Fighting back against superbugs- A joint initiative by UK and India Researchers

Antibiotics play a crucial role in treating infectious diseases, but their effectiveness is diminishing globally as microbes adapt and develop resistance. The University of Leeds is leading international efforts to combat the rise of these so-called ‘superbugs’. In South Asia alone, deaths directly linked to antimicrobial resistance (AMR) are projected to reach 11.8 million between 2025 and 2050. One of the key drivers of this crisis is the unnecessary prescription of antibiotics for conditions like toothache. In response, the University of Leeds has partnered with the Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research (BIHER) in Chennai to launch a pilot community engagement study focused on dental practitioners.

 PhD researcher Dr Aarthi Bhuvaraghan engaged local dentists in the study, providing them with a desk guide and a continuing professional development (CPD) module. Following this intervention, participants showed improved understanding and a readiness to change their prescribing habits. “Having practised in both the UK and India, I recognised the scale of the problem and the lack of action being taken,” she said. “It’s hard to place blame on dental practitioners when they’re unaware of the harm being caused — but we’re optimistic that behaviour can change.” The CPD module is currently being digitised and will soon be freely accessible via the Indian Dental Association’s website. This initiative forms the foundation of Dr Bhuvaraghan’s PhD research at the University of Leeds’ School of Dentistry.

 Professor Dr S. Bhuminathan, Registrar at Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research, said, “As a dental practitioner, I have seen firsthand how the risks associated with antimicrobial resistance (AMR) are often underestimated, and how the critical role dentists can play in combating this issue is frequently overlooked. Dr Aarthi Bhuvaraghan’s research has powerfully exposed the widespread misuse of antibiotics in India, as well as the absence of clear national or local guidelines for dental practice. More importantly, her work has significantly raised awareness among dental professionals, contributing to better clinical practice and improved patient safety. With her support, we are now working towards embedding antimicrobial stewardship into the undergraduate dental curriculum.”

 Dr Bhuvaraghan is supported by a multidisciplinary team at the University of Leeds, including Professor John Walley and Dr Rebecca King from the Nuffield Centre for International Health and Development, and Dr Vishal Aggarwal, Clinical Associate Professor in Acute Dental Care and Chronic Pain at the School of Dentistry. In collaboration with BIHER, the team aims to develop additional teaching and training modules tailored to the Indian dental curriculum. They are also actively seeking funding to expand the programme to other regions across India.

 Dr Vishal Aggarwal, Dr Bhuvaraghan’s primary supervisor and Visiting Professor at BIHER, said, “Dr Bhuvaraghan’s important work is now ready to be tested in other regions and countries facing similar challenges. Through our collaboration with partners in India, we have an opportunity to influence global policy on antibiotic use in dentistry.”

  Dr Aggarwal played a key role in establishing this partnership, securing support through the University of Leeds’ International Research Mobilisation Award (2018) and the International Strategy Fund (2023). He has delivered lectures on pain intervention at BIHER’s dental school and has worked to raise awareness among medical students about the link between oral health and systemic diseases.

 In February 2025, the University of Leeds and Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth (SBV) in India jointly hosted the third International Health and Research Conference, uniting global experts, academics, and professionals to foster innovation and collaboration in healthcare and medical research. Among the keynote speakers was Professor Shearer West, Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of Leeds, who highlighted the vital role of international partnerships in advancing health sciences.

 According to Professor West, “By collaborating with our educational and healthcare partners in India, our researchers are showing remarkable commitment and innovation in addressing the challenge of antimicrobial resistance. These international partnerships are essential for deepening our understanding of how health systems can be strengthened at the community and population levels to deliver better healthcare outcomes.”

Hon’ble Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh Shri. N. Chandrababu Naidu visits Sai Vishnu Chaturvatika Villas, Ongole’s first premium gated villa community

Ongole, Andhra Pradesh, May 23, 2025: In a proud and landmark moment for the city of Ongole, Sai Vishnu Developers and Ravisankar Group had the distinct honour of welcoming the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh to Sai Vishnu Chaturvatika Villas – the city’s first premium gated villa community. The Chief Minister’s arrival via the project’s exclusive helipad was a symbolic testament to the stature and significance of this transformative development for the region.

Strategically located in Chadalavada, Ongole, Sai Vishnu Chaturvatika Villas spans 50 acres of land and features 133 meticulously designed luxury villas in the Phase 1, setting a new benchmark for upscale living in Prakasam District of Andhra Pradesh. With a rich blend of world-class amenities including a state-of-the-art clubhouse, wide internal roads, lush landscaped gardens, and its own helipad, the project offers an elevated residential experience designed for modern lifestyles.

