To promote excellence and innovation in infusion therapy, BD India in association with The Infusion Nurses Society (INS), successfully concluded the BD INS Mastermind Quiz 2024 during the 12th Annual INS National Conference 2024. Mastermind Quiz is a national annual quiz event that serves as a platform to recognize the exceptional expertise of nursing professionals, enhance knowledge-sharing, and inspire advancements in infusion practices across India.

Participants at Mastermind Quiz 2024 for Nursing professionals

Mr. Atul Grover, Managing Director, BD India/South Asia, said, “Our Mastermind Quiz 2024 is an annual event that we organize in partnership with INS to bring the focus on the critical role that infusion nurses play in advancing patient care. Our continued collaboration with INS over the years, underscores the shared commitment to improving clinical standards, fostering professional development, and ensuring the highest levels of patient safety. This is aligned with our purpose of working with like-minded partners to advance the world of health.“

Jubilant winners at Mastermind Quiz 2024 for Nursing Professionals

Regional Rounds: Identifying the Brightest Minds Across India
Around 15000+ nurses registered from more than 1000 hospitals across 400+ cities of the country for the BD INS Mastermind Quiz preliminary round. The quiz competition began with rigorous regional rounds among the preliminary round top scorers, held in the North, South Plain, South Coastal East, and West zones of the country. These rounds witnessed enthusiastic participation from leading hospitals, with teams demonstrating their expertise in clinical infusion practices, patient safety and healthcare worker safety practices and technologies.

The winners of the regional rounds were:

• North Zone: Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Delhi

• South Plain Zone: AIG Hospitals, Hyderabad

• South Coastal Zone: Kanchi Kamakoti Child Trust Hospital, Chennai

• East Zone: Medica Super Specialty Hospital, Kolkata

• West Zone: Fortis Hospital Mulund, Mumbai

Grand Finale: A Battle of Excellence

The grand finale, held recently in Yashoda Hospital, Hitech City, Hyderabad during the 12th Annual INS Conference 2024, brought together the best teams from the regional rounds. The event featured four rounds of challenging questions through MCQs, Rapid Fires, Buzzer and Accelerator rounds. After an intense and engaging competition, three out of five teams emerged as the winners of BD INS Mastermind Quiz 2024:

• First Place: Kanchi Kamakoti Child Trust Hospital, Chennai

• Second Place: Medica Super Specialty Hospital, Kolkata

• Third Place: AIG Hospitals, Hyderabad

The 12th Annual INS Pre-conference workshop – Skillathon focused on hands-on skill development on the best practices in IV Therapy. The workshops garnered great praise for their impactful sessions, engagement and enthusiasm from the participants, hospital management, key opinion leaders and nursing leaders.

• The state-of-the-art 150-acre centre will serve as a beacon for integrative health through Ayurveda, Homeopathy, Yoga, Naturopathy, and more

• The centre will offer world-class treatments, from cancer rehabilitation to autoimmune disease care, leveraging nature and integrative practices for holistic recovery

SOUKYA, India’s first NABH-accredited AYUSH hospital and the visionary creation of renowned holistic health specialist Dr. Isaac Mathai, is set to embark on its first global expansion since its inception in 2002. Addressing the growing global demand for integrative medicine, SOUKYA will establish its first international unit in Portugal with an investment of INR 220 Cr. The state-of-the-art residential medical institute, expected to be operational by late 2027, will offer its unique treatment approach combining traditional, time-tested natural systems of medicine such as Ayurveda, Homeopathy, Yoga, Naturopathy, and other complementary therapies for treating various chronic and lifestyle conditions.

Dr. Issac Mathai and Dr. Suja Issac

Spread across 150 acres, the SOUKYA International Holistic Health Centre in Portugal will redefine holistic wellness with 40 exquisitely designed rooms, villas and suites along with a dedicated yoga hall creating a sanctuary where mind, body, and spirit harmoniously align. The centre will feature its own herb and vegetable garden, ensuring the freshest and most potent ingredients for treatments and meals. Designed by Dr. Suja Issac, Co-Founder and Executive Director of SOUKYA the architecture and landscape blends Portuguese and Indian influences. Located just 45 minutes from the Lisbon airport, the centre will be easily accessible for patients across Europe. Equipped to address a wide spectrum of rare and chronic illnesses, including cancer rehabilitation, addiction, lifestyle and metabolic disorders, paediatric developmental challenges, mental health conditions, reproductive and gastrointestinal disorders, and autoimmune diseases, the centre builds on SOUKYAs proven success in treating advanced conditions such as liver cirrhosis, dermatitis, lupus nephritis, lung fibrosis, multiple sclerosis, Crohn’s disease amongst others. This holistic approach promises transformative healing in a serene, nature-immersed environment.

