At Cityscape 2024, Alesayi Holding, represented by its real estate sector, proudly announces the launch of its luxurious project, “Abraj Omar Hotel & Residences by MGallery”, a development redefining upscale hospitality just steps from the Holy Kaaba. The project reflects Alesayi Holdings vision of creating an exquisite sanctuary that harmonizes spirituality and elegance, offering an exceptional experience for pilgrims and residents alike.

This is a mockup of Abraj Omar hotel and residence in the holly city of Makkah

Located in the heart of the sacred city, a mere 300 meters from the Holy Mosque and under 800 meters from the Kaaba, “Abraj Omar” spans approximately 60,000 square meters. With 200 luxury residential units and 280 hotel rooms, the project is designed to comfortably host around 2,000 guests at once, providing a refined and serene atmosphere that allows visitors to focus fully on their spiritual journey.

Eng. Hani Habashy, CEO of Alesayi Holding, commented, “We are proud to offer a spiritual destination that inspires pilgrims and provides them with an elevated, luxurious stay.” He added, “Through this project, Alesayi Holding aims to blend modernity with the cultural and religious heritage of Makkah, in alignment with Vision 2030.”

Accommodation options at “Abraj Omar” range from one-bedroom apartments spanning 80 square meters to opulent penthouses offering panoramic views of the Holy Mosque, starting at 250 square meters with three bedrooms. Over 70% of the units include dedicated personal assistant rooms, ensuring guests experience the highest levels of comfort and care.

The project is set to make a substantial impact on the local economy, creating approximately 10,000 jobs during construction and an additional 5,000 jobs upon operational launch. This workforce will span construction, hospitality, logistics, and facility management, adhering to world-class standards in luxury hotel operations. Global design leaders, including Gensler, Dar Engineering, and HDP, collaborated on the design, with Accor managing the “MGallery Makkah” hotel.

“Abraj Omar” represents an investment exceeding SAR 2 billion, with projected returns surpassing SAR 3.8 billion. Construction is expected to be completed within three years, with operations targeted to begin in 2028. With its distinguished design and sacred location, “Abraj Omar” is more than just a project; it is a unique experience that unites elegance, tranquility, and spirituality in one remarkable destination.

The vivo X200 Pro 5G is one of the most eagerly awaited and anticipated launches in the flagship segment, and the model is expected to reach the Indian shores in early 2025. Based on rumours alone, this smartphone is expected to disrupt the ‘affordable flagship’ segment, while its camera configuration has grabbed the attention of all photography enthusiasts. With a large circular camera module at the back, an aluminium alloy frame, and a glass back, the device stands out owing to its bold design. Once it is launched in India, customers can buy the model on Easy EMIs by shopping on the Bajaj Finserv EMI Network.

Shop for the vivo X200 Pro 5G on Easy EMIs

The latest vivo phone‘s panel is rounded towards all four edges, lending it a premium look without compromising ergonomics. Moreover, the model gets the ultrasonic fingerprint reader, which unlocks the phone instantly and is more reliable than the conventional optical fingerprint sensor. Another interesting differentiator that separates vivo X200 Pro 5G from other affordable flagships is the IP69 rating, which lets the phone withstand high-pressure water jets and steam cleaning!

On the front, the device sports an incredible 6.78-inch OLED display with an adaptive refresh rate of 0.1-120 Hz! This implies that depending on the content, the LTPO panel can go from 0.1 Hz (refreshing every ten seconds) to 120 Hz (fast-moving sequences and games). The company also claims that the display’s local brightness can go up to 4,500 nits, making it significantly easy to see the phone’s contents while standing under direct sunlight. This device also supports all the major HDR video standards, making it the ideal smartphone for enjoying movies and other content.

This latest vivo phone also shines in the battery department, housing a large 6,000 mAh battery, which can become the norm in new flagships in 2025. This gives the phone ample juice to remain operational for more than a day, while users can watch their favourite videos from YouTube for over 19 hours! Coming to the charging speed, the model comes with 90W fast charging support and 30W wireless charging support for enhanced convenience.

