Expanding Boundaries In Medical Education With HSDC’s Master Trainers Program

The Healthcare Simulation Development Centre (HSDC), in collaboration with MediSim VR, a leader in healthcare simulation technology, proudly announces the successful completion of its groundbreaking Master Trainers programme (MTP). This first-of-its-kind initiative integrates simulation-based medical education with virtual reality and hybrid simulation modalities, setting new standards in healthcare professional training.

The program is led by renowned experts Dr. Dinker Pai, Professor of Surgery and Director of the Medical Simulation Centre at Mahatma Gandhi Medical College and Research Centre, Puducherry, and Dr. Mahalakshmi VN, Dean of Health Professions Education and Professor of Pediatric Surgery at Aarupadai Veedu Medical College & Hospital, the program provided participants with an unparalleled learning experience.

The MTP’s innovative curriculum seamlessly integrates VR and hybrid modalities in skill training. Participants gained hands-on experience applying Peyton's Learning Models through VR simulations, enhancing their practical medical education techniques. The program also covered the development of Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCE) and student performance evaluation using virtual environments. Over XX healthcare professionals, educators, and practitioners benefited from this transformative program, acquiring skills to revolutionize their teaching and assessment methods.

Dr. Dinker Pai stated, "As educators, it is our responsibility to equip the next generation of healthcare professionals with the most advanced and effective learning tools. The Master Trainers Programme offers just that, with its blend of virtual and hybrid simulations. I strongly advise healthcare professionals to explore these innovative methods through hands-on experiences and training, as they are key to improving clinical skills education and ultimately enhancing patient care outcomes."

Dr. Adith Chinnaswami, Co-founder of MediSim VR, added, "This program marks a significant milestone in the future of medical education. By integrating cutting-edge VR simulations with traditional training methods, we are providing healthcare professionals with a dynamic learning platform that truly enhances their teaching and assessment capabilities. I look forward to witnessing all healthcare educators embrace these tools for training and evaluating their students."

About HSDC: The Healthcare Skill Development Council (HSDC) is dedicated to advancing healthcare education by promoting the development of essential skills through innovative training programs. Focusing on high-quality simulation-based learning, HSDC equips healthcare professionals with practical expertise for enhanced clinical performance. Their initiatives aim to bridge the skill gap in the healthcare sector, ensuring better patient care outcomes.

About MediSim VR: MediSim VR is a leading healthcare simulation company that offers patented technology designed to meet the unique needs of healthcare training worldwide. MediSim VR's AI-powered competency assessment tools and virtual training environments improve the performance of medical students, nursing students, doctors, and healthcare professionals by offering unparalleled immersive experiences that redefine medical education.

Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Inaugurates Lyfius Pharma’s Flagship Penicillin-G Facility At Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh

·         Under the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, Lyfius Pharma Private Limited (Lyfius Pharma) invested ?2,500 crores in Penicillin-G (Pen-G) facility

·         Commercial production to ramp up in FY25, enhancing domestic production of critical Key Starting Materials (KSMs), Drug Intermediates (DIs), and Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs)

Lyfius Pharma proudly announces the inauguration of its state-of-the-art Pen-G manufacturing facility, at Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh. With an annual production capacity of 15,000 metric tonnes (MT), the facility was virtually inaugurated by Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri. Narendra Modi in the presence of Shri. Jagat Prakash Nadda (Union Minister of Chemicals & Fertilizers, Health & Family Welfare), Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya (Union Minister of Labour & Employment, Youth Affairs & Sports), Smt. Anupriya Patel (Union MoS Chemicals & Fertilizers, Health & Family Welfare), Shri. Prataprao Jadhav (Union MoS (IC) Ayush, MoS Health & Family Welfare) and Sushri Shobha Karandlaje (Union MoS Labour & Employment, Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises).

This facility represents a strategic investment of ?2,500 crores, under the Government of India’s PLI Scheme, and exemplifies how private sector participation can significantly contribute to national growth, drive innovation, and enhance healthcare security. The PLI scheme for the pharmaceutical sector aims to strengthen domestic manufacturing capabilities in critical KSMs, DIs, and APIs.