Speaking about the launch, Dr. Isaac Mathai, Founder Chairman & Medical Director, SOUKYA International Holistic Health Center, said, “Over the years, SOUKYA has become synonymous with being the world’s premier integrative health destination, trusted by global dignitaries, industrialists, celebrities, and leaders. As awareness of preventive and integrative healthcare continues to grow, we felt this was the ideal time to establish our first health destination outside India, catering to our American and European clientele. Portugal emerged as the perfect choice, given the government’s commitment to prioritizing health and wellness. This new centre will be an ultra-premium destination, offering world-class treatments for both chronic and lifestyle conditions. With this stepping stone, our vision is to see SOUKYA expand across the globe, sharing India’s rich healthcare heritage with the world over the next 25-30 years.”

Indias AYUSH sector has experienced substantial growth in recent years. As reported by IBEF, the AYUSH services sector is estimated to be valued at $26 billion by 2024, bringing the total industry valuation to over $50 billion. Additionally, the manufacturing segment of the AYUSH industry grew significantly, reaching $18 billion in 2020 and is projected to hit $24 billion by 2024.

“With the growing awareness of integrative medicine, we aim to strategically position SOUKYA in India to cater to high-net-worth individuals within the domestic market and across select Asian countries. Our Portugal centre will serve a significant portion of our existing patient base while also attracting new clientele,” added Dr. Isaac Mathai.

With growing awareness of AYUSH treatment methodology, health and wellness tourism in India is experiencing a remarkable growth, emerging as a major draw for both domestic and international travellers seeking holistic treatment and well-being. According to industry reports, the market potential for wellness tourism in India is substantial and projected to reach $26.55 billion by 2029, highlighting a strong upward trajectory. Launch of SOUKYA in Portugal is just a stepping-stone to take holistic healthcare ideology to many more patients. At SOUKYA, healing transcends mere treatment-it is a transformative journey toward enduring health, vitality, and balance.

About SOUKYA International Holistic Health Centre

Tucked away on 30 acres of lush, organic farmland on the outskirts of Bengaluru, SOUKYA International Holistic Health Centre is not just a destination; it is a specialized institution that treats a wide range of chronic, complex, and life-altering conditions. SOUKYA, Indias first NABH-accredited AYUSH hospital for Ayurveda, Homeopathy, Yoga, and Naturopathy, combines’ world-class care with traditional healing practices. The centre operates under the expert guidance of its Founders, Dr. Suja Issac and Dr. Issac Mathai, globally respected holistic physicians. Dr. Mathai has been instrumental in shaping SOUKYA as a place where personalized, holistic healthcare leads to long-term, sustainable results. The name “SOUKYA,” derived from the Sanskrit word Soukhyam, translates to “well-being,” symbolizing the centre’s commitment to achieving harmony within oneself and with the environment. The centre adopts a multidisciplinary approach combining Ayurveda, Homeopathy, Yoga & Naturopathy, and over 30 Complementary Therapies like Reflexology, Acupressure, Acupuncture and Dietetics, all under one roof offering a well-rounded solution for conditions that conventional medicine alone may struggle to manage. Having successfully treated over 10,000 patients from 100+ countries, SOUKYA has become a global beacon of holistic health, attracting dignitaries, industrialists, celebrities, and global leaders seeking transformative healing.

With significant investments in infrastructure and tourism services, Da Nang and Phu Quoc are becoming two of Vietnams most attractive beach destinations for Indian tourists. Their long stretches of white sandy beaches, world-class resorts, diverse cuisine and a variety of entertainment options have made these two cities ideal holiday spots that cater to the needs of Indian travellers.

The Golden Bridge gracefully curves like a silk ribbon at Ba Na Hills

Da Nang: the top pick for Indian travellers
Da Nang has cemented itself as the top-searched destination for Indian travellers, as reported by Skyscanner India’s travel trend reports. Indian tourists favour destinations with short flight distances, beautiful beaches and relaxing environments – criteria that Da Nang effortlessly fulfils.

In the first nine months of 2024, Da Nang welcomed over 151,000 Indian visitors, accounting for 43% of all Indian arrivals in Vietnam – a 125 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2023.

To accommodate the growing demand, several direct flights from India to Da Nang have been introduced. In October 2024, Ahmedabad-Da Nang was launched with two flights per week, adding to the flow of visitors beyond New Delhi.