In terms of performance and benchmarks, the smartphone runs on the new Dimensity 9400 (3nm) chip that easily outperforms other top-tier chips in all benchmarks! Its AnTuTu 10 score of 2923567 places it above other current flagships, including the Galaxy S24 Ultra! Moreover, in the CPU Throttling tests, the device’s performance stood at 65% – at par with other flagships. The smartphone comes with up to 16GB RAM and 1TB storage, providing a seamless multitasking experience along with ample storage space.

Besides its remarkable performance, the vivo X200 Pro 5G truly shines in the camera department. In what many consider to be the best camera module in a smartphone, the X200 Pro 5G houses a 200MP 3.7x telephoto camera, along with a 50MP Sony Lytia LYT-818 (wide) lens and a 50MP Samsung ISOCELL JN1 sensor! Using this imaging system, users can capture immaculate close-ups and natural portraits. Users can also click impressive night-time images thanks to vivo’s image processing capabilities, providing vibrant, colourful images with well-developed shadows.

Given all of these features, the latest vivo phone is expected to disrupt the mid-premium and flagship segments in the Indian market. The price of the smartphone is expected to start from Rs. 62,500 (base variant), while the top-spec variant might cost around Rs. 80,000. Shoppers can easily afford the X200 Pro 5G by shopping on the Bajaj Finserv EMI Network and benefit from Easy EMI options and exclusive offers.

Benefits of shopping on the Bajaj Finserv EMI Network

Shopping from any of the Bajaj Finserv partner stores allows you to take advantage of lucrative deals and discounts. Here are a few benefits of shopping on the Bajaj Finserv EMI Network.

• Competitive prices: Once the vivo X200 Pro 5G is launched in India, you can buy it at a discounted price from your nearest Bajaj Finserv partner store.

• Easy EMIs: Buying your preferred smartphone is hassle-free with Easy EMI plans, allowing you to choose a repayment period that suits your budget. The repayment tenures range from 1 to 60 months, making EMI payments ultra-convenient.

• Zero down payment: Select models come with a zero down payment offer, which removes the need to make a one-time upfront payment while finalising the purchase. Instead, the entire phone’s price is converted into Easy EMIs.

While purchasing big-ticket items like the vivo X200 Pro 5G, you can opt for financing options, including Easy EMI and zero down payment schemes, for financial ease and convenience. Thus, you can split the cost of the device into Easy EMI to enjoy a hassle-free shopping experience.

Bajaj Finance Ltd. (‘BFL’, ‘Bajaj Finance’, or ‘the Company’), a subsidiary of Bajaj Finserv Ltd., is a deposit taking Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC-D) registered with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and is classified as an NBFC-Investment and Credit Company (NBFC-ICC). BFL is engaged in the business of lending and acceptance of deposits. It has a diversified lending portfolio across retail, SMEs, and commercial customers with significant presence in both urban and rural India. It accepts public and corporate deposits and offers a variety of financial services products to its customers. BFL, a thirty-five-year-old enterprise, has now become a leading player in the NBFC sector in India and on a consolidated basis, it has a franchise of 69.14 million customers. BFL has the highest domestic credit rating of AAA/Stable for long-term borrowing, A1+ for short-term borrowing, and CRISIL AAA/Stable & [ICRA]AAA(Stable) for its FD program. It has a long-term issuer credit rating of BB+/Positive and a short-term rating of B by S&P Global ratings.

To know more, visit /www.bajajfinserv.in.

OnePlus, one of the global leaders in smartphone technology, is set to launch the OnePlus 13 in the global markets by December 2024 or January 2025. Recently launched in China, the flagship will soon make its way into the Indian market. Early reports indicate that it will give other notable flagships like the iPhone 16 and Samsung Galaxy S24 a run for their money. After its official launch, shoppers looking to upgrade their handsets can buy the OnePlus 13 on Easy EMIs by shopping on the Bajaj Finserv EMI Network and enjoy exclusive perks.

