12, Feb 2024
Hebrew Uuniversity of Jerusalem visits India to Foster Academic Ties
New Delhi, 12th February 2024 – A distinguished delegation from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem recently visited India to strengthen academic ties with several Indian universities. The visit explored opportunities for research collaboration, student and faculty exchanges, and the sharing of knowledge and expertise in various academic disciplines.
Led by Prof. Oron Shagrir, Vice President for International Affairs, the delegation comprised esteemed faculty members and administrators from the Hebrew, University of Jerusalem including Prof. Shlomo Magdassi, Chair of the HUJI Innovation center, the Institute of Chemistry, and the Center for Nanoscience andNanotechnology, Prof. Saul Burdman, Dean of the Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment and Prof. Michal Goldberg, Vice Dean for International Affairs, Faculty of Sciences
The visit included engagements with representatives from several prominent Indian universities including Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT-D), All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT-B), Indian Institute of Science (IISc), National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS) and Indian Institute of Management Bengaluru(IIM-B), fostering a spirit of collaboration and cultural exchange.
Key objectives of the delegation visit included:
Research Collaboration: The Israeli delegation explored avenues for joint research projects and partnerships with Indian universities, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and addressing global challenges.
Student and Faculty Exchanges: The delegation aimed at exploring and establishing frameworks for student and faculty exchanges, promoting cross-cultural understanding, and enriching the academic experience for both Israeli and Indian scholars.
Workshops and Seminars: Collaborative workshops and seminars were conducted during the visit, providing a platform for academic discussions, idea exchange, and the exploration of potential joint initiatives.
“We are excited about the opportunity to strengthen our ties with top Indian universities and explore avenues for collaboration. This visit represents a commitment to fostering academic ties, promoting cultural exchange, and contributing to the global knowledge ecosystem. We believe that by working together, we can create meaningful opportunities for students and faculty from both Israel and India” said Prof. Oron Shagrir.
Talking about the existing ties with Indian universities, he added, “Our thriving collaboration with esteemed Indian institutions of higher education has significantly enriched the academic
landscape at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. Through strategic institutional partnerships, our leading researchers and entrepreneurs engage in meaningful collaborations with their Indian counterparts, seamlessly blending their academic pursuits with practical innovation.”
The delegation visit underscores the importance of global partnerships in advancing education, research, and cultural understanding. As both nations strive to excel in various academic disciplines, the collaboration between the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and esteemed Indian universities is poised to make a positive impact on the international academic landscape.
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- By Rabindra
12, Feb 2024
SATTE 2024 to be Key Catalyst Heralding Indian and Global Tourism Recovery
New Delhi, 12 February 2024: Informa Markets in India, the leading exhibition organizer, is all set to organize SATTE 2024, South Asia No 1 travel exhibition. Scheduled from 22nd -24th Feb 2024 at the India Expo Mart, Greater Noida, Delhi NCR. SATTE has received overwhelming response from the Indian and global travel and tourism market. Now in its 31st edition and as one of the biggest shows in the APAC region, SATTE’s 360-degree role in developing domestic, regional, inbound and outbound tourism finds its greatest echo in the show’s growing stature as the biggest ever 2024 edition is expected to draw participation of over 1500+ exhibitors, 800+ hosted international and domestic buyers, and agents/operators/professionals from over 120 Indian cities/towns.
SATTE 2024 offers perfect opportunity to gain an insight into India’s booming travel industry. The show brings the entire value chain of the travel, tourism, and hospitality industry at one platform to explore the tourism business opportunities and exchange ideas about the emerging scenario of the industry. With India’s visitor export earnings forecast to reach US $50 billion by 2028, SATTE 2024 is the right platform to support in achieving the set of goals of Indian tourism.
SATTE has consistently been supported by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, Indian and International Tourism Boards, Global travel trade bodies, airlines, hotels, wellness resorts, cruises, theme parks, cinema locales, corporate travel, investors and wedding planners amongst others.