The Chief Minister’s visit comes at a time of renewed optimism and momentum for Andhra Pradesh, following the historic announcement of the relaunch of Amaravati as the state capital by the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India. This bold move has reenergized the state’s development vision and positioned Andhra Pradesh firmly as India’s “Sunrise State,” sparking new waves of interest from investors and infrastructure developers across sectors.

Commending Sai Vishnu Developers and Ravisankar Group for their visionary initiative, the Hon’ble Chief Minister, Shri. N. Chandrababu Naidu remarked, “Projects like Sai Vishnu Chaturvatika Villas are not only redefining urban living but also playing a critical role in achieving the state’s mission of balanced regional development. Ongole is poised for a bright future, and developments of this calibre are integral to that transformation.”

The project has already garnered national media attention, with a feature in The Times highlighting its pivotal role in reshaping Ongole’s real estate landscape. With its sophisticated design, exceptional amenities, and strategic location, Sai Vishnu Chaturvatika Villas continues to draw attention from discerning homeowners and investors alike.

During this occasion, Ravisankar Kandi, Chairman, Ravisankar Group, said, “Sai Vishnu Developers and Ravisankar Group reaffirm their commitment to delivering premium residential communities that align with global standards and support the state’s broader goals of inclusive and sustainable urban growth. The Chief Minister’s visit stands as both recognition of the impactful contribution and encouragement to continue shaping Andhra Pradesh’s urban evolution.”

Western Rajasthan emerges as a distinguished hub of folk culture and tourism

Jaipur | May 23, 2025

Western Rajasthan, with its timeless desert charm, living folk traditions, and heritage sites, continues to attract travellers from across the country and abroad. From the golden sand dunes of Jaisalmer and intricately crafted havelis of Bikaner to the blue cityscapes of Jodhpur and the haunting melodies of Barmer, this region stands as one of the most compelling cultural destinations in India.

Speaking about the tourism potential, Mr. Dalip Singh Rathore, Joint Director, Department of Tourism, Rajasthan, said that the border districts of Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Barmer, and Bikaner are the focal points of the cultural and tourism identity of Rajathan. Villages such as Salawas, Chopasni, Phalodi (Jodhpur), Barnawa Jagir, Pataudi, Shiv (Barmer), Jarana, Barna, Pokhran (Jaisalmer), and rural areas of Bikaner are gaining prominence as authentic rural tourism sites. These locations have not only preserved folk character of Rajasthan but also contribute to the tourism economy.

Tourism footfall sees a surge in 2024
The rising interest in Western Rajasthan is evident from the 2024 tourism figures:

Jodhpur (Rural): 4,76,150 domestic and 3,545 foreign tourists
Jodhpur (City): 25,06,560 domestic and 2,03,945 foreign tourists
Jaisalmer: 2,24,16,810 domestic and 1,61,884 foreign tourists
Barmer: 34,65,028 domestic and 249 foreign tourists
Bikaner: 63,54,899 domestic and 71,079 foreign tourists

 IPL returns to Rajasthan post Operation Sindoor
According to Mr. Rathore, the border districts of Rajasthan offer a sense of security and order, making them suitable for high-profile events. He highlighted that Rajasthan has now been given the opportunity to host three upcoming IPL matches in the state, following their postponement in the aftermath of the Indo-Pak conflict after Operation Sindoor. The administration, local police, and armed forces in these regions have maintained heightened vigilance that has boosted the confidence of both tourists and event organizers.

A Living Folk Tradition
Western Rajasthan is known for its vibrant communities of traditional artists such as Langas, Manganiyars, and Meers. Their performances, combined with Kalbelia dance, puppetry, pottery, dhurrie weaving, leather craftsmanship, appliqué work, Usta art, and miniature painting, make this region a centre of folk heritage. The Kalbelia dance, listed by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, is among the highlights of cultural tourism here.

Cultural Tourism Gets a Boost Through State Initiatives
The Rajasthan government, in collaboration with UNESCO, is developing ten rural tourism sites across the districts of Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Barmer, and Bikaner. Around 1,500 local artists have been actively engaged in this initiative. Their skills, passed down through generations, form the core of the tourism experience in these destinations.

Festivals Throughout the Year
The government supports over 38 fairs and festivals across Rajasthan annually, ranging from cattle fairs and heritage walks to music events and food festivals. These events not only sustain local traditions but also provide unique experiences to tourists.

