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Archive: November 1, 2026

India Records Historic Drop in Extreme Poverty, PM Modi Highlights World Bank Findings

New Delhi, Nov 1: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has highlighted what he described as a historic achievement in India’s poverty reduction journey, citing findings from the World Bank’s latest report that show a significant decline in extreme poverty over the past decade.

India Records Historic Drop in Extreme Poverty, PM Modi Highlights World Bank Findings

Sharing key findings from the World Bank’s India Poverty and Equity Brief: October 2026 on Instagram, the Prime Minister underscored the country’s progress in improving living standards and expanding economic opportunities.

“A historic fall in poverty. A generational rise in opportunity,” Modi wrote alongside a carousel of data and messages highlighting the government’s poverty alleviation efforts.

One of the slides featured the message, “‘Gareebi Hatao’ was never a slogan for us. It is our commitment,” emphasising the government’s stated resolve to address poverty through welfare programmes and sustained development initiatives.

Extreme Poverty Falls to 2.6 Per Cent

According to the World Bank assessment, India’s extreme poverty rate dropped sharply from 27.1 per cent in 2011 to 2.6 per cent in 2023.

The report also estimates that around 496 million people moved out of poverty during the period under the broader lower-middle-income poverty threshold.

The assessment measures extreme poverty using a benchmark of $3 per person per day, while the lower-middle-income poverty line is set at $4.20 per person per day. Both thresholds are calculated using 2021 Purchasing Power Parity (PPP).

The World Bank noted that India has made substantial progress in reducing poverty across both monetary and non-monetary indicators over the last decade, placing the country among those recording some of the fastest improvements globally.

Welfare Initiatives and Development in Focus

The findings point towards improvements in living conditions and access to essential services, reflecting the impact of economic development and poverty alleviation measures.

The Prime Minister’s remarks place renewed emphasis on the government’s development agenda, which focuses on improving access to basic amenities, strengthening social security and creating greater economic opportunities for vulnerable sections of society.

However, despite the substantial decline in poverty, challenges such as income inequality, employment generation and wage disparities continue to require attention.

The latest World Bank assessment offers an important picture of India’s progress while highlighting the continuing need for inclusive growth, sustainable livelihoods and equitable access to economic opportunities.

Bay of Bengal Depression Set to Intensify Into Severe Cyclone; South Andhra Pradesh Braces for Landfall on November 3

Bhubaneswar, Nov 1 (UDN): A developing weather system over the Bay of Bengal is steadily gaining strength and is likely to intensify into a severe cyclonic storm before making landfall along the south Andhra Pradesh coast on the morning of November 3, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast.

Bay of Bengal Depression Set to Intensify Into Severe Cyclone; South Andhra Pradesh Braces for Landfall on November 3

 Representational Image 

According to the IMD, the depression over the Southeast Bay of Bengal moved west-northwestwards at a speed of around 22 kmph during the six hours preceding 11:30 PM on October 31. At that time, the system was centred near latitude 10.9°N and longitude 87.5°E.

The weather system was located approximately 830 km east-southeast of Chennai, 880 km south-southeast of Visakhapatnam and 950 km east-southeast of Ongole.

The IMD has forecast a gradual intensification of the system over the coming days. It is very likely to develop into a deep depression over the Southwest and adjoining Southeast Bay of Bengal by noon on November 1.

The system is subsequently expected to strengthen into a cyclonic storm by midnight on November 1 and further intensify into a severe cyclonic storm over the Westcentral Bay of Bengal by November 2.

As per the latest forecast, the system is likely to approach the Westcentral Bay of Bengal, close to the south Andhra Pradesh coast, by the early hours of November 3.

Landfall Expected Between Nellore and Narsapur

The severe cyclonic storm is likely to cross the south Andhra Pradesh coast between Nellore and Narsapur by the morning of November 3, with maximum sustained wind speeds of 100–110 kmph and gusts reaching up to 120 kmph, the weather agency said.

The expected intensity and wind speed indicate the potential for significant weather impacts along the coastal belt.