Commenting on the occasion, Mr. M.V. Rama Krishna, Director Lyfius Pharma, said “The launch of our Pen-G facility is a significant milestone in our efforts to enhance local production and reduce import dependency for critical pharmaceutical ingredients. This investment underscores our commitment to support the government’s vision of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’, establishing India as a global pharmaceutical manufacturing hub.”

About Lyfius Pharma Private Limited

Lyfius Pharma is engaged in the manufacturing of Penicillin-G. Its state-of-art facility situated at Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh, approved under the PLI (Production Linked Incentive) scheme, is dedicated towards ensuring self-sufficiency in the production of Penicillin-G, catering to both the domestic and international markets. This is one of the largest fermentation-based antibiotic intermediates plant in India with cutting edge technology including high-volume fermenters and automated starch & glucose plant.

INTRO Technology, SWDC Ink MoU For Contracting And Construction At Kemet Data Center

INTRO Technology, the technology arm of INTRO Holding and the parent company of Advansys and Forte Cloud, a leader in technological solutions and digital transformation, announced inking a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Sterling and Wilson Data Center (SWDC), the global leader in constructing data centers and other engineering projects. The MoU seeks to entrust SWDC with the contracting, construction, and execution of the Kemet Data Center project, located in the Suez Canal Economic Zone and developed by INTRO Technology. This partnership marks a significant step in advancing Egypt’s digital infrastructure and reinforces the country’s role as a major player in the data center and cloud services industry.

Under this agreement, SWDC will serve as the EPC contractor for the data center. The company will oversee the entire project, managing key aspects such as design, planning, budgeting, and timeline management. SWDC is committed to ensuring the successful achievement of critical milestones, including Integrated System Testing and Accreditation (ISAT). This will further ensure the securement of accredited tier certification from a reputed global institution. SWDC will apply the highest standards of Environmental, Health & Safety procedures as per its policy and offer a comprehensive Operations & Maintenance (O&M) services and technical support for a period ranging from three to five years.

Commenting on the MoU, Hatem Suliman, Vice Chairman and Group CEO of INTRO Holding, stated: “We are excited to embark on this partnership with SWDC to build Kemet Data Center, according to the best global practices, providing advanced technological infrastructure, leveraging from SWDC’s extensive experience in building data centers and their commitment to top-quality standards. This partnership will enable us to offer digital solutions and services that meet the evolving needs of customers in the Middle East and Africa, aligning with Egypt’s digital transformation goals and its strategic vision for 2030.”

On his part, Prasanna Sarambale, CEO of Sterling and Wilson Data Center said, “We are proud of this strategic partnership with INTRO Technology, which reflects our shared commitment to supporting the digital sector and data centers in Egypt by providing advanced and sustainable digital infrastructure. Through this collaboration, we will build Kemet Data Center according to the highest international standards, thereby meeting the stringent requirements of international customers and contributing to Egypt’s Vision 2030. We are proud to be a part of Egypt’s evolving digital sector and cloud services, which makes Egypt an attractive destination for global investments.”

Kemet Data Center is set to meet the growing demand for cloud services, Internet of Things (IoT), and digital transformation across the Middle East and Africa. It will offer secure, cost-effective, and scalable data storage solutions. Additionally, the center will benefit from Egypt’s strategic location, which hosts to a significant portion of the region’s undersea cables.

PNB Announces Financial Results For The Q2 & HY1 FY’25

Punjab National Bank, nation’s leading public sector bank, has announced its Financial Results for the Q2 & HY1 FY’25.

The Bank’s Gross Global Business surpassed Rs 25 Lakh Crore and Return on Assets (RoA) for Quarter crossed 1% Mark.

