Category Archives: News

Motion launches new NEET PYQ solution books, video solution will be available with QR code along with questions

Mumbai, May 29, 2025: Motion Education has launched NEET PYQ solution books for students preparing for NEET exam. Each question in these books is accompanied by a QR code that, when scanned, allows students to instantly access the question text and its corresponding video solution.The booklets contain questions from 2008 to 2025. This helps students to clear the concept and prepare better. This new feature will bring a revolutionary change in NEET preparation, so that students will be able to perform better in the exam with confidence.

 Nitin Viijay, Founder and CEO of Motion Education, said that “This time the level of NEET paper was quite difficult and it has become clear that the era of only factual questions in this exam is over. Now not only information, but analytical study is required. Keeping this new trend in mind, Motion has prepared PYQ solution books, only answers to the questions are given in the book, while for concept clarity, a QR code is also available in front of each question, by scanning which students can see the text of the question and the video solution associated with it. ”

 Amit Verma, Joint Director of Motion and Head of NEET Division, said that through NEET i.e. National Eligibility cum Entrance Test, admission is given to the seats of Medical UG (Undergraduate) like MBBS, BDS, AYUSH and BVSc and AH in the country. Every year about 24 lakh students of the country give this exam. There are a total of 180 questions of 11th and 12th level in NEET. For this, there are 45-45 marks for Physics, Chemistry, Zoology and Botany, i.e. a total of 720 marks. Motion’s Content Head Jayant Chittora was also present during this time.

 It is worth mentioning that the questions in NEET PYQ Solution Books have been arranged according to chapters and topics, so that after reading the topic and solving the modules in the class, the previous year questions can also be solved easily. This new initiative will prove to be helpful in making the preparation of the students more effective and confident.

Zee Kannada News felicitated Changemakers with Real Stars Awards 2025

Zee Kannada News, the beloved news channel of Kannadigas, proudly recognized and honoured distinguished achievers from various sectors across the state through its prestigious Real Stars Awards 2025. The grand award ceremony was held at the esteemed Ashok Hotel in Bengaluru, where 35 individuals were felicitated for their outstanding contributions in fields such as science, technology, health, agriculture, social service, and politics.

Presiding over the event, Hon’ble Chairman of the Legislative Council, Shri Basavaraj Horatti, lauded the services rendered by these real stars. He commended Zee Kannada News for consistently identifying and honouring the unsung heroes of Karnataka each year. “Donning a shawl and garland does not mark the end of your service. Let this be the foundation for many more meaningful contributions to society,” he blessed.

Speaking on the occasion, Hon’ble Minister for Kannada and Culture, Shri Shivaraj Tangadagi, praised Zee Kannada News for its people-centric and farmer-friendly approach. The Minister announced that his department would be addressing letters to senior film industry members and the Kannada Film Chamber of Commerce, urging a clarification from Mr. Kamal Haasan. Referring to the legendary Dr. Rajkumar’s role in the Gokak movement, the Minister emphasized that the ‘Dodmane’ (Rajkumar family) has always stood at the forefront for Kannada. Former Deputy Chief Minister and current BJP MLA of Malleswaram, Dr. C.N. Ashwath Narayan, also graced the stage and congratulated all the awardees, adding further glory to the evening.

