Category Archives: News

Weeds of the Pharma Industry – Clearing the Path for Innovation

By- Nikkhil K Masurkar, CEO, ENTOD Pharmaceuticals

As India cements its status as a global pharmaceutical powerhouse, it is time for the industry to turn the lens inward. Beneath the surface of high-volume generics and export milestones lies a quiet set of structural inefficiencies—what I call the “weeds” of the Indian pharma industry. These practices, though not always unethical or illegal, are stifling innovation, eroding quality, and holding back our potential to lead the world in next-generation medicine.

Copycat Brand Saturation: A Case of Too Much of the Same

India’s domestic pharmaceutical landscape is flooded with countless brands offering the same molecules under different names. Regional and local companies continue to introduce “me-too” products, creating a hyper-competitive, price-driven environment. While this may benefit affordability, it has also led to brand fatigue among doctors, confused prescribers, and drained focus from genuine innovation. In such a crowded field, differentiation becomes difficult—and investment in R&D often gets sidelined.

False Promises to Employees: A Talent Trap

A worrying trend is the growing mismatch between employee expectations and organizational delivery. Many smaller and regional companies lure sales professionals with inflated salary promises and unreliable incentives. When such promises go unmet—often accompanied by delayed salaries and job insecurity—it leads to talent churn and disillusionment. In an increasingly specialized and competitive market, nurturing talent with transparency and integrity is no longer optional—it is essential.

Minimal R&D Investment: Innovation at Risk

Despite contributing to 20% of global generic drug volume, only a handful of Indian pharma companies invest significantly in research and development. For many mid-sized and small firms, R&D remains a neglected expense. This lack of innovation not only jeopardizes India’s long-term global leadership but also prevents the industry from addressing unmet medical needs through new drug discovery, biosimilars, or advanced delivery platforms.

Discount-Heavy Strategies: A Short-Sighted Game

Excessive discounting and trade schemes have become the default market penetration tactic for many local, PCD and regional pharma players. While such tactics may drive quick wins, they weaken the financial foundations required for product improvement, scientific advancement, and sustainable business practices. In the long run, this erodes brand trust and undermines India’s global pharmaceutical reputation.

Doctor Engagement Fatigue: The Cost of Repetition

The volume of repetitive promotional material reaching doctors today is staggering. This overload has created “communication fatigue,” where clinical detailing loses its meaning and impact. Doctors are left overwhelmed, disengaged, and uninspired—an environment hardly conducive to medical innovation or meaningful feedback.

Clearing the Weeds: The Way Forward

To unleash India’s full pharmaceutical potential, the industry must collectively refocus on long-term value and scientific leadership. This requires:

• Incentivizing original research and patent creation

• Imposing regulatory checks on excessive brand proliferation

• Mandating transparent and timely employment practices

• Shifting from transactional to value-based doctor engagement

• Introducing minimum R&D investment thresholds as a regulatory norm

India’s pharmaceutical future cannot be built on volume and affordability alone. The time has come to raise our standards—not just in labs, but across business practices. If we are to lead the world in innovation, we must first pull out the weeds in our own backyard. Only then can we cultivate a fertile ground for breakthrough therapies, global trust, and sustainable healthcare leadership.

Gallant Sports Elevates Campus Sports Infrastructure with Transformative Projects Across India

India, May 26, 2025: Gallant Sports, India’s leading end-to-end sports infrastructure solutions provider, has recently completed four major projects across the country: Amity University, Raipur; Dalhousie Public School, Siswan; Shivalik Cambridge College, Agra; and Chatrabhuj Narsee School (CNS), Kandivali, Mumbai. These projects included the development of multiple sports facilities such as acrylic tennis and basketball courts, synthetic turf cricket pitches, cushioned surface badminton courts, multi-purpose field for football, cricket, volleyball and kho-kho, and non-infill turf running tracks. The four institutions, diverse in location and structure, faced unique challenges, ranging from outdated, weather-worn surfaces to completely underutilised or absent play zones.

At Amity University, Raipur, Gallant Sports transformed a 20,000 sq. ft. multi-sport area with an ITF-standard acrylic tennis court, acrylic basketball court, cricket pitches with synthetic turf, and cushioned surfaces badminton courts. Designed for durability and all-weather use, the facility features a hybrid surface system, improved drainage, fencing, and lighting for extended usability.

At Shivalik Cambridge College, Agra, they have transformed 18,000 sq. ft. of uneven land into a versatile multi-sport facility field, accommodating football, cricket, volleyball, kho-kho, and even track running. The high-performance 50mm turf system over a smartly engineered base that supports multi-sport use without compromising performance. This dynamic zone now strengthens the school’s physical education program, fosters balanced participation in both competitive and recreational sports.

