Category Archives: News

CK Birla Hospitals Unveils ‘Every Beat Counts’ Report: A First-of-its-kind insight into India’s Cardiac Health Crisis

4th October 2024, Chennai: BM Birla Heart Hospital (BMB), part of CK Birla Hospitals, has launched a first of its kind report on India’s cardiac health – ‘Every Beat Counts’. This report not only sheds light on the cardiac health crisis but also offers valuable insights and actionable strategies to address the growing prevalence of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) across the country.

 The prevalence of coronary heart disease in India has risen 3X over the past three decades. According to the ‘Every Beat Counts’ report, 20% of heart attack deaths worldwide now occur in India. The report presents alarming statistics, revealing that approximately 90 million Indians currently live with cardiovascular conditions. Furthermore, the mortality rate from cardiovascular disease (CVD) in India stands at 272 per 100,000 population, exceeding the global average of 235. Notably, this mortality rate varies significantly between urban and rural areas; it is reported to be 450 in urban India and 200 in rural India.

 The report also emphasizes the high prevalence of the “thin-fat” body type among Indians, which is characterized by a normal or below-normal weight but with a higher body fat percentage, resulting in increased cardiovascular risks.

 Cardiovascular diseases account for 24.5% of all deaths in India. Alarmingly, States such as West Bengal and Punjab report mortality rates in which over 35% of deaths are attributed to heart disease. Our inaugural ‘Every Beat Counts’ report underscores the urgent need for a national strategy to address this worsening crisis. By publishing this report annually, we aim to promote sustained awareness and encourage collective action toward building a healthier nation,” said Vipul Jain, CEO, CK Birla Hospitals.

 The report indicates that cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are a leading concern within the health landscape, placing an increasingly heavier burden on India’s healthcare system each year. India faces significant challenges regarding healthcare infrastructure and access, especially in cardiac care. The country has one cardiologist for every 250,000 Indians, in stark contrast to the United States, where there is one cardiologist for every 7,300 Americans.

 Leveraging the expertise of B M Birla Heart Hospital, the report highlights the urgent need for improved infrastructure, greater access to specialized care and enhanced public awareness to address the escalating cardiovascular crisis in India across all age groups. CVD is increasingly impacting younger populations, including children, with 10% of infant mortality in India now linked to heart diseases. The report points out a critical shortage of infrastructure and specialized care, resulting in higher surgical risks and long-term complications for children with congenital heart conditions. India trains only 35 paediatric cardiology fellows each year, and the surgical mortality rate for these conditions among children in India ranges from 8% to 13%, compared to less than 5% in developed countries.

HCG Cancer Centre Kolkata Performs Eastern India’s First Robotic Whipple Surgery on a 60-year-old Patient

Kolkata, 4th October 2024: HCG Cancer Centre, Kolkata successfully performs a pioneering Robotic Whipple (pancreaticoduodenectomy) surgery on a 60-year-old male patient. This surgery further solidifies HCG Cancer Centre Kolkata’s leadership as the only medical facility in Eastern India providing both traditional and robotic Whipple surgery. Led by Dr. Sujoy Kumar Bala, Surgical Oncologist, and his team of highly skilled specialists, this intricate surgery highlights HCG’s commitment to medical innovation and excellence in cancer care.

The patient, Rajiv (name changed), a 60-year-old male, initially visited HCG Cancer Centre Kolkata with persistent anemia and abdominal pain. After a series of diagnostic tests, including upper GI endoscopy and CT scans, he was diagnosed with periampullary cancer, a rare form of cancer located at the junction of the pancreatic and liver ducts. A Whipple procedure (pancreaticoduodenectomy) was recommended as the best course of treatment, as it involves the removal of cancerous tissue from the pancreas, bile ducts, and small intestine to enhance the chances of recovery.

Dr. Sujoy Kumar Bala, Surgical Oncologist, HCG Cancer Centre Kolkata, who led the surgery, explained the advantages of robotic technology in such intricate procedures, “The patient initially presented with symptoms of anemia and abdominal pain, which led to the diagnosis of a rare cancer affecting the pancreatic and liver ducts. After a thorough evaluation, we opted for a robotic Whipple procedure, given the complexity of the case and the benefits of robotic assistance. Being the first procedure of its kind in Eastern India, the patient and his family naturally had concerns, which we addressed through detailed consultations.”

