Category Archives: News

Perspective by Arsh Mogre, Economist, PL Capital based on GDP Data

By- Arsh Mogre, Economist, PL Capital based on GDP data:

“India closed FY25 on a high note: real GDP in Q4 expanded 7.4 % y/y to ₹51.35 lakh crore, out-running the 6.7 % consensus and lifting full-year growth to 6.5 %—the fastest among large economies. The nominal print rose an even stronger 10.8 %, pinning the implicit deflator at roughly 3.2 %, half its pre-pandemic average and signalling that volume did the heavy lifting. Yet beneath the stellar top line, three forces shaped the quarter: a capex-centric demand mix, a construction-heavy supply response, and a tax-driven wedge between GDP and GVA.

On the demand side, gross fixed capital formation jumped 9.4 % y/y, contributing almost three percentage points to headline growth even though its share slipped to 33.9 % of GDP as import-intensive machinery orders cooled late in the quarter. Private consumption, by contrast, lost steam after the festive surge; seasonally adjusted estimates suggest a low-single-digit rise, consistent with softer urban discretionary outlays and a flat­-to-negative real wage bill. Government final consumption actually contracted 0.3 % y/y, confirming that the fiscal impulse came almost entirely from back-loaded capital expenditure rather than revenue spending. Net exports flipped from a drag in Q3 to a 0.6-percentage-point boost as real imports fell 5 % while exports slipped only 1 %, and a 12.7 % leap in net indirect taxes added 60 bps to the GDP–GVA gap.

Supply-side data echo that narrative. Construction value added surged 10.8 %—its third consecutive double-digit quarter—thanks to a 33 % rise in highway awards and a 15 % jump in cement output, accounting for 0.8 percentage point of the 6.8 % GVA print. Manufacturing grew 6.9 %, but gains were narrowly led by vehicles and capital goods, while low-margin segments such as textiles and basic chemicals stagnated, mirroring the divergent trend in corporate earnings. A primary-sector rebound to 5 % growth, from 0.8 % a year earlier, owed to a bumper rabi crop that lifted rural incomes ahead of the unusually early monsoon.

Services momentum moderated to 7.8 %; trade-hotel-transport activity normalised post-holiday, and financial-real-estate value added eased in line with lower market turnover.

Looking ahead, the runway for another year of 6.4–6.6 % growth hinges on three stress tests. First, the capex multiplier must survive fiscal fatigue: centre-state gross borrowing already approaches 10 % of GDP, and without a decisive private-sector hand-off the 3-ppt boost from investment will erode. Second, global “reciprocal” tariff escalation threatens India’s export elasticity just as world goods demand is crawling at 1 % y/y; historically, each 1-ppt hit to global trade trims domestic growth by about 25–30 bps. Third, consumption depends on weather: an early southwest monsoon typically adds 60 bps to rural spending over two quarters, enough to offset half the drag from softer urban demand, but rainfall volatility could just as easily reverse that lift. In sum, the headline surge confirms India’s short-cycle resilience; sustaining it into FY26 requires a smooth hand-over from public to private investment, a benign trade environment, and steady rural demand—all of which remain live variables at the turn of the fiscal year.”

Reaction to Q4 FY25 GDP data

By-Anshuman Magazine, Chairman & CEO, India, Southeast Asia, Middle East & Africa, CBRE

“GDP growth shows strong economic progress, beating expectations and proving resilient despite global challenges. The growth highlights strong domestic demand, rural market recovery, and an active industrial sector. The economy’s adaptability is evident in the broad industry growth. The construction and financial sectors’ expansion has boosted the real estate market, increasing investments, improving homebuyer confidence, and raising demand.”

Vedanta’s Nand Ghar Partners with JSI & Rocket Learning to Boost Early Childhood Development in Dholpur

30th May 2025, New Delhi/Mumbai: Nand Ghar, Vedanta’s flagship CSR initiative is reimagining anganwadis as modern centers equipped with smart education tools, BaLA (Building as Learning Aid) designs, LED TV, and child-friendly infrastructure to create engaging, safe spaces for children aged 3–6 years. They also facilitate fortified meals, healthcare services, and nutritional support for children and mothers, while empowering women through skill-building programs that promote sustainable livelihoods and community development.