Veteran actress Tara Anuradha and film producer Geetha Shivrajkumar were also present on the dais, adding star power to the event. The prestigious Real Stars Award recognized exceptional individuals across diverse fields for their exemplary contributions to society. This year’s distinguished awardees include Dr. A.S. Kiran Kumar (Former Chairman, ISRO), Dr. Prahlada Ramarao (DRDO Scientist), Dodda Ganesh (Former Cricketer), Kirankumar Tippareddy (Social Service), Mahantesh Sidagond Badachi (Educationist), A.C. Srinivas (Pulikeshi Nagar MLA & Social Service), Dr. B.R. Supreeth (Educationist), Pujya Sri Gurumurthy Guruji (Spiritual Saint), Yogananda Murthy (Agriculturist & Social Activist), Dr. Channabasayya Swamy Hirematt (Social Service), Lokesh Talikatte (Educationist), S.N. Siddaramappa (Retired Police Officer & Social Service), Mahesh Kumar (Sales Head, Mahaveer Projects), Dr. B. Manjunath (Educationist), S.L. Venkatesh (Babu) – Social Service, Shashi Deshapande (Artist), Raveesh K.P. (Entrepreneur), Dr. M. Ramachandrappa (Hoodi Chinni – Activist), B.H. Anil Kumar (Retired IAS Officer & Social Service), Dr. R.M.N. Ramesh (Progressive Thinker & Activist), C.K. Prakash (Social Service & Progressive Farmer), Dr. Nagabhushan (Paediatrician), Uttam Raosaheb Patil (Youth Leader), M.A. Ananda (Educationist & Farmer), Dr. B.S. Prahallad (Engineer-in-Chief, BBMP), Kemparaj Kempegowda (Social Service), Hanumayya Bhimayya Guttedar (Youth Leader), Dr. Salman Patel (Health Service), Gaurav Kumar Deshmukh (Social Service), Krishnagowda V. Hulakoti (Progressive Farmer), Prof. S.Y. Chikkatti (Educationist), Vishwanath B. (Progressive Farmer), Khajahusen Gulagundi (Agriculture Entrepreneur), Mrs. Rajeshwari Manjunatha Pawadi (Social Service), and Lakshman L. (Farmer Leader). Their unwavering dedication and impactful work across science, social service, education, agriculture, health, and public leadership serve as a beacon of inspiration to the nation.

Zee Kannada News Editor Ravi S. concluded the event with heartfelt congratulations to all 35 awardees and expressed gratitude to the dignitaries and Zee staff who made the event a grand success. “This time, we have honoured achievers who have remained behind the scenes. Next, we aim to recognize young changemakers who are working towards the nation’s development through the Yuvaratna Awards,” he announced.

Empowering Oil Palm Farmers: 3F Oil Palm and AP Govt. launch awareness campaign in 50 villages

New Delhi, 29th May 2025: 3F Oil Palm Pvt. Ltd., in collaboration with the Department of Horticulture, Andhra Pradesh, has initiated an extensive farmer awareness program aimed at promoting sustainable oil palm cultivation across the state. The initiative is being conducted in Eluru, West Godavari, and East Godavari districts, covering a total of 50 villages.

The program focuses on educating farmers about best practices in oil palm farming, including agronomy techniques, input management, disease control, and sustainable harvesting methods. Through interactive sessions, demonstrations, and expert consultations, the campaign seeks to empower farmers with the knowledge and tools necessary to increase productivity and profitability.

India currently imports over 60% of its edible oil requirements, with annual imports exceeding 13 million tonnes. To counter this, the Government of India launched the National Mission on Edible Oils–Oil Palm (NMEO-OP) with the goal of bringing an additional 6.5 lakh hectares under oil palm cultivation by 2025–26.

Andhra Pradesh plays a pivotal role in this mission, contributing more than 60% of India’s total oil palm cultivation. With over 1.5 lakh hectares currently under oil palm, the state is a key driver in reducing dependency on imports and enhancing domestic production.

“This joint effort underscores the commitment of both 3F Oil Palm and the Horticulture Department to boost the oil palm sector in the state and contribute to the larger goal of self-reliance in edible oil production. The program is expected to directly benefit hundreds of farmers, creating a ripple effect in improving oil palm cultivation standards across the region,” said Mr. Srinivas Rao kilari, Head Agri, 3F Oil Palm Pvt. Ltd.

General Insurance Council launches ‘Achha Kiya Insurance Liya’ campaign to bridge awareness gap in India’s non-life insurance market

Mumbai, May 29, 2025: The General Insurance Council (GIC) of India, the apex industry body representing all non-life insurers in India, has launched a nationwide awareness campaign titled ‘Achha Kiya Insurance Liya’. Aligned with the ambitious goal of “Insurance for All by 2047”, the initiative aims to normalize insurance as an everyday financial safeguard and focuses on bridging the significant perception and trust gap in uptake of general insurance.