SATTE 2024 introduces “ATITHI” an exclusive Reverse Buyer-Seller Meet, a pioneering initiative by Services Export Promotion Council (SEPC), with the support of Ministry of Commerce & Industries. Aimed at boosting inbound tourism, SEPC, in association with SATTE, is mobilizing the participation of around 250 international buyers from more than 50 countries to enhance business opportunities for stakeholders from Indian Tourism Industry from across India. The SEPC@SATTE initiative comes at the most opportune moment to make India a most sought-after travel destination in the world, and to ultimately accomplish Vision@2047.
Among the states, Uttar Pradesh is the Host State. Bihar, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu and Uttarakhand are partner states. We shall also be witnessing participation from Ministry of Tourism Govt. of India and the 8 Northeastern States.
SATTE 2024 also has confirmed participation from NTOs such as Saudi Arabia, Dubai, Mauritius, Gorgia, Azerbaijan, Jamaica, Uzbekistan, South Korea, Maldives, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Danang Province of Vietnam, Chonburi Provindal of Thailand, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan amongst others. While Saudi Arabia is the Premium Partner Country, Dubai, Maldives, Sri Lanka, Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand are partner countries.
Moreover, private players such as Air India, Resort World Cruise, MakeMyTrip, EaseMyTrip, TBO.com, RezLive, Tripjack, TravClan, Akbar Travels, TravelBullz, My Value Travel, Yorker Holidays, Wow Holidays, Rayna Destination Management, Satguru Travel, Fly24hrs, GRNconnect, Stic Travel, Ark Travels, STS World, European Voyages, Royal Thai Vacation, OneAbove, FlyRemit, Salvia Travels, Sarovar Hotels & Resorts, The Fern Hotels & Resorts, Sterling Holidays, Cheval Collection, Suba Hotels, Udaan Hotels & Resorts, Key Resorts International, Uday Samudra Leisure Beach Hotel, Island Holidays, Cruise Carrot, are some of the prominent names who are part of the current edition.
The show also extends ties with PATA and has always been well supported from the associations like UFTAA, TAAI, TAFI, IATO, ADTOI, SKAL, ICPB, TOA, ABTO, OTOAI, ATOAI, ETAA among others.
Mr. Yogesh Mudras, Managing Director, Informa Markets in India, expressed his enthusiasm for SATTE 2024, saying, “The travel and tourism industry in India witnessed a milestone year in 2023, experiencing remarkable growth and reaching approximately INR 16.5 trillion, thereby highlighting its pivotal role in the nation’s economy. Notably, there was a significant increase in travel frequency among Indians, including for MICE tourism, with a growing interest observed in both popular, lesser-known, and spiritual destinations. This trend presents an opportunity for destination diversification and addresses concerns regarding over-tourism. Furthermore, this narrative of growth was complemented by substantial enhancements in transportation infrastructure, including improvements in road networks and air connectivity, with the addition of 85 new sectors since April 2023.
Within this dynamic context, we are thrilled to announce the 31st edition of SATTE, with its multitude and strategic tie-ups, features, and trends, serving as the premier platform for building connections, exploring futuristic innovations, and witnessing the aura and colour of our show. This, we are certain will enhance the experience for all our esteemed attendees. The 2024 edition of the show is the largest ever, with Halls 5 and 6 being additionally utilised to accommodate the unbounded enthusiasm of stakeholders. For 2025, basis customer feedback, the show will be shifting to India’s largest convention and exhibition centre, Yashobhoomi (India International Convention & Expo Centre) in Dwarka, New Delhi,” he added.
Extensive Knowledge Sharing:
SATTE 2024 offers the perfect opportunity to gain insights into India’s booming travel industry. The show brings the entire value chain of the travel, tourism, and hospitality industry under a giant umbrella, to explore the tourism business opportunities and exchange ideas about the emerging scenario of the industry.
