MGM Healthcare Launches VARAM IVF

Chennai, 17 September 2024: MGM Healthcare, a renowned multi-specialty quaternary care hospital located in the heart of Chennai, proudly announces the launch of its cutting-edge In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) services. The newly established Varam IVF centre at MGM healthcare aims to provide advanced fertility treatments and personalised care, utilising latest technologies. The centre located on the 6th Floor of MGM Healthcare in Aminjikarai, Chennai, brings together renowned specialists with state-of-the-art technology and extensive ancillary services all under one roof.

 Varam IVF offers a personalised approach to fertility treatments with access to advanced reproductive technologies, ensuring that each patient receives comprehensive, tailored care. The IVF services at MGM Healthcare will play a pivotal role in supporting couples struggling with unexplained infertility, helping them realise their dream of parenthood.

 Varam IVF’s services encompass a full range of treatments, from diagnostic evaluations to fertility preservation, increasing the chances of a successful pregnancy. The centre’s experienced team of fertility specialists, embryologists, and nurses also offers psychological support to help patients navigate the emotional challenges of infertility. With state-of-the-art facilities, MGM Healthcare is committed to helping families overcome infertility and expand their family options.

 Services provided at Varam IVF Centre include:
Ovarian Stimulation

•  Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)

 In vitro fertilisation (IVF)

•  Intra-Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)
• Cryopreservation
• Laser-Assisted Hatching

 Pre- implantation genetic testing (PGT)

•  Embryo Freezing

 Embryo Transfer

•  Frozen Embryo Transfers (FET)

 Blastocyst Culture

•  Products of Conception Using Array CGH (POC)
• Andrology Services
• Micro Epididymal Sperm Aspiration (MESA)
• Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration (PESA)
• Micro Testicular Sperm Extraction (Micro-TESE)
• Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA)

 Fertility Preservation for Men—Sperm Freezing (Cryopreservation)
Fertility Preservation for women – Oocyte freezing for cancer patients

 Dr. Urjitha Rajagopalan, Director, MGM Healthcare, expressed: “As more and more couples choose assisted reproductive technologies like IVF, conversations around infertility has become more open. Furthermore, many influential women speak openly about their IVF journey in public; this has greatly contributed to breaking down boundaries. Seeking treatment for infertility is no longer a taboo but rather a courageous step towards fulfilling the dream of parenthood. With the launch of Varam IVF, our goal is to provide compassionate and personalised care supported by cutting-edge technology and an experienced team of fertility specialists. The journey towards parenthood is unique for every couple, and we are committed to supporting our patients with empathy, expertise, and unwavering dedication.”

 Dr. Prashanth Rajagopalan, Director, MGM Healthcare, echoed this sentiment: “There is a wide spread shortage of standardized clinical protocols, structured training, quality laboratories and ethical practices in IVF. Varam IVF aims to address this urgent need by offering an organised all under one roof facility. With the rising prevalence of fertility tourism, Varam IVF is conveniently located and easily accessible from all parts of the city. The centre will provide both advanced technology and expert medical care.”

 Dr. Dakshayani D, Director, Varam IVF, MGM Healthcare, emphasised the importance of the new centre; “As infertility rates rise globally, affecting approximately 10-15% of couples, the need for comprehensive IVF services is more crucial than ever. Our centre offers everything under one roof, from advanced diagnostics to counseling services, ensuring a smooth and supportive journey for our patients. At MGM Healthcare, we are committed to guiding couples through each step of the IVF process with empathy and expertise. By integrating these services into a multi-speciality hospital, we provide a holistic and coordinated approach to fertility care, enhancing the chances of success.”

 In addition to core procedures such as IUI, IVF, and andrology services, Varam IVF offers state-of-the-art technologies such as assisted hatching, blastocyst culture, and vitrification. The centre will also provide advanced techniques such as ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection), where the embryologist carries out the fertilization of the oocytes (egg) using an extremely high-powered microscope to select the sperm cells with the best morphological quality.”