At Chatrabhuj Narsee School, Kandivali – Mumbai, Gallant Sports replaced a deteriorated track with a 15,000 sq. ft., 30mm non-infill turf running track featuring factory-tufted markings that eliminate the need for paint and resist wear over time. Built in just 75 days, the track offers a clean, low-maintenance, and infill-free surface ideal for student use. Engineered to withstand Mumbai’s weather conditions, it’s expected to deliver reliable performance and a long-term addition to the school’s athletic facilities.

At Dalhousie Public School, Siswan, they built a six-lane, 235-meter running track using 30mm non-infill turf over 22,000 sq. ft. Designed for safety, durability, and long-term use, the track advances the school’s focus on student development, while showcasing a world-class facility and functionality that resonates with both students and parents.

On the completion of these projects, Mr. Nasir Ali, Founder & CEO, Gallant Sports, stated, “Whether it’s a new age school or an established university, institutions today need durable, safe, and multi-use sports zones that align with both international standards and local climate challenges. Our work ensures these campuses become not just academic centres, but also launchpads for athletic potential, as we believe that the students deserve the best sporting infrastructure. We are always proud to support institutions and bodies that understand the role of physical activities in shaping well-rounded and healthy individuals”.

The long-term impact of these infrastructure upgrades is already taking shape. Students now enjoy access to structured physical education, improved safety, and competitive-level facilities, factors that enhance not just health, but also participation, confidence, and future sporting prospects. For institutions, the presence of high-quality sports infrastructure also improves parent trust, enrolment appeal, and readiness to host inter-school and university competitions.

Gallant Sports’ portfolio ranges from sports such as football, futsal, basketball, badminton, hockey, tennis, volley ball, cricket, squash and athletic tracks; to solutions such as artificial turf, sports interlocking tiles, PVC vinyl flooring, drainage systems, stadium lighting, bleachers, and stadium seating. The firm is also actively involved in building infrastructure for key trending sports such as pickleball and padel, offering end-to-end services including court construction, surface materials, lighting, accessories and other additional amenities.

Jaipuria School of Business to Host Convocation Ceremony for the PGDM Batch (23-25) on May 31, 2025

Jaipuria School of Business (JSB), Ghaziabad, is proud to announce its 14th Convocation Ceremony for the PGDM Batch (2023–2025), scheduled to be held on May 31, 2025, from 10:30 AM onwards at the institute campus.

The ceremony will be graced by Ms. Preeti Bajaj, Managing Director & CEO of Luminous Power Technologies, as the Chief Guest. A renowned industry leader with a transformative vision in sustainable energy solutions, Ms. Bajaj will address the graduating students and share insights from her professional journey.

The event marks a significant academic milestone for the students, celebrating their dedication, learning, and personal growth. Faculty members, alumni, parents, and distinguished guests from industry, academia, and the Board of Governors will come together to witness this proud moment as students transition into the corporate and entrepreneurial world.

The convocation will be held in the esteemed presence of Dr. Shishir Jaipuria, Chairman, Jaipuria Group of Institutions, and Dr. Rajiv R. Thakur, Director General, Jaipuria School of Business, who have been instrumental in shaping JSB’s vision of academic excellence and industry relevance.

The convocation reaffirms JSB’s commitment to academic excellence, leadership development, and industry readiness, empowering students to make meaningful contributions to business and society.

BENZ Packaging Celebrates 45 Years of Excellence in Sustainable Packaging

New Delhi – May 26, 2025 – BENZ Packaging, a pioneer in sustainable and intelligent packaging solutions, proudly marks its 45th anniversary, celebrating nearly five decades of innovation, growth, and commitment to excellence in the global packaging industry.

Founded in 1980, BENZ Packaging has grown from a local manufacturer into a global leader, serving over 4,000 clients across automotive, renewable energy, telecommunications, engineering, and more. The company is recognized for its comprehensive, cost-efficient, and eco-friendly packaging solutions that combine technical precision with environmental responsibility.

“Celebrating 45 years is more than a milestone—it’s a testament to the resilience of our vision and our people,” said Manan Chopra, Director at BENZ Packaging. “As we move ahead, we’re doubling down on smart systems, sustainability, and scale—ensuring we continue to serve global industries with precision and purpose.”

As the packaging industry evolves, BENZ Packaging continues to lead through the adoption of cutting-edge technologies. The company has integrated AI-driven automation, smart packaging systems, and data-driven design to deliver improved performance, traceability, and sustainability.