He further explained explained the traditional approach to the Whipple procedure, which typically requires a large abdominal incision to remove the head of the pancreas, part of the bile duct, duodenum, gallbladder, and nearby lymph nodes. In this case, he said, “we used robotic assistance with the da Vinci system, which enabled us to perform the surgery through smaller incisions. The robotic system’s 3D view of the abdomen gave us superior accuracy, precision, and control throughout the 8-hour procedure. The distinct advantages of the robotic Whipple, including fewer complications, reduced postoperative pain, and quicker recovery—especially important for elderly patients like this one. The patient’s recovery was smooth, and he was discharged just eight days after the surgery,” Dr. Bala concluded.

Expressing his gratitude for the care he received, the patient, Rajiv shared, “When I was diagnosed, I was anxious, but the team at HCG Cancer Centre Kolkata made me feel reassured. They explained the advantages of robotic surgery in great detail, which eased my worries. Thanks to the team, I recovered much faster than expected, with minimal scarring and less pain.”

Commenting on the hospital’s pioneering use of robotic surgery, Prateek Jain, Regional Business Head AP & East, Healthcare Global Enterprises Ltd, said, “Our mission is to provide world-class cancer care using the latest medical technologies. The successful completion of this first-ever robotic Whipple surgery in Eastern India is a testament to our expertise in advanced oncology. By adopting robotic technology, we aim to improve clinical outcomes, expedite patient recovery, and elevate the overall treatment experience.”

Dr. Amarjeet Singh, COO of HCG Cancer Centre, Kolkata, emphasized the hospital’s commitment to innovation, stating, “At HCG, we leverage cutting-edge technologies to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients. The Whipple surgery is one of the most complex and demanding gastrointestinal procedures, requiring exceptional skill and expertise. At HCG Cancer Centre, Kolkata, our highly trained gastrointestinal surgical oncology team, combined with our advanced robotic surgery program, makes us the only medical center in Eastern India to offer both traditional and robotic versions of this procedure, and we are proud to be at the forefront of this revolution.”

In addition to the Whipple procedure, the center’s highly skilled team of surgeons perform robotic-assisted surgeries for a wide range of cancers, ensuring comprehensive and advanced treatment options for their patients. This successful surgery marks another milestone in HCG Cancer Centre Kolkata’s mission to provide advanced, patient-focused cancer treatment and reinforces its position as a leading facility in the region for complex oncological procedures.

IIL Foundation Wins 3rd Consecutive Bhamashah Award for Educational Excellence in Rajasthan

New Delhi,4th October 2024: IIL Foundation, the CSR wing of Insecticides (India) Limited (IIL), a leading player in the agrochemical industry, has been awarded the prestigious Bhamashah Award for the third consecutive year. The 28th Bhamashah Samman ceremony, chaired by Rajasthan’s Education Minister Madan Dilawar, was recently held at Vivekananda Auditorium, Mohanlal Sukhadia University, Udaipur, to honor outstanding contributions to the state’s education sector.

This year yet again, IIL Foundation was recognized for its significant efforts in improving educational facilities in government schools across Khairtal Tijara district. The Foundation’s work includes establishing computer labs, constructing open tin sheds, upgrading school’s sanitation infrastructure to name a few.

Mr. Rajesh Aggarwal, Managing Director of Insecticides (India) Limited, expressed his gratitude, saying, “Receiving the Bhamashah Award for the third time is a moment of immense pride and gratitude for us. At IIL Foundation, we are driven by the belief that every child deserves quality education and the opportunity to dream big. This recognition strengthens our commitment to continue our work, knowing that the real reward is the smiles and progress we see in the children. We are dedicated to making a lasting impact on education, and this award motivates us to reach even more schools and touch lives.”