Project Balvardhan is an initiative under Nand Ghar by the Anil Agarwal Foundation. It is focused on combatting malnutrition among children and enhancing the capacity of anganwadi workers. As per NFHS-5, 31.8% children under 5 years are stunted and 16.8% children are stunted in Rajasthan. Through the project, more than 800 Anganwadi centers will be developed into Nand Ghars across Dholpur in Rajasthan, benefiting over 80,000 children and 14,000 women beneficiaries, while largely impacting lives of more than 1,00,000 community members. The initiative using a 360-degree systems approach focuses on strengthening early childhood care and education (ECCE), addressing all forms of malnutrition, and ensuring the provision of quality supplementary nutrition as per the guidelines of ICDS Rajasthan. A strong emphasis will be placed on behavioral change practices to create a long-term and sustained impact on health and nutrition status for both children and women.

To build a holistic, community-driven development model focused on sustainability, scalability, and measurable impact, the strategic collaboration with JSI and Rocket Learning will help build a strong foundation for nutrition, health and education interventions at Nand Ghar.

CEO, Nand Ghar, Mr. Shashi Arora reaffirmed the program’s commitment and said, “At Nand Ghar, we believe that real change begins at the grassroots. Project Balvardhan is a significant step towards our dedicated efforts to combat malnutrition among children and empower anganwadi workers. Together with the Government of Rajasthan, JSI, and Rocket Learning, Nand Ghar is committed to drive this change from the grassroots and build a secure future for our future generation.”

Under Project Balvardhan, JSI will lead interventions to improve maternal and child nutrition & health by enhancing the nutritional status of children under 6 years via strengthening Anganwadi services through infrastructural upgrades, digital growth monitoring and tracking (anthropometry), and promoting maternal nutrition awareness through evidence-based practices via systems-driven Nand Ghar model. These efforts will directly benefit children, pregnant women and lactating mothers, while uplifting the overall health outcomes in surrounding rural communities. Efforts shall also be concentrated towards enhanced capacity building of Nand Ghar Didis (AWWs), front-line workers and communities for sustained impact via behavioural change mechanisms.

Rocket Learning will capacitate anganwadi workers in delivering high-quality Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) by enhancing child attendance and engagement through interactive learning, developing state-aligned educational content, and training workers in modern teaching methodologies.

JSI and Rocket Learning, in close collaboration with ICDS Rajasthan, are uniting their unparalleled expertise in maternal and child health, nutrition, and early childhood care and education (ECCE) to usher in a transformative era for Anganwadi services. Together, they are poised to deliver an integrated, systems – level approach that not only elevates service delivery standards at Anganwadi centres but also inspires a new vision of holistic child development.

The project is being implemented, with the blessings of Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister and Minister of Women & Child Development, Smt. Diya Kumari ji—a testament to the government’s strong commitment to child welfare and rural development. Project Balvardhan stands as a beacon of collaborative impact—driven by partnerships, powered by community, and rooted in sustainability.

Zee Business Wealth Creation Summit 2025: Shaping the future of smart investing and financial literacy

In a time when markets are evolving, financial tools are expanding, and wealth-building avenues are multiplying, Zee Business once again took center stage as the torchbearer of India’s financial empowerment. The Zee Business Wealth Creation Summit 2025, held on 29th May, 2025 in Mumbai, was a powerful movement that reinforced the channel’s legacy of transforming viewers into informed investors and inspiring a national culture of wealth consciousness.

This high-impact summit drew strength from a story that began on March 24, 2020 — the day India witnessed its most severe stock market crash. Where others saw fear and uncertainty, Mr. Anil Singhvi, Managing Editor of Zee Business, saw opportunity. His timely insights, backed by in-depth research and unmatched experience, helped Zee Business viewers not only navigate the crash but emerge with wealth-creating strategies. What started as a bold editorial stance has since grown into an annual celebration of resilience and foresight — Wealth Creation Day, now marked every March 24, and followed by a two-week long Wealth Creation Week.

The Zee Business Wealth Creation summit carried that powerful legacy forward, gathering some of India’s most respected market minds, financial experts, fund managers, and thought leaders on one common platform — with a singular goal: to decode the future of wealth creation for individuals, families, and businesses. With the theme of making smart financial choices in a fast-evolving economic landscape, the summit empowered lakhs of viewers with deep insights into market cycles, disciplined investing, and the rise of retail participation in India’s growth story.

