Care Health Insurance Issues Public Health Advisory on Mosquito-Borne Diseases

With monsoon increasing the risk of mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue, malaria, and chikungunya, Care Health Insurance has issued a public health advisory urging citizens to stay vigilant, adopt preventive measures and seek timely medical attention. While these diseases are largely preventable, they pose a recurring public health challenge during the monsoon, often resulting in serious illness and unplanned medical expenses.

As India enters the peak monsoon season, public health authorities have intensified preparedness measures to minimise the impact of seasonal outbreaks. According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, all States and Union Territories have been advised to strengthen disease surveillance, vector control, community awareness, and healthcare preparedness. Under the same scenario, hospitals devise means to ensure adequate availability of beds, medicines, diagnostics, blood components, and trained healthcare personnel to effectively manage any surge in cases that may arise.

Unforeseen medical exigencies pose financial stress on families. Care Health Insurance recommends individuals to take the following preventive measures:

Inspect your home and surroundings regularly and remove stagnant water from coolers, buckets, flowerpots, tyres, overhead tanks and other containers where mosquitoes can breed

Use mosquito repellents, wear full-sleeved clothing and install mosquito screens or mosquito nets, particularly for children, senior citizens, pregnant women and individuals with underlying health conditions

Seek medical attention if you experience persistent fever, severe headache, body ache, fatigue or other symptoms associated with mosquito-borne diseases. Avoid self-medication and complete the prescribed course of treatment

Maintain adequate hydration and follow your doctor's recommendations throughout the recovery period to support faster healing and minimise complications

Review your health insurance coverage regularly to help reduce financial burden arising from medical treatment and hospital care. Most policies today provide virtual consultation services like ‘doctor on call’ which can become the first port of call in case any symptoms of vector borne diseases arise

Not all vector borne diseases need hospitalization. Many of these ailments can be treated at home through doctor advice, medication and by following proper treatment protocols

Care Health Insurance remains committed to promoting preventive healthcare and encouraging timely action. Awareness, early diagnosis and simple preventive measures can go a long way in reducing the impact of mosquito borne diseases and improving health outcomes.

About Care Health Insurance

Care Health Insurance is a specialized health insurer offering products in the retail segment for Health Insurance, Top-up Coverage, Personal Accident, Maternity, International Travel Insurance and Critical Illness along with Group Health Insurance and Group Personal Accident Insurance for Corporates, Micro Insurance Products for the Rural Market and a Comprehensive Set of Wellness Services. With its operating philosophy being based on the principal tenet of ‘consumer-centricity’, the company has consistently invested in the effective application of technology to deliver excellence in customer servicing, product innovation and value-for-money services.

Care Health Insurance (CHI) was conferred ‘Smart Insurer’ and ‘Sales Champion’ awards in the Health Insurance category at the ET Now Insurance Summit & Awards 2025, in December 2025.  

Globus Fashion Unveils TAANA-BAANA, A Saree Collection Celebrating Tradition, Craft And The Spirit Of The Festive Season

* Launching ahead of Raksha Bandhan and the celebrations that follow, the new collection brings together timeless weaves, contemporary styling and versatile silhouettes for every festive occasion~

As the festive season begins with Raksha Bandhan and unfolds into the celebrations that follow, Globus Fashion introduces TAANA-BAANA, a thoughtfully curated saree collection that celebrates the enduring beauty of India's most iconic silhouette while embracing the individuality of the women who wear it.

Named after the taana-baana, the warp and weft that form the foundation of every weave the collection draws inspiration from the stories, traditions and craftsmanship woven into every saree. Designed for women across generations, it reflects the idea that while every saree carries a rich legacy, its true character comes alive through the person who drapes it.

The collection is presented across two distinct edits: Everyday Elegance and Festive Opulence offering styles that effortlessly transition from intimate family gatherings to the many celebrations that define India's festive calendar.

The Everyday Elegance edit features lightweight tissues, breathable cotton silks and easy-to-wear drapes that blend comfort with understated sophistication. Festive Opulence introduces luxurious silk blends, statement weaves and rich detailing for occasions that call for a touch of grandeur.