“IIL Foundation remains committed to its mission of advancing educational opportunities, reinforcing its role as a key contributor to the social and educational upliftment of communities in Rajasthan” added Dr. Mukesh Kumar, Vice President, who oversees the CSR initiates for the company in Rajasthan.

Successful Conclusion of 6th Industry Institution Summit by IET

Chennai, 4th October 2024: The sixth edition of the Industry Institution Summit (IIS) was organized by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) Chennai Local Network, on the 26th September 2024 at Taj Vivanta Chennai, IT Expressway. The event focused around ‘Empowering Engineering Solutions for a Sustainable and Resilient Future’ with a major emphasis on creating opportunities for skill development, Technology & innovation and promotion of entrepreneurship to cater the needs of futuristic technology. This collaboration gave rise to new Technological Advancements, Global Competitions, Innovation and Research.

The event showcased engaging panel discussions and technical presentations highlighting futuristic technologies presented by industry experts and academic leaders. Along with this, the event hosted a mini expo to foster entrepreneurship.The Grand finale of Present Around The Network (PATN), the 8th edition of Smart City Challenge and the 2nd edition of Pentathlon took place during the event. The IET Chennai Local Network awards and Nokia Smart city challenge winners were presented as well.

“Our technology landscape brims with potential, and fostering collaboration among academia, industry, and government is essential to establishing our nation as a global technology leader. As we transition to Industry 5.0, which prioritizes human-centric innovation, we must leverage this shift to tackle pressing societal challenges. Prioritizing skill development, particularly in sectors such as healthcare and mobility, will enable AI to drive transformative change. This event sparked meaningful conversations on these critical topics, paving the way for innovative solutions and advancements.” says Dr S Cloudin, Chair of the IET Chennai Local Network.

The event featured several impactful discussions, such as:

• Super Keynote Address on “5G Networks” by Mr. S. Parameswaran, Nokia Solutions and Networks Pvt Ltd.
• Keynote Address on “Skilling in AI Era” by Dr Anbuthambi B, Strategy Head, L&T Edutech, Larsen & Toubro
• Panel Discussion on “India – a Rising EV Mission”, featuring Dr. Bharathiraja Professor and Head for Centre for Electric mobility, SRMIST; Dr Srinivasa Chandra, Head of Testing, Switch mobility; Mr. Sivakumar, R& D Design Head, Royal Enfield; Mrs K.Rajarajeswari Senior Engineer, GARC, Govt. Of India; Mr.Varun Sabapathi, Managing Director, Qmax Ion Pvt. Ltd
• Keynote Address on Immersive Tech in Medical by Mr. P.B.C. Paul, Senior Consultant, Advisor & Mentor for Startups
• Panel Discussion on Industrial Metaverse, featuring Dr. R. Rajkumar, Associate Professor, Dept of DSBS, SRMIST; Mr. Vijayaranjan Ramanathan, Senior Developer, XR Labs; Mr.S.Premlin Dass, MD, Cresendos Private Limited; Mr. Ravi kumar, CEO, Hackwit Technologies Pvt Ltd; Mr. Mohammed Jasim,CEO, Neur Industries Pvt. Ltd
• Keynote Address on How Generative AI is transforming entertainment industry by Director & CEO, Muonium.ai
• Panel Discussion on Generative AI threads and usage, featuring Ms. Vijalalakshmi, GenAI Developer, Open Weaver; Ms. Aswini Priyanka, CEO, ASSR Emphorium; Mr. S. Visaghan, Founder and CEO, Meiporul XR; Mr. Anand Sudan, Senior Analyst, Hexaware Technologies

In alignment with the IET’s global focus on societal challenges where the engineering profession and the IET can make an impact, this sixth edition of the Industry Institution Summit will deliberated on the various challenges and opportunities available in Sustainability and Climate Change, Digital Futures, Healthy Lives, People-centric Infrastructure and Productive Manufacturing.

The main objective of the summit was to bridge the gap between Academia and Industry, by bringing together top management professionals, researchers, academicians, industry experts and students from different disciplines to explore futuristic technologies and the skills required to meet industry needs.

