Archive: December 31, 2024

Radhika Muthukumar Reflects on Her Vrinda Journey

As 2024 comes to a close, Radhika Muthukumar reflects on a year filled with unforgettable moments. For her, the highlight has been playing the role of Vrinda in Shemaroo Umang’s Main Dil Tum Dhadkan. This character has not only been a career milestone but also an emotional journey that resonates deeply with her. Radhika shares how Vrinda’s story offered her the chance to explore uncharted territories as an actor. The role demanded vulnerability, strength, and transformation, which she embraced wholeheartedly.

Radhika takes us through her journey of 2024 saying, “When I reflect on 2024, it fills me with gratitude for the opportunities and lessons, as well as excitement for what lies ahead. I feel incredibly fortunate to have played Vrinda, a character that resonated deeply with the viewers. It was my first time portraying a mother, and not just any mother but one who broke the stereotypical definition of motherhood. Her bond with Kanha showcased that motherhood goes beyond biological ties. Vrinda is a fearless mother, a loving daughter-in-law, a caring wife, and a woman who stands up for what’s right. From the very beginning, her journey showcased tremendous growth, whether it was challenging societal norms around widows or single-handedly fighting off goons.”

She further added “What makes Vrinda so special for me is that she embodies a voice that exists in every woman—a voice that encourages bravery and resilience. Playing her also gave me the chance to experiment with exciting looks that were as fun behind the camera as they were impactful on screen. One of the highlights for me was transforming into a Sardar for a recent scene. While off-camera, I had a blast fooling people with my disguise, on-screen, the character came alive as someone exposing a fraudulent baba. That part of the storyline received so much love and appreciation from the audience.”

She concluded “On a personal level, 2024 was equally rewarding. I was able to spend precious time with my family, and for that, I’m truly grateful. As I look forward to 2025, I’m excited for the challenges and growth awaiting Vrinda’s journey. I hope the coming year is filled with positivity, prosperity, and happiness for everyone.”

Jindal IVF Successfully Delivers Twins After Azoospermia Challenge

The IVF process, supported by PESA and ICSI, was designed to overcome the husband’s obstructive azoospermia and help the couple achieve a successful, healthy pregnancy

30th December 2024: Jindal IVF, a leading institute in Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), has achieved another remarkable milestone in the field of reproductive medicine with the successful delivery of a baby from a complex case involving obstructive azoospermia and high-risk pregnancy. The journey began when a 35-year-old woman, along with her husband diagnosed with obstructive azoospermia, approached Jindal IVF for fertility treatment.

The couple had initially considered Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) with donor sperm, as the husband’s condition prevented sperm retrieval via natural means. However, after a thorough evaluation, which included all necessary diagnostic tests, the couple was counseled for IVF using the husband’s own sperm. Given the husband’s condition, sperm retrieval through Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration (PESA) was identified as a viable option. PESA is a specialized procedure that allows sperm to be extracted directly from the epididymis in cases of obstructive azoospermia.

Under the expert guidance of Dr. Sheetal Jindal, Senior Consultant and IVF-PGT Specialist at Jindal IVF, the procedure proceeded with Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) to fertilize the eggs retrieved from the wife’s ovaries. The wife’s ovarian reserve was determined to be average, and while multiple eggs were retrieved, only one high-quality embryo was formed after fertilization. Due to financial concerns, the couple chose not to proceed with embryo pooling, a decision made in light of the costs associated with additional embryos.

The embryo transfer was scheduled, and despite the initial odds, the single embryo transfer resulted in an unexpected outcome as the couple conceived twins. This rare phenomenon occurred as the single embryo, after implantation in the mother’s uterus, divided into two embryos, resulting in the birth of identical twins. This type of pregnancy is known as Monochorionic Diamniotic (MCDA) twins, where both fetuses share a single placenta, the common source of blood supply. While MCDA pregnancies can be associated with significant risks, including Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS), the medical team at Jindal IVF closely monitored the pregnancy to ensure the best possible outcome for the twins.

Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS), a potential complication of MCDA pregnancies, occurs when interconnecting blood vessels between the twins cause an unequal distribution of blood supply. This can lead to one twin becoming overhydrated and the other undernourished. In such cases, a critical intervention, such as laser photocoagulation, is required to cauterize the interconnecting blood vessels and equalize the blood flow. However, in this case, due to the severity of the situation, cord coagulation of one twin’s umbilical cord was performed to safeguard the health of the other twin.