 During the inauguration Dr. Prashanth Rajagopalan, Director, MGM Healthcare; Dr. Urjitha Rajagopalan, Director, MGM Healthcare; Dr. Dakshayani D, Director, Varam IVF, Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Fertility Specialist, MGM Healthcare; Dr Vanitha Shri.R, Senior Consultant, Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Fertility Specialist at Varam IVF, MGM Healthcare; Dr. A. Jaishree Gajaraj, Senior Consultant, Obstetrics & Gynaecology at Varam-MGM Healthcare; and Dr Lakshmi Aswathaman, Senior Consultant, Obstetrics & Gynaecology at Varam- MGM Healthcare were present during the inauguration.

IndiGo and Amadeus enter strategic NDC partnership

India, 17 September 2024 – India’s leading airline, IndiGo, has reached an agreement with travel technology leader Amadeus to provide travel sellers in India and around the world with access to the airline’s NDC content via the Amadeus Travel Platform.

IndiGo has decided to rely on Amadeus for its unique and robust offering, which combines state-of-the-art airline and distribution technology with an unmatched market reach. The airline, which will carry more than 110 million passengers in 2024 and has growth ambitions backed by one of the largest aircraft order books in the industry, will strengthen its competitive edge through access to new markets and customer segments, thanks to Amadeus’ 96% global market coverage of NDC-ready travel sellers across the globe.

NDC technology, with its standardized messaging, is a game changer in the distribution landscape. It opens up new opportunities for airlines to distribute their content to travel sellers even more efficiently and elevate their retailing to the next level. For corporate clients and travel agencies, NDC simplifies the booking process by providing direct access to IndiGo’s full range of products. This not only streamlines operations but also delivers the ability to offer exclusive deals and promotions tailored to individual traveler profiles.

With the Amadeus NDC capabilities and the seamless integration with the airline’s IT systems powered by Navitaire, IndiGo is able to build dynamically price-tailored offers and expose them to customers – boosting ancillary sales and optimizing the customer experience, regardless of which sales channel they choose quickly and efficiently. Indigo is already live with NDC booking and servicing capabilities in UAE and Singapore with other markets to follow.

IndiGo’s commitment to embracing NDC technology reflects its dedication to innovation and customer satisfaction. By providing greater access and reach of its products and services, IndiGo will be putting more control in the hands of its customers allowing them to make informed choices and enjoy a more seamless travel experience from booking to boarding.

Mr. Pieter Elbers, Chief Executive Officer, IndiGo, said, “IndiGo celebrated its 18th anniversary this year and introduced exciting new products, including IndiGoStretch, and IndiGo BluChip. This is a part of our strategy ‘Towards New Heights and across New Frontiers’ to address the evolving needs of the travelers. This agreement with Amadeus will enable us to take our Distribution Strategy to the next level and provide travelers, with our exciting new products, on an even greater scale, in India and around the world. Amadeus has built a deep integration into the ecosystem of travel sellers around the world, and this will enable IndiGo to leverage IATA’s NDC and ONE Order visions while ensuring an exceptional travel experience for our customers. Over the course of 18 years, IndiGo has revolutionized and democratized air travel in India and this agreement marks yet another important milestone in our journey to redefine air travel.”

Decius Valmorbida, President, Travel, Amadeus, said, “We look forward to working with IndiGo to simplify its distribution strategy and take advantage of new technology standards. Amadeus is the world’s largest travel distribution platform and the largest provider of IT solutions to airlines which puts us in a unique position to drive NDC forward. Our technology will enable the airline to easily tailor its offers using the latest merchandising capabilities, and efficiently present and distribute them in a way that enriches and enhances the shopping experience for both its passengers and travel sellers worldwide.”

IndiGo features a fleet of over 350+ aircraft, with more than 2,000 daily flights, connecting 120+ destinations, of which 34 are international. Last year, the carrier welcomed over 100 million passengers with a focus on offering fares that are affordable, on-time flights, and a hassle-free travel experience.