Woxsen University Hosts the FutureYou Summit 2024: Shaping Education for Tomorrow

October 4, 2024, Hyderabad: Woxsen University successfully hosted the #FutureYou Summit, a dynamic event that explored the future of education. The Summit brought together prominent thought leaders, academic experts, and stakeholders in the field of education to deliberate on key topics and challenges facing academia, such as policy and immigration issues, human-centered design, psychological resilience and leadership in academia, and reinventing diversity in education, among others.

By fostering an environment of collaboration and knowledge exchange, the Summit aimed to identify innovative solutions, spark meaningful discussions, and provide actionable insights to shape the future of education on a global scale.

Through a combination of engaging formats like roundtables, workshops, and panel discussions, the Summit offered valuable insights from leading academicians and experiential perspectives from corporate leaders.

A roundtable discussion featuring Dr. Ernesto Silva, Provost of Universidad del Desarrollo, Chile, and Dr. Joshua Dalrymple, Dean of the School of Law at Woxsen University, explored policy and immigration challenges. Their discussion focused on ways to make developing countries more attractive destinations for international students through streamlined regulations and supportive policies.

Dr. Ernesto Silva, Provost of Universidad del Desarrollo, Chile, said “The complexities of immigration policy are a global reality that will continue to shape our world. To navigate these challenges effectively, we must foster an entrepreneurial mindset and cultivate new forms of international collaboration. By doing so, we can create a more interconnected and equitable future for all.”

Dr. Joshua Dalrymple, Dean of the School of Law at Woxsen University said “The future is global. India’s rich heritage and Woxsen’s excellence offer a unique opportunity for cross-cultural exchange. Let’s streamline policies to attract international students and shape a brighter tomorrow.”

Two engaging panel discussions delved into exciting trends in academic institutions. One focused on Human-Centered Design, featuring prominent names like Ruslan Galiakhmetov, Deputy Director for International Relations, Institute of Management, Economics and Finance, Kazan Federal University and Dr. Shiva Ji, Associate Professor, Indian Institute of Technology, Hyderabad. The other panel explored Leveraging Gamification for Engaging Learning Experiences, with speakers from leading corporates joining the conversation

Eye-opening workshops at the #FutureYou summit tackled topics like Psychological Resilience & Leadership in Academia and Reinventing Diversity in Academia, addressing real-world challenges faced by students and academics

Toyota Kirloskar Motor Promotes Environmental Sustainability and Community Welfare Through 30th iCARE Event

Bangalore, 4th October2024: Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) today announced the successful completion of its 30th ‘I Community Action To Reach Everyone’ (iCARE) activity, an employee volunteering program, held at Irregowdana Lake in Bidadi. This event is in synergy with National Clean Up Day which is observed annually on 21st September. The clean & green drive around the Irregowdana lake saw active participation from around 200 volunteers, including TKM employees and their families, who came together to contribute to the cause of a cleaner and greener environment. National Clean Up Day is dedicated to raising environmental awareness and fostering community engagement in maintaining clean and sustainable public spaces.

In the event, the volunteers undertook a comprehensive clean-up of the lake area, collecting plastic and non-plastic waste from the surroundings. The initiative focused on enhancing the lake’s surroundings, reducing pollution, and safeguarding the local ecosystem. Alongside the clean-up efforts, participants also planted 300-350 mature saplings along the lake bund, enriching the biodiversity and contributing to a more sustainable future.

National Clean Up Day serves as a nationwide call to action, promoting environmental awareness and encouraging communities across India to come together to keep public spaces clean and sustainable. By organizing the lake cleanup and sapling plantation around this period, TKM reinforced its commitment to this important cause, fostering greater community involvement and emphasizing the importance of collective action in preserving natural resources. The event concluded with an experience-sharing session where volunteers reflected on their contributions and the importance of collective action in achieving environmental sustainability.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Vikram Gulati, Country Head and Executive Vice President, Corporate Affairs and Governance, Toyota Kirloskar Motor said, “The iCARE initiative is our employee volunteering program and is a testament to our commitment to creating a positive impact in the communities we operate in. Through collective efforts in areas like environmental conservation, we are not just fostering a sense of responsibility among our employees and their families but also contributing to the well-being of society. Over the years, we have seen remarkable enthusiasm from the volunteers, who have contributed to impactful projects in education, skill development, disaster management, and environmental conservation. The success of the 30th iCARE event, in alignment with National Clean Up Day, reaffirms our belief that every small step towards sustainability can lead to meaningful improvements. We remain dedicated to empowering our workforce to engage in meaningful actions that resonate with our core values of respect for the planet and community development.”