SATTE’s renowned knowledge-sharing sessions will also be taken to newer heights. Some of the conference subjects for this year includes ‘Tourism: The Balancing Act’, ‘Voice, Views and Action’, ‘Decoding MICE for Business & Career Opportunities’; ‘Tourism@2047: Amritkal Threadbare’; ‘Niche Affairs: Big Dollars’ and ‘Roar of The MICE’. Prominent Indian and International names in the travel and tourism space such as Ms. Ni Made Ayu Martini Deputy Minister of Marketing, Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy Govt. of Indonesia; Noor Ahmad Hamid, CEO, PATA, a prominent international voice of travel and tourism; Sunil Kumar, President, UFTAA, the global umbrella organisation of travel agency industry; Steve Richer, Co-chair, Advocacy and Global Partnerships Committee at Skål International; Rajeev Kohli, former President, SITE Global; Gail Adams, CEO of Adams Jackson & Associates will moderate or speak at the various business sessions. Other prominent industry names and voices to feature at SATTE 2024 Conference include, Vishal Bhatia, Country Manager VisitBritain; Romit Theophilus, Director of German National Tourism Office in India; Abhinash Manghani, CEO of WelcomHeritage; Sanjay Basu, MD, Far Horizon; Ranjit Singh Parmar, Founder & CEO, Palaces of India and Naresh Rawal, Vice President, Sales & Marketing at Resorts World Cruises (India) among others.
The sessions will cater to every niche like wellness, adventure, and workcations. And to spark dynamic dialogue, we’re embracing interactive formats like workshops, panel discussions, and Q&A sessions.
Pre-Event Initiatives:
Leading up to the event, SATTE has had comprehensive outreaches in Tier 1 and 2 cities with Circle 31, where 31 handpicked industry influencers from emerging destinations were a part of our panel discussions; Association Reach programme, where networks of associations from potential tourist hubs were fostered. Additionally, ‘SATTE Travel Insight Podcasts’ (a Podcast featuring industry leaders), ‘SATTE Connect’ (10 city roadshow), and ‘GenX 365 Click’ (a new age digital portal to bring Buyers and Sellers at one platform to generate business leads) have created the requisite buzz. With sustained skilling being so critical to the industry, the SATTE ‘Travel Hospitality CSR initiative’ involves funding 50 students and training them for jobs in the tourism sector. At the venue, the highly coveted ‘SATTE Awards’ continues to recognize and reward innovation and excellence in the industry.
With these engagements, SATTE 2024 is set to be Bigger, Better and Bolder aiming to bring boundless energy to the Indian tourism market. The show will be organised at Yashobhoomi, Dwarka, from next year, with an aim to accommodate an even larger number of exhibitors and attendees, further solidifying its status as a premier platform for the travel and tourism industry in South Asia.
12, Feb 2024
Two99 Welcomes Vishnu Kanth Gokul as Chief Growth Officer
With nearly three decades of experience, Gokul brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to Two99
12th Feb 2024: Two99, a leading force in digital innovation and strategic growth, is excited to announce the appointment of Vishnu Kanth Gokul as the new Chief Growth Officer. Gokul joins the team with an impressive background, having accumulated nearly 30 years of experience in digital and media sales across some of the industry’s most respected platforms and companies.
Gokul’s career is highlighted by his roles at renowned organizations such as Rediff, Sify, Sulekha, Rajshri.com, 123greetings.com, Percept, Times Internet ( Cricbuzz.com), Qoruz, and Zoo Media Network as a dominant player onboarding top-tier agencies and securing major brands, which led to increased revenue and market share.
At Two99, Vishnu will play a pivotal role in steering the company towards new heights of innovation and collaboration. His appointment is a testament to Two99’s commitment to excellence, nurturing human relationships, and safeguarding core values and ideas.
“We are excited to welcome Vishnu to our team. His exceptional track record, deep understanding of the digital landscape, and commitment to growth align perfectly with our vision at Two99. With Vishnu’s leadership, we are poised to revolutionize the digital ecosystem, enhancing user experiences, cultivating dynamic communities, and optimizing distribution efficiency.” Agam Chaudhary, CEO, Two99 (Ecommerce, Tech Marketing, Cyber Security)
12, Feb 2024
Around 200 Bikers Conducted a Bikeathon as part of Cancer Awareness at SPARSH Hospital
Bangalore, February 12, 2024 – As continuing the momentum from World Cancer Day and in alignment with Cancer Awareness Month, SPARSH Hospital, RR Nagar, has initiated a dynamic campaign emphasizing the importance of early detection and lifestyle modifications in combatting cancer. The campaign, which included a Bikeathon, exemplified a fusion of medical expertise, celebrity engagement, and community involvement, emphasising the collective effort required to conquer this disease.
