Category Archives: News

Adani Skill Development Centre Launches First Port Training with International Participants

Nellore: 23rd January, 2025: Adani Skill Development Centre (ASDC), the skilling arm of Adani Foundation, celebrated a significant milestone recently with the culmination of a 90-day training program at Krishnapatnam port. This is the first time that international participants joined ASDC’s maritime training course, which embodies the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — The World is One Family. The batch comprised 10 trainees from Tanzania and 20 students from India, creating a diverse and enriching learning environment.

“The achievements of our Tanzanian trainees exemplify our belief in Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. This initiative reinforces our mission to empower individuals across borders and build a skilled workforce equipped for the challenges of modern maritime industries,” Mr Jatin Trivedi, CEO, ASDC, said.

Launched in October 2024, the port training programs were designed to equip participants with world-class maritime skills. The curriculum is a mix of theoretical and practical modules on industry-grade simulators. The program trains participants in rubber tyred gantry (RTG) crane operations, heavy motor vehicle (HMV) driving and marine engine and mechanical systems (MEMS).

“The training program was more than just learning for us. From mastering RTG cranes to understanding the details of port operations, we’ve gained skills and confidence that will shape our future,” Frank Daud Mgendi, a Tanzanian trainee, said.

Tanzania resident Lameck Rojas Kidasi said this was his first visit to India. “Coming to India and getting a chance to learn and work along with other students was so much fun. I am very excited about future opportunities,” he said.

A certification ceremony for the students was held at the Krishnapatnam facility and Mr Vijay Singh Rathod, dry cargo head at Adani Krishnapatnam Port Limited (AKPL), was the chief guest for the event. Mr Koushal Singh, head of safety and environment, AKPL, and Mr Siddharth, head of marketing, AKPL, were the guests of honour.

ASDC’s Krishnapatnam facility, spanning over 20 acres and offering 21 simulation-based programs, is a hub of excellence in skilling. Since 2016, ASDC has trained over 1,60,000 youth, with 68% securing sustainable livelihoods, collectively generating an economic impact exceeding Rs 1,400 crore annually.

Students from ODM Sapphire Global School Triumph at SGFI National Shooting Championship 2024

Ranchi, 23 January 2025: The students of ODM Sapphire Global School have made a remarkable mark at the SGFI National Shooting Championship 2024, held at the prestigious Bhopal Shooting Academy in January 2025. Attended by 1000+ students from several schools nationwide, the event witnessed exceptional talent from young shooters across the nation, with four students from Jharkhand emerging as standout performers. The chief guest Mr. GD Sharma, Captain (Retd) Indian Army and Ex-Coach Indian Shooting Team graced the event with their presence.

 The students from ODM Sapphire Global School showed extreme dedication and teamwork, proving instrumental in achieving this prestigious feat. In “Under-19 Category,” Akansha Ojha achieved a remarkable AIR 8th with a score of 416.20, securing the 1st position in Jharkhand. In “Under-14 Category,” Mannat Kumari scored 405.80, earning an AIR 23rd and claiming the 1st position in Jharkhand. Paridhi Gupta secured an AIR 37th with a score of 400.20, placing her 2nd in Jharkhand. Aditi Priya scored 396.00, achieving an AIR 64th and securing the 3rd position in Jharkhand.

 The achievements of these young champions have not only highlighted their hard work and dedication but have also put Jharkhand prominently on the national shooting map. The National Shooting Championship held earlier, from December 25th to 28th, 2024, also at Bhopal, served as a platform for identifying talent for the upcoming Federation Nationals 2025. Akansha Ojha, Mannat Kumari, and Paridhi Gupta, from OSGS showed exceptional skills, securing 11th, 8th, and 9th positions respectively, qualifying for the Federation National 2025 Team Trials.

 Recognizing the feats achieved by the students, Mr. Amit Singh, Principal at ODM Sapphire Global School, said, “We are extremely proud of our students’ achievements at the SGFI National Shooting Championship 2024. Their hard work, dedication, and teamwork have paid off, and we are confident that they will continue to make us proud in the future.” Highlighting the school’s approach to co-academics, he said, “At ODM, we adopt a holistic approach to education, encompassing six key domains: academics, co-academics, life-skills, personal skills, career development, and global exposure. By extending our focus beyond traditional academics, we empower our students to develop essential life skills, preparing them for success in all aspects of life.”