Sun World Ba Na Hills of Da Nang, home to the iconic Golden Bridge is one of the main draws for Indian tourists. Major Indian media Luxebook recently called the bridge one of the world’s most iconic bridges. For many Indian families, visiting the Golden Bridge is a dream come true.

“Seeing the Golden Bridge in person has always been a dream for my family,” said Muskan Tiwari from Ahmedabad. Beyond the bridge, Ba Na’s vibrant castles, cool weather and tranquil atmosphere also leave a lasting impression.

The number of Indian visitors to Sun World Ba Na Hills by the end of July 2024 reached 132,000, accounting for nearly 50% of the total number of Indian tourists visiting Viet Nam in the first seven months of the year.

Cuisine is one of the top factors influencing Indian tourists decision to choose a destination also. For Indian travellers, where each community has its own dietary preferences and religious practices – some even bringing their own chefs for the trip. Ba Na Hills boasts a Halal-certified buffet restaurant, allowing Indian visitors to enjoy authentic flavours of their homeland.

Da Nang also has the globally recognised My Khe Beach, the spectacle of Dragon Bridge’s weekend water and fire shows and the untouched natural beauty of Son Tra Peninsula.

Phu Quoc, the Island of Fireworks, leaves a lasting impression on international visitors with two spectacular fireworks shows lighting up its night skies every night

Phu Quoc: a paradise for luxury weddings and MICE
Recently, Indian couples have been showing a strong preference for hosting weddings in Viet Nam, drawn by its stunning beaches, luxurious resorts and high-end hotels at reasonable costs. While Da Nang has long been a familiar destination for Indian tourists, supported by an increasing number of direct flights, Phu Quoc has emerged as a new paradise. The island attracts both mid-range and affluent travellers from South Asia. In fact, billionaire Indian couples frequently choose Phu Quoc as the perfect venue to host their dream weddings.

JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay has successfully outshone a host of global competitors to become the venue of choice for billionaire Rushang Shah’s wedding in 2019 and another grand Indian billionaire wedding in early 2024.

Phu Quoc has been referred as a new MICE destination in Viet Nam. The Sun Paradise Land ecosystem in the south of the island, with exciting attractions such as art shows, nightly fireworks, the world’s longest three-rope cable car, the Kiss Bridge and beachfront resorts at Kem Beach, along with large conference rooms at Sun Signature Gallery and Sun Tropical Ballroom that can accommodate up to 1,000 guests, fully meet the needs of Indian tourists.

Phu Quoc recently unveiled the world-class 18-hole Eschuri Vung Bau Golf Course, offering a breathtaking view of the island’s sunset, adding yet another reason for travellers to visit this tropical haven.

With direct flights from Da Nang to Phu Quoc and the upcoming addition of more direct flights from other cities, the journey to explore Vietnam will become increasingly complete and easier for tourists.

As the New Year approaches, Parimatch is thrilled to introduce an exclusive addition to its gaming lineup. The all-new instant game Fire Boom is here to ignite your gaming passion with explosive action and generous rewards, while the beloved Coin Train gets a festive winter-themed upgrade for the holiday season. Currently, both games are available on the Parimatch platform only.

Parimatch’s Exclusive Gaming Lineup: Fire Boom and Coin Train Holiday Edition

Coin Train Holiday Edition
The beloved instant game Coin Train is ready to celebrate the New Year and Christmas with a cheerful holiday makeover!

Here’s a quick refresher on the game rules. Before the round begins, players place their stakes, with the option to wager up to ₹21,000 per stake. Unlike most instant games, which typically allow up to two simultaneous stakes, Coin Train stands out by allowing PC users to place up to three stakes at once. Mobile players can still enjoy the excitement with up to two simultaneous stakes, ensuring a thrilling experience for everyone.

As the train moves, the excitement builds with the multiplier increasing steadily, potentially reaching 1000x. This means players have the chance to win up to an impressive ₹63 million in a single round!

What makes Coin Train truly unique is its Safe Zone feature. This exclusive addition activates randomly during a round, guaranteeing a risk-free multiplier for a specified period. The Safe Zone duration is displayed on the screen, giving players a moment of security to enjoy multiplier growth. However, beware-once the Safe Zone ends, the train could crash at any moment, even in the very next second! It’s up to you to decide whether to claim your winnings or continue the ride for even bigger rewards.

Looking for a holiday mood boost while chasing big wins Hopping aboard this festive train is just what you need! With its bright red carriages and gifts piled high, it spreads joy as it rolls through a snowy winter wonderland.

Hurry up, Coin Train Holiday Edition is available only until January 15!

Fire Boom Game: Your Spark to Instant Wins
Another exciting addition to the Parimatch lineup is Fire Boom, the exclusive instant game thats sure to boost your mood and your wallet!