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The initiative was presided by Dr Kiran Kumar B R – Director, Medical Services, SPARSH Hospital RR Nagar. Highlighting the community’s active involvement, over 200 bikers roared in a Ribbon Formation, spreading awareness from RR Nagar to the Nice Road junction. The spectacle served as a visual representation of solidarity in the fight against cancer.
The event featured an enlightening Cancer Awareness session, led by renowned oncologists Dr. Mansi Khanderia and Dr. Shobana Shekhar. Participants were educated on the significance of timely testing and lifestyle adjustments in cancer prevention and treatment. Mr. Joseph Pasangha, COO of SPARSH Hospital, reiterated the message, emphasising the conquerable nature of cancer with proactive measures.
Dr. Manshi Khanderia, Lead Consultant -Medical Oncology, SPARSH Hospital, Bangalore emphasised that “Early testing is paramount in our fight against cancer. It empowers individuals with the knowledge they need to take control of their health and make informed decisions.”
Dr. Shobana Shekhar, Consultant – Head & Neck Oncology and Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, SPARSH Hospital, Bangalore said, “Lifestyle tweaks may seem small, but they can have a significant impact on cancer prevention and management. Simple changes today can lead to profound benefits tomorrow.”
Adding a touch of glamour and advocacy, Ms. Chaitra Vasudevan, a prominent TV anchor, highlighted the pivotal role of an active lifestyle in maintaining overall health and reducing cancer risk.
The initiative also showcased a compelling skit portraying the journey towards a cancer-free life, emphasizing the importance of timely testing, seeking the right medical care, and the unwavering support of family and community.
SPARSH Hospital reaffirmed its commitment to driving the fight against cancer, employing innovative approaches such as the Bikeathon to raise awareness and promote proactive healthcare practices.
12, Feb 2024
150- Bedded Tertiary care Prasad Hospitals, inaugurated at Kukatpally
Government is strengthening Arogyasri & government hospitals to provide better healthcare services to common man: Mr. Damodar Raja Narasimha
Hyderabad, February 12th, 2024: State-of-the-art tertiary care hospital, Prasad Hospitals was formally inaugurated by the Hon’ble minister of Health, Mr. Damodar Raja Narasimha and the hospital’s Managing Director, Dr. K. Suma Prasad. At Pragatinagar, Kukatpally, today.
Mr. K. Naveen Kumar (MLC), Mr. Shambirpur Raju (MLC), Dr. Ranjith Reddy (MP), Mr. Arekapudi Gandhi (MLA), Mr. Madhavaram Krishna Rao (MLA), Mr. KP Vivekananda (MLA), Mr. B. Laxma Reddy (MLA), Mr. Vikram Reddy were amongst the dignitaries who graced the event.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Damodar Rajanarasimha said “Dr. KVR Prasad started Sridevi Nursing Home in 1974 with a mission to make quality healthcare affordable. He served the poor for over 5 decades. It is good to see his daughter-in-law Dr. K. Suma Prasad continue his legacy. I have over forty years of association with Sridevi nursing home from my engineering college days in Osmania University. Prasad is a renowned brand in healthcare. Now they have come up with the most modern 150 bedded hospital, with latest medical technology and infrastructure. People in this area will benefit from this world class hospital there. Our Government is laying emphasis on providing quality healthcare to the poor. We have enhanced the number of procedures being treated under Arogyasri, approximately 18000 procedures are being treated under Arogyasri, revised the rates, with an objective to strengthen Arogyasri and government hospitals and provide better services to common man. Chief Minister is very keen to implement digital health cards. The new Government is taking all the measures to upgrade healthcare services.
Dr. K. Suma Prasad is a renowned gynecologist and pioneer of infertility in Hyderabad. She has treated over 1lakh patients in 3 decades and delivered over 10000 healthy babies. “It gives me immense pleasure in continuing Dr. Prasad’s vision of delivering world-class healthcare at affordable prices, which he did through the Sridevi Nursing Home. Later we started Prasad’s Hospital at Nacharam, a 120 bedded multispecialty hospital. I have been practicing infertility in Kukatpally for over 15 years now, and I am happy to provide all my patients a very holistic environment for all their healthcare needs. Now we are launching this 150 bedded hospital at Pragatinagar. This hospital will be accessible to patients with modern facilities and services. Our next venture will be the Prasad’s hospital at Manikonda, which will start providing services in another six months. Our main objective is affordable and highest standard care, accessible to common man. Prasad’s hospitals is recognised by Arogyasri, CGHS, EHS and central and state government schemes.