As per research conducted by General Insurance Council, awareness around insurance products such as motor, life, and health insurance are relatively high—motor insurance being the most purchased at 34%, followed by life at 27% and health at 15%. Other insurance categories such as home, travel, and crop insurance remain underutilized and under-promoted. Penetration in rural areas continues to be low, with the exception of crop insurance, which is largely accessed via bank branches and agricultural service providers. The main triggers for insurance purchase include desire for safety and financial security, compliance with legal mandates (especially in the case of motor insurance), and growing concerns around rising healthcare costs. However, significant barriers continue to hinder widespread adoption.

“There’s a clear disconnect between awareness and action. Insurance is still viewed more as a reluctant expense than a financial shield, the mindset shift is waiting to happen, and it begins with trust and relatability. ‘Achha Kiya Insurance Liya’ is our collective attempt to bring insurance closer to the lives and language of ordinary Indians. This is about demystifying insurance, making it relevant and rewarding not intimidating.” says, Dr. Tapan Singhel, Chairman, GI Council and MD & CEO, Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Co. Ltd.

In a bid to strengthen India’s financial resilience, the initiative highlights the essential role of general insurance in protecting one’s hard-earned savings and assets from unexpected events such as accidents, medical emergencies, property loss, and travel disruptions. By breaking down common myths and clearly presenting the benefits of various insurance types—including motor, health, home, travel, and crop—the campaign encourages individuals to take proactive steps toward securing their financial future.

The insights from the report shaped the campaign’s core narrative: making insurance conversations more relatable, frequent, and accessible in everyday life. Shifting away from using overwhelming and complex jargon or fear-led, & prescriptive messaging, the campaign showcases everyday stories told by pets to show how helpful insurance can be—highlighting the comfort of being prepared, the peace of having coverage, and the value of smart planning.

As India looks toward achieving universal insurance coverage by 2047 under the IRDAI’s vision, the ‘Achha Kiya Insurance Liya’ campaign is a step in the direction of sector-wide alignment bridging consumer gaps, building trust, and making insurance a mainstream financial choice for all. The General Insurance Council is also encouraging insurance companies to make policies easier to understand, simplify claim processes, and offer flexible payment options. The idea is not just to sell policies but to build enduring confidence in the system, reinforcing the industry’s role as a reliable partner in people’s financial journeys.

India Sets New Record for Applications to Rosatom’s North Pole Expedition

Moscow, 29th May 2025 – May 29, 2025 was the last day of the qualifying round for foreign participants of the 6th Icebreaker of Knowledge international scientific and educational project implemented by the network of Nuclear Industry Information Centers (NIIC) with the support of Rosatom. The project, aimed at promoting natural science disciplines and technologies of the nuclear industry, involves the selection of students aged 14-16 from all over the world to participate in a scientific and educational expedition to the North Pole aboard the 50 Let Pobedy nuclear icebreaker. This year’s expedition is dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the Russian nuclear industry and the 500th anniversary of exploring the Northern Sea Route.

Over 3,500 students from 20 countries, including Belarus, Bolivia, Brazil, Hungary, Vietnam and others, took part in the foreign qualifying stage. This year, a record number of entries for the competition came from Kyrgyzstan, India and Bangladesh. The competition was being held online on the goarctic.energy website. Participants of the international selection process were asked to take a scientific quiz and a series of webinars on the topic of nuclear technology, and at the end to test their knowledge and fill in the notes. In the final round of the competition, the applicants who have scored the most points will face another challenge: they will be asked to make a video presentation on how nuclear technology can change life in their countries. The creative assignments will be evaluated by an international jury. The best of the best will be announced on June 20, 2025.