This on-ground summit opened with a powerful fireside chat between Anil Singhvi and Navneet Munot, MD & CEO of HDFC Asset Management, who highlighted the significance of India’s maturing investment ecosystem, the necessity of long-term equity commitment, and the crucial role mutual funds play in building sustainable wealth. Another engaging fireside chat titled ‘Blueprint for Profitable Trading & Investment’ featured Pranit Arora, Co-founder and CEO of Univest, in conversation with Smita Singh of Zee Business. This session offered strategic insights into effective trading practices and investment frameworks in today’s dynamic market environment. These dialogues set the tone for two insightful panel discussions: the first, ‘How to Create Wealth from the Equity Market,’ featured industry stalwarts Nilesh Shah, Pankaj Tibrewal, and Manish Gunwani, who, alongside Singhvi, delved into market dynamics, sectoral opportunities, and strategies for retail investors to harness India’s equity growth potential. The second panel, ‘Personal Finance: The Perfect Formula for Wealth Creation,’ brought together experts including Feroze Azeez, Pooja Bhinde, and Harshvardhan Roongta, who emphasized holistic financial planning—highlighting goal-oriented investing, disciplined budgeting, risk mitigation, and the rising importance of tailored financial advice amid today’s complex economic landscape.

Mr. Anil Singhvi, Managing Editor, Zee Business, highlighted, “At Zee Business, we aim to transform every viewer into a confident wealth creator. March 24, 2020, was a turning point that proved amidst uncertainty lies immense opportunity. This summit reaffirms our commitment to empower millions with knowledge, clarity, and actionable strategies to navigate market complexities and build lasting financial freedom. Wealth creation is all about shaping a prosperous future for every Indian.”

Speaking on the overarching success of the summit and the channel’s commitment to India’s financial future, Mr. Karan Abhishek Singh, CEO of Zee Media Corporation Limited (ZMCL), said, “At Zee Media, we believe that financial empowerment is the foundation of a developed India. Zee Business has taken the lead in making financial literacy accessible, aspirational, and actionable. Beyond awareness, we are also enabling real wealth creation by guiding viewers with credible insights, expert advice, and market-driven opportunities. We are proud to lead this transformation.”

From breaking ground in 2020 to building momentum in 2025, Zee Business has institutionalized the concept of wealth creation. No longer reserved for the elite, wealth strategies are now reaching homes in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, creating first-time investors, nurturing long-term savers, and instilling a new discipline of goal-based planning. As the summit concluded, one thing was clear — the next generation of wealth creators are not just CEOs and fund managers.

Technogym Launches in India

From a garage to the world, founder of Technogym, Nerio Alessandri began creating innovative equipment in his family garage. Today, the brand is the preferred choice for elite athletes, world-class fitness centres, and discerning wellness enthusiasts worldwide, renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship, cutting-edge technology, and unmatched quality.

This Italian brand has set the global benchmark in fitness and wellness since its inception in 1983. Technogym’s relentless pursuit of innovation and design excellence has earned it prestigious accolades and the trust of almost all professional athletes and fitness enthusiasts. Beyond its award-winning creations, Technogym stands as the trusted partner of leading football and Formula 1 teams, elevating athletic performance through tailored training solutions. As the Official Supplier to 9 Olympic Games, including the Paris Olympics in 2024 & Paralympics 2024, the brand further solidifies its global leadership in fitness and wellness, delivering unparalleled expertise and redefining standards for athletes and fitness enthusiasts worldwide.

Marking a significant milestone, Technogym has made its grand entry into the Indian market, offering cutting-edge fitness solutions to a rapidly growing health-conscious audience. With a core philosophy of “exercise as medicine,” the brand combines artificial intelligence, biomechanics, and ergonomic design to create a comprehensive wellness experience. Technogym’s products go beyond traditional fitness equipment, enhancing training, recovery, and overall well-being. With over forty years of expertise in human movement, the brand designs equipment that optimizes muscle activation while preserving biomechanics, ensuring safety and effectiveness.