 ODM Sapphire Global School’s recent achievements reflect its dedication towards the holistic development of students. Seamlessly balancing the academics, co-academics, and skill development for students, OSGS has several clubs in place such as STEM, Technology, Media, Dramatics, Ecology, Entrepreneurship, Sports, and Art & Sculpture. Depending on the age and grade of the students, ODM Sapphire Global School provides access to state-of-the-art facilities and experienced faculty, guiding them on the path of success.

Pre Budget Quotes from Experts

Mr.Ankur Mittal, Co founder, Inflection Point Ventures

Tax parity between both domestic and international funds is critical to building a strong alternative investment environment in India. Harmonizing the tax treatment of international and local investors in Indian Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs) will not only provide a fair playing field, but will also boost India’s appeal as a competitive global capital destination. By addressing the underlying disparity, the government can demonstrate its commitment to inclusion, economic change, and long-term growth in the investment environment.

 Mr. Bruce Keith,CEO Cofounder, InvestorAI

2025 is expected to be dominated by global geopolitics and this will cause ongoing market volatility and short-term pain. With a currency already depreciating, I see the immediate impact of Trump Tariffs as being reduced and giving the Government space to re-energise their infrastructure investment.
I see India as a destination of choice for overseas investors. However, the Indian government should find more ways to encourage citizens to take part in equity markets – realising that your savings are being eaten by inflation in real terms usually happens too late and tends to disadvantage the lower income strata of society.
Budget being once in a year event may not please everyone Whatever happens, the Budget will not please everyone, however, we will all benefit in the long term from infrastructure especially as demographics defines destiny.

Mr. Pankit Desai,CEO Cofounder, Sequretek

“The finance minister must prioritize cybersecurity in the upcoming budget. Given India’s alarming rank among the top four global victims of deepfake and digital arrest attacks, raising awareness about these threats is more important than ever. As the Prime Minister highlighted with “Digital Arrests,” increasing public and industry consciousness is key.
Despite policies, local cybersecurity ecosystems face significant hurdles and need more governmental support, particularly in procurement processes that impede Indian-origin companies from effectively bidding for government contracts. These policies must be revised to foster a more inclusive environment for domestic cybersecurity firms.
The other one is that, while educational institutions have made strides in offering cybersecurity courses, practical skills remain underdeveloped. By supporting educational initiatives to provide hands-on experience, the government can ensure that students graduate with the practical skills required to bolster India’s cybersecurity defenses. More investment in cybersecurity infrastructure at educational institutions can enhance real-world readiness. With strategic investments, India can reinforce its cybersecurity defenses and talent.”

Deepak Tuli, Co-founder and COO, Eka Care

 “The government’s focus on digitizing healthcare through initiatives like the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) has been commendable. In the upcoming budget, we hope to see increased allocation for digital health infrastructure to ensure seamless implementation of health records, interoperability, and access for rural populations. This will be a game-changer for India’s healthcare ecosystem.”

Anooshka Soham Bathwal Founder and CEO of Dhanvesttor

 “We expect the government to continue to support the start-up ecosystem in the current Budget. That can be enhanced with extended tax reliefs and a further improvement in the regulatory environment. In addition, ground level support to start-ups and easing the compliance procedures can also be anticipated. Added to that, skill development programs specific to industries can be promoted to fulfil the manpower requirement based on the required skills in these organisations. While demands from startups may differ from industry to industry, these remain the common asks of the industry from the Budget.

In addition, the government may further extend its support to the participation of women in the workforce. Apart from the continuation of schemes such as women-specific skilling programs and the promotion of women entrepreneurship, new programs to incentivise the empowerment of women can be introduced. The Lakhpati Didi target can be further enhanced to support more women Self Help Groups (SHGs) to attain self-reliance. Furthermore, initiatives to prioritise women’s health can be introduced in the budget. An allocation for the safety of women, also in the budget may not be ruled out. We believe that the government’s focus, which stayed on women’s empowerment, safety and inclusion in the previous several budgets, will continue to represent a key part of the Finance Minister’s Budget Speech this year as well.”

Mr. Thomas John Muthoot – Chairman of Muthoot Pappachan Group

 1. Infrastructure Development: Continue allocating significant funds for infrastructure projects while addressing the capex spending gap from the current year. Focus on faster execution and completion of key initiatives to drive economic growth and create jobs.