Mr. Malka Komaraiah, partner, said, Prasad’s Hospitals is equipped to provide corporate hospital standard care at affordable cost. The hospital has some of the best doctors, many of whom have experience working abroad.
12, Feb 2024
Empowering Rural Communities: Aster RV Hospitals Joins Forces for a Remote Healthcare Initiative
In a significant step towards promoting the well-being of Communities living in rural regions, Rural Communitis, joined forces with Vanavasi Kalyana Trust to organize a comprehensive health camp in a remote village near Kanakapura. The event aimed to address the healthcare needs of the rural population by offering a range of medical services, including general checkups, eye examinations, dental care, and health awareness programs.
The health camp, conducted in collaboration with Aster RV Hospital’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, witnessed an enthusiastic response from the remote rural communities. J. Parashuram, Assistant Manager, CSR, Aster RV Hospital, expressed his commitment to making healthcare accessible to underserved populations. “We believe in the power of collaboration to bring about positive change. Partnering with Vanavasi Kalyana Trust allowed us to extend our services to those who need it the most,” said Parashuram. A team of dedicated volunteers of the Aster Volunteer team catered to close to 200 rural and tribal communities from the nearby Kanakpura village at Govt. Higher Secondary School premises, Kodihalli hobli, Kanakpura Taluk, Ramanagara District over the weekend and conducted Health Check up camp
The health camp covered various aspects of healthcare, focusing on preventive measures and early detection of health issues. The medical team, consisting of 11 doctors, nursing staff, and dedicated volunteers, provided free services, including BMI calculations, eye checkups, and distribution of free spectacles for those in need. The camp also included general checkups and the distribution of essential medications.
One of the highlights of the event was the provision of free ECG tests, ensuring that cardiovascular health was assessed for all participants. Dental checkups were also conducted, with the distribution of toothpaste and brushes to promote oral hygiene. The medical team took the opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining good dental health in the community. Hygiene awareness sessions were conducted to emphasize the significance of maintaining cleanliness and adopting healthy practices in daily life. In addition to medical services, the camp included training sessions first aid services. Participants were educated on how to call for an ambulance and provide basic support in emergency situations. This initiative aimed to empower the community with essential life-saving skills, ensuring they are better equipped to handle emergencies.
Aster Hospitals started Aster Volunteers with a singular vision, to unite people from all walks of life in helping make the world a little better. The initiatives of Aster volunteers through medical and non-medical aid, seek to impact the underserved sections of our society. This short but deeply fulfilling journey of 6 years has helped impact the lives of 4 million+ people, with just 53,000 volunteers. This initiative exemplifies the commitment to making quality healthcare accessible to all, irrespective of geographical barriers. As the hospital continues to work towards the well-being of underserved communities, such initiatives pave the way for a healthier and more inclusive society.
12, Feb 2024
7 Book Covers Make It to the Shortlist of the Oxford Bookstore Book Cover Prize 2024
Kolkata, February 12, 2024: Dr. Alka Pande, Priti Paul, Dr. Kunal Basu and Anja Riedeberger and announced the seven shortlisted titles on the second day of the 15th Apeejay Kolkata Literary Festival (AKLF).
A list of 7 book covers chosen by the distinguished jury comprising author and Member of Parliament, Dr. Shashi Tharoor; author, columnist and novelist, Shobhaa De; author and academic, Dr. Kunal Basu; Museum Curator and Jury Chair, Dr. Alka Pande; Director, Apeejay Surrendra Group and the creative force behind the Oxford Bookstore chain, Priti Paul and Guest Jurors, Director, Institut français in India and Counsellor for Cooperation and Cultural Action, French Embassy in India, Emmanuel Lebrun- Damiens and Director Information Services South Asia Goethe-Institut / Max Mueller Bhavan Anja Riedeberger, were announced at the marque event.
