1. Home
31, Jan 2025
How Occupational Therapy Can Help Manage Learning Disabilities

Dr Joseph Sunny

By- Dr. Joseph Sunny Kunnacherry Director Prayatna

Learning disability is a neurodevelopmental condition that interferes with the ability to learn basic skills such as reading, writing, or mathematics. These challenges are not a reflection of intelligence but rather a sign that the brain processes information differently. Without appropriate intervention, individuals with learning disabilities often face academic struggles, low self-esteem, and even mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.

Key signs to look for include:
1. Writing Challenges
• Persistent letter reversals ( e.g., confusing “b” and d”)
• Mirror writing (e.g., writing “saw” as “was”)
• Occasional letter substitutions (e.g., writing “e” instead of “a”; “pet” instead of “pat”)
These challenges are common in children under 7, but become a concern if they persist.

2. Academic Struggles
• Reading difficulties (e.g., decoding, phonetics, fluency)
• Writing challenges (e.g., organizing thoughts, spelling, letter formation, missing lines when copying from board)
• General messy or poor handwriting (e.g. irregular size, sloppy spaces between letters/words)
• Math struggles (e.g., understanding numbers, basic arithmetic concepts)

3. Memory and Concentration Issues
• Difficulty remembering instructions or sequences
• Poor focus, easily distracted

4. Following Instructions
• Struggling to follow multi-step instructions
• Difficulty with simple, one step directions
• Appears clumsy in his/her movements, often walking into objects

Role of Occupational Therapy in Helping Children with Learning Disabilities
Occupational Therapy is crucial in supporting children with learning disabilities by addressing specific challenges and fostering overall development. Therapy changes as the child grows, initially focusing on sensory integration, basic socialization, and self-help skills. Later, it helps develop social play, motor skills, and writing. By adolescence, the focus shifts to independent living, social skills, and vocational interests.

Here are some strategies to create an inclusive environment:
1. Offer clear, direct communication with simple language.
2. Breaking tasks down into smaller and more manageable chunks
3. Provide teachers with training on inclusive practices use visual cues (labels, color-coding) for better understanding.
4. Incorporate scheduled sensory activities like using therapy balls or cushions.
5. Establish a consistent daily routine and communicate changes in advance.
6. Use timers to help children anticipate activity transitions.

Benefits of Occupational Therapy in Learning Disabilities
Occupational Therapy helps to develop motor skills necessary for daily life, such as handwriting, dressing, and self-care. Children with learning disabilities often struggle with sensory processing, making it hard to focus and engage with their environment. OT addresses sensory challenges and teaches self-regulation, attention, and impulse control—essential for academic and social success.

Occupational therapy also enhances cognitive skills like problem-solving and memory, helping children become more independent. Social skills are improved through group activities, where the child practices turn-taking and sharing, leading to better interaction with peers and family. Additionally, OT supports teachers by modifying classroom settings to accommodate each child’s learning needs. An Occupational Therapist might recommend using a slant board to improve handwriting posture or providing fidget tools to help a child stay focused. They might also suggest adaptive seating, such as wobble cushions, to support children with sensory needs, or color-coded folders to assist with organization and memory retention.
Correct sitting posture is essential for children with learning disabilities, as it impacts their ability to focus, engage in learning activities, and perform tasks efficiently. Poor posture can lead to discomfort, fatigue, and difficulty in motor coordination. Occupational therapists often provide strategies and interventions to help children maintain proper posture.
Children with learning disabilities often face challenges in writing, including issues with handwriting readability. Therapists work with them to improve essential skills and enhance handwriting speed appropriate for the child’s age.
Additionally, therapists address pencil grip through guided practice and exercises aimed at improving wrist and shoulder stability, ensuring better control and coordination while writing. These strategies help the child engage better in learning and classroom activities.
Therapy is customized to each child’s strengths and challenges, ensuring it is both effective and supportive.
When learning difficulties go unrecognized, children may become frustrated and misunderstood, which can make the challenges even harder to overcome. By identifying learning disabilities early and providing the right support, we can help children thrive and ensure that every child has the opportunity to succeed. Early identification leads to better inclusion and a brighter future for all.

31, Jan 2025
Exploring the Future of Aviation Jobs: The Role of Automation, AI, and Emerging Technologies

aeriva

Global spending on digital technology integration is expected to reach 3,9 trillion U.S. dollars by 2027, according to Statista. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) and technology services company Financing and Promoting Technology (FTP) note that aviation chief information officers are recognizing the need to strategically invest in technology as the industry is filled with legacy applications that are financially difficult to maintain.

While not easy to implement, new technologies are becoming cost-effective and delivering benefits in key areas, such as improved efficiency and safety, professional training, automation in air traffic management, and performance optimization.

As reported by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), passenger numbers are expected to reach 5.2 billion in 2025, marking a 6.7% increase compared to 2024. Cargo volumes are also projected to reach 72.5 million tonnes, reflecting a 5.8% rise from 2024. With the increasing number of air passengers and airlines adding further new routes in more areas, the aviation industry is facing a lack of aviation specialists. According to Boeing, over the next two decades there will be a need for 674,000 new pilots, 716,000 new maintenance technicians, and 980,000 new cabin crews worldwide respectively to the current global commercial fleet. The aviation sector is digitalizing most of its processes to promote efficiency as well as profitability. The development of new technologies has become inevitable, this brings the need to develop new skills for professionals, as well as growing demand for new professions in the field of cybersecurity, data analytics, AI development and operational optimization.