Shop for OnePlus 13 on Easy EMIs

OnePlus 13 looks to build on the legacy of the OnePlus 12, retaining certain design elements, such as the circular camera island and a 6.82-inch display. However, users can expect key additions, such as the ability to operate the device even while wearing gloves! Moreover, the mobile phone is powered by the latest-and most powerful Snapdragon chip, Snapdragon 8 Elite, while housing a larger battery pack (6,000 mAh) compared to its predecessor. This model also gets 100W wired charging support, along with 50W wireless charging support for faster refills.

The most advanced model among the latest OnePlus mobiles, the OnePlus 13 also gets an upgraded imaging system. While the device retains the 50MP LYT-808 primary camera from the OnePlus 12, it also houses improved 50MP telephoto and ultrawide sensors. These cameras have been co-engineered with Hasselblad, thus leveraging the brand’s legendary colour science while mimicking the look of some of its highly desirable lenses. The cameras are optically image-stabilised, resulting in smoother footage, especially while zooming.

The 6.82-inch display of the OnePlus 13 gets QHD+ resolution, along with a local high refresh rate feature. The adaptive refresh rate of 1-120Hz ensures a smooth gaming and casual scrolling experience, while a peak brightness of 4,500 nits guarantees enhanced convenience, especially while using the phone when standing under direct sunlight. Moreover, the device will run on OxygenOS 15, and the company claims that the latest OnePlus mobile will offer a smoother experience. Based on the previous version, the smartphone may get 4 years of major Android OS support and 5 years of security patches.

Users can also rest easy in terms of device protection, as the upcoming flagship will get IP68 and IP69 ratings. While the former implies the device can be submerged in water up to 1.5 metres for up to 30 minutes, the latter means that the smartphone can withstand high-pressure water jets and steam cleaning. In addition, the ultrasonic fingerprint sensor offers greater convenience and reliability compared to the optical fingerprint scanner.

OnePlus 13 is expected to come with up to 24GB RAM and 1TB UFS 4.0 storage. The base variant will likely come with 12GB RAM and 256GB storage and can carry a price tag of around Rs. 55,000-Rs. 60,000. The top-spec variant, on the other hand, can command a price of Rs. 85,000. However, users can buy the handset on Easy EMIs while availing of exclusive offers and discounts by shopping on the Bajaj Finserv EMI Network once the model becomes available for purchase.

Benefits of purchasing OnePlus 13 from Bajaj Finserv partner stores

Buying expensive items like the OnePlus 13 becomes simple and convenient when you shop on the Bajaj Finserv EMI Network. You can avail of several benefits, some of which are highlighted below:

• Pay in Easy EMI: Purchasing any big-ticket item becomes easy and hassle-free, thanks to Easy EMIs. With tenures between 1 and 60 months, you can split the price of the product and pay in nominal monthly instalments.

• Exclusive offers: While shopping on the Bajaj Finserv EMI Network, you can benefit from exclusive perks, such as a zero down payment offer on select models. This allows you to buy items like the OnePlus 13 without putting down a deposit.

• Wide range of products: With more than one million products on the EMI Network, you can shop for your desired item. Moreover, you can visit any of the 1.5 lakh+ Bajaj Finserv partner stores spread across the country to shop for the device.

Once the OnePlus 13 is officially launched in India, you can buy it on Easy EMI by shopping on the Bajaj Finserv EMI Network. You won’t have to break the bank to purchase the device. Simultaneously, you can benefit from lucrative discounts and exclusive offers!

Bajaj Finance Ltd. (‘BFL’, ‘Bajaj Finance’, or ‘the Company’), a subsidiary of Bajaj Finserv Ltd., is a deposit taking Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC-D) registered with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and is classified as an NBFC-Investment and Credit Company (NBFC-ICC). BFL is engaged in the business of lending and acceptance of deposits. It has a diversified lending portfolio across retail, SMEs, and commercial customers with significant presence in both urban and rural India. It accepts public and corporate deposits and offers a variety of financial services products to its customers. BFL, a thirty-five-year-old enterprise, has now become a leading player in the NBFC sector in India and on a consolidated basis, it has a franchise of 69.14 million customers. BFL has the highest domestic credit rating of AAA/Stable for long-term borrowing, A1+ for short-term borrowing, and CRISIL AAA/Stable & [ICRA]AAA(Stable) for its FD program. It has a long-term issuer credit rating of BB+/Positive and a short-term rating of B by S&P Global ratings.