After careful monitoring and treatment, the pregnancy progressed to 34 weeks, and the couple was overjoyed when they successfully delivered a single healthy baby, marking a major achievement for the medical team at Jindal IVF.

“We are immensely proud to have supported this couple through such a complex and challenging journey to parenthood. This case not only highlights the remarkable progress in reproductive technology but also the extraordinary resilience of our patients, whose trust in us made this success possible. The positive outcome of this pregnancy is a testament to our unwavering commitment to personalized care and the cutting-edge techniques we employ. It is a reminder of the profound impact that innovation in reproductive medicine can have in transforming lives and offering hope to families facing fertility challenges.” said Dr. Sheetal Jindal.

The parents, overjoyed with the outcome, expressed their gratitude towards Jindal IVF for the dedication, expertise, and care that led to the birth of their baby. “We are beyond thankful to Dr. Jindal and the entire Jindal IVF team for making our dream of parenthood come true. Despite the challenges we faced, their support was unwavering, and we are forever grateful for their efforts,” the couple shared.

Jindal IVF remains committed to delivering exceptional care and offering personalized solutions for couples facing infertility. With over 30 years of experience in Assisted Reproductive Technology, Jindal IVF continues to lead the way in transforming lives through innovation and compassionate care.

Aster RV Hospital Hosts Mega Blood Donation Camp, Collects 190+ Units of Blood

Aster RV Hospital, in collaboration with SIEMENS, successfully organized a Mega Blood Donation Camp across three SIEMENS locations in Bangalore. This initiative witnessed an overwhelming response, with over 240 employees participating and 190+ units of blood collected.

The camp highlighted the power of awareness and education, as more than 50% of participants were first-time donors. Aster RV Hospital’s team of dedicated nursing staff, alongside experts from gynecology, dental, and audiometry departments, facilitated the event, ensuring seamless and safe donations.

Parashuram, Assistant Manager, CSR at Aster RV Hospital, expressed the need for continued awareness programs:

“Despite being part of a corporate ecosystem, many employees lacked awareness about the importance of blood donation. Initiatives like these are critical to ensuring adequate supplies for blood banks and encouraging more individuals to become regular donors.” This camp is a testament to the impact of corporate-community partnerships in addressing critical healthcare challenges and underscores the need for regular awareness campaigns to bolster blood bank reserves.

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. Since its launch in 2017, the program has touched over 5.5 million lives across 14 countries with more than 53000 volunteers. The initiatives of Aster volunteers through medical and non-medical aid, seek to impact the underserved sections of our society. 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. Aster Volunteers has conducted over 4,800 medical camps, provided over 44,000 free surgeries and treatments, and participated in disaster relief efforts. The collaboration reflects Aster RV Hospital’s ongoing commitment to community health and CSR initiatives. By educating first-time donors and ensuring a positive donation experience, the hospital aims to create a sustainable culture of blood donation.

Eco-Tech Revolution: Student’s Hi-Tech Hat Blends Sustainability and Innovation

A Historic Breakthrough by JIS College of Engineering Student, Redefining Personal Protective Gear with Cutting-Edge Features

30th December 2024: Dhruba Shil, a promising 4th-year student from the Electrical Engineering Department of JIS College of Engineering, has captured attention with a remarkable invention that merges eco-conscious design with cutting-edge technology. Shil’s creation, an intelligent and eco-friendly hat, promises to transform the way workers in industries like farming, policing, and railways tackle the challenges of outdoor environments.

Made from bamboo and palm, the hat not only provides sustainable sun protection but also houses impressive technological features. A solar panel integrated into the design powers a small fan through a rechargeable Lithium-ion battery, ensuring comfort for wearers even in sweltering conditions. Taking innovation a step further, the hat includes a built-in walkie-talkie with a communication range of up to 6 kilometers, GPS functionality for navigation, and an SOS feature for emergencies.

This ingenious invention addresses real-world issues faced by individuals working long hours outdoors, providing a sustainable, energy-efficient, and practical solution that could set new standards for personal protective gear.