“The aviation sector is constantly investing in digital technologies, creating a demand for new professionals capable of leading teams in these rapidly changing times. As digitalization progresses each year, aviation professionals need to develop new skills, including adaptability and a combination of aviation expertise and IT knowledge,” says Abdelmagid Bouzougarh, CEO of Aerviva, an international aviation recruitment consultancy.

Tomorrow’s pilots: stronger analytical and monitoring skills

One way in which digitalization is helping pilots is by providing support and guidance at every stage of the flight. A network of apps can improve the operational efficiency, provide better situational awareness, greater collaboration ability between pilot and co-pilot, and safety protocol adherence. AI provides spotters with data on weather and flight plans and general conditions. However, pilots must be trained in critical analysis and monitoring to work with AI assisted flight systems. New technologies can also be used to model more accurate virtual reality simulations for pilots and to develop scenario-based digital learning. By analyzing pilot’s performance data AI algorithms can help to create personalized training plans based on a person’s strengths and weaknesses.

Lufthansa Technik’s AI-driven Advanced Aircraft Maintenance Training (AAMT) system uses AI-based flight simulators to train pilots and maintenance crews more effectively. This system integrates machine learning algorithms with real-time flight data to simulate a wide range of scenarios, from emergency situations to rare mechanical failures.

Maintenance: faster, more accurate, and cost saving

Many aviation companies are acknowledging the difficulty they face in attracting and retaining talent. According to the accounting firm Deloitte, it is estimated that the commercial aerospace sector in the United States will need an additional 123,000 technicians over the next two decades. Digitalization could help attract and retain talent by optimizing the workforce.

New AI technologies have the potential to enhance aircraft safety solutions and maintenance schedules, enabling airlines to better understand their human resource needs and improve their planning processes. Advanced detection systems analyze real-time aircraft data, providing accurate insights, predictive maintenance suggestions, and optimized schedules to prevent unplanned downtime and reduce unexpected repairs, contributing to enhanced operational efficiency and reliability.

Airbus developed Skywise, a cloud-based platform using AI and big data analytics to enhance aircraft maintenance. Skywise Core [X] allows operators worldwide to take advantage of a better aircraft experience based on data insights and make the right operational decisions. Another example is the predictive maintenance software Insight Accelerator, part of Boeing’s Airplane Health Management suite of solutions, which enables airlines to avoid flight delays and cancellations while drastically reducing aircraft time on the ground (AOG) by utilizing real-time maintenance alerts. By analyzing QAR/CPL full flight data, users can derive prognostic insights and create alert algorithms unique to their airline’s operations.
New technologies are incorporating big data tools, machine learning processes, and decision modeling systems to provide valuable information. Digital twin technology is a virtual replica of a physical system that is continuously updated based on real-time sensor data. It can predict future aircraft problems, allowing engineers to inspect potential problems in advance.
Moreover, digital tools help to reduce the time spent on documentation by performing analysis of the collected information, systematization, and summarization, which helps to complete tasks more efficiently. Regarding maintenance and repair, AI tools also allow to prepare more detailed and accurate instructions, which leads to redundancy of work errors.

ATC: AI can improve most of tasks, but human element remains at the core

Air traffic controllers (ATC) deal with a lot of dynamic information, which can lead to reduced attention under heavy workloads. But new AI-based technologies can reduce the workload while increasing flight safety, efficiency, and capacity. By providing real-time data, digital systems can improve situational awareness and minimize the risk of midair collisions. Data link systems can also enable controllers and pilots to exchange information more accurately, limiting communication errors, and freeing up radio frequencies. Automating routine tasks, providing more precise weather forecasts and passenger traffic data, calculating the most efficient flight paths, and increasing overall efficiency can all be improved with new AI technologies. While technological advancements can make a big difference in the ATC field, the human element remains essential.
AI automation in aviation has the potential to be very helpful, but there are also some concerns. Questions about who makes the decisions and whether the algorithms are fair can make it hard to know who is responsible for the AI systems. It is not clear if the AI will follow all the rules for aviation, because the rules for AI are still being created. It is very important to make sure that the AI is safe and reliable. Protecting personal information and keeping data safe from hackers is one of the main concerns. Also, AI can’t adapt well to changing situations, and it can be hard to integrate it with older systems. People’s trust in AI is also important. Passengers and staff might not trust AI to make important decisions. To address these issues, there is a need to carefully regulate AI in aviation.

New opportunities for an aviation career

However, the wrong choice of flight personnel in the aviation industry leads to dissatisfaction with the general work, especially in these times when AI is more real than ever. Specialists should be able to work with a lot of data, analysis, and be open to new AI solutions.
As reported by Reuters, U.S. aerospace and defence giant RTX Corp plans to hire 1,000 more people to its 7,000-strong workforce in India by 2027, as it looks for more engineers and data scientists to power its global operations. Boeing is hiring data science and analytics professionals to apply AI and machine learning in MRO operations, enhancing efficiency and predictive maintenance. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) also offers career opportunities in information technology, including roles in cybersecurity and data analysis, contributing to the advancement of aviation technologies.

“Advanced technologies bring more exciting career opportunities, as specialists can deepen their knowledge in specific areas. We should emphasize the need for specialists who are skilled in data analytics, machine learning, and AI operations. With the expansion of digital systems, emerging roles include cybersecurity and AI specialists, data scientists and analysts, all of which play a key role in the aviation sector,” explains A. Bouzougarh.