2. Support for Rural Economy: Strengthen rural incomes through targeted agricultural reforms and rural credit schemes, boosting consumption, productivity, and overall economic activity in rural and semi-urban areas.

3. Special Credit Lines for NBFCs: Approve dedicated credit lines for NBFCs from banks to facilitate seamless digital lending to micro-retailers, addressing credit gaps in underserved sectors and promoting financial inclusion.

4. Incentivizing Private Sector Capex: Introduce incentives to encourage private sector investment in capital expenditure, such as tax benefits, subsidies, or streamlined approval processes, to complement public capex and boost overall economic growth.

These measures will ensure balanced growth, address regional disparities, and stimulate private and public investments for sustainable development.

Mr. Amit Tandon, Founder and CEO, PolyCycl

 As we approach Union Budget 2025, it is crucial to recognize the potential of plastic recycling in the circular economy, especially in terms of waste management and sustainability. The plastic consumption in India is about 20 million tons per annum and the country generates approximately 10.2 million tons of plastic waste annually. Only around 60% of plastic waste generated is managed formally. Of the plastics that are recycled, less than 5% are recycled in a closed loop to produce high-quality recyclates. Such closed-loop recycling needs to be bolstered to 34% in the near future to meet the stipulated EPR targets on incorporation of recycled content.

Chemical recycling technologies have a transformative potential to address the challenge of recycling waste plastics such as hard-to-recycle single-use plastics and reduce plastic pollution in India. Achieving this vision will require a collaborative effort between the government and industry to foster innovation and bolster the sector’s capabilities. We recommend the government to establish an INR 1000 crore fund for providing low-interest and collateral-free loans for implementing chemical recycling plants, including first-of-its-kind (FOAK) projects. We also anticipate a 0% GST on ISSC- certified pyrolysis oils produced through the chemical recycling of waste plastics, where these oils are used as circular feedstock for creating new plastics. Launching a Product Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme, especially for scaling the implementation of chemical recycling plants that deal in single-use plastics to produce circular chemical feedstock, will further bolster these efforts.

Additionally, providing incentives and grants for R&D companies researching advanced recycling technologies and making plastics circular can drive innovation and enhance the industry’s capabilities. We are optimistic and look forward to a budget that promotes long-lasting and impactful growth in the plastic recycling industry.

 Mr. Rajiv Gupta, Managing Director, Wave City Limited

Real estate is one of the most critical sectors for building the momentum needed for the overall economic growth rate at 7% plus orbit. To keep the sector in the high growth trajectory, the government should provide incentives such as increasing tax deduction limits, rationalising the GST rate on under-construction properties to 5%, and introducing tax benefits for first-time home buyers. In addition, government should reduce the interest rate for home loan to stimulate the demand in the real estate sector, making housing more affordable and accessible to all”.

The Indian real estate sector has witnessed an unprecedented boom in recent years. From the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana to Smart Cities Mission, government initiatives have catalysed a transformation, making India one of the most dynamic real estate markets globally.

Mr. Sebi Joseph, President, Otis India

As we look towards the Union Budget 2025-26, we anticipate that the government will continue to build on this momentum through more forward-thinking measures to further strengthen the real estate and infrastructure sectors, with a special focus on localisation and sustainability. A budget that introduces strategic steps such as targeted investments, substantial tax reliefs, enhanced funding mechanisms, robust infrastructure initiatives – and that pushes for sustainable developments – would provide the much-needed impetus to developers for building homes across all segments, including luxury housing and affordable housing, thus ensuring a balanced growth trajectory and contributing to achieving the vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047, transforming India into a global leader in infrastructure and responsible urbanisation.

For the elevator and escalator industry, such a focus would present great avenues for growth in 2025 and beyond. With a surge in infrastructure projects, including smart cities, metro systems, and high-rise buildings, the vertical transportation industry is poised to be the backbone of India’s growing urban landscape. Furthermore, we are also contributing to the localisation of production and creating a self-reliant supply chain within the country. By marrying the growth of India’s urbanisation with innovation in elevators and escalators, the Budget holds the potential to set the stage for urban spaces that not only meet today’s needs but are also poised to thrive in the decades to come.