Net Profit increased Y-o-Y by 145% to Rs 4,303 Crore in Q2 FY’25 as against Rs 1,756 Crore in Q2 FY’24. Return on Assets (RoA) improved to 1.02% in Q2 FY’25 from 0.46% in Q2 FY’24. Return on Equity (RoE) improved to 19.91% in Q2 FY’25 from 10.15% in Q2 FY’24. Net Interest Income (NII) increased to Rs 10,517 Crore in Q2 FY’25 from Rs 9,923 Crore in Q2 FY’24 showing an improvement of 5.99% on Y-o-Y basis. Global Net Interest Margin (NIM) stands at 2.99% in HY1FY’25 and 2.92% in Q2 FY’25. Operating Profit increased Y-o-Y by 10.25% to Rs 6,853 Crore in Q2 FY’25 as against Rs 6,216 Crore in Q2 FY’24.

GNPA ratio improved by 248 bps on Y-o-Y basis to 4.48% as on September’24 from 6.96% as on September’23. NNPA ratio improved by 101 bps on Y-o-Y basis to 0.46% as on September’24 from 1.47% as on September’23. Provision Coverage Ratio (including TWO) improved by 476 bps on Y-o-Y basis to 96.67% as on September’24 from 91.91% as on September’23. Provision Coverage Ratio (Excluding TWO) improved by 1018 bps on Y-o-Y basis to 90.18% as on September’24 from 80.00% as on September’23. Credit Cost improved by 123 bps on Y-o-Y basis to 0.08% in Q2 FY’25 from 1.31% in Q2 FY’24.

Global Business grew by 11.93% on Y-o-Y basis to Rs 25,20,246 Crore as on September’24 from Rs 22,51,631 Crore as on September’23. Global Deposits registered a growth of 11.33% on Y-o-Y basis to Rs 14,58,342 Crore as on September’24 from Rs 13,09,910 Crore as on September’23. Global Advances increased by 12.76% on Y-o-Y basis to Rs 10,61,904 Crore as on September’24 from Rs 9,41,721 Crore as on September’23. RAM Advances grew by 12.03% on Y-o-Y basis to Rs 5,64,049 Crore as on September’24 from Rs 5,03,489 Crore as on September’23. CD Ratio improved to 72.82% as on September’24 as against 71.89% in September’23.

The Business Performance in Key Parameters such as Deposits include Savings Deposits increased to Rs 4,88,635 Crore registering a Y-o-Y growth of 3.7%. Current Deposits increased to Rs 68,104 Crore registering a Y-o-Y growth of 1.6%. CASA Deposits increased to Rs 5,56,739 Crore recording a Y-o-Y growth of 3.4%. CASA Share of the bank stands at 39.31% as on September’24. Total Term Deposit witnessed a growth of 16.8% on Y-o-Y basis to Rs 9,01,603 Crore as on September’24.

In terms of Advances, Total Retail credit increased by 14.6% Y-o-Y to Rs 2,50,149 Crore as on September’24. The bank grew under Core Retail Advances recording a Y-o-Y growth of 19.0%. Within Core Retail Credit - Housing Loan grew by 19.5% Y-o-Y to Rs 1,09,948 Crore and Vehicle loan posted a growth of 25.0% Y-o-Y to reach Rs 22,543 Crore. Agriculture Advances grew by 11.1% on Y-o-Y basis to Rs 1,62,829 Crore. MSME Advances increased Y-o-Y by 8.9% to Rs 1,51,071 Crore.

In terms of Asset Quality, Gross Non-Performing Assets (GNPA) declined by Rs 17,981 Crore to Rs 47,582 Crore as on September’24 from Rs 65,563 Crore as on September’23. Net Non-Performing Assets (NNPA) declined by Rs 8,440 Crore to Rs 4,674 Crore as on September’24 from Rs 13,114 Crore as on September’23.