The Icebreaker of Knowledge scientific and educational project is organized by the network of Nuclear Industry Information Centers (NIIC) with the support of Rosatom. It is aimed at promoting natural science disciplines and technologies of the nuclear industry, finding and supporting talented and gifted children, developing their abilities and offering career guidance. The project participants are students aged 14-16 from all over the world; the best of them embark on the Rosatom scientific and educational expedition to the North Pole aboard the 50 Let Pobedy nuclear icebreaker.

For six years in a row the Icebreaker of Knowledge has been giving talented and active children an opportunity to make an unforgettable trip on a nuclear icebreaker to the North Pole in the company of like-minded people. Since the launch of the project, more than 350 gifted students have participated in Rosatom’s Arctic expeditions. In 2024, the Icebreaker of Knowledge expedition was joined by international participants for the first time. A team of 15 students and experts from Armenia, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Belarus, Mongolia, Hungary, India, China, South Africa traveled to the North Pole on the 50 Let Pobedy nuclear icebreaker.

The Northern Sea Route (NSR) is the shortest shipping route between the western part of Eurasia and the Asia-Pacific region and a historically developed national transportation artery of Russia. The first mention of the Northern Sea Route dates back to 1525, when the Russian diplomat Dmitry Gerasimov came up with the idea of using a navigation route along the seas of the Arctic Ocean, opening up the prospects of maritime communication between Russia and China. From this moment began the Russian history of development of the Northern Sea Route, which will be 500 years old in 2025.

In 2018, the Russian Government authorized Rosatom as the infrastructure operator of the Northern Sea Route (NSR). The corporation supervises the federal project Development of the Northern Sea Route, as well as takes part in implementing the Northern Sea Route Development Plan until 2035 and the initiative for socio-economic development of the Russian Federation until 2030 All-Year-Round Northern Sea Route approved by the Russian Government.

Russia is the only country in the world with a nuclear-powered icebreaker fleet. The fleet is operated by FSUE Atomflot, an enterprise of Rosatom. Today there are eight nuclear-powered icebreakers in the icebreaker fleet of FSUE Atomflot.

In 2025, the Russian nuclear industry celebrates its 80th anniversary. The USSR was a pioneer and global leader in the peaceful use of atomic energy: Soviet nuclear engineers built the world’s first nuclear power plant (1954, Obninsk) and made the first nuclear-powered icebreaker to help explorers of the Arctic (1959, Lenin). Today, Rosatom continues developing and implementing advanced technologies in a wide range of industries. The State Corporation not only builds nuclear power plants, providing clean energy to hundreds of millions of people in dozens of countries around the world, but also ensures the logistics of the Northern Sea Route, produces new materials, develops and manufactures pharmaceuticals for nuclear medicine. The anniversary year is defined by three words: pride, inspiration, dreaming. Nuclear engineers are proud of the feat performed by the industry’s founding fathers. They are inspired by the accomplishments of previous generations. They plan to break new grounds, pushing the boundaries of what is possible. The 80th anniversary of the industry will be celebrated with a number of events, the key one being the World Atomic Week international forum to be held in Moscow this fall.

Rosatom and its enterprises pay special attention to supporting and developing educational, scientific, educational and cultural initiatives. They also participate in the creation of industrial partnership departments in Russian universities, implementation of scholarship support programs, major educational projects, organization of internships and apprenticeships for students with subsequent employment.

Euro Panel Products Limited announce financial results for FY 24-25, integration of Coating Line increases PAT by 26%

India, May 29, 2025 — Euro Panel Products Ltd, the parent company behind EUROBOND – one of the leading Aluminium Composite Panel Brands in India, has announced its half-yearly and year-to-date financial results for the half-year ended on 31st March, 2025. The company has recorded a significant increase of PAT (Profit after Tax) by 26% to INR 18 Crore in the FY 24-25 ending on March 31 driven by business optimisations, revealed in an exchange filing. This development of the net profit has been driven by Euro Panel Products Limited’s backward integration with a state-of-the-art, India’s most advanced continuous “3Coat 2Bake” coating line — a catalyst for business growth.