Commenting on Dhruba Shil’s achievement, Sardar Simarpreet Singh, Director, JIS Group, said, “Dhruba’s innovation exemplifies the transformative power of youthful creativity and determination. This invention isn’t just a product; it’s a vision of how technology and sustainability can work hand-in-hand to solve everyday challenges. At JIS Group, we are committed to nurturing such talent and promoting an ecosystem where ideas can thrive.”

PHDCCI Advocates for Tax Reforms and MSME Support in Pre-Budget Meeting

During industry interaction with the Hon’ble Finance Minister, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, the President of PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI), Shri Hemant Jain, presented a series of recommendations aimed at enhancing India’s economic growth.

The suggestions focused on rationalizing the tax structure, bolstering the manufacturing sector, and creating an enabling environment for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to thrive along with significant reduction in costs of doing business

PHDCCI suggests reducing tax rates for individuals and Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) firms to 25% as this reduction would not only ease the financial burden on businesses and individuals but would also stimulate investment and economic activity across sectors.

A simplified tax structure can reduce compliance costs and increase disposable income, boosting consumer spending. This increased demand encourages business expansion, driving economic growth. Additionally, the reduction in tax burdens can help mitigate inflationary pressures too, said Mr. Hemant Jain.

Mr. Hemant Jain emphasized the need to completely remove the inverted duty structure that currently exists in several industries, particularly in sectors such as cement, aluminium, steel, packaging material, paper and paperboard industry. The inverted duty structure leads to higher costs for domestic manufacturers, hindering their competitiveness in the global market.

Eliminating these inefficiencies would go a long way in bolstering the manufacturing sector, said Mr. Jain

Industry body, PHDCCI further pointed out that the ease of doing business in India needs to be further improved and percolated at the ground level. This includes reducing the cost of doing business, particularly in terms of capital, power, logistics, land, and compliance costs.

According to the PHDCCI, simplifying procedures and cutting down on regulatory burdens would make it easier for businesses to thrive and would encourage both domestic and foreign investments in India.

With these measures in place, India can realize its potential as a global manufacturing hub, improving its position in international trade, said Mr. Jain

PHDCCI is expecting a significant increase in the size of the Union Budget from Rs. 48.2 lakh crore in 2024-25 to over Rs. 51 lakh crore for 2025-26. Capital expenditure, which is crucial for infrastructure development, should also see a marked increase, with PHDCCI suggesting a rise from Rs. 11.11 lakh crore in 2024-25 to over Rs. 13 lakh crore in 2025-26.

Such a capital expansion is seen as critical for enhancing demand trajectory, creating employment opportunities, and spurring overall economic growth, says PHDCCI

Mr Hemant Jain highlights the need for the government to enhance the manufacturing sector, increase infrastructure investment, and promote innovation. The manufacturing sector in India currently contributes around 16% to the GDP, and we should aim to increase this share to 25% by 2030.

To achieve this ambitious target, reforms are needed to enhance productivity and competitiveness in the manufacturing sector supported by a strong demand trajectory.

PHDCCI’s suggestions focus on addressing the key cost drivers in manufacturing, such as the high cost of capital and logistics. Reducing these costs will enable Indian manufacturers to compete effectively in global markets and help increase the share of manufacturing output in GDP

In line with this vision, PHDCCI recommends expanding the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme beyond the 14 sectors. The scheme has been successful in promoting manufacturing in certain sectors and expanding it to include new areas such as medicinal plants, handicrafts, leather and footwear, gems and jewellery, and the space sector would further enhance India’s manufacturing capabilities.

PHDCCI raised the concern of existing inverted duty structures in sectors like cement, aluminium, steel, packaging material, paper and paperboard industry. Mr Jain emphasized that this issue must be resolved to reduce the cost burden on manufacturers, thus improving their global competitiveness.

On the MSME front, PHDCCI proposed several measures to enhance the growth and sustainability of MSMEs, which are the backbone of the Indian economy.

PHDCCI suggested extending the classification norms of MSMEs for Non-Performing Assets (NPAs) and the Restructuring Scheme for MSMEs, as approved by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). Currently, dues for MSMEs are classified as overdue after 90 days, which can adversely affect their ability to access credit from banks

PHDCCI recommends extending this period to 180 days to allow MSMEs more time to manage their financial challenges without facing NPA classifications.

