28, Jan 2025
Listen to Your Gut
By-Dr. MP Madhu, Consultant – Medical Gastroenterology, Aster RV Hospital
Ever wondered how digestion happens in the body? The food we eat passes through four tubes: the oesophagus, stomach, small intestine and finally through the large intestine which is also called the colon. A colonoscopy is a test to diagnose the problems of the large intestine.
When do you need a colonoscopy?
· If you have altered bowel habits.
· Loose stools not improving even after four weeks of treatment.
· If you find blood in stools.
· Recent onset of constipation.
· If you have low hemoglobin.
· If you have recurrent pain in the abdomen.
· If you notice significant weight loss and suspect colon cancer.
· Screening colonoscopy of normal individuals if a family member has colon cancer.
· Suspected intestinal diseases like tuberculosis, Crohn’s disease and IBS – irritable bowel syndrome).
At what level of hemoglobin is colonoscopy required?
Normally men should have hemoglobin of 13 gm and women, 11 gm. Any level below that needs to be evaluated. We do see patients just taking iron tablets or iron injections for low haemoglobin and not getting tested. They are found to have colon cancers at a later date. So it is always better to get a colonoscopy done before taking iron tablets.
How is a colonoscopy done?
Normally the intestine is filled with stool. So, bowels have to be cleansed before a colonoscopy.
Is admission required for a colonoscopy?
No, it’s done as a daycare procedure and needs three-four hours in the hospital.
Is colonoscopy painful?
Generally, people have the perception that it’s a painful procedure. But that’s not the case. With the availability of advanced colonoscopes, improving skills and the use of CO2 (carbon dioxide) instead of air during the procedure, it can be performed with minimal discomfort. Conscious sedation also makes the procedure more comfortable. General anaesthesia is usually not required for colonoscopy.
What is seen in a colonoscopy, and how long will it take?
We see the whole of the large intestine and a small portion of the small intestine called the terminal ileum during the procedure. Procedure time varies from 15 to 30 minutes depending on the complexity of the large intestine. We may see an ulcer, a polyp—small extra growth, a tumor—larger extra growth and a haemorrhoid (piles). Later, we take a biopsy from an ulcer or polyp. Small polyps are also removed during the procedure and sent for examination by a pathologist.
What is a biopsy and why is it done?
A biopsy is a medical procedure where a part of tissue is removed and sent for examination under a microscope. It is done to diagnose infection, inflammation, cancer and type of polyp.
What happens after colonoscopy?
We tell individuals to use restrooms to pass out the gas and stools. If a procedure is done under sedation – an individual is observed in the hospital for two hours. Then one can have normal food.
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28, Jan 2025
HSNC University’s Fit Bharat Club Triumphs with ‘Centre to Coast’ Ride, Recognized on Republic Day
Mumbai: 28th January 2025: Fourteen volunteers from the Fit Bharat Club of HSNC University, including faculty members, students, doctors, and technicians, successfully completed an extraordinary 1,450 km “Centre to Coast” cycle ride today. The journey, which began on January 18, 2025, saw the team navigate 200 km of challenging terrains, demonstrating exceptional resilience and determination.
In line with their mission to promote environmental sustainability, the cyclists planted 1,400 seeds in tribal regions along their route, contributing to ecological restoration and community welfare. The ride concluded in Mumbai on the historic occasion of Republic Day, where they were received and felicitated by Honorable Provost Dr. Niranjan Hiranandani, Vice Chancellor Col. Prof . Hemlata K Bagla, along with the Deans and Registrar of HSNC University.
The achievement coincided with the university’s 76th Republic Day celebrations, highlighting the institution’s commitment to fostering health, environmental consciousness, and social responsibility. This remarkable feat by the Fit Bharat Club exemplifies the spirit of service and sustainability that HSNC University proudly upholds.
27, Jan 2025
Mosaics Fine Art Festival Seeks Artists for 30th Annual Event
Artists must apply for the juried outdoor festival by the April 1 deadline.
(St. Charles, Mo., Jan. 27, 2025) Mosaics Fine Art Festival recently opened the application process for its 30th annual event to be held Fri., Sept. 12 through Sun., Sept. 14. Only 100 artists will be invited to showcase and sell their wares at this exclusive juried event. The application deadline is April 1, and notification of acceptance will take place May 18.