The firm has also sustained its gradual increase of product sales in FY 24-25, with figures soaring to INR 423 Crore, an increase of approximately 7%. Driven by its promise of quality and innovation, Euro Panel Products Limited estimates a growing business outlook going into FY 25-26, with new developments in the pipeline. Furthermore, the registered PAT by the company highlights its highest-ever net profit with a 36% compound profit growth in the last 5 years.

Mr. Rajesh Shah, Managing Director of Euro Panel Products Limited, shared his insights on the development, saying, “The FY 24-25 financial results highlight our upward momentum, and the fact that Euro Panel Products Limited is continuing on the right path. We are committed to continue in the path of growth, while transforming the ACP industry both domestically and internationally by embodying the Make in India initiative as our guiding principle. Euro Panel Products Limited will continue to be a hub for innovation and quality, we estimate continuing this upward momentum in FY 25-26 and beyond.”

The Mumbai-based firm recently inaugurated its new state-of-the-art 5,000 square feet headquarters at the Mumbai Solitaire Business Center in Borivali West. The new headquarters has catalysed the firm’s ACP innovation, with R&D efforts taking the lead. This proactive aspect has helped Euro Panel Products Limited to not only sustain but go beyond initial estimates, helping to enhance the firm’s operating profit margin to 10% from 8% in the previous FY.

The company aims to align with changing customer preferences and the larger industry dynamics going forward. This will include engaging in significant R&D efforts while increasing its domestic footprint to penetrate key regional markets and establish itself as the premier destination for superior quality ACP sheets. At present, the company boasts over 100 distributors domestically, along with 16 depots, and more than 5,000 retail locations — all of which will be crucial for its growth in the near future.

HCLTech recognized as a Customers’ Choice in 2025 Gartner Peer Insights Voice of the Customer for Managed Network Services, Worldwide

NEW YORK and NOIDA, India, May 29, 2025—HCLTech, a leading global technology company, has been recognized as a Customers’ Choice in the 2025 Gartner® Peer Insights™ Voice of the Customer report for Managed Network Services (MNS), Worldwide.

HCLTech received the highest customer rating (4.7 out of 5) and the highest number of reviews (45) among all service providers recognized in the report. Over the 18 months ending January 31, 2025, 92% of the customers expressed their willingness to recommend HCLTech in their reviews.

“A resilient network is the digital backbone of every successful enterprise,” said Jagadeshwar Gattu, President of Digital Foundation Services at HCLTech. “By adopting AI and GenAI, we are driving next-gen automation and transformations for our customers to enhance a seamless total experience. We feel this recognition underscores our efforts to deliver business-aligned solutions with agility and confidence.”

As stated by Gartner, “The ‘Voice of the Customer’ is a document that synthesizes Gartner® Peer Insights™ reviews into insights for buyers of technology and services. This aggregated peer perspective, along with the individual detailed reviews, is complementary to Gartner® expert research and can play a key role in the buying process. Peers are verified reviewers of a technology product or service, who not only rate the offering, but also provide valuable feedback to consider before making a purchase decision.”

IMFA Signs 25-Year Power Purchase Agreement with AMPIN ENERGY

29 May 2025: Indian Metals & Ferro Alloys Limited (IMFA), India’s leading fully integrated producer of ferro alloys, has signed a long-term Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with AMPIN Energy Utility One Private Limited. Under the terms of the PPA, IMFA will source 40 MW of contracted demand through a hybrid renewable energy solution, comprising 58 MW AC of solar and 58 MW of wind capacity. The agreement is valid for a period of 25 years.

This partnership is expected to significantly reduce IMFA’s carbon footprint, ensure long-term energy cost stability, and support the company’s environmental, social, and governance (ESG) objectives.