Across both edits, the collection showcases a rich blend of traditional Indian craftsmanship and contemporary design, featuring Banarasi-inspired weaving, Ikkat influences, Pichwai-inspired motifs, brocade accents and intricate woven self-designs. The colour palette moves effortlessly from soft sage greens, muted neutrals and delicate pastels to vibrant pinks, regal purples and luminous festive hues, offering styles that complement every celebration and personal aesthetic.

Rather than prescribing how a saree should be worn, TAANA-BAANA celebrates personal expression. Whether styled with a contemporary blouse, heirloom jewellery or minimal accessories, every drape becomes a reflection of the woman wearing it confident, graceful and uniquely her own.

Ranganath Kuppur CEO Globus Fashion said: "The festive season is one of togetherness, cherished traditions and moments that become lasting memories. With TAANA-BAANA, we wanted to create a collection that honours the timeless beauty and craftsmanship of the saree while allowing today's woman the freedom to style it in her own way. Whether it's Raksha Bandhan, the celebrations that follow, or simply a special moment with loved ones, these sarees are designed to become part of those memories."

The campaign imagery beautifully captures the essence of the collection through moments that feel warm, authentic and effortlessly festive. Women are seen celebrating everyday traditions sharing sweets with loved ones, walking through heritage spaces and embracing quiet moments before the festivities begin. Rich festive hues, intricate weaves and timeless settings come together to reflect the joy of the season while celebrating the confidence, elegance and individuality of the modern Indian woman.

TAANA-BAANA is now available on the Globus Fashion website, the brand's online shopping platforms and other leading fashion marketplaces across India. Designed to take women from Raksha Bandhan through the many celebrations of the festive season, the collection brings together timeless craftsmanship with contemporary style for every occasion.

BLive Inks Initial Pact With Tata Motors To Deploy 1,000 Electric Mini Trucks

BLive, India's leading integrated commercial EV mobility platform, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Tata Motors, India’s largest commercial vehicle manufacturer, to deploy up to 1,000 Tata electric mini trucks through BLive PRIME, its franchise-owned commercial EV fleet programme. The planned rollout is part of the company's strategy to build scale in India's fast-growing Cargo EV segment and accelerate the electrification of last-mile and intra-city logistics. The company has recently introduced BLive PRIME with a ₹100 crore investment dedicated to large-scale electric fleet adoption and advancing the nation’s green delivery revolution.

As the first step under the partnership, BLive has inducted the first batch of Tata Ace Pro EVs, marking the start of on-ground deployment. The initial fleet will be used for enterprise logistics operations, with subsequent batches to follow in phases over the coming months. Through BLive PRIME's franchise-owned fleet programme, entrepreneurs and businesses can invest in and own a fleet of electric cargo vehicles, starting with an investment of approximately ₹45 lakh, and earn assured rentals from the deployed fleet. BLive manages the end-to-end fleet lifecycle, including enterprise demand, vehicle deployment, fleet technology, charging ecosystem integration, maintenance and day-to-day operations, creating a professionally managed commercial EV ownership model.

Sandeep Mukherjee, Founder & CEO, BLive, said, "The Cargo EV segment is experiencing strong demand as businesses increasingly evaluate electric fleets for their intra-city logistics requirements. However, scaling commercial EV adoption requires more than vehicle availability. Enterprises need access to reliable fleets, charging, technology, maintenance and professionally managed operations. Through our franchise-owned fleet programme, we are enabling entrepreneurs to own productive electric cargo assets and earn from fleet rentals. At the same time, BLive manages enterprise deployment and end-to-end operations. Our plan to deploy more than 1,000 Tata Ace EVs reflects our ambition to build scale and establish BLive as a leading player in India's Cargo EV segment."

India currently has an estimated 4.5-5 million Light Commercial Vehicles (LCVs) on its roads, with the vast majority still operating on diesel. Electric penetration in the cargo LCV segment remains below 1%, highlighting the significant headroom for electrification and the scale of the market opportunity. BLive plans to deploy its franchise-owned electric cargo fleets across high-growth sectors including manufacturing, warehousing, e-commerce, quick commerce, retail distribution, FMCG, construction, pharmaceuticals and third-party logistics (3PL).