The development and integration of AI technologies in various aviation fields can improve cost savings, better passenger flow through airports, and fuel efficiency. According to IATA and FTP, emerging technologies can increase opportunities for environmental management and sustainable development by analyzing data and delivering insights. Sustainability is becoming a key focus, leading to job opportunities in green aviation technologies.

Aerviva is a Dubai-based international consultancy, specializing in aviation recruitment and document management. The consultancy seeks to develop bespoke solutions for clients’ specific needs, guiding them with their global expertise as well as deep understanding and experience in the aviation industry.

31, Jan 2025
4 Powerful Women Shaping the Future of Talent Acquisition in HR Tech

In today’s competitive job market, talent acquisition has become more challenging and complex than ever. Companies are constantly seeking innovative ways to attract, assess, and hire the best candidates. This is where HR Tech plays a crucial role, revolutionizing traditional hiring processes and making them more efficient, inclusive, and data-driven. Among the many leaders driving this transformation, a group of inspiring women stands out for their exceptional contributions to the HR Tech industry.

Despite advancements made in recent times, women continue to be underrepresented in the tech industry, encountering obstacles like unconscious bias, gender wage disparities, and a scarcity of female role models. Nonetheless, numerous accomplished women in tech have made noteworthy contributions to the field, serving as inspirations for all, particularly young women, aspiring to pursue careers in technology. In today’s ever-evolving work environment, the role of Human Resources (HR) leaders has expanded beyond conventional boundaries. An extraordinary transformation is underway, spearheaded by a group of exceptional Indian women who are not only climbing the corporate ladder but also reshaping the HR landscape with their remarkable vision and determination.

These women entrepreneurs are not just shaping the future of talent acquisition; they are redefining what it means to find and hire talent in a digital-first world. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and big data analytics, these trailblazers are developing innovative solutions that enhance candidate experience, streamline recruitment processes, and promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

Let’s delve into the stories of these 4 extraordinary Indian women who are redefining the contours of HR leadership and shaping the future of work.

Yogita Tulsiani, iXceed Solutions:-
Yogita is the Director & Co-founder of iXceed Solutions . The dynamic Ms Yogita Tulsiani is armed with a Master’s in Business Administration from ISB, Hyderabad. The versatile businessperson has more than a decade of experience in Business Development and Consultancy across various industries in the UK, USA, Europe and APAC. Her repertoire includes an illustrious clientele in the Financial Services, Telecom, Retail, Information Technology and Learning industries like Genpact Headstrong and HP.

Asma Thorve, Empowered LMS:-
Asma is the co-founder of Empowered LMS, Asma is an experienced professional with 20+ years of industry experience. A large part of this has been spent in the learning technology space, thus making her an industry veteran who has seen the learning technology space evolve over this period. With marque customers using their solutions, Enthralltech is an established player in this space. Her company won the Asia Tech Innovation award in 2016 thus underlying the innovative solution they bring to their customers.

Geetha Prabhu, WorkFlexi.in:-
Geetha Prabhu is the Founder of WorkFlexi.in.With the growing need of flexible work in organizations of all sizes, Geetha is looking to solve the problem through her solution. By connecting companies with individuals seeking these flexible work assignments she is addressing a key gap in the talent acquisition solution set in the Indian HR Tech space. With her deep expertise in market research one would assume that she has enough insights about this space to solve this challenge.

Shelly Singh, PeopleStrong:-

Shelly Singh is the co-founder of PeopleStrong . After a short stint as HR professional Shelly identified a business challenge and co-founded PeopleStrong in 2002. Since then PeopleStrong has grown to be one of the most successful entrepreneurial journeys in the Indian ecosystem. As a chief business officer, she continues to build a strong brand for the organization while also anchoring the strategic and operational initiatives at PeopleStrong. She was identified as “Thought leader of the year” in 2014 by the HRO Today, Asia Pacific forum.

31, Jan 2025
A New Era Begins: Le Belvedere Rebranded as XO & Mi at Le Meridien New Delhi

New Delhi, 31 January 2025: XO & Mi @Le Belvedere, the highly anticipated restaurant at Le Meridien New Delhi, is all set to redefine the dining experience, with the creative solutions of Secret Ingredient, India’s leading food and hospitality consultancy. XO & Mi @Le Belvedere is a modern take on the former Le Belvedere restaurant, which was known for its Szechuan Chinese cuisine. It reimagines the legendary restaurant, blending its rich legacy with a bold, modern vision that promises to captivate culinary enthusiasts.

Secret Ingredient has played an instrumental role in bringing XO & Mi @Le Belvedere to life through a comprehensive approach encompassing research, concept development, design collaboration, and operational planning. Starting with extensive internal research and a feasibility study, Secret Ingredient conducted a deep dive into the target audience, local demographics and market trends. This strategic analysis ensured a distinctive positioning for the restaurant, crafting a dining experience that embodies the dynamic essence of Asia’s street food culture- elevated with a modern and sophisticated touch.