To know more, visit www.bajajfinserv.in.

The recently concluded COP29 International Summit in Baku, Azerbaijan, highlighted the urgent need for global action against climate change. Amid rapid technological advances, the world faces rising unemployment, environmental degradation, and a widening income gap. Despite the wealth generated by increased productivity and Artificial Intelligence (AI), its concentration in a few hands exacerbates social inequalities, fuelling potential unrest.

Leaders and Experts Gather at Chitkara University’s 17th Annual International Accreditation Conference to Promote ESG-Driven Leadership in Higher Education

As nations increasingly adopt the ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) framework, the demand for leaders who combine technological expertise with sustainability and social responsibility is growing. Addressing this need, Chitkara University hosted the 17th Annual International Accreditation Conference on November 22-23, 2024, at its Punjab campus near Chandigarh, Rajpura.

Organised by the Standards for Educational Advancement & Accreditation (SEAA) Trust, the two-day event centred on “Building Socially Impactful Leaders for an ESG-Led World.” A. Thothathri Raman, Chairman of SEAA Trust and conference convenor, stressed the urgency of integrating ESG principles into higher education. “It is not too late to find meaningful strategies to arrest the current climate crisis,” said Raman.

The conference brought together over 38 distinguished speakers from the USA, Europe, UAE, and India, spanning academia and industry. Discussions focused on how educational institutions can foster leadership aligned with ESG principles to drive sustainability and social equity. The event also showcased the pivotal role of accreditation bodies like AACSB, EFMD, AMBA, BGA, ACBSP, IACBE, SAQS, ATHEA, and Peregrine Global, which shared insights on incorporating ESG frameworks into university accreditation processes.

Dr. Madhu Chitkara, Pro Chancellor of Chitkara Universities in Chandigarh and Baddi, Himachal Pradesh, underscored the transformative power of education. “With the right inputs and sensitisation, students in higher education can truly make a positive difference in shaping the world of the future,” she said.

Dr. Sandhir Sharma, Vice Chancellor of Chitkara University, was also present at the conference, supporting its mission to drive meaningful dialogue on ESG and higher education.

The event served as a dynamic platform for higher education institutions to engage in meaningful dialogue and explore innovative solutions for equipping the next generation of leaders to address pressing global challenges. By fostering awareness and imparting practical knowledge on ESG practices, the conference aimed to advance the global movement towards a greener, more equitable world.

About Chitkara University
Chitkara University, a leading private university in India, is recognised for its focus on practical, industry-aligned education. Offering a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs, the university is known for its cutting-edge research, innovation, and strong industry partnerships, aiming to produce graduates well-prepared to meet the challenges of the global marketplace.

For more information log in to university website www.chitkara.edu.in.

Akums Drugs & Pharmaceuticals Ltd., Indias Largest contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO), has announced a partnership with Jagdale Industries Private Ltd. (JIL), a pioneering name in India’s healthcare sector. This collaboration exclusively focuses on aseptic manufacturing and subsequent filling in carton packing for the ready-to-drink (RTD) market, targeting an expansive array of health and wellness products.

Sanjeev Jain, Managing Director of Akums Drugs & Pharmaceuticals Ltd., Right – Rajesh N. Jagdale, Managing Director of Jagdale Group

Together, Akums and JIL aims to revolutionize the market by introducing innovative, non-milk-based aseptic carton packing solutions across key categories like a) wellness drinks under food, Ayush and nutraceutical frameworks, b) Sports nutrition with essential electrolytes for hydration and recovery c) Nutritional products for critical care, diabetes, and weight management.