Mr. Partha Neog

 “With the Union Budget on the horizon, there is a growing need to address the evolving dynamics of the HR sector and its critical role in shaping India’s development. We look forward to policies that drive digital transformation, and innovation in workforce management, and emphasize skill development. These measures will not only create employment opportunities but also help build a future-ready workforce. In terms of Saas businesses, investments in AI and automation can empower businesses to streamline operations while enhancing employee experiences. Moreover, a robust education policy will be instrumental in retaining talent within the country and preventing brain drain. We anticipate a budget that prioritizes economic development, job creation, and strategic investments, paving the way for a progressive and inclusive India.”

Mr. Anand Aiyer, CEO, Arrow

 “As we approach the unveiling of the upcoming budget, we are optimistic about the government’s continued commitment to fostering economic resilience and growth. This is a pivotal moment to prioritize policies that drive innovation, enhance ease of doing business, and strengthen consumer confidence. At Arrow, we remain committed to honoring our legacy while evolving to meet the ever-changing needs of today’s consumers. We eagerly anticipate the opportunities this budget could create for our business and the industry.

We’re hopeful the upcoming budget will introduce initiatives that foster retail growth and simplify business operations. At Arrow, this is a chance to innovate, expand, and continue delivering exceptional fashion for the modern Indian man.”

Yashoraj Tyagi, CEO, CASHe

“The lending sector expects some major changes in the upcoming Union Budget. Increased credit fraud, limited access to customer protection tools and cyber scams have temporarily disrupted the digital lending ecosystem. This year’s budget presents opportunities to introduce policies that can strengthen digital infrastructure and enhance access to financial services.

There is an urgent need to make the lending process more efficient and accessible, which requires government support through targeted regulatory reforms. Establishment of a dedicated India Fintech Credit Fund (IFCF), could be a game-changer in enabling smaller fintech companies to access affordable financing; This initiative shall help establish robust regulation to curb illegal lending, consumer protection, and enhancement.

Besides, the gaps in underserved markets, especially in Tier II and Tier III cities, need to be addressed. The Finance Minister should prioritise financial inclusion to bring more people into the formal financial system and drive equitable growth.”

Mr. Vivek Lohia, Managing Director, Jupiter Wagons Limited

“As we look ahead to the Union Budget 2025-26, it is imperative that the Ministry of Railways adopts a multi-pronged approach to strengthen freight operations. Accelerating the expansion of Dedicated Freight Corridors (DFCs), including the newly introduced ‘Central India to Coast via DFC,’ will ensure faster, cost-efficient, and reliable freight movement, significantly enhancing the global competitiveness of Indian industries. Increasing the average speed of freight trains to 50 KMPH, deploying advanced 12,000 HP electric locomotives, and increasing the length of freight trains will be pivotal in accelerating freight loading. A strategic focus on railway geography assessments for sectors such as mining, NTPC, petrochemicals, cement, steel, FCI, dry ports, fertilizers, and textiles will ensure that freight operations align with India’s industrial needs.

Simultaneously, capital expenditure must prioritize modernizing infrastructure, urban rail projects, and innovative strategies such as the real-time information system (RTIS) and the separation of parcel traffic from passenger operations to minimize delays and improve overall efficiency. Dedicated Kisan Rails for perishables will further support agricultural supply chains.

Equally vital are policies that incentivize domestic manufacturing under the ‘Make in India’ initiative. Expanding PLI schemes to include components such as rail wheels, axles, advanced bogies, and high-speed passenger coach components, alongside export incentives, will drive innovation and boost the railways’ global footprint. Additionally, the government should encourage public-private partnerships and provide financing for capacity expansion, fostering long-term growth. Bridging the talent gap in heavy engineering and R&D-focused companies through skill development and training programs will further strengthen the sector.

As Indian Railways progresses toward Net Zero Carbon status, this budget can be a transformative step in driving economic growth and sustainability.”

Deepak Chand Thakur, co-founder and CEO of NPST

“Favourable Macroeconomic Impact An increase in discretionary spending can have a beneficial impact on UPI transaction volumes. Any relief to stimulate personal spending capacity in the upcoming Union Budget FY 2025-26 will be welcomed by the fintech industry.

Introduction of MDR Regime for UPI Payments Today, one in three digital payments is a UPI transaction. With growing investment in payments infrastructure, fraud management, compliance, and security — and the associated cost of processing transactions — participating entities need to monetize UPI. A rethinking of MDR for UPI transactions above Rs 2,000 can create a sustainable revenue model, benefiting all stakeholders in the UPI ecosystem.

