques. His landscapes often depict serene rural scenes—ruined temples, weathered habitations, boats by the waterside—imbued with a translucent glow and meticulous architectural elements. This synthesis captures the essence of nature and human presence in a delicate balance.

Employing the wash technique, Poddar paints on wet paper, allowing colors to blend seamlessly and create ethereal atmospheres. This method demands swift execution, as the water dries quickly, challenging the artist to complete his vision within a limited timeframe

The upcoming “Lyrical Landscapes” exhibition is an immersive experience into Poddar’s artistic vision.

Global Pastry Talent Shines as Chef Eunyoung Yun Leads Workshop at Academy of Pastry and Culinary Arts

Gurugram, 8th April 2025: The Academy of Pastry & Culinary Arts (APCA) recently arranged an outstanding three-day class with Chef Eunyoung Yun, a renowned pastry pioneer, founder and owner of the renowned Garuharu School and Pastry Shop in Seoul, South Korea. During the exclusive masterclass at APCA Gurugram, Chef Yun, who is well-known across the globe for her signature style, captivated attendees with her artistic abilities, methods, and inventive approach to pastry-making.

Chef Eunyoung Yun, discussed her experience creating a distinctive pastry style during the workshop. Participants got the unique chance to learn with direct instruction from Chef Yun, whose knowledge and love of confections have served as an inspiration to pastry enthusiasts and chefs all over the world.

The workshop was a resounding success, fostering a spirit of learning, collaboration, and culinary excellence at the Academy of Pastry and Culinary Arts. APCA remains committed to providing its students with unique opportunities and constant upgradation, to learn from industry experts and expand their knowledge in the world of pastry and culinary arts.