Indias Ready-to-Drink market is witnessing a significant surge as consumers increasingly prioritize health, convenience, and quality. With this partnership, Akums and Jagdale will deliver products that seamlessly integrate health benefits with superior Aseptic packaging technology,” said Sanjeev Jain, Managing Director of Akums Drugs & Pharmaceuticals Ltd. “Aseptic packing solutions ensure the highest standards of safety, shelf stability, and nutrient retention, meeting the evolving needs of modern consumers.”

The collaboration represents a strategic convergence of Akums’ strong and extensive clients base and Jagdale’s legacy in healthcare innovation. Rajesh N. Jagdale, Managing Director of Jagdale Group, emphasized the potential impact of this alliance. “We are excited to partner with Akums, a name synonymous with trust and quality. Together, we aim to redefine the ready-to-drink segment in India, catering to diverse consumer needs across mass, premium, and medical markets. Our focus on non-milk-based formulations ensures inclusivity and addresses a broad spectrum of dietary preferences and prophylactic requirements.“

The electrolyte RTD market in India, valued at over Rs. 1,000 crores with more than 150 million packs sold annually, is experiencing robust growth. With a steady 10% annual increase in volume, this market sees heightened demand, particularly during the summer months, when hydration needs peak. Simultaneously, the broader Indian RTD market is witnessing significant expansion, driven by a rising preference for functional beverages, therapeutic drinks, and wellness products. Aseptic carton packing technology is at the forefront of this evolution, offering solutions that meet the demands of modern consumers.

By employing advanced aseptic processing and packaging, products benefit from an extended shelf life, remaining fresh and safe for consumption without requiring refrigeration-a crucial advantage in India’s diverse climatic conditions. Furthermore, this technology ensures the preservation of essential nutrients, making it ideal for health-conscious consumers seeking wellness-focused beverages.

Additionally, aseptic packs are designed with sustainability in mind, being lightweight, and eco-friendly, which appeals to the growing segment of environmentally conscious consumers. These attributes collectively position aseptic carton packs as a game-changer in the RTD market, meeting modern demands while paving the way for a healthier, more sustainable future.

With a projected focus on mass-market accessibility and premium health-driven offerings, the partnership also taps into underserved medical markets, including critical care nutrition and therapy support products. This holistic approach positions the tie-up as a catalyst for change in the healthcare and wellness landscape.

Akums and JIL aims to address India’s burgeoning demand for nutraceuticals, functional beverages, and therapeutic solutions. As the partnership evolves, both organizations envision contributing significantly to the health and wellness revolution while fostering a sustainable ecosystem. The launch of the aseptic carton pack product line marks the beginning of a transformative journey, setting new benchmarks for quality, innovation, and consumer satisfaction.

The rising aspirations of homebuyers and evolving preferences for premium lifestyle living have created a surge in demand for villa properties in India’s emerging real estate markets. Bahadurgarh and Indore are at the forefront of this trend, standing out as hotspots for luxurious villa developments. With developers introducing innovative concepts and robust infrastructure shaping these cities, villa living is becoming a symbol of status, comfort, and investment potential.

Yashank Wason, Managing Director, Royal Green Realty

Bahadurgarh: A Rising Star in the NCR Real Estate Market

Bahadurgarh, often referred to as the “Gateway of Haryana,” has witnessed a remarkable transformation in recent years. Strategically located on the western periphery of Delhi, it offers excellent connectivity to the National Capital Region (NCR) through the Delhi Metro, the KMP Expressway, and other arterial roads.

Villa projects in Bahadurgarh are characterized by expansive layouts, lush greenery, and high-end amenities, offering residents a serene lifestyle away from the chaos of urban centres. The emergence of branded developers in the region has further enhanced buyer confidence. With projects focusing on sustainable designs and premium finishes, villas in Bahadurgarh are setting new benchmarks for luxury living in the NCR.