 In terms of Profitability, Net Profit for HY1FY’25 was at Rs 7,555 Crore recording growth of 150.8% on YoY basis. Operating Profit for HY1FY’25 was at Rs 13,434 Crore recording growth of 10.3% on YoY basis. Net Interest Income for HY1FY’25 was at Rs 20,993 Crore recording growth of 8.1% on YoY basis. Total Income for Q2 FY’25 was at Rs 34,447 Crore and Rs 66,613 Crore for HY1FY’25 recording growth of 17.2% and 14.9%, respectively on YoY basis. Total Interest Income for Q2 FY’25 was at Rs 29,875 Crore and Rs 58,431 Crore for HY1FY’25 recording growth of 13.4% and 13.5%, respectively on YoY basis. Non-interest income for Q2 FY’25 was at Rs 4,572 Crore and Rs 8,182 Crore for HY1FY’25 recording growth of 51.0% and 26.6%, respectively on YoY basis. Total Interest Expenses for Q2 FY’25 was at Rs 19,358 Crore and Rs 37,439 Crore for HY1FY’25, increased by 17.8% and 16.7%, respectively on YoY basis. Operating Expenses for Q2 FY’25 was at Rs 8,235 Crore and Rs 15,740 Crore for HY1FY’25, increased by 22.3% and 14.8%, respectively on YoY basis.

 Core Capital of Rs 5,000 Crore was raised through QIP. 16.6 times subscription - Green Shoe (Rs 2,500 Crore). 68% of the bids received from Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs), 17% from Mutual Funds (MFs) and 8% from Insurance Co. Number of Shares increased by 48.19 Crores from 1101.10 Crores to 1149.29 Crores. GoI Shareholding remains above 70%. CET/Tier – 1/CRAR increased by ~65 bps.

In terms of Capital Adequacy, CRAR increased to 16.36% as on September’24 from 15.09% as on September’23 registering an improvement of 127 bps. Tier-I Capital was at 13.63% (CET-1 improved to 11.59% as on September’24 from 10.23% as on September’23 and AT-1 improved to 2.04% as on September’24 from 1.79% as on September’23) and Tier-II at 2.73% as on September’24.

In terms of Efficiency/Productivity Ratio, Global Yield on Advances was at 8.31% in Q2FY’25 and 8.32% in HY1 FY’25 as compared to 8.15% in Q2FY’24 and 8.10% in HY1FY’24. Global Cost of Deposits increased YoY by 32 bps to 5.18% in Q2FY’25 and 35 bps to 5.14% for HY1FY’25.Yield on Investment improved YoY by 16 bps to 7.03% in Q2FY’25 and 25 bps to 7.04% for HY1FY’25. Return on Assets (RoA) improved to 0.92% in HY1FY’25 from 0.40% in HY1FY’24. Return on Equity (RoE) improved to 18.20% in HY1FY’25 from 8.82% in HY1FY’24. Business per employee improved to Rs 25.26 Crore as on September’24 from Rs 22.65 Crore as on September’23. Business per branch improved to Rs 240.72 Crore as on September’24 from Rs 217.65 Crore as on September’23. Net profit per employee improved to Rs 17.63 lakh in Q2FY’25 from Rs 7.20 lakh in Q2FY’24. Net profit per branch improved to Rs 168.03 lakh in Q2FY’25 from Rs 69.21 lakh in Q2FY’24.

In terms of Priority Sector Achievement, Priority Sector Advances exceeded the National Goal of 40% and stands at 41.10% of ANBC. Agriculture advances exceeded the National Goal of 18% and stands at18.58% of ANBC. Credit to Small & Marginal Farmers exceeded the National Goal of 10% and stands at 10.36% of ANBC. Credit to Weaker Sections surpassed the National Goal of 12% and stands at 13.89% of ANBC Credit to Micro Enterprises surpassed the National Goal of 7.50% and stands at 8.15% of ANBC.

In terms of Financial Inclusion, PMJDY accounts increased to 5.26 Crore as on September’24 from 4.79 Crore as on September’23. Enrollments under PMJJBY, PMSBY & APY as on September’24