Scania India announces Silvio Munhoz as its new Managing Director

New Delhi, September 17, 2024: Scania India has appointed Mr. Silvio Munhoz as the new Managing Director, effective September 1, 2024. Silvio succeeds Mr. Johan P. Schlyter, bringing decades of extensive experience in the automotive industry to his new role.

Silvio’s leadership journey includes key positions such as Managing Director of Codema, and interim President and CEO of Scania Brazil. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a strong strategic vision, a customer-centric approach, and a deep commitment to sustainable innovation, driving success across multiple markets. His appointment marks a new chapter in Scania India’s growth, as the company continues to focus on delivering state-of-the-art transport solutions and reinforcing its sustainability initiatives in the region.

Commenting on his new role, Mr. Silvio Munhoz said, “I am truly honoured to lead Scania India during a time of immense transition within the automotive industry. My focus will be on reassuring Scania’s commitment to the Indian market while expanding the adoption of sustainable and innovative power and transport solutions. I look forward to working with the talented team at Scania India and building upon the solid foundation established by my predecessor, Mr. Johan P. Schlyter.”

Under Silvio’s leadership, Scania India is poised to continue its commitment to providing complete solutions to the transport and energy industries in India comprising premium products and services.

Danube Properties is all set to lure Indian buyers with launch of two new projects in Dubai

New Delhi, 17th September 2024: Danube Properties, the UAE’s fastest-growing private real estate developer, has unveiled two new ambitious projects ‘BAYZ102’ and ‘Oasiz’. A towering 102-level skyscraper, Bayz102 will be the tallest in Danube’s portfolio and further solidify Dubai’s status as the City of Skyscrapers, alongside renowned landmarks like the Burj Khalifa, Marina 101, and Princess Tower. The second project, Oasiz, aims to deliver affordable luxury, providing high-end living options at accessible prices. These projects are designed to meet the diverse needs of investors, offering a range from premium luxury properties to affordable luxury options.

Bayz102 by Danube is poised to become a new icon in Dubai’s skyline. Situated in the highly sought-after Business Bay area, this project embodies the essence of luxury and innovation. With panoramic views of the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai skyline, this iconic development will feature around 1200 fully furnished units and rise to 102 levels, earning it the title of the tallest project in Danube’s portfolio. One of the most groundbreaking features of Bayz102 is the integration of a helipad for sky taxis, also known as eVTOL (electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing) vehicles. This futuristic mode of transportation is expected to revolutionize travel within the emirate, offering a swift and convenient alternative for both residents and visitors.

In addition to its residential offerings, Bayz102 will feature retail outlets and more than 40 world-class amenities designed to enhance the lifestyle of its residents. These amenities include a state-of-the-art health club, a swimming pool, a jogging track, a sports arena, a business center, a sky bar, BBQ Area, Table Tennis Room, Basketball Court, Wall Climbing, Bayz Outdoor Cinema and even on-call medical services.

With a signature 1% payment plan and 0% interest, units in both the projects start at just AED 6,990 per month. Speaking on the launch of Bayz102, Mr. Rizwan Sajan, Founder and Chairman, Danube Group shared, “Bayz102 by Danube represents a new era in luxury living. We are thrilled to introduce this project, which not only sets a new benchmark for high-rise living but also paves the way for the future of urban transportation in Dubai. As the city prepares to embrace sky taxis, we are proud to be at the forefront of this innovation, offering residents the convenience of cutting-edge mobility right at their doorstep.”

Complementing the opulence of Bayz102, ‘Oasiz’ by Danube includes a range of living options, from studios to 1BHK, 2BHK, and 3BHK apartments, along with retail outlets for residents’ convenience. Located in the rapidly developing Dubai Silicon Oasis, Oasiz will span approximately 1 million square feet, comprising around 900 luxury units across two towers, Oasiz 1 and Oasiz 2.

Commenting on the choice of location for Oasiz, Mr. Sajan stated, “Dubai Silicon Oasis has seen a significant increase in demand due to its strategic location and the upcoming infrastructure developments, such as the Blue Line Metro extension. With the relocation of the airport to Dubai South and the growing popularity of communities along E311 and E611, we expect Oasiz to offer excellent returns for investors. The project aligns with our vision to provide affordable luxury that meets the evolving needs of Dubai’s residents.”