In its first year, Bena Sareen was awarded the prize for the book, “Talking of Justice” by late author, Leila Seth, published by Aleph. The following year designer Pinaki De was declared winner for the book “Kalkatta” authored by Kunal Basu, published by Picador India. The third Oxford Bookstore Book Cover Prize was awarded to Maithili Doshi Aphale for the book “Himalaya” authored by Ruskin Bond and Namita Gokhale, published by Speaking Tiger. In the fourth year the prize was awarded to Bonita Vaz Shimray for the book “Remnants of a Separation” by Aanchal Malhotra published by HarperCollins. The fifth edition prize was handed over to Sneha Pamneja for “Tiffin”, published by Roli Books. Graphic Designer Gunjan Ahlawat was awarded the prestigious award in the sixth edition for the book “Gun Island” by Amitav Ghosh, published by Hamish Hamilton, an imprint of Penguin Random House. Renowned visual artist, designer and researcher, Ishan Khosla was adjudged the winner of the seventh edition of the prestigious prize. Khosla won the award for designing the cover of ‘Kintsugi’ by author Anukrti Upadhyay, published by Fourth Estate. Paramita Brahmachari bagged the eighth Oxford Bookstore Book Cover Prize for designing the cover of the book titled, Pebble Monkey by Manindra Gupta, published by Jadavpur University Press.
SHORTLIST – OXFORD BOOKSTORE BOOK COVER PRIZE 2024
1. NOMINATED BOOK- The Book Beautiful
NAME OF THE AUTHOR- Pradeep Sebastian
NAME OF THE DESIGNER- Bhavi Mehta
NAME OF THE PUBLISHER- Hachette India Adult & Business/ An Imprint of Hachette India
2. NOMINATED BOOK – The Penguin Book of Indian Poets
NAME OF THE AUTHOR- Edited by Jeet Thayil
NAME OF THE DESIGNER- Ahlawat Gunjan
NAME OF THE PUBLISHER- Hamish Hamilton/ An Imprint of Penguin Random House
3. NOMINATED BOOK- Azad Nagar
NAME OF THE AUTHOR- Laura T. Murphy
NAME OF THE DESIGNER- Saurav Das
NAME OF THE PUBLISHER- Solo Nomination/ HarperCollins India
4. NOMINATED BOOK- The Adornment of Gods
NAME OF THE AUTHOR- Devdutt Pattanaik
NAME OF THE DESIGNER- Saurabh Garge
NAME OF THE PUBLISHER- Westland Books
5. NOMINATED BOOK – Not Quite a Disaster after All
NAME OF THE AUTHOR- Buku Sarkar
NAME OF THE DESIGNER- Amit Malhotra
NAME OF THE PUBLISHER- Harper Fiction/ An Imprint of HarperCollins India
6. NOMINATED BOOK- When Indian Flowers Bloomed in Europe
NAME OF THE AUTHOR- Ebeltje Hartkamp- Jonxis
NAME OF THE DESIGNER- Sashi Bhushan Prasad
NAME OF THE PUBLISHER- TAPI Collection/ An Imprint of Niyogi Books
7. NOMINATED BOOK- Mystics and Sceptics
NAME OF THE AUTHOR- Namita Gokhale
NAME OF THE DESIGNER- Bonita Vaz Shimray
NAME OF THE PUBLISHER- Harper Non Fiction/ An Imprint of HarperCollins India
12, Feb 2024
Expansion of oncology services in tier two cities to close the care gap in cancer treatment in India
Delhi February 12, 2024: At least 50% of lung cancer cases in India occur in non-smokers, said the doctors during the two-day IO-CON2024 advances in Cancer Care scientific conference on Saturday in Delhi.
The oncologists emphasised that 50% of lung cancer cases in India are caused by declining air quality, aside from lifestyle factors. It is concerning that in some circumstances, the patient has never smoked and arrives at the doctor’s office in a more advanced state. Because tobacco smoking is so pervasive in India, head and neck cancer is quite common among men there, accounting for 30% of all cancer cases. On the other hand, breast cancer is most common among women with every eighth woman in India suffering with breast cancer.
“Of the almost 14 lakh new cancer cases diagnosed in India every year, more than 60% get diagnosed in advanced stages which underscores the need for an enhancing the awareness and diagnosis,” stated Dr. Shubham Garg, Director of Surgical Oncology, IOCI, Fortis Hospital, Noida.