The family-friendly event, which is free and open to the public, will be held along several blocks of North Main St. in Historic St. Charles, Mo. where more than 30 restaurants and over 75 shops are located.
A distinguished panel of jurors will select artists based upon their original work in a variety of media categories including clay, drawing, glass, leather, metal, pastel, oil/acrylic, photography, printmaking, sculpture, watercolor, and wood. A total of $5,000 will be awarded to the top nine artists.
Mosaics Fine Art Festival features live musical entertainment, a Children’s Village area for hands-on art experiences, the Mary Hediger Memorial Art Shop for Kids where children ages 14 and younger can buy professional artwork, and the Joyce Rosen Founder’s Scholarship art display where emerging high school artists showcase their work. The Artists for Adoption Pet Pavilion is open to families interested in adopting pets from Stray Paws Adoptables.
The Mosaics Fine Art Festival is a nonprofit organization that showcases local and regional artists while educating the community’s children and adults in how art can enhance their lives. The festival features a wide array of artwork produced by a mix of emerging, mid-career, and established artists in all media. Artists can apply before the April 1 deadline at https://www.zapplication.
For more information, call (314) 406-2067 or visit http://www.
27, Jan 2025
Ride-Hailing in 2025: Emerging Trends That Will Transform Urban Mobility
By-Pratip Mazumder, Country Manager-India, inDrive
Changing customer preferences towards convenience, comfort and reliability, thrust by the government through conducive policies, proliferation of digital technologies and ubiquitous Internet connectivity have significantly impacted the ride-hailing industry in the past decade. 2024 was a year of technological advancements and sustainability, reaffirming the dynamic nature of the industry. With the advent of new year businesses must stay ahead of the latest trends to maintain a competitive edge. Here are the key ride-hailing trends that will redefine urban mobility in 2025.
Customer centricity as the key differentiator: Today, customers are discerning and have ample options to choose from. Customer centricity will continue to be the key differentiator to stand out from the competition and maximise customer experience. Although technology is an enabler of customer satisfaction, it is a means to an end, i.e., enhancing customer experience. Hence, brands that prioritise greater autonomy to the customer in terms of choosing the vehicle, pricing and driver rather than solely leaving it to technology to determine these parameters will have an edge over their peers.
Safety critical for survival of ride-hailing: Safety is a foremost priority for the ride-hailing industry as it is the critical determinant of its survival. While brands go the extra mile to leverage cutting-edge technology to ensure safety, the latter’s implications go beyond the secured vehicle. Safety can be understood as the three-sided pact between the driver, passenger, and ride-hailing brand, with mutual responsibility and equal accountability for all parties in each ride.
Gig models for driver-partners gaining traction: With hybrid employment models and a preference for flexibility gaining traction, ride-hailing has become a preferred freelancing option. Many ride-hailing companies are now offering health and leave benefits as part of drivers’ contracts, emerging as a sought-after gig platform.
Tier 2 and 3 towns to drive growth: In 2025, companies will increasingly prioritise Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities and underserved suburban markets by investing in infrastructure and partnerships in these areas for growth. Rapid infrastructural and technological advancements, a wide customer base and weak public transportation systems augur well for ride-hailing businesses to expand in these cities.
Ride hailing to integrate with micro-mobility and public transport: The shift beyond Tier 1 and metropolitan cities and subsequent scale-up of ride-hailing platforms will help bridge transportation gaps in underserved regions and integrate ride-hailing with multimodal platforms. 2025 will witness ride-hailing apps evolve into holistic mobility solutions, enabling commuters to plan seamless trips and integrate public transport, ride-hailing, and micro-mobility options within a single app.
Emergence of localised and decentralised platforms: Platforms allowing commuters to choose drivers, vehicles, and pricing will thrive, empowering users to have greater negotiation power over service quality. Hyperlocal platforms closely tailored to the cultural and economic needs of the region, with their ability to foster an emotional connect with potential users, will gain traction.