XO & Mi @Le Belvedere_Image 6

The creative direction of XO & Mi @Le Belvedere was carefully crafted with a compelling brand narrative, positioning and a distinctive food and bar identity. Secret Ingredient assisted in vendor partnerships, training staff and conducted food and beverage trials to ensure quality and consistency. Inspired by the lively food markets of South East Asia, the restaurant’s menu seamlessly fuses authentic flavours with innovation to offer a sensory adventure that transforms dining into a memorable experience. The menu is carefully curated into distinctive sections, each offering a unique culinary experience. The Izakaya Style selection presents an array of playful small plates—both hot and cold—perfectly suited for cocktail pairings. The Curry House and Noodle Cart bring comforting, authentic flavours to the table, while the Tempura & Katsu Shop showcases Japan’s mastery of delicate deep-frying, delivering crispy, golden perfection.

The addition of unique features like the Saké Bar—a curated centrepiece offering interactive customization of glassware and serving temperatures—further elevates the journey, while The Permit Room speakeasy invites guests to enjoy colonial-inspired charm paired into two innovative cocktail categories – Legends of the Orient celebrating Southeast Asian mythology with bold, imaginative drinks like the “Wukong,” and the other being – Take a Bite! which pairs cocktails with nibbles crafted from their key ingredients, such as the Fortune Cookie—a Japanese whiskey and miso caramel concoction served with an actual fortune cookie. Together, these elements position XO & Mi @ Le Belvedere as a premium destination where tradition inspires innovation and culture meets creativity.

“We are incredibly proud to be part of the XO & Mi @Le Belvedere journey, a concept that masterfully blends innovation with authenticity,” said Sid Mathur, Founder of Secret Ingredient. “Perched atop one of Delhi’s most iconic rooftop locations, XO & Mi offers a breath-taking setting that enhances the dining experience. It was a pleasure collaborating with the incredible team at Le Meridien to bring this vision to life. At Secret Ingredient, our mission is to help brands share their unique stories through exceptional dining experiences, and XO & Mi embodies that vision. From concept to execution, every detail has been carefully crafted to deliver guests an unforgettable culinary adventure. From interior mood boards to the development of the brand touchpoints, every element was meticulously curated to create an unforgettable experience. Secret Ingredient worked closely with designers to conceptualize and bring to life this vision, ensuring every detail contributes to the immersive experience.”

Secret Ingredient also played a pivotal role in optimizing operational efficiency, refining kitchen layouts, and selecting high-performance equipment to meet regulatory standards. Additionally, they also contributed to the core structure and hiring process, defining the ideal team requirements and aiding in the recruitment of top-tier culinary talent, including sous chefs, CDPs, and mixologists.

 With the aim of bringing creative and impactful solutions, Secret Ingredient provided XO & Mi @Le Belvedere with a strategic roadmap from concept to execution. Their comprehensive approach, industry expertise, and attention to detail have been instrumental in crafting a standout dining destination within Le Meridien New Delhi.

31, Jan 2025
Princess Gauravi Kumari Attends ARTISAN AWARDS 2025

Princess Gauravi Kumari

31 January 2025, National: The much-anticipated Artisan Awards 2025 concluded on a grand note, with Princess GauraviKumari gracing the occasion as the esteemed chief guest. Known for her patronage of art and culture, Princess GauraviKumari presented the awards to the winners, lauding their ingenuity and dedication to preserving Indian craftsmanship and design.

The 8th edition of The Artisan Award was hosted by the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC)powered by GIA India, in association with the World Gold Council.

The presence of Princess GauraviKumari added a regal touch to the celebration, making it a night to remember for the artists, industry stalwarts, and dignitaries in attendance.

As the Artisan Jewellery Design Awards continue to spotlight the best of India’s craftsmanship, this year’s finale set a new benchmark in creativity, elegance, and royal patronage. She was joined on stage by Mr. Vipul Shah, Chairman, GJEPC; Mr. KiritBhansali, Vice Chairman, GJEPC; Mr. Sriram Natarajan, Managing Director, GIA India; Mr. Sachin Jain, Regional CEO, India, World Gold Council; Mr Milan Chokshi, Convener, Promotions & Marketing, GJEPC; and Mr. Sabyasachi Ray, Executive Director, GJEPC.

The event celebrated the finest expressions of Indian craftsmanship under this year’s theme, “Indian Crafts Reimagined,” which received over 630 entries.

In the diverse realm of Indian crafts, the 2025 Artisan Awards highlighted the interconnected nature of regional artistry within the country. Each participant drew inspiration from India’s rich heritage, blending traditional techniques with innovative interpretations. This thoughtful fusion ensured that age-old crafts not only retained their cultural significance but also found a meaningful place in modern design narratives.
The viewing gallery of the 20 finalists from the 8th Artisan Awards, themed Indian Crafts Reimagined, was open at JWCC. The showcased designs blended heritage crafts with innovation, celebrating ancient traditions while ensuring their modern relevance.

A visibly impressed Princess Gauravi Kumari of Jaipur remarked, “All the winning jewellery designs showcased at GJEPC’s Artisan Awards innovatively incorporated traditional art and craft. I believe that traditional crafts will always be relevant to today’s generation as long as designers introduce fresh perspectives and new twists while utilising modern silhouettes that appeal to global audiences. The new-age young consumer is moving from fast fashion to slow luxury. Gen-Next will get interested if we shift the narrative from the brand or product to the karigar (artisan) – the storytelling of their creative vision and interpretation is always compelling.”