Democratizing Data through AI Policy: The data landscape offers potential for shared intelligence solutions. AI-driven collaboration could strengthen fraud prevention network-wide, particularly benefiting smaller players who need government support for intelligence sharing.”

IVCA Conclave 2025: Paving the Way for Growth in India’s Alternate Capital Sector

Mumbai, 22nd January 2025: India’s apex industry body for alternative assets, the Indian Venture and Alternate Capital Association (IVCA), will be hosting the 14th edition of its flagship event, the IVCA Conclave, on the 11th and 12th of February 2025 in Mumbai.

IVCA Conclave 2025, the premier event for the alternate capital industry in India, is a forum for strategic conversations on the prospects and direction of this pivotal industry.

Ashley Menezes, Partner and COO, ChrysCapital, and Chairperson, IVCA, emphasised the importance of the forum said, “The Indian alternate capital industry is evolving at fast pace and its impact on economic growth, and the potential for sustainable, long-term investments have been significant in boosting India’s financial growth. As India embarks on its journey towards Viksit Bharat @2047, the alternate capital industry has a critical role to play in shaping the roadmap by driving innovation, supporting entrepreneurial ventures, and enabling capital deployment that fosters economic resilience and inclusive development. IVCA Conclave 2025 is poised to create new standards for the Indian alternative capital market and welcomes game-changing ideas from exceptional minds in the ecosystem. The event is set to cater insightful panel discussions, inter-industry collaborations, and the crucial networking amongst key players of the financial industry.”

In 2024, India’s PE-VC ecosystem showed strong activity, with US$49.5 billion invested across 1,126 deals (upto Nov’24), as per IVCA – EY Deal Report. Mega deals worth US$20.7 billion dominated, led by Brookfield’s US$2.5 billion acquisition of ATC India and Zepto’s US$1.3 billion fundraising round according to Venture Intelligence.

The year also saw five new unicorns emerge, attracting US$356 million in investments, up from 22% in 2023. This shift reflects a focus on strategic, quality investments, emphasizing profitability and scalable growth in a maturing market.

Commenting on the vision for this year’s IVCA Conclave, Srini Sriniwasan, Managing Director, Kotak Alternate Asset Managers Limited, and Vice Chairperson, IVCA, said, “The alternate capital ecosystem plays a transformative role in India’s financial trajectory. Bringing together industry experts, IVCA Conclave 2025 will witness important discussions that cover a range of topics, from how to evaluate risks and rewards, to building resilient climate innovation ecosystems, expansion of private credit, and more. The event serves as a key platform for industry leaders and emerging entrepreneurs to work in unison as they work towards a common goal – Viksit Bharat.”

Supporting IVCA Conclave 2025: Cooley, IC Universal Legal, Iron Pillar, Nuvama Asset Services, Nishith Desai Associates, Sundaram Alternates, Madison India Capital, Neo Asset Management, Oman India Joint Investment Fund, PlayBook Partners, PwC India, Uniqus, EY India, IDFC First Bank, ChrysCapital, Indian Angel Network, TVS Capital, Peak XV Partners, Affirma Capital, Kotak Investment Advisors Limited, Chiratae Ventures, Grant Thornton Bharat, AlphaGrep, Avendus, Blume Ventures, Cactus Partners, IvyCap Ventures, Trifecta Capital and UTI Alternatives.

Paresh Rawal Launches Chetana Education’s OTT Platform, Transforming the Education Landscape

At a landmark event, acclaimed actor and education advocate Padma Shri. Paresh Rawal unveiled Chetana Education’s pioneering personalised OTT platform for schools, designed to transform the way schools and students engage with learning. This innovative digital platform promises to personalize the educational experience, making it more accessible, engaging, and effective for learners across India.

The platform integrates cutting-edge digital tools and methodologies, offering schools and educators a dynamic approach to teaching. The OTT platform aims to meet the evolving needs of modern education and empower students for success in an ever-changing world.

Speaking at the launch, Paresh Rawal shared, “Education is the foundation of progress, and technology can amplify its reach and impact. Chetana Education’s OTT platform is a visionary step forward, ensuring that every child has access to quality learning experiences, no matter where they are. This initiative has the power to inspire and transform young minds.”