With the system continuing to intensify, its movement and development will remain under close observation. Further updates and advisories from the IMD are expected as the cyclone approaches the coastline.

Crompton Strengthens Water Heating Portfolio with its Range of 5.9L Instant Water Heaters

The new range of instant water heaters combines a powerful 3kW heating element with advanced 4-level safety

Crompton Strengthens Water Heating Portfolio with its Range of 5.9L Instant Water Heaters

 

 

 

 Hyderabad, Nov 01: As hot water becomes an everyday household requirement, consumers are looking for water heating solutions that can deliver hot water quickly while offering safety, durability and convenience. Recognising these evolving needs, Crompton has launched a range of 5.9L Instant Water Heaters. Designed to bring together faster heating and enhanced capacity, the new water heater range is built to address the needs of modern households and kitchens.

 For households, getting hot water without long waits while dealing with varying water conditions and pressure can be an important consideration when choosing an instant water heater. Hard water can lead to mineral deposits that affect the heating process over time, while homes in high-rise buildings may also experience higher water pressure. Addressing these considerations, Crompton’s Range of 5.9L Instant Water Heaters offers faster heating and more hot water capacity, while being engineered to perform in hard water conditions.

 Crompton’s Range of 5.9L Instant Waters combines features designed to support reliable and convenient hot water use:

 ·       Anti-Scale Technology Designed for Hard Water: Helps protect the heating element from hard-water deposits upto 1000 PPM

·       Powerful 3kW Heating Element: Enables approximately 40% faster heating, reducing the waiting time for hot water.

·       Advanced 4-Level Safety and 6.5 Bar Pressure Rating: Equipped with an auto thermostat, thermal cut-out and pressure safety valve, fire safety providing four layers of protection during operation. It is also designed to withstand high water pressure, making it suitable for high-rise buildings.

·       Food-Grade Stainless-Steel Tank: Built with a food-grade stainless-steel tank for durability and long-lasting performance.

·       Compact Wall-Mount Design: Designed for wall mounting, the water heater features a compact form, pristine-finish outer body and LED indicators that complement contemporary household spaces.

·       Enhanced 5.9L Capacity: Offers approximately 18% more hot water capacity to cater to everyday household requirements.

·       Warranty: Backed by a 5-year warranty on the tank, 2-year warranty on the heating element and 2-year warranty on the product, offering added assurance to consumers.

 Speaking about the launch, Sachin Phartiyal, Business Head – Home Electricals, Crompton Greaves Consumer Electricals Ltd., said, “Consumers today are looking for water heating solutions that offer greater convenience without compromising on safety or performance. With our range of 5.9L Instant Water Heaters, we have focused on delivering faster heating with enhanced capacity, while addressing everyday challenges such as hard water conditions and high water pressure, particularly in high-rise buildings where increased water pressure can impact the performance and durability of water heaters. At Crompton, we continue to focus on understanding evolving consumer needs and translating these insights into thoughtful solutions that offer practical value. This range reflects that approach, bringing together performance, safety and durability to make the hot water experience more convenient for consumers.”

 With the launch of range of 5.9L Instant Water Heaters, Crompton continues to strengthen its water heating portfolio with solutions that bring together performance, safety and convenience to address the evolving needs of consumers.

Kauvery Hospital, Salem, Launches ‘Padi Eru Paati’ Campaign to Promote Mobility and Knee Health Among Elder Women

Initiative for women aged 55 and above aims to address knee pain, improve mobility and raise awareness about robotic-assisted knee replacement

Salem, Tamil Nadu | Nov 01: Kauvery Hospital Salem, has launched the ‘Padi Eru Paati’ campaign to encourage elder women to address knee pain and mobility challenges and lead active, independent lives. The initiative follows the conclusion of the earlier ‘Oodi Vilayadu Thatha’ campaign, which benefited elderly men in Salem. Building on the response to the previous initiative, ‘Padi Eru Paati’ will focus on raising awareness about knee health and advanced treatment options among elder women.