Oasiz is strategically positioned to appeal to affluent corporate executives and professionals working in the vicinity of Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road and Emirates Road. The towers will rise 37 floors and offer over 30+ amenities, ensuring a lifestyle of comfort and convenience. Residents will enjoy easy access to the Dubai Metro’s upcoming Blue Line, which will connect Dubai Silicon Oasis with other key communities, making it a prime location for both investors and end-users. The Oasiz project is scheduled for completion within 36 months, with delivery expected by December 2027.

New drugs in rectal cancer; that can eliminate need for invasive surgery

Dr. Srigopal Mohanty, Consultant Medical Oncology, HCG Panda Cancer Hospital, Cuttack

 Imagine a future where rectal cancer patients no longer face the daunting prospect of invasive surgery. This future is becoming a reality thanks to groundbreaking advancements in cancer treatment. These newer therapies, combining cutting-edge targeted therapies with powerful immunotherapy, are revolutionizing how we approach rectal cancer. By potentially shrinking or even eradicating tumours without the need for traditional surgery, these treatments offer a glimmer of hope for patients and signify a major leap forward in cancer care.

 Rectal cancer, a type of colorectal cancer, occurs in the rectum, the final segment of the large intestine. It is characterized by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells that can form tumours and may spread to other parts of the body. Common symptoms of rectal cancer include persistent rectal bleeding, pain, and discomfort, changes in bowel habits such as diarrhea or constipation, and unexplained weight loss. These symptoms often prompt individuals to seek medical evaluation, leading to a diagnosis.

 The New Treatment Approaches
These newer treatments combine advanced targeted therapies with cutting-edge immunotherapy. Unlike traditional methods that often necessitate surgical intervention, these approaches aim to shrink or eliminate tumors through non-invasive means.

 1. Targeted Therapies: These therapies are designed to specifically attack cancer cells by targeting particular molecules involved in tumor growth and progression. By focusing on these key molecules, targeted therapies can disrupt the cancer’s ability to proliferate while sparing healthy tissues.
2. Immunotherapy: This approach harnesses the body’s immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells more effectively. Recent advancements in immunotherapy have led to the development of treatments that specifically target rectal cancer cells, enhancing the immune response and improving treatment outcomes.

 Benefits of the New Treatments
1. Reduced Invasiveness: The most significant advantage of these newer approaches is their potential to minimize the need for invasive surgical procedures. This reduction in surgery can lead to shorter recovery periods, fewer complications, and a lower risk of long-term side effects.
2. Personalized Care: Targeted therapies and immunotherapy allow for a personalized treatment approach. By tailoring the therapy to the specific characteristics of each patient’s cancer, healthcare providers can enhance treatment efficacy and improve outcomes.
3. Enhanced Quality of Life: Avoiding surgery can greatly enhance a patient’s quality of life. Patients may experience less pain, fewer hospital visits, and a quicker return to daily activities, contributing to a better overall treatment experience.

 Challenges and Future Directions
Despite their promise, these newer treatment approaches face several challenges. Ongoing research is essential to refine treatment protocols, assess long-term effectiveness, and identify any potential side effects. Additionally, access to these treatments may vary depending on healthcare systems and available resources.
Future studies will focus on validating these findings, exploring the treatments’ effectiveness across different patient populations, and integrating these therapies into standard care practices. The aim is to make these revolutionary approaches more widely available and accessible to all patients battling rectal cancer.
The emergence of these newer treatments for rectal cancer represents a significant advancement in cancer care. By potentially eliminating the need for surgery, these approaches offer less invasive, more personalized options with promising results. As research continues, they bring renewed hope to patients and mark a pivotal moment in the ongoing fight against rectal cancer.