Talking about jewellery making and craftsmanship as a legacy passed on from generation to generation, Princess Gauravi said, “Global connoisseurs recognise that Indian craft techniques have been passed on from one generation to another, just like the heritage legacy brands of Europe. Some of the best global designers have learnt and educated themselves about Indian craftsmanship and then used their creativity to bring innovation and relevance. My great-grandfather,Maharaja Man Singh II, wanted to see Jaipur as a global centre of design, art, and crafts. I want to carry forward this legacy and empower craftsmen who defy challenges and create with a positive attitude.”

Mr. Vipul Shah, Chairman, GJEPC, remarked, “The Artisan Awards aims to spotlight India’s unparalleled jewellery craftsmanship. This year’s theme, ‘Indian Crafts, Reimagined’, compelled participants to employ age-old crafts and design them through a contemporary lens, producing pieces that transcend cultural boundaries across the globe.

“Designing is one of the most sought-after skill sets in the industry and plays a pivotal role in generating value addition. For the sector to advance beyond retail, it is essential to enhance and expand design capabilities. The Artisan Awards serves as a platform to harness design talent at the grassroots level, nurturing India’s raw potential while driving innovation and creativity.

“At GJEPC, we also invest in structured skill development through our training institutes to ensure the industry’s sustained progress. Additionally, we strive to preserve and promote local crafts like the timeless jadau and meenakari of Jaipur and Benares, the intricate filigree of the East, and the temple jewellery of the South.

“I invite industry stakeholders such as the World Gold Council, PGI, and De Beers to collaborate with GJEPC in marketing and popularising India’s unique jewellery crafts on the global stage.”

Mr. Sachin Jain, Regional CEO, India, World Gold Council: “GJEPC’s Artisan Awards is a true testament of creativity and royalty in design capital. We at the World Gold Council are partnering with GJEPC to crown India as the jewellery hub of the world. It’s time for us to take Indian creativity and designs to the world. We appreciate the kalakaari(artistry) of India and will work with GJEPC to uplift the pristine status and impeccable standards of our craftsmanship. The Artisan Awards are a great celebration of Indian artistry. Every piece of gold jewellery crafted by these artisans is a testament to their dedication, skill, and artistic vision. The Awards serve as a platform to recognise their achievements and inspire future generations to appreciate and continue the legacy of gold jewellery artistry.”

Mr. Milan Chokshi, Convener, Promotion & Marketing, GJEPC adds, “The theme ‘Indian Crafts, Reimagined’ successfully inspired participants to leverage their creativity and design jewellery that seamlessly integrates global aesthetics with the essence of Indian craftsmanship. Through this journey, we witnessed exceptional pieces that not only preserved ancient crafts but also redefined their relevance for today’s discerning audience. The innovative interpretations highlighted the rich heritage of Indian techniques, demonstrating how our traditional craftsmanship remains relevant and continues to captivate younger generations in today’s dynamic world.”

The entries underwent a thorough scrutiny by a distinguished jury comprising Dr.UshaBalakrishnan, Eminent Jewellery Historian; Mr. Jay Sagar, Jewellery Specialist at AstaGuru Auction House;Mr. Apurva Kothari, Founding Partner of SAVAAB;Ms. Priya Tanna President, @trscreativeconsulting; Mr. Apoorva Deshingkar, Sr. Director – Market Outreach and Education, GIA India; andMs. Shachee Shah, Founder & Creative Head, Shachee Fine Jewellery.

The technical jury included Mr. DevinderLayal, Jewellery Artiste and Educationist; Ms. MeenalChoksi, Head of Design, Moksh Fine Unseen Jewellery; and Ms. SushamaKalzunkar Sawant, PD & Merchandising Head, KP Sanghvi.

At the celebratory event, GJEPC also honoured industry stalwarts whose remarkable contributions have made a lasting impact on both domestic and global fronts.

Mr. Sajil Shah, Creative Head and Founder of Sajjante, was honoured with the Design Excellence Award, while Mr. Ankit Mehta, Founder and diamond and jewellery business entrepreneurof the high-end brand Aneka, (previously Her Story),was bestowed with the prestigious Global Indian Jewellery Designer award.

Mr. Biren Vaidya, Managing Director of The House of Rose, was presented the Retail Excellence Award for its exceptional designs, high standards and excellent customer service.

The House of BNM was chosen for the Manufacturing Excellence Award, underscoring its commitment to quality and innovation. The award was received by its Co-Founder Mr. Binoy Shah.

Here’s what the judges had to say about The Artisan finalists:

Mr. Apoorva Deshingkar, Sr. Director – Market Outreach and Education, GIA India: “It is a privilege to be able to witness the design talent and their creations at The Artisan Awards. Not only does the theme – ‘Indian Craft, Reimagined’ – pose a challenge for the designers, but it also offers them a chance to creatively showcase the rich culture and heritage of Indianjewellery and artisanry. More than 630 entries are a testimony to the recognition that comes with a platform such as The Artisan Awards, and I extend my compliments to GJEPC for organising itsuccessfully year on year and raising the bar in the process. GIA India continues to support this industry initiative thathelps empower talented jewellery designers.”

Dr.UshaBalakrishnan, Eminent Historian: “Every Artisan piece has layers of narrative, from the designers who create it to the materials and designs that reflect our heritage. Crafts like Thewa, with their delicate artistry and potential for contemporary appeal, deserve greater global recognition.”