Indore: Nation’s Cleanest City with International Luxury Lifestyles

Known as the cleanest city in India, Indore is rapidly emerging as a real estate haven. The city combines a pristine environment with modern infrastructure, making it an ideal location for villa developments. Its superior connectivity, proximity to renowned educational institutions, and burgeoning employment hubs have made Indore a magnet for homebuyers and investors alike.

“Indore stands out not only for its cleanliness but also for its potential to offer luxurious yet sustainable living options,” says Yashank Wason, Managing Director, Royal Green Realty, “The villa developments here are designed to blend modernity with the natural beauty of the city, catering to a clientele that values both aesthetics and functionality. It’s an aspirational choice that reflects the evolving needs of modern families Indore’s real estate market is on an upward trajectory. With its focus on cleanliness, sustainability, and luxury living, the city is a model for future urban development. Villa projects in Indore promise excellent returns on investment.”

Developers in Indore are focusing on innovative concepts that cater to a diverse buyer demographic. From affordable villas to ultra-luxurious homes equipped with state-of-the-art amenities, the city offers something for everyone. Additionally, the emphasis on green building practices and eco friendly designs aligns with Indore’s reputation as a sustainable city.

The Rising Appeal of Villa Living

The demand for villas in Bahadurgarh and Indore stems from a growing preference for spacious, independent homes that provide privacy, exclusivity, and premium amenities. Both cities offer excellent connectivity, well-developed social infrastructure, and access to healthcare, education, and entertainment facilities.

Villas in these cities are designed to meet the lifestyle aspirations of today’s homebuyers. Features such as private gardens, swimming pools, smart home technologies, and gated community security create an unparalleled living experience. Moreover, developers are incorporating sustainable practices, such as rainwater harvesting and solar energy systems, to appeal to environmentally conscious buyers.

Investment Potential

Apart from the lifestyle benefits, villas in Bahadurgarh and Indore are also attracting attention as lucrative investment options. The consistent appreciation in property values, driven by infrastructure development and increasing demand, makes villas a wise choice for long-term investment.

Yashank Wason shared his insights, adding, “Villa living represents the perfect combination of luxury, space, and sustainability. Real estate in Bahadurgarh and Indore offer strong growth potential. Villas, in particular, are not only desirable for end-users but also for investors who recognize the value of independent properties in emerging markets.”

Future Horizons

As Bahadurgarh and Indore continue to evolve, the demand for villas is expected to rise further. Both cities showcase the perfect blend of modernity and tradition, making them ideal for buyers seeking a superior lifestyle. With visionary developers driving innovation and a growing focus on sustainability, the villa segment in these cities is poised for exponential growth, offering an unmatched living experience for residents and a promising opportunity for investors.

SPR India has launched Sky Tower 1, a 45-storey luxury high-rise in Perambur, Chennai. A part of SPR City, the largest integrated township in the city, this iconic structure comprises 303 premium 2 and 3 BHK apartments that blend world-class amenities with cutting-edge design. The prices start at Rs. 85 lakhs, making Sky Tower 1 one of the most competitively priced luxury developments in the region.

SPR India Launches Sky Tower 1, a Premium 45-Storey High-Rise Residential Tower in Perambur

Each apartment has spacious interiors, modern kitchens, elegantly styled bathrooms, expansive balconies, and large windows flooding the apartments with natural light. Sky Tower 1 is engineered to meet the highest standards of seismic and earthquake resistance, with a robust design optimised to withstand wind forces, ensuring residents safety and comfort. Its standout features include natural ventilation, a green podium with a swimming pool, an array of energy efficiency features, and Vaastu-compliant layouts, offering a harmonious blend of sustainability and well-being.

Talking about the project, Mr. Pankaj Ojha, Chief Customer Officer, said, “SPR India has consistently been at the forefront of high-rise residential innovation in Tamil Nadu. With Sky Tower 1, we have raised the bar once again, and have elevated the concept of urban living by offering unparalleled design, energy efficiency, and premium amenities. With its prime location, superior construction, and exceptional value, Sky Tower 1 is the perfect choice for those seeking a luxurious home and a smart investment. Being part of the expansive SPR City, Sky Tower 1 is poised for long-term growth, with property values projected to rise as the township continues to develop. Residents benefit from Perambur’s excellent connectivity and ongoing infrastructure upgrades, ensuring an ideal blend of urban convenience and serene living.”