CBM India and Schiefflin Institute Launch 3-Year Disability-Inclusive Eye Health Project in Tamil Nadu

Vellore, Tamil Nadu, September 16, 2024: CBM India, a non-profit organization committed to improving the quality of life of persons with disabilities, has partnered with the Schiefflin Institute of Health Research & Leprosy Centre to launch a three-year disability-inclusive eye health project in the Vellore district of Tamil Nadu. This initiative aims to provide high-quality eye care services to people from marginalized communities, with a special focus on children and adults with disabilities. The project’s inauguration held at the Schiefflin Institute of Health Research & Leprosy Centre in Karigiri, was attended by prominent dignitaries including Mr. Sony Thomas (Executive Director, CBM India Trust), Mr. Ravi Ranganathan (Director-Programs, CBM India Trust), Dr. Jerry Joshua (Director, Schiefflin Institute of Health Research & Leprosy Centre), and Dr. Shirley Chacko (Dy. Director, Schiefflin Institute of Health Research & Leprosy Centre, and Director, Department of Ophthalmology, Schiefflin Institute of Health Research & Leprosy Centre).

The disability-inclusive eye health project aims to prevent avoidable visual impairments, including blindness, in marginalized communities. By offering primary eye examinations, building the capacity of key stakeholders, and developing strong referral networks among hospitals, vision centers, and schools, the project seeks to ensure timely access to essential eye care services for all, particularly those who often face barriers to accessing quality eye care. By using a child-to-child and patient-to-patient approach as a key strategy, the project aspires to create a ripple effect where people who have benefited from the program amplify awareness about the importance of eye care and the services available within their communities.

Mr. Sony Thomas, Executive Director, CBM India Trust, stated, “We are proud to collaborate on this transformative project, which aligns with CBM India’s mission to ensure quality eye care for all. By emphasizing accessibility and disability inclusion, we are addressing the needs of society’s most marginalized communities. Working together with neighborhood health facilities, schools, and rehabilitation facilities, we hope to bring about long-lasting change and reduce avoidable visual impairments in the Vellore district.”

Beyond providing eye care, the initiative seeks to ensure that persons with disabilities have access to comprehensive support services and opportunities for empowerment. This will be achieved by collaborating with the health, education, and rehabilitation sectors. The project will be implemented over three years starting in September 2024 and concluding in July 2027.

DPS Indirapuram Celebrates Hindi Diwas with Enthusiastic Participation and Engaging Activities

DPS Indirapuram marked Hindi Diwas with a series of enriching activities across all grades, showcasing students’ creativity and enthusiasm for the language. The celebration began with an engaging assembly by Class IV students, who presented a solemn prayer, followed by the ‘Thought of the Day’ and a soulful Hindi Diwas song performed by the school choir. The highlight of the assembly was a presentation by students who dressed up as famous Hindi authors and poets and showcased their contributions to Hindi literature. The assembly concluded with speeches from two students emphasizing the importance of preserving the Hindi language and singing the National Anthem, fostering a sense of unity among the students.

Further, the students from classes VI to X actively participated in a variety of events, including bookmark making, quote writing, collage making of Hindi literature, ad writing, and poster creation. The focus of these activities was to spread awareness of crucial social issues, such as the increasing crimes against women and the need for environmental conservation, helping students connect language with real-world concerns.

Mrs. Priya John, Principal of DPS Indirapuram, expressed pride in the students’ participation, stating, “Our celebration of Hindi Diwas is a testament to the student’s dedication to their cultural heritage. Through these activities, they not only learn to appreciate the beauty of the Hindi language but also understand its relevance in addressing contemporary social and environmental issues. I am truly proud of the way our students embraced the spirit of Hindi Diwas and contributed to making it a meaningful celebration.”

Simplilearn Learning Hub Offers Free Access to Universities to Equip Students With Top Digital Skills

BENGALURU, India, September 17, 2024- Simplilearn, the world’s leading online bootcamp for digital skills, is thrilled to announce that Simplilearn’s Learning Hub is now accessible to all Universities for free. This new initiative highlights Simplilearn’s dedication to enhancing educational accessibility and providing high-quality resources to academic institutions aiming to equip their students with new skills and advance their careers in new-age domains such as cyber security, cloud computing, and GenAI.