Dr. Ravikumar, GI Surgeon | Dr. Karthikkumar, Ortho & Spine | Dr. Arun, Ortho & Trauma | Dr. Manivannan, Joint Surgeon | Dr. Rajsirish Bellal Sridharan, Ortho | Mr. Selvam, Head

The ‘Padi Eru Paati’ campaign is currently underway at Kauvery Hospital, Salem, and aims to encourage women aged 55 and above to seek medical guidance for knee pain and mobility-related concerns. The campaign aims to help elderly women understand available treatment options, including robotic-assisted knee replacement where appropriate, and take proactive steps towards improving mobility and maintaining an active, independent lifestyle.

Joint degeneration can affect mobility and everyday activities among older adults, making it difficult to walk, climb stairs or participate in activities they enjoy. When degeneration becomes advanced and significantly impacts mobility, joint replacement may be recommended for appropriate patients to help restore movement and support a return to daily activities.

The initiative brings together a multidisciplinary team of orthopaedic specialists, including Dr. S. Arun, Senior Consultant – Orthopaedics, Spine & Complex Trauma Surgeon; Dr. Manivannan, Consultant – Orthopaedics, Arthroscopy & Joint Replacement Surgeon;  Dr. Rajsirish Bellal Sridharan, Consultant – Orthopaedic Surgeon, and Dr. N. Karthik Kumar, Consultant – Orthopaedic & Spine Surgeon, Kauvery Hospital, Salem. The specialists will focus on identifying the underlying causes of knee pain and mobility limitations among participants and helping them understand the appropriate course of treatment, including advanced joint replacement procedures when clinically indicated.

Dr. S. Arun, Senior Consultant – Orthopaedics, Spine & Complex Trauma Surgeon, Kauvery Hospital, Salem, said, “We have seen an encouraging response to the ‘Oodi Vilayadu Thatha’ campaign in Trichy, helping create greater awareness around knee health and mobility among elder citizens. Building on this experience, we are launching ‘Padi Eru Paati’ in Salem to encourage more elder women to seek timely medical advice for knee-related concerns. Knee degeneration need not be considered an inevitable part of ageing, and with appropriate evaluation and treatment, patients can work towards regaining mobility and staying active.”

Kauvery Hospital, Salem, has four full-time joint replacement specialists available six days a week, with Sunday consultations based on requirement. The hospital also provides pre- and post-operative care, including physiotherapy and rehabilitation guidance, with the Joint Replacement Register (JRR) used as part of the treatment process.

The hospital uses DePuy Synthes’ VELYS advanced robotic technology for joint replacement surgeries. The surgeon-controlled technology provides real-time information on the patient’s knee anatomy to support surgical planning and precision during the procedure.

Sharing the experience of a 77-year-old woman who had been living with severe knee arthritis for nearly six to seven years, Dr. Manivannan, Consultant – Orthopaedics, Arthroscopy & Joint Replacement Surgeon, Kauvery Hospital, Salem, said that her condition had progressively affected her ability to walk, climb stairs, get up from a chair and carry out routine household activities. After trying various treatments, she was advised to consider total knee replacement. Following a detailed discussion with the orthopaedic team, she underwent robotic-assisted knee replacement and began early mobilisation with the support of the medical and physiotherapy teams. She reported steady improvement in mobility and a significant reduction in pain, enabling greater independence in her daily activities.

Dr. Manivannan, Consultant – Orthopaedics, Arthroscopy & Joint Replacement Surgeon, Kauvery Hospital, Salem, said, “Mobility plays an important role in helping elder citizens remain independent and participate in everyday life. Persistent knee pain, stiffness or difficulty walking should be evaluated by a specialist rather than being considered a normal part of ageing. For patients who require knee replacement, technologies such as VELYS can support the surgeon during the procedure, while physiotherapy and rehabilitation remain important parts of the recovery journey. Through ‘Padi Eru Paati’, we hope to encourage more elder women, particularly those who may have been living with knee pain for years, to seek timely evaluation and understand the treatment options available to them.”