Mr. Jay Sagar, Jewellery Specialist at AstaGuru Auction House–“The designs beautifully blended tradition with contemporary appeal, and intricate creations that showcased impeccable attention to detail and lightweight charm. Indian craftsmanship is evolving, and with the younger generation of designers pushing boundaries, we are witnessing a transformative era.”

Mr. Apurva Kothari, Founding Partner of SAVAAB: “The participants have showcased exceptional creativity, blending India’s rich heritage with modern craftsmanship. The enamel work combined with gold truly stands out, reflecting a finesse in design and execution that brings every piece to life.”

Ms. Priya Tanna, President, @trscreativeconsulting: “I’m pleasantly surprised this year to witness a true revolution in the pieces being judged. The blend of traditional Indian crafts like Meenakari and beaten gold with contemporary designs is remarkable. What’s even more impressive is how these creations are designed for everyday elegance, making them both wearable and timeless.”

Ms. Shachee Shah, Founder & Creative Head, Shachee Fine Jewellery: “Jewellery is emotion brought to life, and when infused with Indian craftsmanship, it carries a deeper connection to our roots. This emotional resonance enhances its value, whether through meaningful storytelling, spiritual elements, or personalised touches like using birthstones.”

31, Jan 2025
Kalyan Jewellers India Limited recorded PAT of Rs 219 crore in Q3 FY25

Chandigarh, 31 January 2025: Kalyan Jewellers India Limited recorded consolidated revenue of Rs 7287 crore in Q3 FY25 as against Rs 5223 crore in the corresponding period of the previous year, a growth of 40%. The consolidated PAT for Q3 FY25 was Rs 219 crore as against a PAT of Rs 180 crore for the corresponding period in the previous year. Consolidated PAT growth would be 44% adjusting for the loss due to the reduction in customs duty (announced during the Union Budget in July 2024).

The standalone revenue for the company (India) in Q3 FY25, was Rs 6393 crore, as against Rs 4512 crore in Q3 of the previous financial year, a growth of 42%. The India operations recorded a PAT of Rs 218 crore for the quarter compared to a PAT of Rs 168 crore for the corresponding period in the previous year. Adjusting for the customs duty loss the PAT growth would be 54%.

Total revenue from the Middle East operations during Q3 FY25 was Rs 840 crore as against Rs 683 crore in Q3 FY24, a growth of over 23%. The Middle East operations recorded a PAT of Rs 15 crore for the quarter compared to a PAT of Rs 14 crore for the corresponding period in the previous year. The PBT grew by 23% over the corresponding quarter of the previous year. However, the PAT growth for Q3FY25 was impacted due to the introduction of a new corporate tax in the UAE.

The e-commerce division, Candere, recorded a revenue of Rs 55 crore in Q3 FY25 versus Rs 29 crore in Q3 FY24. The company recorded a loss of Rs 6.9 crore in Q3 FY25 versus a loss of Rs 1.6 Cr during Q3 FY24.

Mr Ramesh Kalyanaraman, Executive Director, Kalyan Jewellers India Limited said, “We are extremely excited with the way the current year has progressed. The current quarter has started well despite the volatility in gold prices. We are upbeat about the ongoing wedding season and expect to end the financial year on a strong note. We are on track for the launch of 30 Kalyan showrooms and 15 Candere showrooms in India during the current quarter.”

31, Jan 2025
Bank of Baroda announces Financial Results for the Quarter ended 31st December 2024

Consistent ROA, Robust Asset Quality: Bank Reports Steady Q3FY25 Performance

Key Highlights

  •  BOB reports a growth of 12.6% in its 9MFY25 Net Profit to INR 14,533 crore
  •  Net Profit for Q3FY25 stands at INR 4,837 crore, a growth of 5.6% YoY.
  •  Asset quality continues to be robust with Gross NPA below 2.5% at 2.43% for Q3FY25, a reduction of 65 bps YoY.
  •  Net NPA ratio also remains low at 0.59%, declining by 11 bps YoY.
  •  Slippage ratio remains contained at 0.90% for Q3FY25 and 0.81% for 9MFY25.
  •  Credit costs remain below 1% due to better asset quality at 0.30% for the quarter and 0.47% for 9MFY25.
  •  BOB’s balance sheet remains robust with a healthy Provision Coverage Ratio (PCR) of 93.51% with TWO & at 76.03% without TWO.
  •  Return on Assets (ROA) remains above 1% and stands at 1.15% for the quarter and 1.17% for 9MFY25.
  •  Return on Equity (ROE) for the quarter is 17.01% and 17.03% for 9MFY25.
  •  Operating profit for Q3FY25 stands at INR 7,664 crore, up by 9.3% YoY.
  •  Operating profit growth was supported by 34.1% YoY growth in Non-Interest Income which stands at INR 3,769 crore for Q3FY25.
  •  Cost The income ratio has also reduced by 4 bps YoY to 49.53% for Q3FY25.
  •  BOB’s Global Advances registered a growth of 11.8% YoY in Q3FY25 led by robust retail loan book growth. Bank’s organic Retail Advances grew by 19.5%, driven by growth in high-focus areas such as Auto Loans (21.1%), Home Loans (16.6%), Mortgage Loan (16.3%), and Education Loan (16.9%).
  •  Capital Adequacy (CRAR) remains healthy at 15.96%.