In Fire Boom, the journey begins when you place your stake and set off the firework. PC players can enjoy the advantage of placing up to three stakes simultaneously, while mobile users can place up to two. With a maximum stake amount of ₹21,000, the potential rewards are just as high-offering winnings of up to an incredible ₹63 million as the multiplier climbs higher into the sky. The challenge is simple yet thrilling: claim your winnings before the firework explodes.

FireBoom also features the Safe Zone, giving players moments of guaranteed safety where your multiplier increases risk-free. The challenge lies in claiming winnings before the Safe Zone ends or the firework explodes.

With its vibrant energy, dynamic gameplay, and the constant tension of risk versus reward, FireBoom promises an electrifying gaming experience like no other. Are you ready to light the spark and aim for instant wins

Why Parimatch’s New Games Are a Must-Try
Both Fire Boom and Coin Train Holiday Edition bring thrilling gameplay, festive cheer, and huge winning opportunities, making them perfect for the holiday season. With the exclusive Safe Zone feature, multiple options, and the chance to win up to ₹63 million, these games are designed to take your gaming experience to the next level.

Celebrate the New Year with Parimatch-dive into exclusive new games where holiday magic meets generous rewards!

Over the past few days, K-fans have been treated to an absolute spectacle. With brands across the board jumping on the hype train, the excitement for the next season of the iconic Squid Game is at an all-time high. Amidst all the K-drama madness, one brand managed to stand out from the crowd-Knorr. Knorr collaborated with Netflix to launch three limited-edition Squid Game-themed Korean Ramen flavors that dared fans to embrace the drama, spice, mess, and taste, all served piping hot. Blending the show’s global fandom with the rich flavors of Korean cuisine, Knorr celebrates the growing influence of K-culture in India. In Korea, slurping ramen loudly is a joyful expression of respect and love for the dish, and Knorr, in collaboration with Netflix, is breaking taboos by urging Indians to embrace this tradition and launching the Dare to Slurp challenge.

Dare To Slurp

The campaign kicked off with a bang, featuring everyone’s favorite, Orry, indulging in a bowl of ramen in the most chaotic, unrefined way imaginable-slurping, spilling, and making a glorious mess while ruining his ‘I Am Liver’ T-shirt. His untamed eating antics were impossible to ignore, and the fashion police were quick to swoop in. None other than Gen Z’s style icon, Diet Sabya, couldn’t resist calling out this “fashion crime”, telling Orry to “calm down”. But in true Orry fashion, he embraced the roast, reposting Diet Sabya’s story and owning his mess with pride. He didn’t stop there-Orry tagged both Knorr and Netflix, hinting at something bigger. Was this a potential collab, or just a cheeky appeal The internet went wild, eagerly awaiting the next twist.

The excitement didn’t end there. Knorr dropped a high-energy film featuring none other than the legendary bad-man, Gulshan Grover, as the ‘frontman’, and a one-of-a-kind Slurp-cappella, blending Squid Games iconic visuals and signature sounds into an exciting high-stakes slurping challenge bringing an extra dose of dramatic flair to the campaign. The plot thickened when Orry returned with a reel on Instagram, dressed as a pink guard and proudly sporting his and Knorr’s limited-edition “I Am A Slurper” bib. Known for his love of Knorr Korean Ramen, Orry became the ultimate slurper, and he wasn’t about to let it slide. He kicked off a slurp challenge with a Squid Game twist, daring his “minions” to join in on the messy fun. Orry has now dared netizens to “Dare to Slurp” the Knorr Korean Ramen, turning ramen-slurping into the hottest new social media trend.

And wait-just when you thought it couldn’t get any crazier, Uorfi burst onto the Slurp scene as the iconic Young-Hee doll from the series. In a bold twist, she issued a daring challenge, pitting the Young-Hee Paps against the Pink Guard Minions in the ultimate Slurp Challenge. It was a high-stakes showdown: survive the game or face elimination!

Knorr’s campaign is living proof that a mix of humor, drama, and interactive fun can create something as unforgettable as the series it’s celebrating.

As we step into the fourth quarter of the financial year, tax planning takes centre stage for many investors. However, people often view tax saving and wealth growth as two separate investment buckets.

Bajaj Finserv ELSS Tax Saver Fund

What if there was a way to get both benefits in one place ELSS mutual funds give investors an option to bridge this gap, combining the benefit of tax savings under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, 1961 (eligible for Old Regime) and long-term growth potential through equities.

The newest entrant in this space is the Bajaj Finserv ELSS Tax Saver Fund. Launched by Bajaj Finserv Asset Management Limited, Period, this scheme opened for subscription on December 24, 2024. The NFO period will on till January 22, 2025.