A Cultural Legacy with a National Presence
Western Rajasthan is more than a destination, it is a mosaic of music, art, heritage, and heartfelt hospitality. While it holds strategic geographical importance, its cultural strength gives it a larger voice on India’s tourism map. With the combined efforts of the government, community artists, and local stakeholders, the region will continue to welcome the world with open arms and open hearts.

Ishaan Khatter Wears Giorgio Armani at Cannes 2025 for Homebound Premiere

At the 78th Cannes Film Festival, Ishaan Khatter graced the red carpet for the premiere of Homebound. He brought effortless sophistication in a Giorgio Armani ensemble that perfectly balanced relaxed tailoring with sharp intent. Styled by Alexander Roth, he wore a double-breasted, sleeveless taupe linen waistcoat layered over a crisp white shirt with rolled-up sleeves, paired with matching pleated trousers featuring zip-pocket detailing.

Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, Homebound premiered in the Un Certain Regard section to a standing ovation. Khatter’s contemporary yet grounded style mirrored the film’s emotional depth—quietly powerful, rooted, and globally resonant.

Upasana Kamineni Konidela Champions Purpose-Driven Wellness at FLO Hyderabad, Launches National ‘FLO Health Kavach’ Initiative

Hyderabad, May 23, 2025: The FICCI Ladies Organisation (FLO), Hyderabad Chapter, hosted an interactive session titled “Legacy, Leadership & Purpose – The New Age of Wellness” with Ms. Upasana Kamineni Konidela, renowned healthcare entrepreneur and Vice Chairperson of the Apollo Foundation. The event took place at a city hotel in Begumpet on Friday.

During the session, Ms. Upasana also launched FLO Health Kavach, a first-of-its-kind national initiative by FLO. This dedicated support system addresses key challenges faced by women, including legal rights, financial literacy, mental health, and cybersecurity.

In conversation with FLO Hyderabad Chairperson Ms. Prathibha Kunda, Upasana shared her personal journey and professional experiences, highlighting how purpose-driven leadership in healthcare can impact lives and communities. She stressed the significance of mental well-being, inclusive healthcare, and active community outreach.

Speaking on legacy, she said, “To me, legacy means bringing more women into the workforce. A stronger female workforce leads to healthier families and a more progressive nation.”

Reflecting on Apollo’s evolving vision, she remarked, “what we envisioned 40 years ago—to bring the best healthcare to India—is no longer enough. Today, our vision is to keep people out of hospitals. Preventive care is our new goal.”

She urged the audience to prioritise health insurance, calling it “the most empowering gift you can give yourself.”

On her entrepreneurial challenges, Upasana recounted, “When I wanted to start my own company and sought funding, my ideas weren’t taken seriously—only my identity was. I want to be respected for my work, not just my name. I’m here because of my self-worth, not my birth.”

Encouraging the audience to prioritise self-care, she asked, “What have you done for yourself today?” and emphasised, “don’t wait to get sick. Prevention is better than a cure. Rest is the best respect you can give yourself.”

She further added, “If a woman is healthy, the whole household will be healthy.”

As an environmentalist and wildlife conservation advocate, she recalled a lesson from her grandfather during the COVID-19 pandemic, noting its zoonotic origins. “Humans and animals must coexist in harmony. That’s why I love and respect wildlife—we must protect nature,” she said.

She also highlighted a key initiative by Apollo Hospitals in partnership with WWF-India, offering free medical care and rehabilitation to forest staff across India, from Jammu & Kashmir to Kanyakumari, who work in challenging terrains.

“Success, to me, is defined by the number of jobs I create, how happy I am, and the time I make for myself. Don’t chase success. First, define what success means to you, then pursue it,” she told the audience.

In her welcome address, Ms. Prathibha Kunda stated, “from predictive tools that detect disease early to virtual platforms delivering healthcare at our doorstep, technology is redefining wellness and how we engage with it. That’s why today’s conversation is so relevant.”

Praising the guest speaker, she added, “Ms. Upasana represents a legacy that has transformed healthcare in India. She leads with compassion, innovation, and purpose—embodying wellness not just as a concept, but as a lifelong mission.”

Ms. Prathibha also shared that FLO Hyderabad was invited to participate in the Miss World Arts & Crafts Workshop, held on May 21 at Shilparamam, where the chapter showcased Dokra art, a traditional metal craft of Telangana. “The live artisan interaction gave Miss World contestants from around the globe a chance to witness Telangana’s rich cultural heritage,” she said.

The session concluded with a dynamic Q&A, where attendees explored topics such as wellness trends, work-life balance, and sustaining purposeful leadership during uncertain times.