Dr Anita Malik, Senior Consultant and Clinical Lead Radiation Oncology at IOCI said, “In India, there are more than 640 radiation therapy equipment, but because the country is now experiencing a 5-7% annual growth in cancer cases, the number of machines needs to be scaled up 1400 as per WHO. The infrastructure costs associated with any oncology institution exceed Rs 100 crore, and the cost of radiation devices is at least Rs 25 crore. This calls for a sufficient public-private cooperation to make the treatment accessible to the greatest number of people, which is still limited to a set of people.”
Dr PK Sharma, Executive Director, International Oncology Cancer Institute said, “The International Oncology Cancer Institute’s 15 years of providing cancer care was celebrated by organising IO-CON2024. The organisation has made progress in establishing oncology centres in cities such as Kanpur, Saharanpur, Indore, Aurangabad, Jodhpur, Greater Noida, and Mumbai.”
Dr. Madhur Garg, the Clinical Director of Radiation Oncology at Montefiore Medical Center in the United States, emphasizes the importance of expanding oncology services in tier two cities in India. He advocates for a strong public-private partnership to achieve this goal. Dr. Garg points out that doctors are willing to serve in tier two cities, provided there is adequate infrastructure in place to support cancer treatment services.
He also acknowledges the positive impact of the Ayushman Bharat health coverage provided by the Government of India. This health coverage initiative offers financial assistance for cancer treatment, which is expected to improve the accessibility of testing and treatment processes for people living in smaller towns across the country.
“Molecular testing, often performed alongside biopsies, helps identify specific genetic mutations or alterations present in cancer cells. Molecular testing provides insights into the genetic makeup of tumors, allowing oncologists to select targeted therapies that are more likely to be effective against specific molecular targets. In addition, for a holistic treatment, personalized medicine in oncology leverages molecular testing and comprehensive genomic profiling to develop individualized treatment strategies that consider the unique genetic, molecular, and environmental factors influencing each patient’s cancer. This approach holds great promise for improving treatment outcomes and enhancing the quality of life for individuals diagnosed with cancer.
Dr Rajat Bajaj, Program Director, IOCI said, “The future of cancer treatment is every optimistic, but the key lies in the timely detection which requires more people friendly approach at the oncology centres. The medical services must reach in smaller cities where the cooperation of government and the private sector I healthcare will make a difference and save more lives.”
During the event on advances in cancer care oncologists from IOCI including Dr Jalaj Baxi, Dr Kabir Rehmani and Dr Rakesh Ojha addressed a panel discussion on future of cancer care in India.
12, Feb 2024
PRIME MeghaPreneur Expo 2024 Ignites Entrepreneurial Excellence in Meghalaya
National, February 12, 2024: The three-day PRIME MeghaPreneur Expo 2024, held at the SRGT Polo Ground, marked a triumphant celebration of entrepreneurial zeal in Meghalaya. The event, graced by the esteemed presence of Hon’ble Chief Minister, Shri Conrad K Sangma, underscored the government’s steadfast commitment to nurturing entrepreneurial talent across the state.
Dignitaries including Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar, Minister of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Shri AL Hek, Minister of Tourism Shri Bah Paul Lyngdoh, Minister of Legal Metrology Department, Revenue & Disaster Management Department, Excise Department Shri Kyrmen Shylla, Hon’ble MLA Shri Ian Botham Sangma, Hon’ble Commissioner & Secretary, Government of Meghalaya, Dr Vijay Kumar D, IAS, among others, graced the occasion, further highlighting the government’s dedication to fostering a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem.
In his opening speech, Hon’ble Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma reiterated the government’s dedication to promoting entrepreneurship through initiatives like the CM ELEVATE Program. He emphasized the program’s goal of empowering over 20,000 entrepreneurs across diverse sectors within the next 3 to 4 years—a landmark endeavour in the state’s history. Highlighting the substantial government support, he announced contributions totalling approximately Rs 22.67 crores to bolster 71 entrepreneurs across various sectors.
Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Conrad K. Sangma stated, “As a government, we firmly believe that entrepreneurship serves as the cornerstone for driving the economy of a nation or state. Our strategy, since the inception of MDA I, has been centred around fostering entrepreneurship as the main driver of the economy and creator of employment within our state. Our mission is to acknowledge and support as many entrepreneurs as possible, thus laying the foundation for a vibrant entrepreneurial culture. Through initiatives like CM ELEVATE, most progressive entrepreneurship program, we aim to provide substantial support, offering a 75 percent subsidy and comprehensive assistance to nurture business growth and logistical support and administrative support.”
Hon’ble Chief Minister added, “Our goal is to empower over 20,000 entrepreneurs across various sectors within the next 3 to 4 years—an unprecedented feat in our state’s history. Recognizing our efforts, the Government of India has awarded us as a top-performing state in the national startup awards amongst small states. This achievement is a testament to the vision and collaborative effort of our team at PRIME and the response we have received continuous feedback from entrepreneurs. With over 5,500 entrepreneurs currently under our support, we anticipate a significant increase in the coming years. Congratulations to all the winners and beneficiaries, who represent the driving force behind our entrepreneurial ecosystem and serve as beacons of inspiration for society”.
The event concluded with a series of awards ceremonies, including the handing of the Certificate to the PRIME team for the TOP Performer Award, and the CM ELEVATE Award. The event marked the presentation of certificates and cheques to the Cohort 4 incubatees of the Chief Minister’s E- Championship Challenge 4.0, PRIME Advanced training centres as well as the certificate distribution to the Graduating incubated entrepreneurs of the Chief Minister’s E-Championship Challenge 3.0, among other events followed by a fashion show and dance performance added flair to the evening.
Moreover, the event provided a platform for engaging discussions and presentations by industry experts like Mr. Jayanta Das, Mr. Shashank Kumar, and Mr. Raghuram Kuchibatla, enriching the entrepreneurial landscape in Meghalaya. Acknowledging the accomplishments of existing entrepreneurs, the expo featured captivating sessions by entrepreneurs like Mr. Elvee Marbaniang from Runo Health, among others.
The expo also facilitated academic institutes in showcasing their entrepreneurial endeavors, with St. Anthony’s College, Shillong, and Shillong College sharing their experiences with the Entrepreneurship Development Program (EPDP). Mr. Pranjal Konwar, COO of IIMCIP, provided an insightful overview of PRIME and its pivotal role in fostering entrepreneurship in the region.
In summary, the three-day PRIME MeghaPreneur Expo 2024 emerged as a resounding success, epitomizing the spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation in Meghalaya, and serving as a catalyst for inspiring future generations of entrepreneurs.
12, Feb 2024
Telerehabilitation for Sustainable health
Dr. Vinodhkumar Ramalingam, Professor & Head of Sports and Manual Therapy, Saveetha College of Physiotherapy, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Science, Chennai
The field of telerehabilitation, with its technological developments, presents great potential for promoting sustainable health within our ecosystem. This can be achieved through various means, such as enhancing patient access to healthcare, cutting costs, optimizing resource use, minimizing environmental impact, improving continuity of care, empowering patients, minimizing environmental impact, developing innovative healthcare models, and more.
Through telerehabilitation, people in rural or underserved areas can receive healthcare treatments without being hindered by distance. This enhanced accessibility can lead to early detection and management of health issues, reducing the burden on healthcare facilities and preventing the escalation of health problems. Telerehabilitation cuts down on the costs of in-person clinical visits by offering remote consultations, monitoring, and interventions. This includes savings on facility fees and travel costs. Moreover, early intervention and prevention facilitated by telerehabilitation can potentially decrease the overall cost of care by preventing the progression of diseases and complications.
Telerehabilitation facilitates seamless coordination and communication between patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals by fostering continuity of care across several locations and healthcare specialists in a real time. Telerehabilitation empowers patients to actively participate in the management of their own healthcare by providing them with tailored health information, technology for remote monitoring, and training materials.
In a book chapter on telerehabilitation in physiotherapy, Prof. Dr. Vinodhkumar and his colleagues expressed their strong belief that telerehabilitation can lead to long-term improvements in healthcare delivery through improving patient empowerment, continuity of care, cost reduction, resource optimization, and environmental minimization. The long-term resilience and sustainability of global health ecosystems can be enhanced by embracing telerehabilitation as an essential part of sustainable health.