The campaign is exclusively for elder women aged 55 years and above. Those experiencing knee pain, stiffness, difficulty walking or other mobility-related concerns can scan the campaign QR code and register for an appointment. Once registered, participants will be notified of their consultation date and other relevant details.

Dr. Manivannan Selvaraj, Founder and Managing Director, Kauvery Group of Hospitals, said, “At Kauvery Hospitals, we believe that age should not prevent people from leading active and independent lives. Knee pain and mobility challenges can gradually affect a elder citizen’s confidence, independence and ability to participate in everyday activities. Through ‘Padi Eru Paati’, we aim to encourage elder women and their families to recognise these concerns and seek appropriate medical care. We hope this initiative will reach more women with timely consultations and greater awareness of the treatment options available to help them maintain their mobility and independence.”

Through ‘Padi Eru Paati’, Kauvery Hospital, Salem, aims to encourage elder women and their families to seek timely medical advice and understand appropriate treatment options to support mobility, independence and an active lifestyle.

 

FW: Muthoot Finance Q2 and H1 FY27 Financial Results

 

Kochi, Nov 01:

Consolidated Loan AUM at ₹ 2,09,317 crores as on September 30, 2026

42% YoY Loan AUM Growth of ₹ 61,644 Crores

Consolidated Profit after Tax at ₹ 6,103 crores for the half year, up by 39% YoY

Standalone Loan AUM at ₹ 1,87,810 crores as on September 30, 2026

42% YoY Loan AUM Growth of ₹ 55,505 crores

Standalone Profit after tax at ₹ 5,527 crores for the half year, up by 26% YoY

Consolidated Gold Loan AUM at ₹ 1,93,212 Crores as on September 30, 2026

46% YoY Gold Loan AUM Growth of ₹ 61,214 Crores

Results

A meeting of the Board of Directors of Muthoot Finance Ltd. was held today to consider and approve the unaudited standalone and consolidated results for the quarter and the half year ended September 30, 2026.

Consolidated Results of Muthoot Finance Ltd

Muthoot Finance Ltd’s Consolidated Loan Assets Under Management grew 42% YoY to Rs. 2,09,317 crores in H1 FY27 as against Rs. 1,47,673 crores in H1 FY26. During the half year, Consolidated Loan Assets Under Management grew by Rs. 27,401 crores, growth of 15%.  Consolidated Profit after tax for H1 FY27 increased to Rs. 6,103 crores as against Rs. 4,386 crores last year, an increase of 39% YoY.

                                                                                                                                                                                              (Rs. in crores)

Financial Performance

Q2 FY27

Q1 FY27

QoQ %

Q2 FY26

YoY %

H1 FY27

H1 FY26

YoY %

Group Branch Network

7,904

7,654

3%

7,524

5%

7,904

7,524

5%

Consolidated Gross Loan Assets of the Group

209,317

191,532

9%

147,673

42%

209,317

147,673

42%

Consolidated Profit of the Group

3,278

2,825

16%

2,412

36%

6,103

4,386

39%

Contribution in the Consolidated Gross Loan Assets of the Group

Muthoot Finance Ltd

183,700

168,163

9%

129,185

42%

183,700

129,185

42%

Subsidiaries

25,617

23,369

10%

18,488

39%

25,617

18,488

39%

Contribution in the Consolidated Profit of the Group

Muthoot Finance Ltd

2,909

2,484

17%

2,298

27%

5,393

4,303

25%

Subsidiaries

369

341

8%

114

224%

710

83

755%

FW: Muthoot Finance Q2 and H1 FY27 Financial Results

Commenting on the Company’s performance, Mr. Alexander George Muthoot, Managing Director, said, “We are pleased to report another strong quarter of performance, with our Standalone Loan Assets Under Management reaching Rs. 1,87,810 crore, marking a 42% year-on-year and 9% quarter-on-quarter growth. Our Standalone Profit After Tax for H1 FY27 rose by 26% YoY to Rs.5,527 crore, reflecting improved operational efficiency, prudent cost management, and a disciplined approach to growth. This consistent upward trajectory underscores the resilience of our business model and the continued trust our customers place in us. We are also revising our gold loan growth guidance for FY27 upward by an additional 10%. The RBI’s updated gold lending guidelines, effective 1st April 2026, involves a learning curve for us as well as customers, which will get stabilized over few quarters irrespective of which growth trajectory will continue.