The event also included a panel discussion featuring some of India’s most esteemed educationists. Panellists included: Dr. Swati Popat Vats – President, ECA-APER, Kavita Sanghvi – Head of SVKM’s CNM School, Francis Joseph – Executive Director (India), GEMS Education and Fatema Agarkar – Founder, Agarkar Centre of Excellence (ACE)

The discussion emphasized the pivotal role of Art across the curriculum in enhancing learning experiences and explored how schools can blend creativity to foster holistic education.

Adding to the event’s highlights was the launch of the book Creative Connect: Art Across the Curriculum by renowned educator Dr. Swaroop Sampat Rawal. While the OTT platform took centre stage, the book offered a complementary perspective on integrating art into education. Dr. Swaroop Sampat Rawal remarked, “Art is not just a subject; it is a way of thinking and learning.

The dual launch of the OTT platform and Creative Connect represents a significant milestone in Indian education. With innovation at its heart, Chetana Education is all set to redefine how learning is experienced in schools, ensuring that students are not just taught but truly inspired.

Child Care Aware of Missouri Releases 2025 Child Care Report

Nonprofit shares data analysis to demonstrate Missouri’s child care system evolution since COVID-19.

(St. Louis, Mo., Jan. 22, 2025) Child Care Aware of Missouri (CCAMO) recently released its “Child Care Landscape in Missouri” report which examines the region’s child care system from 2020 to 2024.

The up-to-date report explores how Missouri’s child care system has been significantly shaped by the long-term effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Various challenges addressed include an increase in child care deserts, child care affordability, limited resource accessibility, and the expiration of federally funded programs like the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).

Founded in 1999, CCAMO is a statewide nonprofit organization that focuses on comprehensive early childhood education and its impact on families, child care professionals, businesses, and communities. CCAMO holds exclusive statewide licenses for Show Me Child Care Resources, a web-based portal providing more than 2,000 resources for child care educators and business owners, as well as T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood Missouri Scholarship Program, which has awarded more than 2,600 scholarships across Missouri since its inception.

CCAMO’s report provides researched solutions and actionable recommendations such as expanding affordable care access with a focus on rural and underserved areas; investing in workforce retention through better wages and benefits; sustaining public funding to stabilize and grow the sector; and promoting innovative child care models to meet diverse family needs.

“Our detailed analysis depicts numerous barriers in Missouri’s child care infrastructure since the pandemic,” said CCAMO CEO Robin Phillips. “We have addressed these issues – from workforce development resources to policy recommendations – to assist our region in its quest for quality answers to our current child care climate.”

Child Care Aware of Missouri’s services include workforce development, child care business supports, advocacy and policy work, and its new Child Care Keeps Missouri Working, a regional campaign offering concierge solutions to businesses undergoing employee recruitment and retention challenges due to the overwhelming shortage of quality child care options.

1to1help’s 2024 Report Redefines Workplace Wellbeing with Focus on Counselling and Resilience Trends

[Mumbai, January 22, 2025] – 1to1help, India’s leading Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) service provider, has published its yearly report titled “State of Emotional Wellbeing Report 2024”, focused on key trends and challenges around workplace mental health. Based on a substantial dataset of over 83,000 counselling sessions, 12,000 elective screenings, and 42,000 assessments from January to November 2024. The report reveals an increase in the uptake of counselling services among corporate employees. More interestingly, mental health concerns have risen to 15% and is one of the top 2 concerns for which employees reach out for counselling, as compared to previous years.

This also suggests that people are becoming more aware of the importance of mental health and no longer view it as taboo, which has led them to seek counselling for mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, or stress.

Ms. Mahua Bisht, CEO of 1to1help, stated, “Last year, we embarked on the journey of providing industry leaders with authentic, reliable data and actionable insights based on our counselling sessions. Each year, we seek to improve the data we share as well as the impact we deliver, and you will see more granularity in the findings of this year’s report. What really stood out to me this year was that we were able to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, significantly and demonstrably for individuals struggling with these issues in as few as three sessions.

In addition, we found that managers can play a life-changing role, as over half of the manager referrals we received involved a presence of suicidal risk.

This shows the importance of organizations and crucially, of managers in helping employees reach the right support at the right time.”

Major Highlights from 2024:

1. Mental Health and Workplace Relationship-Related Concerns on the Rise

The support sought through counselling for mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, and stress increased to 15%. While counselling related to workplace concerns constituted 11% of the total counselling sessions, workplace relationship-related discussions claimed the top spot, comprising 23% of all such discussions.