This article tells you more about ELSS funds and Bajaj Finserv AMC’s latest scheme.

Why ELSS is your best tax-saving partner

For Indian investors, Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, 1961, has long been an effective way to reduce taxable income and continues to be a popular choice for investors who have opted for the old regime of the Income Tax Act, 1961. Under this section, investments of up to Rs. 1.5 lakh per scheme in various schemes can be deducted from the taxpayer’s taxable income. There are several schemes eligible for this benefit, including:

• Contribution towards PPF.

• Employees Provident Fund (EPF)

• Tax Saver Fixed Deposits.

• Life insurance premiums

• National Savings Certificate

However, these traditional avenues usually prioritise stability and offer low or moderate return potential. ELSS funds, on the other hand, provide market-linked returns while also offering tax benefits. They invest at least 80% of their portfolio in equities. As a result, they offer investors the potential to build wealth over time, though they come with high risk, unlike the more traditional avenues.

What makes the Bajaj Finserv ELSS Tax Saver fund different

The new Bajaj Finserv ELSS Tax Saver Fund combines these benefits with a long-term stock selection process, seeking investments in stocks that show the potential for relatively stable growth over time.

1. Stock selection: Fund managers will analyse companies based on fundamentals like revenue growth, profitability, and industry position to identify businesses that have the potential to offer steady growth over the long term.

2. Diversified portfolio: By spreading investments across industries and sectors, the fund will seek to provide an optimal risk-return balance.

3. Long-term focus: Equity markets can be unpredictable in the short term, but over a longer horizon, quality investments have the potential to yield high returns. ELSS funds encourage disciplined investing by locking in your capital for three years, giving your money time to potentially grow.

4. InQube edge: The fund leverages Bajaj Finserv AMC’s in-house InQuBe philosophy – the Information edge, Quantitative Edge and Behavioural Edge. This approach seeks to combine superior information collection with advanced data processing models and insights from behavioural finance to seek to stay a step ahead of the curve and potentially outperform the market in the long term.

Timing matters

With January almost here, the race to meet tax-saving goals for FY25 is on. Many taxpayers leave their tax-saving decisions for the last minute, often leading to hasty investments. The Bajaj Finserv ELSS Tax Saver Fund offers an opportunity to plan investments in a more structured manner.

By choosing ELSS, you’re not just ticking off a box but also setting the stage for long-term financial growth potential.

How to invest in the Bajaj Finserv ELSS Tax Saver Fund

The NFO period for this scheme is on till January 22, 2025. Investors can purchase units at a face value of Rs. 10 during this period. Investments start at Rs. 500 for Systematic Investment Plan as well as lumpsum. Both Growth and IDCW (Income Distribution cum Capital Withdrawal) options are available.

Once the NFO period ends, the fund will re-open for subscription in a few business days. Investors can then purchase units at the prevailing Net Asset Value (NAV).

You can invest directly with Bajaj Finserv Asset Management Ltd. on www.bajajamc.com or by visiting your nearest branch. You can also invest through Registrar and Transfer Agent KFin Technologies Ltd, both online and offline. Moreover, you can invest through a mutual fund distributor or a registered aggregator.

Here’s how you can get started:

1. Identify how much you need to invest to meet section 80C of the Income Tax Act, 1961, deduction limit. You can also invest more for your long-term goals.

2. Choose between lumpsum and SIP investment.

3. Open an account: Choose whether you want to invest online or offline, through Bajaj Finserv AMC or a third party.

4. Track and review: While your money is locked in for three years, regular reviews of your portfolio’s performance can help you stay aligned with your financial goals.

Mutual Fund investments are subject to market risks, read all scheme related documents carefully.

Smile Train India, the world’s largest cleft focused NGO announces a strategic partnership with Sirat, the country’s largest cleft community for two-years to improve cleft awareness and build community support for cleft affected individuals.

Smile Train and Sirat unite to transform smiles and empower Indias cleft community

With a grant of INR 40 lakhs from Smile Train, this partnership will focus on hosting events to connect with individuals with clefts and strengthen relationships between the cleft community and caregivers, while launching impactful social media campaigns to raise awareness and empowering cleft-affected individuals. Additionally, this collaboration will prioritize providing mental health support to help cleft-affected individuals and families navigate challenges with resilience and expand access to Smile Train supported free and comprehensive cleft care across India, ensuring no one is left behind.