Ride hailing to evolve beyond transportation systems: Ride-hailing systems are more than just transportation systems; they are trusted partners in urban mobility. In 2025, ride-hailing systems will metamorphose into broad ecosystems, offering a suite of services such as shopping, digital payments, and logistics—all rolled into one.
In addition to the above, the push towards sustainability, the emergence of autonomous vehicles, and enhanced security in-app features will be the trends to watch out for in 2025.
27, Jan 2025
The Age-Related Risks of Lung Cancer: Why Early Screening Matters
By-Dr. Bhaskar Bhuvan, Consultant-Medical oncology, HCG Cancer Center – Vizag
Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide, accounting for over 1.7 million fatalities annually. In India, lung cancer is a significant public health concern ranking second among male cancers, with a substantial number of cases occurring among middle aged and older adults. The reported death rate due to lung cancer in India was 75,031 patients in year 2022 according to Globocon 2022.
The Age-Related Risks of Lung Cancer
Lung cancer predominantly affects older adults, with the risk of developing this disease increasing significantly with age. This upward trend in lung cancer risk is particularly pronounced after the age of 60, with most lung cancer cases being diagnosed among people aged 65 years and above. According to the American Cancer Society, the average age at diagnosis for lung cancer is around 70 years old. But, in India, the average age of lung cancer diagnosis is 59 years which is a decade earlier than western countries. This age-related risk is attributed to the cumulative effect of exposure to carcinogens (cancer causing agents) over time, as well as the natural decline in immune function and cellular repair mechanisms that occurs with aging. As a result, older adults are more susceptible to the damaging effects of carcinogens, such as tobacco smoke, air pollution and radiation exposure which can increase the risk of lung cancer. Furthermore, older adults may also be more likely to have underlying health conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), that can increase the risk of lung cancer.
Why Age is a Significant Risk Factor for Lung Cancer
Age is a significant risk factor for lung cancer due to several reasons. As we age, our cells accumulate genetic mutations that can increase the risk of cancer. Our immune system also weakens with age, making it more challenging for our body to fight off cancer cells. Furthermore, older adults may have been exposed to carcinogens, such as tobacco smoke and air pollution, for a longer period
The Importance of Early Screening
Early screening is crucial in detecting lung cancer at an early stage, when it is more treatable. Screening tests for lung cancer include Low-Dose Computed Tomography (LDCT) and Chest X-Ray. These non-invasive tests use low-dose radiation to produce detailed images of the lungs.
Whom to get lung cancer screening
Age above 50 years up to 80 years.
Smoking history of one packet of cigarettes per day over and above 20 years
Who does not quit smoking in the last 15 years
Reducing the Risk of Lung Cancer
While age is a significant risk factor for lung cancer, there are steps we can take to reduce our risk. Quitting smoking is the most effective way to reduce the risk of lung cancer. Avoiding exposure to carcinogens, such as air pollution and asbestos, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, can also help reduce the risk of lung cancer.
Lung cancer is a significant public health concern in India, with most cases occurring among middle aged and older adults. While age is a significant risk factor for lung cancer, early screening and reducing the risk factors can help detect and treat this disease. By prioritizing our health and taking proactive steps, we can reduce our risk of lung cancer and improve our overall health and wellbeing.
27, Jan 2025
76th Republic Day Celebrations: Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy Organizes Blood Donation for a Noble Cause
Hyderabad, January 27, 2025: To commemorate the 76th Republic Day, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy in partnership with the Thalassemia & Sickle Cell Society, organized a special successful blood donation camp at the National Police Academy. The camp aimed to provide vital support to individuals suffering from thalassemia, a hereditary blood disorder. All the blood units collected was donated to the Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Society.
SVPNPA Director, Amit Garg, IPS and Dr. Chandrashekar along with Dr. Chandrakant Agarwal, President of the Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Society and Mr. Aleem Baig, Joint Secretary, TSCS attended the event and expressed their gratitude to the organizers, volunteers, and blood donors.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Chandrakant Agarwal, President, TSCS said, “We are truly grateful to the donors and others who have come forward and donated blood to meet the blood requirements of thalassemia patients. We are extremely honored that the National Police Academy members have participated in the blood donation camp.”