In terms of Bank’s Digital Progress and Initiatives: Number of PNB One Activated users increased to 200 Lakh as on 30.09.2024 from 153 Lakh as on 30.09.2023 registering a growth of 30.7% on Y-o-Y basis. Number of WhatsApp Banking users increased to 43.5 Lakh as on 30.09.2024 from 27.4 Lakh as on 30.09.2023 registering a growth of 58.7% on Y-o-Y basis. Lending through Digital Journeys crossed In terms of Bank’s Digital Progress and Initiatives: Number of PNB One Activated users increased to 200 Lakh as on 30.09.2024 from 153 Lakh as on 30.09.2023 registering a growth of 30.7% on Y-o-Y basis. Number of WhatsApp Banking users increased to 43.5 Lakh as on 30.09.2024 from 27.4 Lakh as on 30.09.2023 registering a growth of 58.7% on Y-o-Y basis. Lending through Digital Journeys crossed ?17,500+ Crore. PNB One Biz (Corporate M-Banking App) launched & 12000+ customers onboarded. Key Initiatives include Disbursement of Loan under e-PM Vishwakarma through CBDC, PNB Loyalty Rewards Program for PNB One app Users, and Download of PPF/SSA Statement through PNB One.

The Bank also received numerous awards and accolades in the quarter including Rajbhasha Kirti Puruskar for 2023-24, by Ministry of Home Affairs, GOI [1st Prize for PNB Pratibha Magazine & 2nd Prize – Overall], Global Fintech Awards 2024 - 1st prize in category of Green Banking initiative of the Year for its PNB One onboarding through Aadhaar by Payment Council of India, NPCI and Fintech Convergence Council (FCC), Recognition for contribution to ambitious 200 GW Energy generation from renewable sources - 3rd Highest Achiever amongst PSBs for maximum loans disbursed to renewable energy sector by Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Green Ribbon Champions award - Bank’s green initiatives under project PALASH by News18. The bank also received Award of excellence for outstanding performance - 2nd  Best Performing Bank under RAPID campaign under Agriculture Infrastructure fund by Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer Welfare, Best CFO of India – 2024- Shri Dilip Kumar Jain awarded as the “Best CFO of India – Bank (Large Cap Category)” for the year 2024 by Dalal Street Investment Journal, and 2nd ICC Emerging Asia Banking Conclave & Awards, by Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) - Best performance on Asset Quality & Profitability.

As on 30th September 2024, the Bank has 10,159 domestic branches and 2 International Branches. Out of total no. of branches, Bank has 63.31% branches in Rural & Semi-Urban areas.Rs 17,500+ Crore. PNB One Biz (Corporate M-Banking App) launched & 12000+ customers onboarded. Key Initiatives include Disbursement of Loan under e-PM Vishwakarma through CBDC, PNB Loyalty Rewards Program for PNB One app Users, and Download of PPF/SSA Statement through PNB One.

The Bank also received numerous awards and accolades in the quarter including Rajbhasha Kirti Puruskar for 2023-24, by Ministry of Home Affairs, GOI [1st Prize for PNB Pratibha Magazine & 2nd Prize – Overall], Global Fintech Awards 2024 - 1st prize in category of Green Banking initiative of the Year for its PNB One onboarding through Aadhaar by Payment Council of India, NPCI and Fintech Convergence Council (FCC), Recognition for contribution to ambitious 200 GW Energy generation from renewable sources - 3rd Highest Achiever amongst PSBs for maximum loans disbursed to renewable energy sector by Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Green Ribbon Champions award - Bank’s green initiatives under project PALASH by News18. The bank also received Award of excellence for outstanding performance - 2nd  Best Performing Bank under RAPID campaign under Agriculture Infrastructure fund by Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer Welfare, Best CFO of India – 2024- Shri Dilip Kumar Jain awarded as the “Best CFO of India – Bank (Large Cap Category)” for the year 2024 by Dalal Street Investment Journal, and 2nd ICC Emerging Asia Banking Conclave & Awards, by Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) - Best performance on Asset Quality & Profitability.

As on 30th September 2024, the Bank has 10,159 domestic branches and 2 International Branches. Out of total no. of branches, Bank has 63.31% branches in Rural & Semi-Urban areas.

The distribution of branches is as under: The bank also has 12,040 ATMs and 33,010 BCs as part of its distribution network making the total number of 55,209 touch points as on 30.09.2024.