Since its launch in 2017, the iCARE initiative has garnered tremendous participation, with over 2,490 employees involved in more than 29 diverse projects. These efforts encompass critical areas such as education, environmental conservation, road safety and skill development. This collective endeavour has not only provided enriching experiences for employees but also positively impacted the lives of over 64,000 community members. iCARE exemplifies TKM’s commitment to empowering and inspiring its workforce to engage in meaningful actions that uplift communities and reflect their dedication to social responsibility.

Blue Dart to Implement General Price Increase w.e.f. January 1st, 2025

Hyderabad, October 4, 2024: Blue Dart Express Limited, South Asia’s premier express air and integrated transportation and distribution express logistics company, part of the DHL Group, today announced its General Price Increase (GPI), effective from January 1st, 2025. The average price increase will be in the range of 9% to 12%, depending on product variabilities and the shipping profile.

In its ongoing commitment to delivering reliable and efficient logistics solutions, Blue Dart conducts a comprehensive annual review of its pricing structure. This essential decision ensures the continued provision of quality service while fostering sustainable ecosystem collaboration. The pricing adjustments for 2025, which include inflationary adjustments and cost rationalization, are designed to partly cover spiralling long-term costs, such as rising input costs to operations, including but not limited to airline operating costs and infrastructure costs, while also supporting customers with customized and seamless deliveries. These measures help uphold Blue Dart’s high standards amidst inflationary pressures, complexities in the global supply chain, and dynamic changes in the domestic landscape. By proactively addressing these challenges, Blue Dart aims to sustain exceptional service for its customers and effectively support its partners.

Balfour Manuel, Managing Director of Blue Dart, commented on the announcement: “As we step into 2025, we remain committed to delivering exceptional, reliable services. This price adjustment is essential for sustaining our operational excellence while continuing to offer solutions centered on the needs of our stakeholders. In conjunction with our annual price adjustment, we are also mobilizing investments to expand our network, adopt the latest technologies, and enhance our service offerings. We are primed to capitalize on new opportunities and deliver even greater value to our customers and stakeholders.”

As the trade facilitator for prominent organizations in key sectors such as e-commerce, healthcare, automobiles, consumer electronics, and BFSI (banking, financial services, and insurance), Blue Dart continues to set industry standards. The company’s ongoing expansion of its electric vehicle (EV) fleet reflects its commitment to sustainability and reducing its carbon footprint. Additionally, Blue Dart stands as a frontrunner in harnessing drone technology for commercial use in the logistics sector.

Agilus Diagnostics welcomes Anil Kapoor as Brand Ambassador

October 4, 2024, Mumbai/Gurugram: Agilus Diagnostics Ltd., India’s largest diagnostic company, proudly announces the appointment of celebrated superstar actor Anil Kapoor as the company’s official brand ambassador. Following the launch of its new brand identity in 2023, this partnership will further strengthen Agilus’ positioning and enhance customer engagement across India.

Anil Kapoor, a legendary actor renowned for his timeless appeal, fitness, and enduring presence in the film industry, perfectly embodies the values that Agilus stands —integrity, trust, and excellence. His persona aligns seamlessly with the company’s mission of promoting a healthier India through advanced diagnostic services, making him the perfect choice to represent the brand as it deepens its connection with customers across the nation.

Speaking on the association, Mr. Anand K, Managing Director & CEO of Agilus Diagnostics Ltd., said “We are thrilled to welcome Anil Kapoor to the Agilus Diagnostics family. His dynamic and evergreen image aligns perfectly with our commitment to delivering high-quality diagnostic services that empower individuals to lead healthier lives. Agilus Diagnostics is more than just a provider of routine and preventive tests. While we lead in preventive care, what truly distinguishes us is our focus on specialized testing driven by advanced diagnostic technologies. This partnership marks an exciting chapter in our brand’s journey, and we are confident that Anil Kapoor’s association will significantly enhance our brand visibility and customer engagement.”