Another important proposal was to expand the scope of the Interest Equalization Scheme on Pre and Post-Shipment Export Credit. This scheme, which provides interest subvention for MSME manufacturers and merchant exporters, should also include MSME service exporters. This change would ensure that service exporters, who are an integral part of India’s economy, are also able to benefit from the government’s support.

PHDCCI recommended that the MSE Facilitation Councils, which currently cover only Micro and Small Enterprises, should also be extended to cover Medium Enterprises. This would help address the delayed payment issues faced by these enterprises, allowing them to settle dues within 45 days if no specific payment date is mentioned in the purchase order. This change would provide much-needed relief to MSMEs, which often face liquidity constraints due to delayed payments from large buyers.

On the taxation front, PHDCCI welcomed the reduction in corporate tax rates to 25% for most companies, including those with a surcharge. However, it was also suggested that the tax rates for Partnership Firms and LLPs be aligned at the same level of 25%. Moreover, to promote transparency and ease, PHDCCI called for fast-tracking the process for faceless appeals in the tax system. Introducing a statutory period for the resolution of tax appeals and allowing the option for physical hearings in exceptional cases would further streamline the process and reduce unnecessary delays.

Another significant issue raised by PHDCCI was the recent increase in long-term capital gains tax on listed shares from 10% to 12.5%. Since the long-term capital gains tax on shares is now on par with other assets, PHDCCI suggested that the Securities Transaction Tax (STT) be abolished. This move would reduce the tax burden on investors and encourage more investment in the stock market, thereby stimulating economic growth.

Lastly, Shri Jain commended the government’s focus on infrastructure development in recent years. However, he emphasized the need for more focus on Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, as well as the development of smart villages with adequate public utilities. Expanding infrastructure development beyond major urban centres would help create balanced regional growth, improve the quality of life, and encourage more business activity in smaller cities and rural areas.

PHDCCI suggested special policy initiatives aimed at increasing female participation in the workforce. India’s female labour force participation rate currently stands at just 32%, the lowest among the world’s top 10 economies. To ensure inclusive growth, PHDCCI called for targeted measures to boost the participation of women in the labour market, thereby enhancing overall economic productivity.

The delegation, comprising Mr Hemant Jain, President; Mr. Mukul Bagla, Chairman, Direct Tax Committee; Dr Ranjeet Mehta, CEO & Secretary General; Dr S P Sharma, Chief Economist | Deputy Secretary General presented the Pre Budget Memorandum to the Ministry of Finance, Government of India.

Conquering G2G 2024: A ride to remember from India Gate to Gateway of India

G2G 2024, a ~1450km cycling expedition between two Indian Unesco world heritage sites starting from India Gate, Delhi to the Gateway of India, Mumbai, pushed Aneesh Saraiya, who works for a top management consulting firm, to their physical and mental limits. This demanding journey, traversing four states – Delhi, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Maharashtra, presented a unique set of challenges, from scorching heat to unpredictable weather and varying road and traffic conditions.

Balancing the demanding workload from his consultant job with the grueling training schedule was a constant struggle. However, Aneesh skillfully navigated this challenge, demonstrating remarkable discipline and prioritizing his passion mainly due to his strong support system from his family and circle of friends.

Among the riders, Aneesh emerged as the fastest to complete the grueling journey. While G2G is not a race, Aneesh achieved the quickest finishing time of ~56 hours in the last eight editions of the event, showcasing exceptional endurance and determination.

Registered for the event in March, and embarked on rigorous training regimes. Aneesh dedicated over 300 days of trato rigorous cycling, covering an impressive distance of 27,500 kilometers each. This unwavering commitment was fueled by a shared passion for cycling and a desire to push their boundaries.

Group rides over weekends provided invaluable camaraderie, fostering a strong sense of community and encouraging them to persevere through difficult moments. The support and encouragement from family and friends played a crucial role in keeping Aneesh motivated and focused on his goal.

Despite facing numerous obstacles, the riders successfully completed G2G 2024. Aneesh’s exceptional performance, achieved while balancing the demands of a demanding career, serves as an inspiration to all those who strive to pursue their passions while navigating the complexities of modern life. This achievement underscores the power of human resilience and the ability to overcome even the most daunting challenges through consistent effort, unwavering passion, and a strong support system.