Talking about this partnership launch, Mamta Carroll, Sr. Vice President and Regional Director Asia, Smile Train expressed, “Smile Train has always been dedicated to providing free, high-quality cleft surgery and comprehensive care for children in need. Our partnership with Sirat marks an exciting milestone in expanding our support beyond the medical needs of cleft affected individuals to also address their mental and emotional well-being. This collaboration is expected to significantly enhance the range of care available to cleft-affected individuals and create a brighter and more inclusive future for them.”

Reflecting on the significance of this collaboration, Ashim Garg, Co-founder of Sirat, shared, “We founded ‘Sirat’ with the objective for improving and empowering the lives of individuals with clefts. It is truly gratifying to receive this partnership support from Smile Train to expand Sirat’s reach and impact across the country. This two-year partnership is a significant step, and we are excited about the opportunities it brings to strengthen and grow an inclusive cleft community in India together.”

Sakshi Kothari, Co-founder of Sirat, added, “Our collaboration with Smile Train began with meaningful interactions at Cleft Con India and has since evolved into a transformative journey. This partnership enables us to extend our support to thousands of cleft warriors and their allies through Sirat. By combining Smile Train Indias medical expertise with Sirat’s focus on psychosocial well-being, we are dedicated to redefining cleft care in India-making it more inclusive, accessible, and holistic.”

Smile Train and Sirat’s partnership in India underscores a shared commitment to not only transforming smiles but also transforming lives, paving the way for a stronger, empowered cleft community across India.

About Smile Train India

Smile Train empowers local medical professionals with training, funding, and resources to provide free cleft surgery and comprehensive cleft care to children globally. We advance a sustainable solution and scalable global health model for cleft treatment, drastically improving children’s lives, including their ability to eat, breathe, speak, and ultimately thrive. Since 2000, Smile Train India has supported more than 750,000 free cleft surgeries across India, through a network of 150+ partner hospitals.

To learn more about how Smile Trains India’s sustainable approach, please visit smiletrainindia.org.

About Sirat

Sirat is India’s largest community-driven, not-for-profit organization (www.siratcleftfoundation.in) dedicated to empowering and supporting individuals affected by clefts. Through various initiatives focused on mental health, community engagement, and cleft care, Sirat has become a beacon of hope for thousands of cleft warriors and their families.

“Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing and rightdoing, there is a field. I’ll meet you there.” – Drawing inspiration from Rumi’s timeless words, ComMutiny – The Youth Collective and the vartaLeap Coalition hosted a landmark convening of 150 youth allies from across sectors on December 20th 2024: Beyond Right & Wrong: Youth Leadership is Changing the Game.

Young Climate Champions Celebrated by Intergenerational Allies from Across Sectors

Held at Gandhi Darshan in Delhi, the convening celebrated a national movement of allyship, envisioning a youth-driven future free from judgment, fear, or hierarchy. Mistakes became stepping stones for bold experiments, paving the way for sustainable change. Rooted in the values of the Indian Constitution, it called for reimagining leadership as a flow of daring ideas and micro-change experiments. A space where youth could rise beyond right and wrong to find their voice, take bold action, and shape the future, knowing they will be supported.

The event brought together an inspiring mix of influencers and leaders, including Jayant Chaudhary (Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship & Education, Government of India), Yamini Mishra (Country Director, MacArthur Foundation), and Pragya Vats (Communications Specialist). Participants ranged from civil society organizations like Development Alternatives, WildTales, and vartaLeap Coalition, to philanthropic leaders like Rohini Nilekani Philanthropy and USAID, media voices like Citizen Matters and CSR Journal, and academic institutions such as Azim Premji University and ISDM. Youth leaders from Assam, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, and beyond also took center stage. Their dialogues tackled pressing questions on youth engagement, ranging from building a strong case for youth-centric development to reimagining success metrics in an increasingly corporatized world.

In reference to the unemployment situation in the country Jayant Chaudhary, Minister of State Skill Development and Entrepreneurship & MOS Education, GOI said, “Skilling cannot work without placements. Corporates need to step up to create more job opportunities in alignment with the needs of young people and offer wages, commensurate with market growth.”

Ashraf Patel, Co-Founder of Pravah, ComMutiny – The Youth Collective, and the vartaLeap Coalition, added, “Skilling programs must broaden their horizons to include tough-to-define professions like music, art, theater, and other creative fields. These fields resonate with young people, offering alternative career and livelihood opportunities while enabling them to discover themselves and social issues in meaningful ways. Such explorations offer constructive spaces for navigating identity and ideological differences, moving beyond right and wrong polarities, and building a social fabric on the foundation of love and learning.”

The minister concluded the dialogue on a hopeful note, saying, “This coalition has consistently highlighted the critical need for active citizenship. I’m eager to see how these Jagrik journeys unfold and contribute to shaping the future!”