Anil Kapoor shared his excitement about the collaboration, stating, “I am honoured to be associated with Agilus Diagnostics, a company playing a vital role in enhancing diagnostics and wellness across India. Agilus Diagnostics has been a trusted diagnostic partner for me and my family for many years, making this partnership even more special. Their commitment to innovation, cutting-edge technology, and compassionate customer care sets them apart, helping millions of people in India and internationally prioritise their health. The upcoming campaign, ‘Khud ko test karte raho’ (Keep Testing Yourself), encourages people to take proactive control of their health—a message I deeply resonate with. Together, we will inspire more individuals to make regular health check-ups a priority, empowering them to care for their well-being and that of their families.”

Mr. Piyush Jain, Chief of Marketing and Digital at Agilus Diagnostics, shared his thoughts on the collaboration, stating: “This partnership is a perfect fit: a legacy actor joining forces with Agilus, a legacy brand in diagnostics with over 29 years of excellence, a network of 410+ labs, 4,000 customer touchpoints, and a presence in more than 1,000 cities. Anil Kapoor’s commitment to health and fitness perfectly aligns with our campaign tagline, ‘Khud ko test karte raho.’ We believe this association will greatly enhance brand recall and strengthen our brand value. We are excited to launch our 360° campaign and look forward to the positive impact it will have on customer engagement and outreach.”

A creative work of Double Barrel Communications Pvt Ltd, the Big Idea was based on the insight that everyone faces tests in their lives, and it is only through taking tests head-on that you emerge better and stronger. “‘Khud ko test kartey raho’ will prove to be an enduring brand statement. It is an idea that can be progressively built on over the years” says Neelesh Phadnis, Founder, Double Barrel Communications

As Agilus Diagnostics embarks on a new chapter in its brand journey, it blends its legacy of trust and innovation with Anil Kapoor’s timeless appeal and commitment to health, further cementing its position as India’s most trusted diagnostics brand.

LeapScholar Survey: 57% of Students Pursuing International Education from State Boards, 34% Female

National, 4 October 2024: LeapScholar, South Asia’s largest end-to-end study abroad platform, today released its “Application-based Survey 2024”. The survey shows that Indian students are breaking conventional boundaries to pursue their dream of studying abroad.

Contrary to popular belief, that students from international/ICSE and CBSE boards have exposure to and aspirations for studying abroad, Leap’s new survey suggests that students from local State Boards are equally enthusiastic about pursuing global education. This points towards inclusion of a broader and more diverse demographic, with aspirations for international study traveling beyond conventional backgrounds and ethnicities. Furthermore, with females constituting a significant portion of this trend (34%), it highlights how women in India are breaking stereotypes and leading the way on global education.

The survey also reveals a shift in destination preferences and subject areas of interest. While top destinations like Canada, UK, US remain the top choices, Indian students are increasingly looking beyond these destinations, with Japan and the Netherlands emerging as exciting new options. The survey also shows that STEM courses, although still popular, are no longer the only draw for international students. Instead, students are exploring a range of subjects, including Psychology, Law, Sport Sciences, Architecture, Building, and Planning, Performing Arts, and Social Sciences, indicating a desire for a more well-rounded and diverse educational experience.

“The survey is a sign that Indian students are becoming more ambitious and forward-thinking in their approach to look for what is best for them. We feel inspired by the growing aspirations of the Indian students, particularly those from State Boards, who are now considering and embracing studying abroad like never before. We also feel very good to see female students leading the charge. This shift not only reflects the increasing accessibility of studying abroad but also the changing mindset of Indian students, who are now more open to exploring unconventional ways of learning.” said, Arnav Kumar, Co-founder, Leap.

The surge in aspirations among State Board students can be attributed to rapid digital penetration in the country, increased accessibility and growing awareness about international study opportunities. Additionally, the widespread availability of online resources and education platforms has democratized access to information, allowing students to explore international education options more easily.