Recent expansions include the launch of a new state-of-the-art facility in Jhajjar, Haryana, and growing international operations with upcoming facilities in Vietnam and plans to enter the Japanese market. These strategic moves underscore BENZ’s vision to be a globally respected packaging powerhouse.

BENZ Packaging’s eco-conscious approach has resulted in the development of recyclable, biodegradable, and moisture-control packaging solutions that help clients meet both operational and environmental goals. The company’s efforts align with the broader industry movement toward circular economies and responsible production practices.

With a strong legacy and a future-focused mindset, BENZ Packaging continues to scale its capabilities, enhance R&D, and support India’s vision of becoming a global manufacturing hub. The company’s journey is defined by its ability to adapt, innovate, and lead responsibly.

FanToPark is Redefining Sports Travel for Fans Around the Globe

Gurugram, May 26th, 2025 — FanToPark, a fast-growing premium sports experiences brand, is redefining how fans engage with their favorite sports, not just as spectators, but as part of the action. From cricket and football to tennis and Formula 1, the company creates once-in-a- lifetime journeys that bring fans closer to the heart of global sporting events.

Whether it’s watching a World Cup final from premium seats, traveling with personalized itineraries, or enjoying meet-and-greets with sports icons, FanToPark ensures fans don’t just attend matches, but they live them.

Unlike traditional travel agencies, FanToPark provides 24×7 concierge support, on-ground travel skippers, dietary accommodations, and full passport and visa assistance. This full-service approach has helped the brand build a loyal customer base worldwide, serving fans across India, the UK, Middle East, and beyond.

The company recently served as the Official Travel Partner for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy and the 2024 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, cementing its position as a trusted name in the booming global sports tourism industry.

“For most people, watching a match is the dream. But for us, that’s just the starting point. We want fans to feel what it’s like to be on the inside – to travel better, sit closer, and experience sport the way it’s meant to be felt,” said Amit Purohit, Founder of FanToPark. As demand for immersive sports experiences grows, FanToPark continues to expand its global footprint with tailored packages for major events across continents, turning matchdays into lifelong memories.

Konkani Film “Mog Asum” Music Album Unveiled: A Celebration of Goan Talent

Mumbai, 26th May 2025 – The highly anticipated music album for the recently released Konkani film Mog Asum was officially unveiled at the ESG Theatre. The event was graced by celebrated music composer and multi-instrumentalist Mukesh Ghatwal, along with the film’s director Angelo Braganza and RS Pipalwa.

Composed by Myron Estibeiro, the album features a vibrant mix of tracks performed by talented singers Herschel Mascarenhas and Aurvile Rodrigues, who also gave live performances during the event. The album is now available globally on all major digital platforms.

Mukesh Ghatwal, who had the honor of unveiling the album, praised the tracks, commenting, “Each of the songs is outstanding. Goan musicians are producing remarkable music, and Mog Asum stands among the best of them.” He also lauded Myron Estibeiro for his exceptional work on the album.

Director Angelo Braganza welcomed Ghatwal to the stage and expressed his gratitude for his presence at the event. He further spoke about the pool of talented Goan musicians, noting that while many musicians in Goa are excelling, it was Myron’s unique temperament and his ability to deliver a melodious album that ultimately made him the perfect choice for the film.

Boney Alex Dias, who re-arranged a gospel song for the film, was also present at the event. The film’s other featured singers, Venizia Dias, Shalisha Fernandes, and Verphina Dias, joined the celebrations as well.

The music album for Mog Asum serves as a testament to the rich and growing talent within the Goan music industry. The film’s team is excited to share this beautiful work with audiences around the world.

Surrender And Serenity: The Hidden Joy Of Letting Go

By-AiR Atman in Ravi – Happiness Ambassador and Spiritual Leader

In a world that constantly urges us to strive, achieve and control every aspect of our lives, the idea of surrender may feel counterintuitive and even frightening. We are taught to hold on tightly to our goals, relationships, identities and even our pain and suffering. But there is a quiet, transformative power in surrender that leads one not to defeat but to serenity. Letting go, when done consciously and spiritually, is not a loss—it is a liberation.

Most of us spend our lives trying to manage outcomes, people and even the future. We think that life is unpredictable. We experience change, loss and challenges that are beyond our understanding. When we resist these moments, we suffer. Resistance creates tension, anxiety and disconnection. In the path of Spirituality, we will realize the truth that we are not this body, mind and ego. We are the Soul, the Spark Of Unique Life, the Atman or the life power that makes the physical body function. We all realize the profound truth that our lives are controlled by Karma, our very own actions and all the situations that are occurring in our lives are due to past Karma. When we realize that everything is happening as per the Law of Karma and the Divine Will, we will realize that our constant effort to control life is exhausting and often futile. Thus, when we choose surrendering to the Divine Will, we align with life rather than fight it. We accept every situation with gratitude to the Divine and this leads to calmness, peace, tranquillity and serenity.