2. Gender-Specific Insights

Counseling uptake by men rose by 7%, with 70% of financial consultations being undertaken by men, reflecting their worries about financial anxiety and societal pressure surrounding their role as the ‘breadwinner’ of the family. Notably, there was a disproportionately larger representation of women in counseling with 52% of all counseling sessions being taken by women despite their lower representation in the workplace. Interestingly, 60% of relationship counseling was sought by women, affirming the emotional burden they often bear, in nurturing relationships.

3. Generational Differences in Mental Health

The findings reveal that signs of depression and anxiety were more pronounced among individuals under 30 than those over 45 years. This is likely attributed to stressors like relocation, career changes, and relationship difficulties in their early and mid-twenties. Organizations can support their young employees by facilitating open communication, demonstrating flexibility in work arrangements, and providing opportunities for growth within their organizations.

4. Distress and Suicide Risk Cases Surge

The data reveals a 22% increase in suicide risk and a 17% increase in distress cases compared to 2023. Alarmingly, 59% of employees referred by their managers showed signs of self-harm, reaffirming the need for manager training to help and support distressed employees. The report also reveals that the dependents of employees are at higher risk of suicide, stressing the need to extend emotional well-being assistance to employees’ family members as well.

5. Digital-Life Balance: A Growing Concern

According to the data, only 3% of individuals maintained a healthy digital balance, with most finding it challenging to disconnect from devices. This highlights the need to prioritize non-digital engagement and provide strategies to help employees manage technology use effectively.

6. Effectiveness of Counseling

98% of individuals achieved their goals or made significant progress within just three counseling sessions, underscoring the tangible impact of timely mental health support. Among those who initially screened positive for depression, 53% reported a significant decrease in depression symptoms, and 48% reported decreased anxiety. These results show that structured counseling can effectively address emotional challenges and promote well-being in a short period of time.

Daily Habits for Mental Wellness: Tips to Strengthen Your Mind

By Dr. Joseph Sunny Kunnassery- Founder of Prayatna, Kochi, Senior Occupational Therapist and Honorary Secretary of All India Occupational Therapist Association (AIOTA)

Mental health has become as important as physical health in today’s fast-paced environment. Living a happy and healthy life involves managing stress, preserving emotional equilibrium, and being cognitively strong. You can foster your mental health and well-being by adding easy, daily routines into your life.

Here are some helpful recommendations to abide by:

1. Start Your Day with Gratitude: Every day, begin by thinking about the positive aspects in your life. This could involve employment, family, health, or even little pleasures like a hot cup of coffee. You can develop an attitude of abundance and satisfaction by writing down three things for which you are thankful every morning, instead of focusing on what you lack.

2. Practice Mindfulness and Meditation: By practicing mindfulness, you can lower your anxiety and remain in the present. You can enhance emotional regulation, lower stress levels, and clear your mind by practicing meditation, even for just five minutes each day. For beginners, guided applications such as Calm or Headspace can be useful resources.

3. Stay Physically Active: Mental and physical well-being are closely connected. Regular exercise, even if it’s just stretching or walking, releases endorphins, which are known as “feel-good” hormones. This improves mood, lowers anxiety, and gives you more energy overall. On most days, try to get in at least 30 minutes of exercise each day.

4. Get Enough Sleep: Insufficient sleep can lead to irritability, poor decision-making, and inability to focus. Prioritize a restful night’s sleep by establishing a regular sleep pattern, making your home a peaceful one, and engaging in relaxation exercises before bed. Seven to nine hours of sleep per night is typically required by adults in order to function at their best.

5. Connect with Others: For mental health, human connection is essential. A sense of belonging can be developed by spending time with friends, family, and even by participating in community events. Take into consideration joining a group or taking part in online events if you’re feeling lonely. Emotional support and mood enhancement are two benefits of social contacts.

6. Set Boundaries and Manage Stress: Setting clear boundaries is crucial in a world where business and personal life can sometimes blend together. Limit work-related activities after hours, take pauses, and develop the ability to say no when necessary. Engage in stress-relieving activities like progressive muscle relaxation, deep breathing exercises, or enjoyable hobbies.

7. Engage in Creative Activities: Painting, writing, or playing an instrument are examples of creative pursuits that can be very healing. You may improve your creativity, feel more accomplished, and regulate your emotions by taking up hobbies that let you express yourself. Make an effort to schedule time each week for something that makes you feel motivated.