Whether for luxury home gyms or commercial fitness centres, Technogym’s solutions cater to all levels, from elite athletes to beginners or those with specific health needs, transforming India’s fitness landscape with innovation and precision. A key highlight product is the Technogym Run, a high-performance, silent treadmill designed for multi surface training, combining running and strength workouts. Also featured is the Technogym Bench, offering a comprehensive library of training content for a versatile fitness experience. Its adaptive running surface enhances comfort and efficiency for users of all levels. The Technogym Ride, designed by cycling champions, features a 22” immersive screen and integrates with top training apps, delivering a professional-grade cycling experience that’s perfect for both home and commercial settings.

Technogym’s state-of-the-art boutiques all over the world offer an immersive experience where visitors can explore the brand’s most advanced training solutions, featuring some of its most iconic products, all manufactured in Italy. With its strategic expansion into India, Technogym is introducing a new paradigm in fitness—one that seamlessly combines excellence in technology, design and a deep understanding of human movement.

Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast, a professional athlete, or an industry expert, Technogym invites you to experience the future of wellness. Through its legacy of innovation and commitment to redefining fitness, Technogym is set to inspire a healthier, more active India—one breakthrough at a time.

Apollo Cancer Centres, Introduces OraLife– the Screening Program for Early Detection of Oral Cancer

Ahmedabad, May 30, 2025: Tobacco use is no longer a personal habit—it’s a national health crisis. India accounts for nearly one-third of global oral cancer cases, with 77,000 new diagnoses and 52,000 deaths annually. The survival rate stands at just 50%, significantly lower than in developed countries (link). This alarming trend is compounded by rising tobacco consumption across both urban and rural India, as highlighted by the Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (2022–23) (Link), which noted increased spending on paan, tobacco, and other intoxicants.

Oral Cancer in Gujarat
According to a report by the ICMR – National Centre for Disease Informatics and Research, the top two cancer sites among males in Gujarat are mouth (21.5%) and tongue (11.5%). In females, mouth (5%) and tongue (4.4%) are the fourth and fifth leading cancer sites, respectively.

 Tobacco Use in Gujarat
Nearly one-fourth of the adult population (aged 15 and above) in Gujarat uses tobacco in some form, with usage significantly higher among men (38.7%) than women (10.4%). Tobacco use is linked to 56.1% of cancer sites in men and 18.6% in women. Among men, the most commonly affected tobacco-related cancer sites are the mouth (38%), tongue (21%), and lungs (15%). In women, the mouth (27%), tongue (24%), and lungs (15%) are the most impacted.

On account of World No Tobacco Day, Apollo Cancer Centres (ACC) has launched #OraLife, a proactive screening initiative focused on the early detection of oral cancer. The program emphasizes public awareness, routine screening, and targeted intervention particularly for high-risk individuals, including tobacco users, alcohol consumers, those with HPV-16 infection, and people with prior oral lesions.

As part of this initiative, ACC has partnered with the Isha Foundation to provide holistic support for individuals seeking to overcome tobacco addiction. This collaboration integrates physical health interventions with mental and emotional wellness support.

Dr M. Laxmidhar, Senior Consultant & Director, Surgical Oncology, Apollo Cancer Centre, Ahmedabad, said, “The burden of oral cancer in Gujarat is worryingly high. Alarmingly, we’re seeing younger individuals affected, unlike other regions where cases are more common among middle-aged adults. This shift aligns with the increasing use of smokeless tobacco. Sadly, most cases are detected at Stage 3 or 4, when outcomes are more complicated. Early screening is simple, effective, and can significantly improve survival.”

“Tobacco users are six to seven times more likely to develop oral cancer than non-users. Oral cancer is one of the few cancers that can be detected early through a simple oral examination. With this program, our goal is to detect cases early—before it’s too late,” said Dr V.R.N. Vijaykumar, Surgical Oncologist, Apollo Cancer Centre, Ahmedabad.