During the quarter Muthoot Finance added 201 branches further expanding the reach across the length and breadth of India.  India’s gold loan market continues to evolve, with new entrants and rising demand creating opportunities for responsible growth. At Muthoot Finance, our focus remains on strengthening our services through customer trust, deeper reach and technology-led service delivery, while maintaining prudent lending practices and sustaining our growth momentum through FY27.”

SRM Medical College Hospital & Research Centre Brings Experts Together to Discuss Advances in Breast Cancer Management

SRM Medical College Hospital & Research Centre Brings Experts Together to Discuss Advances in Breast Cancer Management

 

Chennai, Nov 01: SRM Medical College Hospital & Research Centre (SRMMCHRC), SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, inaugurated a two-day Continuing Medical Education (CME) programme on “Contemporary Breast Cancer Management” as part of SRM Pink October 2026, observed during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The inaugural ceremony was held on October 30, 2026, at the Hippocrates Auditorium, SRM Medical College Building, Kattankulathur.

Jointly organised by the Departments of General Surgery and Surgical Oncology, the CME aims to bring together medical professionals, specialists and academicians to deliberate on recent advancements, evolving treatment approaches and multidisciplinary perspectives in breast cancer management. Centred on the theme “Preserve • Reshape • De-escalate • Optimise,” the programme focuses on contemporary approaches to improving clinical outcomes while prioritising patient-centred care.

The inaugural function was graced by Dr. Shashanka Mohan Bose, Chairman, Academic Committee, Council of NAMS, and former Senior Professor and Head of the Department of Surgery, PGI, Chandigarh, as the Chief Guest.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. R. Jayanthi, Dean (Medical), SRM Medical College Hospital & Research Centre, said “every one of us must act as a social ambassador for sensitising the public in early detection of breast cancer, spreading awareness among our families and communities, and encouraging women to prioritise self-breast examination.”

Delivering the inaugural address, Dr. R. Venkatraman, Medical Superintendent, SRMMCHRC, said “we aim to expand our screening initiatives across all faculties and employees of SRM IST, creating greater awareness and ensuring access to appropriate screening methods for the well-being of our entire community.”

The programme also featured an expert session by Dr. Veda Padma Priya, Senior Consultant, Breast Oncology, MGM Cancer Institute, Chennai, who delivered a session titled “Shaping the Breast: The Art & Science of Oncoplastic Surgery – Masterclass & Demonstration.” The session explored the evolving role of oncoplastic surgical approaches in breast cancer management.

Scheduled for October 30 and 31, 2026, the two-day CME features expert lectures, surgical video masterclasses, multidisciplinary discussions and evidence-based updates on contemporary breast cancer management. The scientific sessions cover key areas, including locally advanced breast cancer, breast conservation, oncoplastic surgery, surgical techniques and axillary de-escalation strategies.

Bringing together eminent national and institutional faculty members, the programme provides a platform for knowledge exchange, academic collaboration and professional engagement among healthcare practitioners.

Through SRM Pink October 2026, SRM Medical College Hospital & Research Centre reaffirms its commitment to promoting breast cancer awareness, encouraging early detection and advancing comprehensive, patient-centred cancer care through academic excellence and clinical innovation.