Commenting on the development, Mr. Bijayananda Mohapatra, Chief Operating Officer of IMFA, said: “This long-term agreement with AMPIN Energy Utility One Private Limited is a milestone in our journey towards sustainable operations. By integrating hybrid renewable energy into our power mix, we are not only reducing our dependence on conventional sources but also reinforcing our commitment to responsible manufacturing.”

The collaboration with AMPIN Energy Utility One Private Limited, a leading renewable energy solutions provider, underscores IMFA’s proactive approach in aligning its business operations with global best practices in sustainability.

Saatvik Green Energy Celebrates 10 Glorious Years of Clean Energy Excellence

Mumbai, May 29, 2025 — Saatvik Green Energy Limited (“SGEL”), one of India’s fastest growing module manufacturing companies in India, marks a significant milestone today as it celebrates its 10-year anniversary. Founded on May 29, 2015, SGEL has established itself as one of the key players in India’s solar energy market.

SGEL was incorporated as a private limited company under the provisions of the Companies Act, 2013, under the name ‘Saatvik Green Energy Private Limited’, pursuant to a certificate of incorporation dated May 29, 2015. SGEL was subsequently converted from a private company to a public company, pursuant to resolutions passed by its Board on September 20, 2024 and by its Shareholders dated September 21, 2024, consequent to which its name was changed to “Saatvik Green Energy Limited.”

Since inception, SGEL has supplied more than 2.00 GW high-efficiency solar PV modules domestically and internationally. The company is recognized as one of the few companies with capabilities in module manufacturing as well as engineering, procurement and construction (“EPC”). (Source: CRISIL Report) SGEL is one of the leading EPC companies in India with 69.12 MW of an installed EPC base in Fiscal 2024. (Source: CRISIL Report) SGEL also provides operations and maintenance (“O&M”) services to customers primarily in relation to the EPC projects undertaken by it.

Reflecting on this journey and the road ahead, Mr. Prashant Mathur, CEO, Saatvik Green Energy Limited, said: “Our initiative to achieve backward integration into cell manufacturing is a critical step in our long-term growth and sustainability objectives. The company is expanding its manufacturing capacity with plans to set up an integrated cell and module manufacturing facility in Odisha. The new facility will have a cell line manufacturing capacity of 4.80 GW, which is expected to be operational in Fiscal 2027; and a module production capacity of 4.00 GW, which is expected to be operational in Fiscal 2026. In addition, SGEL also intends to establish a manufacturing facility for the production of ingots, cells and wafers in Mohasa – Babai, Madhya Pradesh.”

Celebrating the 10th anniversary of SGEL, Mr. Neelesh Garg, Chairman and Managing Director, added: “We intend to grow our customer base in both India and internationally by leveraging our reputation for solar modules and reliable EPC services. We aim to enter new markets and strengthen our presence in existing ones by offering innovative, cost-effective solutions tailored to diverse energy needs.”

Mr. Manik Garg, Managing Director, shared: “We intend to expand our distribution network across India to make our solar solutions more accessible to customers nationwide. We have already established regional warehouses across major Indian states such as Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Kerala and Madhya Pradesh. These warehouses serve as central points for solar module storage and distribution to ensure timely delivery to installers and end customers. We intend to collaborate with local distributors in various states that will enable us to have deeper market penetration, particularly in Tier II and Tier III cities. This will also help us to ensure that solar products are accessible even in remote areas, accelerating the adoption of solar energy across the country.”

SGEL commenced its manufacturing operations in 2016 and has over the years expanded its annual installed capacity, from 125 MW as of March 31, 2017 to about 3.80 GW as of February 28, 2025. Its revenue from operations has grown from ?4,799.50 million in Fiscal 2022 to ?10,879.65 million in Fiscal 2024 at a CAGR of 50.56%. Its EBITDA in Fiscal 2022 was ?147.66 million and has grown to ?1,568.44 million in Fiscal 2024 at a CAGR of 220.00%.