Oral cancer is the most common cancer among Indian men and is rising steadily among women. Incidence rates vary widely across states: West Bengal reports the highest, while Kerala sees the lowest. Maharashtra, Ahmedabad Urban, and Meghalaya also report alarmingly high figures—largely driven by tobacco use. Chennai-based studies have identified an increase in cancers of the tongue base and floor of the mouth, sites known for high metastatic potential. The buccal mucosa remains the most frequently affected site nationwide. Notably, smokeless tobacco use is rising among women, contributing to a narrowing gender gap in incidence rates. (Link)

Risk factors—such as the combined use of smokeless tobacco, betel quid, and alcohol—are especially prevalent in underserved communities with limited access to preventive care. The disease is increasingly affecting individuals aged 31–50, with poor nutrition further exacerbating the risk.

Dr Rajesh Vishwakarma, Consultant ENT & Cochlear Implant Surgeon & Head – Dept. of ENT & Head-Neck Surgery, Apollo Hospitals, Ahmedabad, stated, “Our objective is to foster a culture of preventive healthcare. Oral cancer is highly treatable when detected early. We urge everyone over 30, especially tobacco users to undergo screening.”

The #OraLife, the Oral Cancer Screening Program, involves a comprehensive visual and tactile oral examination conducted by trained medical oncologists and head & neck surgeons. It aims to identify early warning signs such as persistent ulcers, red or white patches, lumps, and non-healing sores—many of which are often overlooked.

Dr. Chirag Shah, Dentist, Apollo Hospitals, Ahmedabad said, “We strongly encourage regular dental checkups—not just for cavities, but because they play a crucial role in detecting silent threats like oral cancer. Early detection during a routine visit can be life-saving.”

To support mental and emotional recovery, Apollo has teamed up with the Isha Foundation to incorporate spiritual well-being into its tobacco cessation efforts. As part of this, individuals will have access to a simple yet effective 7-minute guided meditation led by Sadhguru.

“Miracle of Mind” is a free meditation app that empowers individuals to take charge of their well-being. With over 2 million downloads, the app features guided meditations, streak tracking, personalized messages, and motivational rewards,” said Mr. Prerak Agrawal from Isha Foundation.

Cdr Jelson Kavalakkat, CEO, Apollo Hospitals, Ahmedabad, said, “This initiative represents Apollo’s leadership in holistic oncology care “Our mission goes beyond treatment—we aim to equip individuals with the tools and knowledge to take control of their health. Our collaboration with Isha Foundation is a testament to our belief in integrated care, where early detection and mental wellness are both critical pillars.”

In addition to the health burden, the initiative also addresses the financial and emotional toll of tobacco use. Research indicates that tobacco users spend over ₹1.1 lakh more on healthcare over their lifetime compared to non-users. The consequences extend beyond health—tobacco use reduces life expectancy, raises insurance premiums, limits claim payouts, and destabilizes families, particularly when primary earners are affected.

Through the #CutTheCost campaign, Apollo Cancer Centres calls on tobacco users to re-evaluate the true cost of their habits—not just in terms of health, but also financial security and emotional well-being. The campaign reinforces the value of early detection and long-term lifestyle change as the most powerful tools for prevention.

Techno India DAMA Hospital Completes 150 Voluntary Cleft Surgery At Their 5 Day Cleft Surgical Camp For The Children And Young Adults Of West Bengal

Kolkata, 30th May, 2025: Techno India DAMA Hospital recently completed 150 successful Voluntary Cleft Surgeries for the children and young adults of Bengal. The free cleft surgery camp was organised under Mission Smile, an FCRA registered medical charity in partnership with Muthoot Pappachan Foundation. The 5 Days Camp commenced on 26th May, 2025 and concluded on 30th May, 2025 with a positive and an impactful outcome.

SMILE PLEASE, is the Pan India Initiative of Muthoot Pappachan Foundation to provide free, safe, compassionate and comprehensive cleft surgeries to kids and youngsters from deserving backgrounds. Started in 2014 from Kerala, in partnership with Mission Smile, the Initiative has touched 13 states and so far, has accomplished 3244 successful surgeries across the country. So far 482 kids and youngsters from West Bengal received surgeries through this programme in the last 8 Smile Please Missions at Kolkata. This is going to be the 9th Smile Please Mission at Kolkata as part of this partnership and the Third one at Techno India Dama Hospital.

“Over the last two camps, we have successfully operated on 119 patients, with 76% being children and 24% young adults. A testament to our commitment to transforming young lives through timely medical intervention. This time, we screened around 100 patients each day and executed 150 safe and successful surgeries. Our team remains dedicated to ensuring each patient receives the best possible care and outcomes”, said Dr Sourav Ghosh, Medical Director, Techno India Dama Hospital.