 

Zeus Hygia Advances Sports Nutrition Ingredient Innovation with Microencapsulated Creatine and Controlled-Release Caffeine

The company’s CreaStab™ and CXR™ Energy ingredients leverage microencapsulation technology to address formulation challenges and support the development of next-generation sports nutrition products

 

Hyderabad, Nov 01: Zeus Hygia Lifesciences is strengthening its focus on sports nutrition ingredient innovation with CreaStab™ and CXR Energy™, two microencapsulated ingredients designed to address evolving formulation requirements in the category. While CreaStab™ focuses on improving creatine stability and processing performance, CXR Energy™ offers a controlled-release caffeine system designed to enable gradual caffeine delivery. Together, the ingredients aim to provide sports nutrition manufacturers with greater flexibility in developing products for strength, performance and sustained energy applications.

As the sports nutrition market evolves beyond traditional protein powders and supplements, manufacturers are increasingly exploring convenient formats such as ready-to-drink beverages, gummies, energy bars and functional blends. However, incorporating performance-oriented ingredients into these products can present technical challenges related to stability, processing conditions, taste and ingredient release. Zeus Hygia is applying its microencapsulation expertise to address these requirements and support the development of differentiated sports nutrition formulations.

CreaStab™ is a proprietary microencapsulated creatine monohydrate developed to overcome some of the formulation limitations associated with conventional creatine. Widely used in sports nutrition for strength, power and exercise performance, creatine can present stability challenges when exposed to acidic conditions, elevated temperatures and moisture. These factors can complicate its incorporation into emerging product formats beyond conventional powders.

The ingredient is designed to improve resistance to environmental and processing-related stress while supporting solubility and dispersibility. According to the ingredient’s technical specifications, it demonstrates stability under simulated acidic conditions at pH 2.0 and pH 4.0, as well as during processing at temperatures of 130–150°C. It has more than 95% solubility, low creatinine levels and a tasteless and odourless profile, enabling manufacturers to explore its application across different formats.

Complementing CreaStab™, Zeus Hygia’s CXR™ Energy is a microencapsulated caffeine ingredient developed to offer a controlled-release profile for sports nutrition and energy-focused applications. While caffeine is widely incorporated into pre-workout supplements and energy products, conventional caffeine is typically characterised by rapid release, which can limit manufacturers’ ability to differentiate products based on their caffeine delivery profiles.

CXR™ Energy uses a multilayer protective coating designed to regulate the release of caffeine over time. Standardised to 60% caffeine, the ingredient is engineered to provide a more gradual release profile compared with conventional caffeine under tested conditions. This approach offers manufacturers an opportunity to develop sports nutrition formulations with differentiated caffeine delivery characteristics, particularly for products positioned around sustained energy and endurance-oriented activities.

“Sports nutrition is evolving and manufacturers are looking to develop products that combine performance-oriented ingredients with greater convenience and differentiated consumer experiences. This shift brings new formulation challenges, whether it is maintaining creatine stability across processing conditions or controlling the release of caffeine in energy-focused products. Through CreaStab™ and CXR™ Energy, we are applying microencapsulation technology to address these distinct requirements and help manufacturers explore new possibilities in sports nutrition,” said Dr. Arunkanth Krishnakumar, Co-founder and CEO, Zeus Hygia Lifesciences.

Beyond conventional sports supplements, these technologies also present opportunities for manufacturers developing functional nutrition products for active lifestyles. As consumer preferences continue to shift towards convenient and differentiated formats, ingredient technologies that address both formulation performance and delivery characteristics are becoming increasingly relevant to product development.

Manufactured at Zeus Hygia Lifesciences’ certified facilities, CreaStab™ and CXR™ Energy are positioned for B2B partnerships with sports nutrition brands, supplement manufacturers and ingredient formulators. Through its formulation-led approach, the company aims to support manufacturers in developing innovative products while addressing the technical requirements associated with performance-oriented ingredients.

 

INEW Strengthens Its Global Women’s Network with Successful Gatherings in New York, Morocco and Dubai

 

The International Network of Elite Women brings accomplished women together across continents to foster meaningful connections, leadership, collaboration and international opportunities.

INEW Strengthens Its Global Women’s Network with Successful Gatherings in New York, Morocco and Dubai

 

Nov 01: The International Network of Elite Women (INEW), a global community dedicated to connecting accomplished women across industries and geographies, continues to expand its international presence through exclusive gatherings in New York, Morocco and Dubai. Guided by its vision of fostering meaningful relationships, empowering women leaders and encouraging cross-border collaboration, INEW is building a community where professional connections translate into lasting relationships and new opportunities.