Aleem Baig, Joint Secretary of TSCS, spoke about the blood donation camp, saying, “TSCS has been at the forefront of conducting mega blood donation camps in Hyderabad. We thank all the guests and donors who have extended their support to us and also promise to continue promoting awareness of thalassemia and its eradication.”
27, Jan 2025
Ramayana Kalpavrksam to Bring Epic Music and Dance Performances to Hyderabad for Three Days
Hyderabad, 27th January 2025: The third edition of the iconic 3-day music and dance extravaganza, ‘Ramayana Kalpavrksam’, conceived and curated by Hyderabad based acclaimed dancer Dr. Ananda Shankar Jayant, a celebrated artist and cultural ambassador, will be hosted from 31st January 2025 to 2nd February 2025, at the CCRT campus, Hyderabad. The signature festival and India’s finest talents in classical arts in a unique confluence of art, tradition, and scholarship is being presented by Shankarananda Kalakshetra and Natyarambha, in collaboration with Brhat. The festival is to be inaugurated by Chief Guest Sri Tejasvi Surya, Member of Parliament.
According to Ananda the creator of the annual festival, Ramayana Kalpavrksam brings Sri Rama Chetana back into our lives, a 3-day immersion into all things Rama through the prism of top class performances, of dance, music and Harikatha, by stars and doyens in the field, inspiring and scholarly talks, by renowned and young scholars, learning workshops on Indic knowledge, exhibitions, crafts and more.
The highlights performances in the evening segment, ‘Ramarasa’ promises to be a mesmerizing celebration of art and devotion, featuring an array of stellar performances from the worlds of Carnatic music, classical dance, and storytelling, with the renowned Carnatic duo Ranjani-Gayatri, premiering their much-anticipated musical feature, ‘RAMA by RaGa’; Vishaka Hari, the Harikatha legend, will enchant the audience with ‘Ramayana: The Life-Giving Tree’; a breathtaking presentation of Rukmini Devi Arundale’s iconic dance choreography, ‘Sabari Moksham,’ brought to life by the Kalakshetra Foundation; the rare and vibrant Manipuri Raas, Pung and Dhol Cholam, performed by the JN Manipuri Dance Academy, Imphal, transporting audiences to the cultural heart of Manipur and a soulful invocation, ‘Takkuvemimanaku,’ performed by the Shankarananda Kalakshetra ensemble. Each performance is a testament to the timeless legacy of Indian art forms, weaving together music, dance, and storytelling in an unforgettable homage to Lord Rama.
The morning sessions, ‘Ramamrita’ brings together six remarkable and scholarly speakers, each offering a unique perspective on the timeless epic of the Ramayana. Prof. Shrinivasa Varakhedi, Vice Chancellor of Central Sanskrit University, renowned for his deep understanding of Sanskrit literature and philosophy; Yashodeep Deodhar, creator of the widely popular 21Notes, sharing innovative insights into the Ramayana; Ami Ganatra, acclaimed author of bestselling books on the Ramayana, known for her fresh and thought-provoking interpretations; Dr. Anupama Kylash, a celebrated dance scholar, illuminating the Ramayana through the lens of classical Indian dance and culture; Dr. DK Hari and Dr. DK Hema, creators of the Bharat Gyan series, bringing their extensive research on India’s ancient wisdom and the Ramayana to life and Vikram Sridhar, a gifted young storyteller, weaving the magic of the Ramayana with his compelling narratives. This exceptional lineup promises to delve into the myriad facets of the Ramayana, blending scholarship, creativity, and storytelling to inspire and enlighten.
As part of the vibrant three-day festival, an array of engaging learning workshops and unique experiences await participants, in ‘Kala Charan’: a Sanskrit Learning Workshop, led by Udaya Shreyas of the Sanskrit Channel, offering an immersive dive into the beauty and essence of Sanskrit. A hands-on fabric painting session will have the young and talented artist Anusha Namburi, exploring the art of adorning fabric with creativity and a traditional Cheriyal Painting art form is brought to life by acclaimed Cheriyal artist Madhu Merugoju. The fest will also have a captivating display of vintage lithographs from the treasured collection of Pratima Sagar and MC Mohan, showcasing the divine in Indian households, ‘Framing Divinity – Devas in Our Homes’ as well as ‘Kala Grama’, a bustling bazaar celebrating the craftsmanship of talented artisans, offering a glimpse into India’s rich heritage and artistry, Ramayana Kalpavrksam promises to captivate attendees and leave them enriched by India’s timeless traditions.