Indulge in Festive Treats Without Guilt

With the festive season fast approaching, sweet indulgence is a given. However, for those with diabetes or managing their diabetes, it can feel like a challenge. But here's the good news: you don’t have to give up dessert. It’s about making mindful choices—picking better options and exploring new diabetes-friendly ingredients. By doing so, you keep your blood sugar levels in check and discover a world of healthier, delicious cuisines to enjoy.

Managing Diabetes: It’s Not Just

It's not just sugar intake that impacts your blood sugar levels. It’s important to manage your overall carbohydrate intake as well. Carbohydrates, including sugars, complex carbs, and fiber can significantly affect blood sugar levels. Desserts often contain high levels of simple sugars such as dextrose, fructose, and glucose, which can cause blood sugar spikes. However, there’s more to consider than just avoiding sugar. While sugar substitutes may reduce calories and carbs, they are likely to disrupt healthy gut bacteria, which play a role in hunger and blood sugar regulation.[i]

Eat Your Way to Better Health

Understanding glycaemic index (GI) of foods helps with your food choices. The GI index is a scoring system for foods that tells you how much a food will spike your sugar level. So, the lower the GI index, the healthier the food. Examples of foods with a high GI index that you should eat occasionally and in moderation are simple carbs like ice creams, chocolates, refined flours, sweets etc. These major sources of glucose can do the most harm to your sugar balance.[ii]

“Managing diabetes isn't about depriving yourself—it's about making smart, informed choices,” says Dr. Irfan Shaikh, Associate Medical Director, Abbott’s Nutrition business. He continues “The key to managing blood sugar is finding the right nutrient balance that lowers the glycemic index (GI) of your meals.[iii] By thoughtfully combining ingredients in the right proportions, you can control the GI of your meals and manage your glucose levels more effectively[iv].”

It’s good to include plenty of high fibre (bajra, jowar and raagi), whole-wheat bread, fruits, vegetables and whole legumes (daals). These are must-haves for diabetics, as they balance out your simple carbohydrate intake and help you maintain a normal blood sugar level.[v][vi]

Another highly effective approach to managing carbohydrate intake while still enjoying your favourite platters is through Diabetes-Specific Nutrition (DSN). They are tailored to provide balanced nutrition for individuals with diabetes, helping to control post-meal blood sugar spikes while keeping you energized.

Prof (Dr) L. SREENIVASAMURTHY, Senior Consultant Physician & Diabetologist, Lifecare hospital and Research Centre, Bangalore, opines, “Good nutrition is significant to managing diabetes. Diabetes-specific nutrition (DSN) helps regulate blood sugar and provides essential nutrients at times, lacking in daily meals. Incorporating specialized nutrition drinks can fill critical gaps, ensuring sustained energy and better post-meal glucose control, allowing you to enjoy the festivities without worrying about blood sugar spikes.”

How DSN Helps: Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth Smartly

Diabetes-Specific Nutrition offers a way for diabetics to enjoy sweets without the guilt. DSN products are formulated to be low in glycemic impact, making them ideal for replacing high-carb, sugar-laden desserts. Here are some tips for incorporating DSN and other diabetes-friendly ingredients into your festive treats:

DSN shakes: Instead of sugary milkshakes or smoothies, use a DSN shake mix as a base and blend in diabetes-friendly fruits like berries or figs

Sugar substitutes: Swap out refined sugar for alternatives like artifical sweeteners in moderate amounts

Homemade sweets: When making traditional sweets, replace high-carb ingredients with DSN powder or low-GI flours such as almond or oat flour

Low-GI foods: Replace high-GI foods like basmati rice with brown rice and swap out regular wheat chapati for options like ragi, bajra or jowar bhakri to keep your meals diabetes-friendly[vii]

Delicious, Diabetes-Friendly Dessert Ideas

Transforming popular festive desserts into diabetes-friendly versions is easier than you think. By incorporating Diabetes-Specific Nutrition (DSN) products, such as Ensure Diabetes Care, and low-glycemic ingredients, you can keep the festive spirit alive without affecting your blood sugar control:

Gajar Halwa: Gently simmer grated carrots in milk infused with fragrant cardamom and roasted almonds. Cook until the liquid evaporates, leaving behind a rich, creamy mixture. Garnish with a final sprinkling of toasted almonds for that perfect nutty crunch

Shir Sewain: Toast golden semiya in ghee, then simmer in milk and khoya until it thickens. Add a touch of saffron for color and flavor, and top with nuts for the perfect festive indulgence

Moong Dal Paysam: Slow-cook moong dal and rice together to create a creamy base. Enhance with ghee for richness, and finish with a generous mix of toasted nuts and warm milk for a comforting and nutrient-packed treat. To know more about the delight  click here

Nuts Shrikhand: Transform thickened curd into a cooling treat by mixing in cardamom and a medley of almonds and pistachios. Serve chilled for a nutty, refreshing delight

Enjoying festive season doesn’t have to come at the cost of your health. By making mindful choices, managing your carbohydrate intake, and incorporating Diabetes-Specific Nutrition, you can indulge in sweet treats without guilt. The festive season is about joy and celebration, and with these adjustments, you can savour every moment without worrying about your health. Remember, the key lies in balance and making informed choices that align with your dietary needs. And don't forget to stay active and monitor your sugar levels regularly, even on festive days, to keep your diabetes management on track!

MODIFI And GIDA Partner To Propel Gujarat Exporters In Global Trade

MODIFI, a leading global trade finance platform, in partnership with the Gujarat Industry Development Association (GIDA), successfully hosted "Unlocking Growth Capital for Global Trade." This exclusive event was designed to empower exporters from Gujarat by providing them with vital insights and strategies to optimize their trade operations and improve working capital, fostering growth in the region.

The event provided SMEs and local business leaders with a platform to explore innovative solutions for managing cross-border payments, accessing trade finance, and accelerating global trade opportunities. Through this collaboration, MODIFI and GIDA are committed to helping Gujarat-based exporters thrive in the evolving global economy.

"Gujarat’s dynamic SME ecosystem presents significant opportunities for growth, by addressing their financing and payment challenges, we help them overcome barriers such as access to working capital, smooth payment processing, and effective risk management. MODIFI’s solutions empower them to expand and compete on an international scale," said Mr. Pulkit Kapil, Senior Director - National Sales, MODIFI India.

According to recent media reports, Gujarat boasts over 55,000 SMEs and has consistently ranked among India's leading manufacturing hubs. The state is home to flourishing industries in textiles, pharmaceuticals, and automobiles, contributing significantly to its robust economic landscape. With MODIFI’s expertise in cross-border trade finance and GIDA’s strong local network, the partnership will provide essential support to Gujarat SMEs seeking global expansion.

"Gujarat's SMEs are the backbone of the state's economy, and equipping them with the right tools for global trade is crucial for sustainable growth, our collaboration with MODIFI ensures that Gujarat based exporters have access to vital financial solutions, enabling them to unlock new trade opportunities and enhance their competitiveness in international markets," said Mr. Chandrakant Salunkhe, Founder & President, GIDA.

MODIFI’s focus on Gujarat and India marks a significant step in its global mission to empower SMEs with innovative financial solutions, fostering sustainable growth within the global trade ecosystem.

About MODIFI:

MODIFI is a FinTech platform specializing in B2B cross-border financing and payment solutions. The company removes traditional barriers to global trade by empowering businesses with the modern digital payments tools and financial liquidity needed to compete in global commerce. MODIFI's platform serves more than 1,600 companies across 55+ countries and has a global presence with offices in Mumbai, New Delhi, Dhaka, Dubai, Shenzhen, Hong Kong, Singapore, Amsterdam, Berlin, New York, and Mexico City.

About GIDA

Gujarat Industry Development Association (GIDA) has been providing support services to the manufacturing industries, corporates, MNCs, SMEs, exporters, start-ups and allied business entities to enhance business contacts, business growth, export promotion, setting up of new manufacturing industries, channelise finance and investments, mergers & acquisitions, foreign direct investments, distribution, franchise, joint ventures, technology transfers, contract manufacturing and explore the various emerging business opportunities at the national and international markets. GIDA also provides business advisory services for marketing, promotion, branding, export-import services, Government services & liaison, identification of strategic business partners & investors, market survey & research, industrial land & ready-made industrial premises, resolving various issues related to the industries, revival of sick manufacturing industries & SMEs.