SGEL currently operates three module manufacturing facilities in Ambala, Haryana (together, the “Ambala Facilities”) spread across a total land area of 724,225 square feet, which together form one of the largest single location module manufacturing facilities in India. (Source: CRISIL Report) SGEL is in the process of adding a capacity of 1.00 GW in one of its module manufacturing facilities in Ambala, which is expected to be operational in the first quarter of Fiscal 2026, thereby increasing its installed capacity at its Ambala facilities to a cumulative 4.80 GW.

Utkal Hospital Launches ‘Two Minute Action for Oral Cancer Protection’

Bhubaneswar: In a timely and impactful initiative, Utkal Hospital, in association with Merck Specialities Private Limited has launched the “Two-Minute Action for Oral Cancer Protection”2 campaign with the hashtag #ActAgainstOralCancer on the note of World No Tobacco Day.

 This nationwide effort aims to tackle the alarming rise in oral cancer cases by encouraging individuals to perform a quick self-check using mirrors that are almost always available to one and all. Experts are urging the public to look for warning signs such as white or red patches in the mouth, non-healing ulcers or unexplained bleeding, persistent swelling or voice changes. The message is clear: Feel, Look, and Act. Early detection through a quick mirror check can make all the difference between timely treatment and a missed opportunity. By turning mirrors into tools of awareness, the experts are empowering individuals to take charge of their health in just two minutes because early action can save lives. Through this initiative, patients who are visiting hospitals can also activate this self- check-up where mirrors will be strategically placed in the hospital waiting areas.

 During the launch of the campaign Dr. Sanjib Kumar Mishra, Director & Senior Consultant Radiation Oncology, Dr. Chinmaya Kumar Pani, Consultant – Medical Oncology & BMT, Dr. Sanjaya Kumar Mishra, Director & Senior Consultant – Radiation Oncology, and medical staff, were present.

 India is the world’s capital of Head and neck cancer3. Every year, around 2 lakhpatientsarenewlydiagnosedwithHeadandneckcancer,whichis thehighest compared to any other country. In 2022, simply the number of Lip and oral cavity cancer cases were more than a lakh (65%). Adding the rest of the head and neck cancer sub-sites, the numbers will be nothing less than 20-25% of the total male cancers in our country. Unfortunately, in India, around 60 to 70% of patients already have advanced disease (stage 3-4) at the time of diagnosis.4

“With increasing burden of oral cancer cases in the country, early diagnosis is paramount. Oral Visual Inspection (OVI), mouth self-examination, biopsy and histo-pathological examination enable detection at early stages, facilitating timely intervention. It is also important to integrate palliative care early in the treatment process. Palliative care for oral cancer includes pain management, nutritional support, emotional counseling, and assistance with speech and swallowing to improve the patient’s quality of life. Early palliative care not only alleviates pain but also enhances the overall quality of life for patients, aiding in informed decision-making throughout the disease trajectory. There should be awareness and accessibility of palliative services to ensure holistic support for patients and their families,” said Dr. Sanjib Kumar Mishra, Director & Senior Consultant Radiation Oncology, Utkal Hospital.

“This campaign encourages individuals to follow the simple 2-minute self- check every month as early detection is best prevention. LOOK at the entire mouth in mirror for white or red patches in the mouth, ulcers that don’t heal within 2 weeks and unusual bleeding or loose teeth. FEEL for changes, like lumps or swelling in the jaw or neck, hoarseness or voice change, persistent pain in ear or when swallowing. ACT with urgency if you notice signs, and don’t delay. Visit the doctor to rule them out as early check equals to better chances of cure,” said Dr. Chinmaya Kumar Pani, Consultant – Medical Oncology & BMT, Utkal Hospital.

“Radiation therapy plays a crucial role in the treatment of head and neck cancers by targeting tumors precisely while preserving surrounding healthy tissues. Early-stage detection combined with timely radiation treatment significantly improves outcomes. We are committed to delivering advanced, patient-centered cancer care,” said Dr. Sanjaya Kumar Mishra, Director & Senior Consultant – Radiation Oncology, Utkal Hospital.