27, Jan 2025
Ishq Jabariya’s Kamya Panjabi Challenges the Idea of Freedom on Republic Day
On this Republic Day, as we stand tall in the pride of our nation’s journey, it’s important to pause, reflect, and ask ourselves some tough questions. Kamya Panjabi, who plays the character of Mohini in Sun Neo’s Ishq Jabariya, shared some of the tough questions that crossed her mind on this significant occasion and expressed her thoughts on the matter.
Kamya says, “Republic Day is a reminder of the strength and beauty of our democracy, but it also makes me question are we truly living up to the ideals set by our Constitution. We speak of equality, yet many in our country are still struggling for basic rights. We celebrate freedom, but is everyone really free to express their opinions without fear?”
The Ishq Jabariya Actress further continues, “I love my country deeply, and that’s why I feel the need to speak up. Patriotism isn’t just about waving flags or singing the anthem it’s about standing up for what’s right, even if it’s uncomfortable. It’s time we stop hiding behind traditions and start addressing issues like corruption, discrimination, and injustice head-on. On this Republic Day, I urge everyone to not just celebrate, but also reflect and act. Real change starts with us.”
Ishq Jabariya, airing on Sun Neo at 7:30 PM, is an engaging love story centred around Gulki, a determined young woman with big aspirations. The show boasts a stellar cast, including Kamya Panjabi, Siddhi Sharma, and Lakshay Khurana in key roles, bringing depth and emotion to this captivating narrative.
27, Jan 2025
Indian Bank Observes 76th Republic Day with Pride and Patriotism
Chennai, 27th January 2025: Indian Bank today celebrated our nation’s 76th Republic Day at its Corporate Office and Head Office at Chennai. Shri Binod Kumar, MD & CEO of Indian Bank hoisted the National Flag. A guard of honour was presented by the guards of the Bank.
In his Republic Day address, Shri Kumar recalled the contribution and sacrifices of our Martyrs in establishing free India and acknowledged the resilient and relentless efforts by Bank’s pioneer.
As a part of its CSR initiatives, Bank sponsored an ambulance to Rajiv Gandhi Govt. General hospital, Chennai. Shri Kumar handed over the vehicle key to the hospital authorities. Executive Directors- Shri Mahesh Kumar Bajaj, Shri Ashutosh Chaudhury, Shri Shiv Bajrang Singh, Shri Brajesh Kumar Singh and Chief Vigilance officer Shri V K Srivastava along with senior officials, staff members and their family participated in the event.
27, Jan 2025
FTCCI Pays Tribute to India’s Legacy on the 76th Republic Day
Hyderabad, January 27, 2025…… The 108-year-old Industry, Commerce and Trade body the Federation of Telangana Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FTCCI) celebrated the 76th Republic Day and President Suresh Kumar Singhal hoisted the national flag at the Federation house.
Speaking on the occasion, Suresh Kumar Singhal said, “This occasion marks the day India adopted its Constitution in 1950 and stands as a testament to the democratic values and principles that continue to guide our nation forward.”
Today, as we stand here under the proud shadow of our Tricolor, we are reminded of the immense responsibility we hold as citizens, as business leaders, and as contributors to our nation’s growth and prosperity. The Federation of Telangana Chamber of Commerce and Industry, as one of the state’s leading voices for trade and industry, has a critical role to play in shaping the future of Telangana and India as a whole, Singhal told the gathering.
On this Republic Day, I urge each one of you to recommit to the values of our Constitution and take pride in the role we play in building a stronger and more prosperous India. Let us work to make Telangana an example of excellence, innovation and sustainability, he said.
KK Maheshwari, the Vice President of FTCCI said we got our own Constitution two and half years after Independence. It was drafted and redrafted to make India a strong nation. The 18.36% literacy at the time of our Independence has now reached almost 100%. To make a strong nation we need a strong education and industrial base.