Overall 49500+ free cleft surgeries have been conducted by Mission Smile and 71000+ medical evaluation across India since its inception. 395 patients received free surgeries through Mission Smile last year and overall 8000+ in West Bengal.

“From May 26–29, 2025, Mission Smile will restore a brighter future to more than 50 children born with cleft deformities. This is thanks to the magnanimous support of the Muthoot Pappachan Foundation and our steadfast partner, Techno India Dama Hospital & Medical Centre. As we approach our 50,000th safe surgery, we remain committed to transforming lives and spreading smiles around the world”, Said Mr Conrad Dennis, CEO Mission Smile

“Muthoot FInCorp and Muthoot Microfin branches in West Bengal, especially in North and South 24 Parganas, Murshidabad, West and East Medinipur, Howrah, Hooghly, Nadia and East/West Bardhaman districts were keen in doing extensive outreach activities to reach out to the families of cleft patients, building confidence in them and bringing them to the hospital to avail surgeries to their kids. This is seen as one of the selfless and dedicated acts of the Muthoot staff members who normally are into financial services for which they reach out to the common man in their financial requirements and positively change the quality of their lives”, said Dr Prasanth Kumar Nellickal, Head-CSR of Muthoot Pappachan Foundation, a CSR wing of Muthoot Pappachan Group.

Don’t Let the Monsoon Dampen Your Strength: Indoor Workouts That Work

By-Dr.Palak Dengla (PT), HOD Physiotherapy, Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Aster RV Hospital

 Monsoon season brings with it the joy of cool breeze, but also a steep drop-in physical activity. Gym attendance drops by nearly 60% during heavy rains (source: Indian Fitness Trends Report, 2023). As a physiotherapist with 15 years of experience, I’ve witnessed the silent rise of deconditioning in this season.

 Here’s why bodyweight support workouts at home are your rainy-day rescue plan:
1. No Excuses for Gym Delays: With over 60% of urban gyms reporting decreased attendance due to transport disruption, at-home workouts remove travel from the equation.
2. Rain-Related Deconditioning: Just 2 weeks of physical inactivity can lead to up to 8% muscle strength loss and 4% aerobic capacity reduction.
3. Sarcopenia Risk Rises: Sedentary lifestyle increases the risk of sarcopenia (age-related muscle loss), especially in those over 40. 1-2% muscle mass is lost annually without resistance training.
4. Strength Is a Survival Tool: Regular strength and conditioning boosts metabolic rate and prevents fat accumulation—every 1 lb of muscle burns 6-10 calories/day at rest.
5. Efficient Fat Burn: Bodyweight training elevates post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC), helping burn 15–30% more calories post-workout.
6. Online Sessions = Accountability: Virtual physiotherapy-led sessions have a 70% adherence rate, higher than self-led gym workouts (52%).
7. Muscle Loss = Metabolism Drop: Skipping workouts for a month can lead to a 5% drop-in basal metabolic rate (BMR), slowing weight loss.
8. Accessible & Equipment-Free: Exercises like squats, push-ups, planks, and glute bridges are scalable, joint-friendly, and require no equipment.
9. Improve Joint Stability & Balance: Controlled bodyweight moves enhance proprioception, reducing rainy season-related fall risks, especially in older adults.
10. Boost Mental Health: Regular physical activity reduces monsoon-related mood dips by up to 30%, as per WHO mental health stats.

 Sample Bodyweight Workout Routine for the Monsoon Season:
• Warm-Up (5 minutes): Light jog/spot march in place or dynamic stretches
• Main Workout (30 minutes): Bodyweight Squats – 3 sets of 15 reps
• Push-Ups – 3 sets of 15 reps
• Pull-Ups – 3 sets of 15 reps
• Lunges – 3 sets of 15 reps/leg
• Plank – Hold for 30 secs – 1 min, 5 sets
• Mountain Climbers – 3 sets of 15 reps
• Soleus Push ups – 3 sets of 15 reps
• Cool Down (5 minutes): Stretching focusing on major muscle groups

Take Home: Don’t let the rains derail your goals. Commit to Smart, remote Physical Therapist-approved bodyweight support workouts and stay strong, dry, and on track.