Other key findings from the survey include:

Indian students are increasingly looking beyond traditional study abroad destinations, with Japan and the Netherlands emerging as exciting new choices. Traditional favorites Canada, UK, and US remain the top choices for international students

While STEM courses continue to be popular among international students, the survey reveals the top trending subject areas among students pursuing higher education abroad includes, Psychology, Law, Sport Sciences, Architecture, building and planning, Performing arts, Social sciences

Jharkhand Health Minister Banna Gupta to Inaugurate East Zone Regional Abilympics 2024 Celebrating Vocational Skills of 200+ Divyang

Jamshedpur, India – October 10, 2024 – The East Zone Regional Abilympics 2024, organized by the National Abilympic Association of India (NAAI), is set to take place at Tata Steel Technical Institute, Burma Mines on October 3rd and 4th in Jamshedpur (Jharkhand). Shri. Banna Gupta Hon. Health Minister of Jharkhand will be the chief guest at the inauguration. This prestigious event aims to celebrate the exceptional skills and talents of Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) from across Eastern India. Abilympics, known as the Olympics of Abilities, serves as a global platform where PwDs can demonstrate their vocational skills and showcase their ability to compete at both national and international levels. The Abilympics not only focuses on empowering PwDs through skills but also highlights the larger issue of employment opportunities. Skill development programs and events like these open doors to various sectors, including IT, hospitality, manufacturing, and even creative fields, where PwDs can excel with the right support.

Supported by prominent partners like Tata Power (TPCDT), Tata Steel Foundation, and the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, Government of India, the event underscores a commitment to empowering PwDs through skill development and inclusion. These initiatives are vital for providing PwDs with the tools they need to achieve self-reliance and contribute to society.

East Zone edition has received an overwhelming response, with 405 entries received and out of which 200+ selected ones will be competing, highlighting the growing enthusiasm and participation in promoting vocational skills amongst PwDs. Participants will showcase their abilities in 15 skill categories, under ICT, Crafts, Food and Services from the Eastern States such as West Bengal, Jharkhand, Bihar, and Odisha. For the first time, participants from Northeastern states like Assam and Meghalaya are joining the event, marking a significant milestone in the event’s expanding reach. Two participants from Assam and one from Meghalaya will take part, reflecting the growing inclusivity of the competition nationally. On this occasion, Tata group has undertaken a landmark initiative of organizing events like Neurodiversity Immersion Summit.

Key NGO partners such as Divyang Marg Darshan (Jamshedpur), Gaya Budham Sharnam (Gaya, Bihar), Bihar Abilympics Association (Patna, Bihar), and Sahaya-Special School for ID (Cuttack, Odisha) have been instrumental in training and preparing participants for this prestigious event. These organizations work tirelessly to bridge the gap between training and employment for PwDs, helping them unlock their potential.

Dr. Jitender Aggarwal, Secretary General, National Abilympic Association of India (NAAI) and Founder & CEO, Sarthak Educational Trust remarked, “The Regional Abilympics is a focused effort to promote vocational skills essential for PwDs to contribute to society. It also serves as a platform to showcase their talents on regional, national, and international stages.” He added, “It is a moment of pride when corporate entities welcome skilled employees and promote diversity in the workforce. With PwDs comprising over 5% of India’s population, this event emphasizes the importance of skill development as a pathway to employment, self-respect, and independence. Programs like the Abilympics help break down societal barriers, allowing PwDs to demonstrate their capabilities and inspiring corporate organizations to adopt more inclusive hiring practices. Companies such as Tata Power, Tata Steel, and others have already made strides in including PwDs in their workforce, showing the potential for wider change across industries”.

India created history at the 10th International Abilympics in Metz, France, in 2023 by securing seven medals with a small 13-member team. Now, as the National Abilympic Association of India (NAAI) prepares for the selections for the 11th International Abilympics (2027) to be held in Finland, the East Zone Regional Abilympics in Jamshedpur will be a crucial step in the journey toward international recognition and pride.