Much of what we cling to is rooted in ego – the part of us that seeks validation, success and control. But the ego thrives on fear and separation. Surrender is the act of loosening the ego’s grip and returning to our true nature, our Soul, which is already whole, peaceful and a part of the Divine, the Supreme Immortal Power, SIP. So, when we let go of the need to prove ourselves or to be right, we rediscover a quiet joy that exists beneath all striving. In Spirituality, surrender is often the key to transformation. It is the gateway to deeper prayer, meditation and communion with the Divine. When we release our agendas, we open ourselves to Divine timing, unexpected blessings and to the flow of grace and guidance from the Supreme Power.

There is a hidden joy in letting go, not because we know what will happen next but because we no longer need to know because we have trusted in the Divine Will. Having TRUST, Total Reliance and Unconditional Surrender To the Almighty or the Divine, is one of the most freeing experiences that a Soul can have. It is where faith becomes real. FAITH means Full Assurance In The Heart. We realize that we are held and taken care of by a Supreme Power even when we do not understand it. We feel supported and protected, even in the midst of uncertainty and adversity. This joy is subtle, yet powerful. It is the joy of resting in something greater than ourselves, of knowing that we do not walk alone. It is the joy that comes from no longer needing to figure everything out. In surrender, we find serenity. And in serenity, we discover that life is not something to be conquered, but something to be embraced and realized. The purpose of this life is to realize ourselves and consequently, realize the Divine.

Spiritual surrender is not passive. It is an active choice to trust – a trust in something greater than ourselves, the Supreme Immortal Power, SIP, that we call God. Surrender, in Spirituality, is shifting from fear to faith, from grasping to openness that leads to serenity in life. Serenity is not about escaping pain or bypassing emotions, rather, is about being fully present with whatever arises, without judgment.

Concluding the discussion, surrender is not a one-time event. It is a daily, moment-to-moment practice. It is the willingness to soften, release and choosing to trust, even when it’s hard to trust and have faith. It may look like a deep breath in the middle of a storm, a whispered prayer of acceptance or a quiet decision to stop forcing and start allowing. On the spiritual path, surrender becomes less about letting go of the world and more about Self-Realization and God-Realization, realizing the profound truth of life, death, Karma and everything. It means coming home, our real home, to the Divine. And in that sacred return, we find a serenity that the world can neither give nor take away.

1st 1000 Days: United Way Bengaluru’s Born Learning Campaign Lays Foundation for a Brighter Future

May 26, 2025: The first 1,000 days of a child’s life—from conception to their second birthday—are widely recognized as the most critical period for a child’s physical, cognitive, and emotional development. United Way Bengaluru (UWBe) has championed this vital cause through its flagship initiative, the Born Learning Campaign (BLC).

More than just a program, “1st 1000 Days” is a nationwide movement under BLC, built on the belief that early childhood care not only shapes individual lives but also defines the future of our society. In alignment with key government frameworks such as the Integrated Child Development Scheme (ICDS), Poshan 2.0, Saksham Anganwadi, and the Aspirational Districts Program, the campaign is transforming how communities nurture their youngest members.

Transformative Impact at Scale

With over 20 lakh lives touched and 11,000+ Anganwadi Centres (AWCs) impacted across Bengaluru, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra, the campaign’s targeted interventions ensure every child gets a fair start in life:

Key Interventions:

Maternal Health & Nutrition: Hygiene awareness, exclusive breastfeeding education, and immunization drives.

Community Education: Engaging parents—especially mothers—in their child’s growth through regular health and nutrition meetings.

Frontline Worker Training: Empowering Anganwadi Workers (AWWs) and Helpers (AWHs) with Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) best practices.

Tangible Health Support: Distribution of nutrition kits, neonatal kits, and essential teaching-learning materials to improve care environments.

Fast Facts:

Geographic Reach: Bengaluru Urban (Karnataka), Patna (Bihar), Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh), Osmanabad (Maharashtra)
AWWs Trained on First 1000 Days: 1,122
Neonatal Children Reached (0–3 months): 4,264
Parents Engaged in Child Development: ~84,000
AWWs and AWHs Trained in ECCE: 5,189
Nutrition Kits Distributed: 589
Neonatal Kits Distributed: 5,555
Anganwadis Equipped with Teaching & Learning Materials: 1,649

“Every Anganwadi transformed, every mother empowered, and every child supported marks a step toward a healthier, brighter future. When we nurture our youngest, we build a stronger tomorrow,”

United Way Bengaluru’s “1st 1000 Days” campaign proves that collective action, aligned with policy, and driven by grassroots involvement, can shape generations.