The Simplilearn Learning Hub offers extensive features, including over 500 on-demand courses and learning pathways. Once Universities sign up for the learning hub, they can access integrated labs, hands-on projects, and comprehensive assessments and quizzes designed to drive superior learning outcomes, which will, in turn, benefit the future workforce. This array of resources ensures that learners gain practical experience and a deeper understanding of critical digital skills.

This development aligns closely with recent government initiatives to bridge the talent-academia gap and boost employment. The Government of India’s strategic investments are set to empower 4.1 crore youths, fueling their aspirations. Simplilearn’s free Learning Hub complements these efforts by removing financial barriers to education, facilitating higher course completion rates, and enhancing skill retention.

By offering free access to its Learning Hub, Simplilearn reinforces its mission to provide innovative and accessible educational solutions. This initiative empowers Universities to aid students with the tools and knowledge they need to excel in their fields and navigate the ever-evolving digital landscape.

Krishna Kumar, Founder and CEO of Simplilearn, said, “Our pedagogy strongly believes in empowering learners with the necessary skills needed to thrive in today’s digital market. We are thrilled to introduce free access to the Learning Hub, a platform crafted to address the dynamic needs of today’s workforce. This initiative aligns with the Indian government’s vision of enhancing youth employment and skill development. By extending our essential resources to universities, we can enable learning at scale and address the growing need for continuous upskilling in a rapidly advancing tech era. The platform empowers learners with the tools to win in the competitive market, bringing a culture of lifelong learning and adaptability to the future workforce.”

Experience holistic education at Shrewsbury India, where academics and extracurricular activities go hand-in-hand

On September 16 in Jaipur, Shrewsbury International School India introduced dignitaries and attendees to a 472-year-old legacy of deep learning and holistic education encompassing a seamless blend of world-class academic programs and extracurricular activities. Founded in 1552 by Edward VI by Royal Charter, Shrewsbury School is focused on the intellectual, spiritual, and ethical growth of students.

The institution that boasts illustrious alumni including Sir Charles Darwin will soon offer its distinctive model of whole-person education -Floreat, to Indian students. In 2025, Shrewsbury International School India will open the doors to its vast, 150-acre Bhopal campus encompassing a co-educational boarding school, a 160,000-square-foot academic block, a 40,000-square-foot performing arts school, over 20 sports facilities and a Language Centre offering a selection of European and Indian languages.

While Science and Mathematics will serve as core programs of study, there will be a special emphasis on Information and Communication Technology (ICT). In keeping with the Shrewsbury tenets of holistic education, multiple courses in sporting disciplines and the performing arts will be offered. Shrewsbury’s collaboration with Trinity College London will also enable students to pursue international diplomas in dramatics and music. The school will follow the English National Curriculum, leading pupils to undertake Cambridge International IGCSE Examinations in Years 10 and 11. These examinations will qualify the pupils for entry into A Level courses, with final examinations scheduled at the end of Years 12 and 13.

Commenting on what makes Shrewsbury, a pioneering force in global education, Mr. Abhishek Mohan Gupta, Founder and President, Board of Management at Shrewsbury International School India, said, “Our pedagogy champions the individual in a thriving and inclusive boarding and day school community. We offer a comprehensive, world-class curriculum and consider the co-curricular life as the ‘second classroom’ where students can explore their passions, be it for design & technology, science or astronomy. Personalised tutoring equips them to enhance their strengths, while a sensitive and responsive ‘house system’ creates a home from home environment for them to blossom in.”

Mr. Dominic Tomalin, the newly appointed Founding Headmaster of Shrewsbury says the Shrewsbury credo is to nurture and motivate each pupil to reach their highest potential, irrespective of ability or aspiration. He adds, “As educators, our goal is to nourish pre-existing passions, ignite new interests, and inculcate ‘soft skills’ of leadership, collaboration, resilience, and perseverance via a rich co-curricular life. Our goal is to not just equip young people with the confidence to face academic challenges but to cultivate their passions, inner virtues, life skills, and character strengths so that they can pursue meaningful, successful and well-rounded lives.”