Photo Caption: From Left to Right - Mr Tushar Doara, Marketing Head India, MODIFI, Mr Pulkit Kapil, Sr. Director- National Sale, MODIFI, Mr Chandrakant Salunkhe, Founder & President, GIDA & Mr Ravi Bharati, Managing Partner, Obulus Advisory Services.

Toyota Kirloskar Motor Expands ABCD Program To Benefit 400 Additional Schools In Raichur

Building on the success of its A Behavioural Change Demonstration (ABCD) initiative, Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) is proud to announce the expansion of the program to an additional 400 government schools in Raichur district for Financial Years 2024-25 and 2025-26. After successfully implementing the program in 100 schools over the past two years, positively impacting more than 26,000 students, the initiative will now benefit over 68,000 students in this next phase.

The program’s expansion officially commenced today with a one-day orientation session for the headmasters of the participating schools, held at the Krishi Vigyana Kendra (KVK) in Raichur. The orientation was inaugurated by Mr. Nitish K., IAS, Deputy Commissioner of Raichur, who graced the occasion as Chief Guest. This session was aimed at equipping the headmasters with tools and strategies to effectively deliver the program’s hygiene and sanitation curriculum.

As part of the program, TKM will actively promote essential hygiene practices among students through a series of training sessions that focus on handwashing, sanitation practices, water conservation, waste management, and personal hygiene. Additionally, the program will provide sanitary pads to 24,000 adolescent girls till March 2026. This initiative aims to ensure effective menstrual hygiene management and support young women in their health and well-being, empowering them to take charge of their menstrual health and advocate for their needs. Through this project, essential sanitation supplies, including buckets, mugs, cleaning agents, handwashing soap, and mopping items will be provided to support hygiene maintenance.

Beyond hygiene education, the program aims to strengthen school cabinets and School Development and Monitoring Committees (SDMCs), empower students to advocate for better sanitation, and encourage families to build household toilets where needed. Community engagement will also play a pivotal role, with awareness campaigns, video demonstrations, and annual quiz and drawing competitions to reinforce the lessons learned in schools.

Present at the occasion, Mr. Nitish K, IAS Deputy Commissioner, Raichur, said, “Education today is not just about academic excellence but about nurturing responsible, aware citizens who understand the importance of health and hygiene. The ABCD program by Toyota Kirloskar Motor is a shining example of how private enterprises can meaningfully contribute to community well-being. By teaching essential sanitation and hygiene practices to young minds, the program creates a foundation for healthier, more resilient communities. It’s heartening to see Toyota's commitment to expanding this initiative further into Raichur, reaching thousands of students and families. We look forward to the transformative outcomes this program will bring.”

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Vikram Gulati, Country Head and Executive Vice President, Corporate Affairs & Governance, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, said, “At Toyota Kirloskar Motor, we believe that true progress is driven by collective responsibility, and our ABCD program stands as a testament to this. The success of our first phase has encouraged us to scale up our efforts and reach an additional 400 schools in Raichur. We remain deeply committed to supporting the Swachh Bharat mission by promoting hygiene education and sustainable practices. Through this expanded initiative, we aim to not only improve sanitation in schools but also foster a culture of awareness and positive change across the community.”

Launched in 2015, the ABCD program has profoundly influenced Karnataka, especially in the Ramanagara district. By 2019, the initiative had reached 1,004 schools, benefiting 58,000 students and positively impacting 430,000 community members. Following its revitalization in August 2023, the program continues to align with the national "Swachh Bharat Abhiyan" mission, contributing to India’s ongoing efforts to improve sanitation and hygiene.

TKM remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering sustainable change through community development initiatives. By collaborating with the Education Department, local authorities, and other key stakeholders, TKM is dedicated to driving long-term improvements in sanitation practices across Raichur district.