Key Highlights

• Grand Finale to a Climate Action Championship: Top 6 of 120+ intrapreneur teams, from across the country, pitched bold ideas, competing for grants to amplify their climate positive narratives. Kajal Kanaujia and Pankaj Ghute from We the Yuva, Gujarat; Md. Sadique Jahan and Alomani Tigga from Karra Society for Rural Action, Jharkhand; and Madhur Bhardwaj and Archana Sangulle from SHEDO, Madhya Pradesh; earned second runner up, first runner up and champion titles, respectively.

• Wicked Challenges of Youth Engagement: Allies explored wicked challenges, generating actionable insights to strengthen and improve youth engagement practices.

• Commitment to Change: Toward shaping a future where youth leadership is the norm, influencers pledged to mentor young leaders and help turn their social change visions into impactful realities.

• Exchange of Experiences: Seasoned leaders exchanged their youth leadership stories and insights through dialogues, roundtables, an interactive gallery and an experience corner.

Leading up to this event, 12 regional dialogues were organized by grassroots leaders, aggregating the voices of over 600 allies who committed to supporting and promoting the youth leadership. Together, these efforts exemplify how allies, moving from intention to action, can collectively redefine youth leadership and inspire systemic change.

If you see yourself as a youth ally, this is your invitation to rethink your approach to youth engagement. Leaders aren’t born, they emerge from the fields of action. Join this movement and co-create this youth-centric field of change… beyond right and wrong!

About ComMutiny – The Youth Collective and the vartaLeap Coalition

ComMutiny – The Youth Collective is a community of practice that aggregates, accelerates and amplifies youth empowerment spaces. Through collaborative programming, public initiatives, and award-winning media products, ComMutiny has nurtured a nationwide ecosystem for youth leadership.

Recognizing the need to mainstream youth-centric development systemically and at scale, ComMutiny incubated vartaLeap in 2019 as a cross-sectoral coalition working toward the shared vision of ‘Every Youth a Jagrik, Every Space Nurturing Jagriks.’ (Jagrik is a self-awakened, active citizen) Together, this ecosystem of 250+ organizations has supported the learning and leadership of over 1 million young people and engaged 45.5 million individuals through campaigns.

In an effort to foster greater awareness about healthy eating habits and nutrition, over 250 students and their parents participated in an interactive and educational event, Achchi Bhookh Quiz, organized in Mumbai. The third edition of the event, hosted by Slurrp in association with Lupin Aptivate, featured a lively quiz competition, focused on enhancing knowledge about food, nutrition, and balanced diets among families. After rigorous nationwide regional rounds across cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chandigarh, and more, the epic journey culminated with the top 12 parent-child duos facing off in the Semi-Finals and Finals held in Mumbai.

Parent child duo from various cities across India in the finale of Aptivate Achchi Bhook Quiz

The finale, spearheaded by prominent educators and nutrition experts, along with celebrity chef Amrita Raichand aimed to bridge the gap in food literacy and address misconceptions about diet and health. Held for children from Classes 1 to 6 (aged 5 to 11), the event was designed to encourage intergenerational learning, with the program highlighting key aspects of healthy living, including the importance of eating seasonal fruits and vegetables, reducing processed food intake, and the benefits of regular exercise.

The contenders gathered from across India for the national semi-finals and final, with the prizes up for grabs including mountain bikes, a laptop, a tablet PC, and a smartwatch. One of the standout features of the event was the execution of 100 nutrition workshops for families throughout the country. The flagship quiz competition, which saw active participation from students and parents as teams, attracted over 22,000 pan-India online registrations across different cities. Over 100 teams each from 10 locations were selected for an absorbing Cluster Finals round that saw 10 pairs of finalists advancing to the Grand Finale, along with 2 lucky teams with the highest points joining the top 10 finalists.

The finale saw a total of 12 child-parent pairs ready to ace the quiz for the top spots. The questions covered topics such as the nutritional value of different food items, myths about diets, and tips for planning balanced meals along with pop-culture and general knowledge. With 12 teams split into 2 semi-finals, the top 3 from both rounds competed to be crowned the National Champion.

Milan Bijoy, a student of Dr. Pillai Global Academy, New Panvel topped the quiz along with his father Bijoy Rajendrababu, and took home a Hybrid Bicycle, Laptop, Trophy and Certificate, while Samkit Gupta of St. Soldier’s School, Panchkula took home a Hybrid Bicycle, Samsung Tablet, Trophy and Certificate as the first runners-up, partnering his mother, Anjali Jain. Avyukt Doshi from Childrens Academy, Ashok Nagar, Mumbai, and his mother Sejal Doshi, were crowned the second runners-up and awarded a Hybrid Bicycle, Smartwatch, Trophy and Certificate.