Sky Tower 1’s structural design has been peer-reviewed by IIT Madras, ensuring compliance with the highest seismic and earthquake resistance standards. A wind tunnel study by global leader RWDI confirms its ability to withstand wind forces, guaranteeing safety and comfort for residents. The project achieves natural ventilation as the tower’s slender design optimises airflow, reducing reliance on mechanical cooling systems while offering panoramic views of Chennai’s skyline.

Sky Tower 1’s green podium with a swimming pool enhances insulation and mitigating the urban heat island effect, the podium promotes a healthier and energy-efficient environment. The apartments are designed with external openings, balconies, and RCC construction to minimise heat gain. Reflective roof materials and clear glass windows provide ample daylight and improved thermal performance.

Located in Perambur, one of Chennai’s fastest-growing neighborhoods, Sky Tower 1 is strategically positioned to benefit from superior connectivity to major roads and public transport networks. The township houses a CBSE school, a modern hospital, state-of-the-art fitness centers, high-street retail, dining, entertainment options, and a wholesale market for everyday essentials. All these features ensure seamless urban living while offering long-term investment potential in a rapidly developing area.

For more details, please visit: www.sprindia.com.

In todays fast-paced society, where lifestyle-related diseases are on the rise, obesity has emerged as a serious health problem. Obesity is more than simply a cosmetic or physical issue; it is a medical problem that can have a substantial influence on ones entire health. Obese people are more likely to develop a variety of chronic conditions, including diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, and some malignancies. Fortunately, weight reduction surgery, often known as bariatric surgery, provides hope and a solution for people who have struggled to reduce weight using traditional means.

Dr Mathew John

The Impact of Obesity on Health

Obesity is defined as having an excessive amount of body fat, and it is more than a cosmetic concern. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), obesity has more than tripled globally since 1975, and India is not immune to this trend. A sedentary lifestyle, unhealthy eating habits, and a lack of physical activity have contributed to the increasing rates of obesity in the country.

The consequences of obesity extend far beyond weight gain. It puts a tremendous strain on the body, leading to various health complications. Some of the most common conditions associated with obesity include:

1. Type 2 Diabetes: Excess body fat, particularly in the abdominal area, increases the risk of insulin resistance, which can lead to type 2 diabetes.

2. Cardiovascular Diseases: Obesity is closely linked to hypertension (high blood pressure), high cholesterol, and an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes.

3. Joint Problems: Carrying extra weight puts added pressure on the joints, especially the knees and hips. This can lead to osteoarthritis, a painful condition that limits mobility and daily activities.

4. Sleep Apnea: Obese individuals are more likely to suffer from sleep apnea, a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. This can result in poor sleep quality, daytime fatigue, and an increased risk of heart disease.

5. Mental Health: Obesity can take a toll on mental well-being, contributing to low self-esteem, depression, and social isolation. The stigma surrounding obesity often exacerbates these feelings, creating a vicious cycle.

Bariatric Surgery: A Path to Healthier Living

For individuals who have tried and failed to achieve significant weight loss through diet and exercise, bariatric surgery can be a life-changing solution. Bariatric surgery is a weight-loss procedure that alters the digestive system to help reduce food intake or absorption designed to help individuals achieve significant weight loss. Particularly when traditional methods like diet and exercise have proven ineffective.

Benefits of Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric surgery offers more than just weight loss-it can profoundly improve a person’s overall health and quality of life. Some of the most significant benefits include:

1. Sustainable Weight Loss: Bariatric surgery is one of the most effective ways to achieve long-term weight loss. Patients can lose 60% to 80% of their excess weight within the first two years following surgery.

2. Improvement in Comorbidities: Many patients experience a complete resolution or significant improvement in obesity-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and high cholesterol. This reduces the need for medications and lowers the risk of future health complications.