PHDCCI Delegation Meets Shri Manoj Sinha, Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir to discuss Development and Investment Opportunities

A high-level delegation from the PHD Chamber of Commerce & Industry (PHDCCI), New Delhi, called on the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir, Shri Manoj Sinha, at Raj Bhavan.

The delegation, led by Shri Rajeev Talwar (Retd. IAS), Former President of PHDCCI, included Mr. Sameer Gupta (MCM Member), Retd. Major General Ashok Narula (AVSM), and Mr. Iqbal Fayaz Jan, Deputy Director, PHDCCI Kashmir. The meeting focused on key developmental projects, investment opportunities, and collaborative initiatives to bolster economic growth in the Union Territory.

During the discussions, Shri Rajeev Talwar highlighted PHDCCI’s commitment to supporting Jammu & Kashmir’s industrial and infrastructural advancement. The delegation commended the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor for his visionary leadership in ensuring peace, progress, and prosperity in the region.

The delegation particularly appreciated Shri Manoj Sinha’s proactive role in “Operation Sindoor”, lauding his efforts in reinforcing security and stability in Jammu & Kashmir. They praised his unwavering dedication to fostering a conducive environment for development and investment.

Additionally, the PHDCCI delegation met with Dr. Mandeep K. Bhandari, Principal Secretary to the Lieutenant Governor and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board. Discussions centered on the preparedness for the upcoming Amarnath Yatra, ensuring safe and seamless pilgrimage arrangements. The delegation also deliberated on infrastructure projects for the shrine board and enhancing facilities for devotees.

Reaffirming their support, the PHDCCI delegation pledged full cooperation to the J&K administration and armed forces in initiatives promoting sustainable growth, employment generation, and industrial development.

The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both sides expressing optimism about future collaborations to accelerate Jammu & Kashmir’s development journey.

World No Tobacco Day: Wockhardt Survey Reveals High Tobacco Use, Urges Stronger Action

Mumbai, May 2025 — A recent health survey conducted in observance of World No Tobacco Day has raised alarm bells over the continued prevalence of tobacco use within local communities. The study, organized by Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, reveals a high incidence of tobacco consumption—often compounded by alcohol use—creating a dangerous double threat to public health.

 Out of more than 1,000 respondents, a significant number admitted to regular tobacco use, with some acknowledging a dependency that they’ve struggled to overcome despite understanding the risks. The survey reflects a stark reality: awareness is not enough. Addiction, reinforced by powerful withdrawal symptoms, often pulls individuals back into the habit even after repeated attempts to quit. Dr. Tirathram Kaushik, Consultant Oncosurgeon & Minimal Access Surgeon at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, expressed deep concern over the findings. “Tobacco and alcohol together act like a double-edged sword. Not only do they significantly raise the risk of cancers—especially of the oral cavity, throat, and esophagus—but they also reinforce each other’s addictive grip,” said Dr. Kaushik.

 He added, “People aren’t ignorant. Many want to quit. But addiction is a chronic, relapsing condition. Unless we offer structured support and medical alternatives, they remain stuck in a vicious cycle.” The survey data show a mixed landscape. While awareness campaigns have made some headway—most respondents could list key health risks linked to tobacco—this hasn’t translated into large-scale behavioral change. For instance, in one set of responses, 117 participants said they had tried to quit tobacco, but 149 admitted to relapsing. Other similar comparisons in the survey suggest that quit attempts are common, but successful cessation remains rare.

Dr. Tirathram Kaushik emphasized that quitting tobacco requires more than willpower. “Nicotine is highly addictive. We need to treat it like any other medical dependency—with pharmacological therapies, counseling, and community-level interventions,” he said. “We also need to recognize that mental health plays a big role. Stress, anxiety, and social pressure often drive people back to these habits.” Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road is urging community leaders, schools, and policymakers to collaborate in creating sustainable anti-tobacco initiatives. These include integrating tobacco cessation programs into primary healthcare services, increasing access to nicotine replacement therapies, and using digital platforms to reach younger populations.

 “We must move beyond slogans and posters,” Dr. Kaushik stressed. “We need action—structured, science-backed, and compassionate. Every successful quit story is a life extension.”