Founded by Dr. Monica Garg, INEW brings together ambitious, accomplished and forward-thinking women who share a commitment to personal growth, professional excellence and collective progress.

INEW New York Hosts an Evening of Meaningful Connections

A key highlight of INEW’s recent international engagements was an exclusive gathering hosted by the New York Chapter at the prestigious Penn Club of New York, a private members’ club known for its distinguished setting.

Eliza Prendzov, President of INEW New York, and Michelle Alleyne, Co-President, welcomed an inspiring group of influential women for an evening centred on meaningful conversations, shared experiences and opportunities for collaboration.

The gathering also welcomed Trish Yan, President of INEW Washington, who travelled to New York to support the event, reflecting the strong connections and spirit of solidarity that unite INEW’s international chapters.

The evening brought together women from diverse professional and cultural backgrounds, creating an atmosphere of warmth, enthusiasm and mutual encouragement. Participants exchanged ideas, shared their professional journeys, developed new friendships and explored opportunities to support one another’s ambitions.

The gathering reflected INEW’s core philosophy: creating a space where conversations develop into connections, connections evolve into meaningful relationships, and relationships open doors to new possibilities.

INEW Morocco Launches with an Exclusive Gathering in Marrakech

INEW marked the launch of its Morocco Chapter with an intimate inaugural Meet & Greet at the iconic El Fenn in Marrakech.

Hosted by Myriam Hoffmann, Founder of Première Impression, President of INEW Morocco and Global Strategy Director of INEW, the gathering brought together a carefully selected group of accomplished women from diverse professional and cultural backgrounds.

The evening opened with a special virtual appearance by Dr. Monica Garg, Founder of INEW, who welcomed participants and shared the network’s international vision.

Reflecting the philosophy behind INEW Morocco, the gathering prioritised quality over quantity, authentic relationships over superficial connections, and collaboration over competition. The setting provided an opportunity for participants to exchange perspectives, strengthen professional relationships and explore possibilities for collaboration across industries and borders.

With the launch of its Morocco Chapter, INEW has begun welcoming its founding members, establishing the foundation for a selective, internationally connected community of women committed to growing and achieving more together.

INEW Dubai Celebrates Its Inaugural Networking Event

Continuing the network’s international expansion, the INEW Dubai Chapter successfully hosted its inaugural networking event at Indish Restaurant, Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai.

The gathering brought together 15 ambitious, talented and accomplished women representing diverse industries, creating an intimate setting for professional exchange and relationship-building.

The event opened with an address by Radhika Sriram, President of INEW Dubai and Director of BETEC CAD Industries, who shared her entrepreneurial journey, personal vision and INEW’s mission of connecting influential women around the world.

This was followed by a presentation by Dr. Svetlane Dimi, Vice-President of INEW Dubai and Founder & CEO of CEO Longevity®, who outlined the network’s exclusive membership benefits. Participants were then invited to share their professional journeys, passions and business activities.

A special highlight was an interactive Zoom conversation with Dr. Monica Garg, who personally connected with attendees and reinforced the importance of building a supportive international network.

The gathering concluded with an elegant tea-time networking session, encouraging authentic conversations and potential collaborations. Participants appreciated the intimate format, the calibre of attendees and the quality of the exchanges.

The successful inaugural event marks an important milestone for INEW Dubai as it begins building a connected community of women leaders and professionals in the region.

Building a Global Community Through Connection and Collaboration

The gatherings in New York, Morocco and Dubai reflect INEW’s broader commitment to bringing accomplished women together through curated experiences that encourage professional development, authentic relationships and international collaboration.

By connecting women across industries, cultures and geographical boundaries, INEW seeks to create opportunities for members to share knowledge, expand their professional networks and support one another’s growth.