3. Enhanced Mobility: As patients lose weight, they often find that their joint pain decreases, and their mobility improves. This allows them to engage in physical activities that were previously difficult or impossible.

4. Improved Mental Health: The physical transformation that comes with bariatric surgery often leads to an improvement in self-esteem, confidence, and overall mental well-being. Many patients report feeling more energetic and optimistic about their future.

5. Increased Longevity: Studies have shown that bariatric surgery can extend life expectancy by reducing the risk of obesity-related diseases. It offers patients a second chance at living a healthier, more fulfilling life.

Is Bariatric Surgery Right for You

Bariatric surgery is not a quick fix or a cosmetic procedure. It is a serious decision that requires commitment and lifestyle changes. Candidates for bariatric surgery typically have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, along with one or more obesity-related health conditions. It is also suitable for individuals with a BMI of 35 or higher who have not been successful with non-surgical weight loss methods.

Conclusion

Obesity is a complex disease that affects every aspect of an individual’s health and well-being. While weight loss can be challenging, bariatric surgery offers a viable solution for those struggling with severe obesity and related health issues. By addressing the root cause of obesity, bariatric surgery not only helps patients shed excess weight but also improves their overall quality of life, giving them the opportunity to lead healthier, happier lives.

For anyone considering bariatric surgery, it’s essential to consult with a qualified bariatric surgeon to understand the options, risks, and benefits. A healthier future is within reach for those willing to take the first step

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Air Expo Abu Dhabi 2024, a premier aviation event showcasing sustainable and innovative aviation solutions kicked off in Abu Dhabi Dubai (November 19-21). The Middle East and APAC regions stand to benefit significantly from the event, with airlines gaining opportunities to form alliances with foreign carriers to strengthen their aviation ecosystems. Industry leaders shared insights and explored cutting-edge aviation technologies and solutions, emphasizing how strong markets in APAC like India contribute to strengthening the global aviation economy.

(Second from the Right in White Suit) Jaideep Mirchandani Group Chairman Sky One at the Air Expo Abu Dhabi 2024

Jaideep Mirchandani, Group Chairman of Sky One was present at the Expo and discussed how cutting-edge aircraft models, advanced avionics and revolutionary propulsion systems can help reshape the future of air travel. Mr. Mirchandani, a key panellist in the discussion ‘Navigating the Future of Air Cargo: Digitization, E-Commerce and Sustainable Aviation,’ held on the second day of the Expo, also highlighted India’s potential role in critical areas such as sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production.

(Second from the Right in White Suit) Jaideep Mirchandani Chairman of Sky One at the Air Expo Abu Dhabi 2024

Speaking about tech challenges in the air cargo industry Jaideep said, “Air cargo needs a technology disruption to meet the rising demands of the future, especially the last mile delivery. Blockchain technology in air cargo will be the next wave of tech disruption soon. This will also give an additional edge to air cargo already leading in the logistics industry. India is the powerhouse of technology and air cargo businesses should focus on India and its young minds who are tech savvy and constantly creating technologies that would better the business process. I firmly believe that India is the country where this tech disruption will come from.“

Noting the significant growth of India’s air cargo market, driven by a thriving e-commerce sector, Mr. Mirchandani also pointed out the role of collaborations and mergers. He said “I see e-commerce, courier and cargo as separate entities and will always remain that way in the air logistics business. Buzzwords in air cargo are third party logistics (3PL) and last mile delivery, so collaborations and mergers are needed for air cargo businesses to stay ahead of the curve. Without mergers, last mile deliveries would be the toughest for air cargo.“

Recently, Deloitte Indias Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) report also stated that, with India’s abundant feedstock for SAF and significant exposure to Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) exports, the country is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing global demand for SAF.

“The world needs sustainable aviation and Sky One is heavily invested in it. We have planted 150,000 trees in Uganda for our carbon credits. The air cargo industry needs to offset carbon credits that they are committed to. Air cargo businesses have to invest in green firms to secure the future of our planet,” he concludes.