Profitability

  •  BOB reported a standalone Net Profit of INR 4,837 crore in Q3FY25 as against a profit of INR 4,579 crore in Q3FY24. Net Profit for 9MFY25 stands at INR 14,533 crore (+12.6% YoY) as against INR 12,902 crore in 9MFY24.
  •  Net Interest Income (NII) grew by 2.8% YoY to INR 11,417 crore in Q3FY25. NII for 9MFY25 registered a growth of 5.2% and stands at INR 34,639 crore.
  •  Non-Interest Income for Q3FY25 grew by 34.1% YoY and stands at INR 3,769 crore. Non-Interest Income for 9MFY25 stands at INR 11,438 crore up by 11% YoY
  •  Global NIM stands at 2.94% in Q3FY25. Global NIM for 9MFY25 stands at 3.08%.
  •  Yield on Advances stands at 8.35% in Q3FY25 as against 8.51% in Q3FY24.
  •  Cost of Deposits increased to 5.08% in Q3FY25 as against 4.96% in Q3FY24.
  •  Operating Income for Q3FY25 stands at INR 15,186 crore (+9.2% YoY). Operating Income for 9MFY25 stands at INR 46,076 crore registering a growth of 6.6%.
  •  Operating Profit for Q3FY25 stands at INR 7,664 crore (+9.3% YoY).
  •  Operating Profit for 9MFY25 increased by 6.3% to INR 24,303 crore.
  •  Cost to Income ratio improved by 4 bps YoY and stands at 49.53% for Q3FY25. Cost to Income ratio of 9MFY25 stands at 47.26%.
  •  Return on Assets (RoA) (annualised) stands at to 1.15% in Q3FY25. RoA for 9MFY25 stands at 1.17%
  •  Return on Equity (RoE) (annualised) for Q3FY25 stands at 17.01%. RoE stands at 17.03% for 9MFY25.
  •  For the consolidated entity, Net Profit stood at INR 5,214 crore in Q3FY25 as against INR 4,789 crore in Q3FY24.

Asset Quality

  •  The Gross NPA of the Bank reduced by 11.9% YoY to INR 28,471 crore in Q3FY25 and Gross NPA Ratio improved to 2.43% in Q3FY25 from 3.08% in Q3FY24.
  •  The Net NPA Ratio of the Bank stands at a low of 0.59% in Q3FY25 as compared with 0.70% in Q3FY24.
  •  The Provision Coverage Ratio of the Bank stood at 93.51% including TWO and 76.03% excluding TWO in Q3FY25.
  •  Slippage ratio declined to 0.81% for 9MFY25 as against 1.06% in 9MFY24. Slippage ratio for the quarter also remains contained at 0.90% for Q3FY25 as against 0.95% in Q3FY24.
  •  Credit cost stands at 0.30% for Q3FY25 and 0.47% for 9MFY25.

Capital Adequacy

  •  CRAR of the Bank stands at 15.96% in Dec’24. Tier-I stood at 13.44% (CET-1 at 12.38%, AT1 at 1.06%) and Tier-II stood at 2.52% as of Dec’24.
  •  The CRAR and CET-1 of consolidated entity stands at 16.36% and 12.86% respectively
  •  The Liquidity Coverage Ratio (LCR) consolidated stands at 130% (approx.).

Business Performance

  •  Global Advances of the Bank increased to INR 11,73,034 crore, +11.8% YoY.
  •  Domestic Advances of the Bank increased to INR 9,64,869 crore, +11.9% YoY.
  •  Global Deposits increased by 11.8% YoY to INR 13,92,461 crore.
  •  Domestic Deposits increased by 9.2% YoY to INR 11,65,874 crore in Dec’24.
  •  International Deposits grew by 27.3% on a YoY basis to INR 2,26,588 crore in Dec’24.
  •  Organic Retail Advances grew by 19.5%, led by growth in high focus areas such as Auto Loan (21.1%), Home Loan (16.6%), Mortgage Loan (16.3%), Education Loan (16.9%) on a YoY basis.
  •  Agriculture loan portfolio grew by 12.5% YoY to INR 1,51,050 crore.
  •  Total Gold loan portfolio (including retail and agri.) stands at INR 58,172 crore, registering a growth of 29.1% on a YoY basis.
  •  Organic MSME portfolio grew by 13.6% YoY to INR 1,31,769 crore.
  •  Corporate advances registered a growth of 6.8% YoY and stands at INR 3,87,405 crore.
31, Jan 2025
The Hidden Risk: Gender Differences in Heart Disease and the Missed Symptoms in Women

Dr Ameet Sattur

By-Dr. Ameet Sattur, Consultant Interventional Cardiologist, HCG Suchirayu Hospital, Hubli

 The heart is a vital organ, tirelessly pumping blood and delivering oxygen and nutrients to every part of the body. However, certain heart diseases disproportionately impact women due to unique biological and hormonal factors. Conditions like microvascular disease and stress-induced cardiomyopathy are more prevalent among women, and symptoms often present differently than in men, leading to delayed diagnosis.

 Heart disease is a leading cause of death worldwide, yet it remains underdiagnosed and undertreated in women. The disparity arises from a combination of biological differences, societal factors, and outdated medical paradigms that have historically centered around men.

 Heart Disease: The Silent Threat to Women
Heart disease in women often presents differently than in men. While men typically experience the classic symptom of chest pain, women’s symptoms are often subtler. They may include fatigue, shortness of breath, nausea, dizziness, or pain in the neck, jaw, or back. These atypical symptoms can easily be mistaken for less serious conditions, leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment.