Crafts Council of Odisha to Host “Master Crafters” Exhibition on May 24–25, 2025

Bhubaneswar: The Crafts Council of Odisha is proud to announce “Master Crafters”, a premier two-day exhibition of celebrating the excellence of Odisha’s traditional crafts and artisans. The event will be held on May 24 and 25, 2025, at the Banquet Hall, Bhubaneswar Club, from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

“Master-Crafters” will feature 20 master craftspersons, including national and state award winners, showcasing a diverse range of Odisha’s handicrafts. Art forms such as Pattachitra, Palmleaf Engraving, Terracotta, Stone and Wood Carving, Appliqué, Golden Grass, Sabai Grass, Silver Filigree, Seashell Art, Dhokra Casting, Tribal Painting, and Handwoven Ikat will be on display and sale.

The event aims to promote excellence in craftsmanship, provide marketing opportunities during the lean season, and encourage direct interaction between artisans and buyers. This initiative will not only support the artisans financially but also elevate the profile of Odisha’s traditional crafts.

The inauguration ceremony held at 5:00 PM on May 24, graced by Mrs. Anu Garg, IAS – Development Commissioner-cum-Additional Chief Secretary as Chief Guest along with Mr. Santosh Kumar Mohapatra, IAS (Retd) – Chairman, Crafts Council of Odisha, Mrs. Poonam Guha Tapas Kumar, IAS – Commissioner-cum-Secretary, Handloom, Textiles & Handicrafts Department as Guest of Honour and Mrs. Pranatee Chhotray, IAS – Director of Handicrafts.

The Crafts Council of Odisha, affiliated with the Crafts Council of India and the World Craft Council, is dedicated to the preservation, promotion, and sustainable development of the state’s rich craft traditions. The Council supports artisans through skill development, market linkage, innovation, and advocacy for inclusive growth.

This event is expected to attract craft enthusiasts, collectors, connoisseurs, and members of the public eager to experience and support the living heritage of Odisha’s crafts.

Malaka Spice Showcases Authentic Indonesian Flavours with Indonesian Consulate

Malaka Spice, Pune’s iconic Southeast Asian dining destination, is proud to present a three-day culinary celebration in collaboration with the Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia, showcasing the vibrant, soulful flavours of West Java’s Sundanese cuisine. Taking place from May 30 to June 1, this food festival marks one of the most significant international gastronomic collaborations hosted in the city.

Curated with guidance from the Indonesian culinary and cultural experts, the festival will feature a carefully crafted menu of traditional dishes rarely seen on Indian plates — from comforting street snacks to wholesome Sundanese staples. Guests can indulge in specialties like Sorabi, the rice-flour pancake cooked over charcoal and served with palm sugar coconut sauce, Tongseng Kambing, a heartwarming goat stew simmered with coconut milk, cabbage, and tomatoes, Pepes Tahu – spiced tofu wrapped in banana leaves and steamed to perfection, or Nasi Lengko – a wholesome Javanese rice dish topped with tempeh, sprouts, and savorypeanut sauce.

Adding to the authenticity of the experience, the menu has been crafted with inputs from Chef Sudaryanti, the Private Chef to the Indonesian Head of Mission. With decades of experience across diplomatic missions in the USA, Philippines, Korea, and now India, Chef Sudaryanti brings with her the culinary richness and cultural nuances of traditional Indonesian cuisine, ensuring a truly immersive dining experience.

This unique event celebrates not only the diversity of Indonesia’s culinary heritage but also deepens the cultural and diplomatic ties between Indonesia and India through food.

“Indonesia and India share centuries of cultural and trade relations, and food remains a powerful medium to foster these bonds. We are delighted to partner with Malaka Spice to bring the warmth and depth of Indonesian cuisine to Pune. This festival is a celebration of friendship, flavour, and shared heritage.”— The Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia, Mumbai

“At Malaka Spice, our culinary journey has always been about celebrating Southeast Asia. This collaboration is truly special — a rare chance for our guests to experience authentic Indonesian flavours, many of which are being presented in Pune for the very first time. We are honoured to host this festival with the Indonesian Consulate and bring the unique dining practices of the West Java region to our tables.” — Ilvika Chandawarkar, Manager – Research and Business Development, Malaka Spice

The festival will be hosted at the Malaka Spice, Koregaon Park outlet, with special lunch and dinner menus available for all three days. Guests are encouraged to book in advance to secure their seats for this limited-time cultural and culinary showcase.