As its international chapters continue to develop, the network remains focused on its guiding philosophy:

Connect. Collaborate. Rise Together.

Through its growing global community, INEW aims to foster an environment where women can build meaningful relationships, exchange ideas and create new opportunities for collective success.

 

WalkAbout Holds Demo Day for India’s First Startup Accelerator for Entrepreneurs Over 55 at SPJIMR, Mumbai

 

Startup Founders aged 55 and above pitched their ventures to industry experts after a 12-week accelerator, marking a milestone in entrepreneurship beyond 55

WalkAbout Holds Demo Day for India’s First Startup Accelerator for Entrepreneurs Over 55 at SPJIMR, Mumbai

 

Mumbai, Nov 01: WalkAbout, India’s peer-to-peer community for active agers, concluded its WalkAbout Startup Accelerator Program for entrepreneurs aged 55 and above with a Demo Day at Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan’s S.P. Jain Institute of Management & Research (SPJIMR) in Andheri West, Mumbai on October 31st, 2026. The event marked the culmination of a 12-week program that supported 100 entrepreneurs aged 55 and above as they started, structured and grew their businesses.

Participants took part in practical online business sessions, in-person workshops, peer learning groups and one-on-one mentorship from WalkAbout Startup Advisors. They worked on refining their products, pricing and brand stories, and each completed the program with a clear business plan.

The finalists, selected for their progress and readiness, pitched their ventures to a jury of seasoned leaders: Dr. Shweta Loonkar, Co-Founder and Director, KS Publication Pathway LLP; Puneet Kapoor, Partner, SVP India, formerly with Kotak Mahindra Bank, Citibank and American Express; Vivek Bhatnagar, business leader and entrepreneur; Aiswarya Simon, Associate, WISE Tech, SPJIMR; Deval Delivala, Founder and CEO, WalkAbout; and Ashwini Kapila, Co-Founder and Chief Business Development Officer, WalkAbout. The finalists shared their entrepreneurial journeys and outlined their plans for growth, receiving feedback and insights to help take their businesses forward. Their ventures spanned senior living, consumer products, apparel and accessories, education services and arts and crafts.  

The winning venture was YoToyz, founded by Yogesh Kulkarni, 56, from Pune, Drawing on 25+ years in the classroom, Yogesh is building what YoToyz, www.yotoyz.com, describes as India’s first fully fabric-based early-years curriculum: washable, sensory-rich learning kits that give young children an alternative to plastic toys and screens. The kits are made by women artisans in Pune, giving them steady, dignified work. The jury recognised YoToyz for the clarity of its business, its understanding of the market, its creativity and the social impact built into its model. As part of the program’s continued support, YoToyz will receive funding linked to the achievement of key business milestones, along with ongoing mentorship to help turn its plans into action and support future growth.

“It was inspiring to see the WalkAbout Startup Accelerator cohort pitch their ventures, share the journeys behind their businesses and present their vision for growth. Our members bring decades of skills, networks and resilience, and seeing them turn that experience into enterprise is a reminder that ambition has no age limit. Beyond building businesses, this journey is about creating income, purpose, confidence and new possibilities at every stage of life”, said Deval Delivala, CEO and Founder, WalkAbout.

“Startup success stories often celebrate young entrepreneurs, but Colonel Sanders of KFC reminds us that some of the most remarkable entrepreneurial journeys can unfold later in life. In sectors such as FinTech and B2B, decades of industry experience, deep customer understanding and professional networks can be powerful competitive advantages. WISE Tech was pleased to support WalkAbout in unlocking the entrepreneurial potential of individuals aged 55 and above,” said Manoj Mohan, Executive Director, WISE Tech, SPJIMR.

The impact of this accelerator extends beyond Demo Day. Participants who did not reach the finals or win sponsorship will remain part of the WalkAbout Entrepreneur Circle, a founder community offering access to meetups, expert sessions and future cohorts. Through this continued support system, WalkAbout aims to help entrepreneurs aged 55 and above sustain their momentum, strengthen their businesses and pursue new opportunities beyond the program.