 The Role of Biology
Biological differences between men and women play a significant role in how heart disease manifests. Women’s coronary arteries are smaller and more prone to microvascular disease, which affects the tiny blood vessels in the heart. This type of disease often goes undetected in standard diagnostic tests like angiograms. Additionally, hormonal fluctuations, particularly during menopause, can increase a woman’s risk of developing heart disease by altering lipid levels and vascular health.

 What is the Impact of Gender Bias on Heart Health?
Historically, research on heart disease has predominantly focused on men, resulting in diagnostic and treatment protocols tailored to male physiology. Consequently, medical professionals may overlook or misinterpret symptoms in women. Studies have shown that women are less likely than men to receive timely interventions like angioplasty or bypass surgery, even when presenting with severe heart disease.

 Misperceptions and Lack of Awareness
Public awareness campaigns about heart disease often emphasize the classic symptoms associated with men. This extends the misconception that heart disease is primarily a “man’s disease.” As a result, women may not recognize their symptoms as indicative of a heart problem and delay seeking medical attention. Furthermore, societal expectations that women should prioritize caregiving roles often lead them to downplay their health concerns.

31, Jan 2025
Shreedayini Foundation and USABF Reveal Ambitious Dollar1 Trillion FDI Roadmap for India

New Delhi, January 31st, 2025: Shreedayini Foundation, one of India’s leading a 12-A / 80-G certified non-profit organisation aimed at empowering youth and promoting entrepreneurial excellence organised India’s first Economic Growth Conference 2025 (IEGC), in partnership with the US Asia Global Business Forum (USABF), at The Lalit, New Delhi. The event witnessed the participation of over 300 attendees including ambassadors,policymakers, fund seekers, government officials, and investors to discuss the roadmap of charting $1 trillion USD in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in India’s 23 sectors. Shreedayini Foundation aims to achieve a multi-phase target of $1 trillion USD, based on selected projects and investment platforms. The conference paved the way for the Shreedayini Foundation’s programme “Samriddh Bharat, Samriddh Vishwa” (Prosperous India, Prosperous World), which aimed to boost India’s GDP and position the country as a global economic powerhouse.

The conference highlighted India’s immense potential to attract global investments. Delegates discussed the strategic inflow of funds into sectors like infrastructure, renewable energy, IT, healthcare, agriculture etc that would align with the government’s vision of “Vikasit Bharat @2047.The event was attended by ambassadors, government officials, and investors from countries like Switzerland, USA, Israel, Singapore, and the UAE. Shreedayini Foundation is planning for a solid Roadmap for Employment in India. The event included key point discussions including Public-Private Partnership (PPP) models to enhance government and private enterprises’ collaboration in energy, logistics, and technology sectors. The conference also announced programs dedicated to empowering youth and women through education, training, and job creation, which are expected to strengthen India’s workforce and bridge skill gaps promoting the Indian economy.

Dr. Ram Das Athawale, Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment also joined the event virtually, as he could not be available for a sudden change of plans. He extended his best wishes for the success of future prospects and praised the efforts of the Shreedayini Foundation in fostering economic growth and global collaborations.

One of the major event highlights was the finalization of a roadmap to attract $1 trillion USD in FDI in the Indian Economy. Shreedayini Foundation has announced the Concrete steps and timelines to simplify investment processes and ensure transparency, boosting investor confidence. The process was discussed in detail including the DPR registration and funding process, submitting the project for review, followed by investor confirmation, due diligence, and signing of the Investment Agreement.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Hariom Agnihotri, Chairman of the Shreedayini Foundation, stated, “India’s economic landscape is evolving rapidly. Through this conference, we have built a robust foundation for a $1 trillion FDI target, fostering trust and global partnerships. This is a transformative moment for India and the world.”

FDI inflows into India reached $84.8 billion in FY 2022-23, solidifying the nation’s position as the fifth-largest economy in the world and a leading destination for global investors. The conference highlighted the potential for targeted investments to accelerate India’s economic development, positioning the country as a leader in innovation and sustainability.

Reflecting on the conference, Mr. Kevin Kaul, Chairman of USABF, remarked, “India’s untapped potential, combined with its demographic advantage, makes it the ultimate investment destination for the 21st century. The partnerships forged today will shape a prosperous and interconnected global future.”

The event concluded with the announcement of the “Samriddh Bharat, Samriddh Vishwa” program. This initiative will act as a catalyst to attract global investments while addressing global sustainability goals and fostering inclusive growth. This conference marks a significant milestone as Shreedayini officially presents their vision and mission to create a lasting impact on India’s development where they encourage everyone to join us in this endeavor to build a stronger, more prosperous global economy.

31, Jan 2025
Air India Boosts Services to Prayagraj in Response to High Passenger Demand

GURUGRAM, 31 January 2025: Air India today announced it has added more flights to Prayagraj in response to high demand for travel during Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, having recently inaugurated special daily flights between Delhi and Prayagraj.

Effective 01 February 2025, Air India will operate a second daily service between Delhi and Prayagraj until 28 February 2025. Air India has also added special daily services between Mumbai and Prayagraj that will operate until 28 February 2025.

With these additions, Air India will operate 21x weekly flights to Prayagraj during the world’s largest spiritual gathering.

Air India’s flights to and from Prayagraj enable seamless connections via Delhi to customers travelling to/from various parts of India as well as North America, Europe, Australia, and several countries in Southeast Asia.