Commenting on the finale, Avinash Mudaliar, Co-founder and CEO, Slurrp and HT Labs, said, “At Slurrp, we believe that building a strong foundation of nutrition knowledge starts at home and extends to the community. Initiatives like this not only empower children and their parents to make informed food choices but also foster a culture of mindful eating and healthy living. Its inspiring to see parents and children coming together to learn, share, and commit to better health. In our mission to engage and making food education accessible, we strive to creating new avenues for learning and knowledge.”

Anil V Kaushal, Business Head, LupinLife, added, “This quiz celebrates the values of healthy eating, curiosity, and the joy of learning. The enthusiastic response from participants has been truly inspiring, reflecting its positive impact on young minds and fostering stronger family connections. It’s been heartening to see the impact of knowledge building among the future stars of the country.”

Experts also addressed audience queries, creating an engaging and informative experience for all attendees. The program concluded with students taking a pledge to adopt healthier lifestyles and help spread awareness within their communities. With the support of LupinLife, the quiz was an engaging experience and highlighted the importance of such initiatives in tackling the rising prevalence of lifestyle-related health issues among younger generations.

About Slurrp
Slurrp is an all-in-one recipe aggregator designed to make cooking and meal planning easier for everyone. With a nationwide community of 7+ lakh home chefs and foodies, it helps you discover calorie-counted recipes that match their diet choices, fitness goals, and taste preferences, catering to all cooking skill levels-from beginners to experts. Offering a wide range of recipes across cuisines and meal types, Slurrp ensures variety and flexibility in meal preparation. Further, the site also offers a variety of food industry insights, including trends, special features and more.

The growth of luxury real estate in NCR has witnessed a remarkable evolution driven by several key factors reshaping the markets landscape. As the economy continues to grow, rising incomes have significantly expanded the purchasing power of individuals and families, enabling them to opt for high-end residences that offer a premium lifestyle. Along with higher disposable incomes, there is a marked shift in preferences towards upscale living, as more homebuyers seek spacious, modern, well-connected, high-end homes. The desire for a better quality of life has become a key driver for the growing demand for luxury housing.

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In addition, location is at the heart of buyers’ choice, and it has become one of the first factors in property valuation in the high-end segment. Buyers now prefer homes with an elevated standard of living that are strategically located and offer easy access to major city hubs. According to PropEquity, NCR has seen an increase of 137% in housing prices of new residential projects, driven by strong homeownership sentiments, increasing infrastructure development, and the rising cost of land and construction. The report highlighted Ghaziabad contributing 139% between 2019 and September 2024. The area saw an increase of 14% on the housing supply front, gaining prominence as a sought-after destination for luxury housing.

Another report, “Market Beat Delhi NCR Residential Q3 2024“, by Cushman and Wakefield, highlighted how new project launches across Delhi-NCR surged by 121% in the first nine months of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. Among these flourishing submarkets, Siddharth Vihar stands out as a preferred choice for luxury living, attracting high-end buyers with its enhanced infrastructure, excellent connectivity, and growing livability quotient. Situated close to NH-24 and the Delhi-Meerut Expressway, Siddharth Vihar offers seamless connectivity to key areas of Delhi and Noida, making it an ideal destination for professionals and families who need easy access to major commercial and business hubs. Key projects like the FNG Expressway, RRTS, and expanded metro connectivity with Noida and Delhi have drastically improved the city’s accessibility to major key locations.

Developers play a major role in shaping the growth and development of any real estate market, and their contributions are especially significant in emerging regions. In Ghaziabad, developers’ efforts in launching thoughtfully planned and high-quality developments have attracted discerning and affluent clientele, positioning the region as a desirable destination for luxury living. Among the notable developers, Prateek Group stands as a prime example, which has significantly impacted the region’s growth, particularly in Siddharth Vihar. The group has played a key role in transforming the locality into a thriving hub for premium living. Building on this success, the group is coming up with premium residences in Siddharth Vihar, setting new standards for upscale residential developments in the region. The project, featuring timeless Colonial and European architecture, aims to create a space that feels like stepping into a fantasy world, offering a truly enchanting environment to call home.

As Ghaziabad firmly positions itself as a key market for luxury living in the NCR, the region continues to become a prime destination for homebuyers seeking a blend of luxury, convenience, and modern amenities. The city’s competitive pricing positions it as a key market for real estate investors, developers, and luxury homebuyers.