8. Practice Positive Self-Talk: Your mental state is greatly influenced by your internal dialogue. Positive affirmations can take the place of negative ideas. When you notice yourself thinking negatively, stop, question the idea, and swap it out for a more sensible one. Your perspective on the world and yourself can be significantly altered by developing an encouraging and caring mindset.

9. Seek Professional Help When Needed: Seeking professional assistance if you’re having mental health issues is not a sign of weakness. Talking to a mental health professional, going to therapy, or counselling can help you process your thoughts in a nonjudgmental environment while also offering helpful coping mechanisms and emotional support. Maintaining your mental well-being is equally as crucial as maintaining your bodily well-being.

10. Practice Acts of Kindness: Acts of kindness can generate oxytocin, the “love hormone,” which can lower stress and promote emotions of connection. Doing something little, like holding the door or offering your time, can benefit the recipient as well as your own mental health.

11. Limit Screen Time: Excessive screen use, particularly on social media, may negatively impact mental health and lead to stress. Establish screen time limits and make sure you balance online and offline activities that promote relaxation and mental clarity.

12. Learn to Accept Imperfection: Burnout and feelings of inadequacy can result from striving for perfection. Instead, focus on progress rather than perfection and accept that mistakes are normal. The secret to keeping a positive outlook is to practice self-compassion and forgiveness for previous mistakes.

Indian Cancer Society’s Cancer Survivors Run in TATA Mumbai Marathon 2025 to Spread Cancer Awareness

January 22, 2025. Those who participated in the Dream Run category included 30 young cancer victors and some employees of ICS.

The effort was primarily aimed at spreading the spirit of fighting cancer through the runners who demonstrated that despite having gone through cancer they could run the Marathon like any other person. Their spirit generated hope and positivity and spread the ICS message that good lifestyle, eschewing risk factors for cancer such as tobacco, and early detection through regular screening can help in staying two steps ahead of cancer raising awareness and educating people on the importance of screening and early cancer detection.

Apart from individual supporters a big push came from Kotak Securities and Raymonds. About 100 members from Raymonds and 130 members from Kotak securities ran for the Tata Mumbai Marathon 2025 supporting Indian Cancer Society to raise awareness.

Persistent Secures Prestigious AA+ Rating from ICRA Limited

January 22, 2025, Santa Clara, CA and Pune, India

Persistent Systems, a global leader in Digital Engineering and Enterprise Modernization, today announced that it has achieved [ICRA]AA+ (Stable) credit rating, reinforcing its strong financial position, business resilience, and operational excellence.

ICRA Limited (ICRA) is an Indian independent and professional investment information and credit rating agency. ICRA’s comprehensive rating assessment involves an in-depth evaluation of financial statements, extensive discussions with the senior leadership team, and a detailed analysis of business performance. Key factors such as revenue growth, operational efficiency, capital structure, and liquidity position are meticulously reviewed to gauge financial resilience and long-term stability.

The AA+ (Stable) rating from ICRA reinforces stakeholder trust, demonstrating Persistent’s sustained growth momentum and resilience in navigating dynamic macroeconomic conditions. The key rating drivers and strengths highlighted by ICRA include:

• Experienced leadership with a proven operational track record, complemented by well-established relationships with a diverse customer base across various industries.
• Strong revenue growth and a healthy order book ensuring consistent revenue visibility, driven by a diversified mix of large and mid-sized deals across key sectors with an increasing share of new business wins.
• A robust financial profile driven by healthy cash flow generation and capital structure, reflects the financial stability and positions Persistent to sustain its growth momentum and navigate future opportunities effectively.

This credit rating will also serve as a key enabler in Persistent’s bid pursuits with larger clients, who often require vendor partners to demonstrate strong financial robustness as part of their selection criteria. The AA+ (Stable) rating provides a credible assurance of Persistent’s financial health, further enhancing the Company’s ability to secure strategic engagements and expand its footprint in the enterprise market.

Sandeep Kalra, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director, Persistent

“We are proud to have achieved the [ICRA]AA+ (Stable) rating, which serves as a testament to our strong business fundamentals, financial health, and operational excellence. This recognition reflects the trust we have built with our clients, shareholders, and employees over the years. We will continue to drive top-quartile industry performance through disciplined execution, innovation, and global expansion, while maintaining a robust capital structure and healthy liquidity position. By doing so, we aim to sustain our growth momentum and create long-term value for all our stakeholders.“