Mr. Pinaki Haldar, Vice President & Business Head-SCVPU, Tata Motors Ltd., said, “We are pleased to partner with BLive as it expands electric cargo mobility solutions. With the Ace Pro EV, an accessible and efficient solution for small businesses, the proven Ace EV for last-mile logistics, and the high-performance Intra EV for larger cargo applications, Tata Motors offers a comprehensive electric SCV and pick-up portfolio to address diverse customer needs. Together, we are enabling businesses to adopt sustainable mobility solutions that deliver productivity, reliability and strong operating economics.”

The expansion comes as India's commercial logistics industry is experiencing strong demand for electric cargo vehicles, driven by the rapid growth of e-commerce, quick commerce, organised retail, manufacturing and urban supply chains. Businesses are increasingly evaluating electric commercial vehicles to reduce operating costs, meet sustainability commitments and improve the economics of high-utilisation intra-city logistics.

BLive PRIME brings together all critical aspects of commercial fleet management, including vehicle procurement, financing, customer acquisition, charging, technology, maintenance, and operations, within an integrated EV ecosystem. Through its franchise-owned fleet programme, franchise partners own the electric cargo vehicles, while BLive manages deployment and operations to meet enterprise logistics requirements. This entrepreneur-led ownership network enables BLive to rapidly scale fleet capacity and provides enterprises with access to professionally managed electric cargo fleets. BLive’s commercial electric fleets already serve enterprise customers and logistics partners such as Hyperpure, Porter, and Delhivery, with the company expanding its reach across e-commerce, quick commerce, retail, manufacturing, and supply chain businesses.

While several companies operate in individual parts of the commercial EV value chain, BLive is among the few building a fully integrated Cargo EV ecosystem offering end-to-end solutions through a franchise-owned fleet model. The platform unifies vehicle procurement, franchise enablement, financing support, technology, enterprise demand, deployment, charging, maintenance, and operations under a single ecosystem. For enterprise customers, this means access to professionally managed electric cargo fleets. For franchise owners, it creates an opportunity to participate in India’s growing commercial EV economy by owning fleet assets and earning rentals, without the hassle of day-to-day fleet operations. With a roadmap to deploy 1,000+ Tata Ace EVs, BLive aims to establish market leadership in India’s rapidly evolving commercial electric mobility segment.

About BLive: BLive is a full-stack electric mobility platform focused on accelerating EV adoption through fleet solutions, franchise models, charging solutions and technology-driven operations, with a strong presence in India’s last-mile delivery ecosystem. BLive offers two franchise models tailored to different last-mile mobility needs: BLive EZY, focused on two-wheeler EV’s, and BLive PRIME, designed for four-wheeler electric mobility. Together, the models combine entrepreneurship, technology and electric mobility to make green last-mile delivery more accessible, scalable and commercially viable.

BLive EZY allows entrepreneurs to own EV fleets and deploy them for e-commerce and quick commerce deliveries with platforms like Zomato, Zepto, Blinkit, and Swiggy. Under the BLive EZY model, franchisees can invest ₹25 lakh to own a fleet of EVs and earn monthly rentals, while BLive manages end-to-end operations, including deployment, maintenance, and rider management.

BLive PRIME is designed to bridge the gap between growing fleet demand and access to structured capital, enabling investors to participate in this transition through an asset-backed model. With an entry investment starting at ₹45 lakh, the model follows a 100% franchisee-owned, company-operated structure, in which investors own electric mini-truck fleets while BLive manages end-to-end operations, including deployment, utilisation, and maintenance.  

Awareness First: Why HIV Counselling Can Change Outcomes For Young People

By Dr. Divya C, Microbiologist, Neuberg Anand Reference Laboratory, Bangalore

Karnataka's recent decision to organise HIV awareness, counselling and voluntary screening camps across colleges has brought HIV back into public conversation. While the announcement generated debate around HIV testing, it has also highlighted a much larger issue many young people still hesitate to get tested because of stigma, misinformation and the mistaken belief that HIV is no longer a concern.

The real opportunity before us is not to debate testing alone, but to normalise conversations around HIV awareness, counselling and voluntary screening. As healthcare professionals, we know that early diagnosis remains one of the most effective tools in preventing HIV transmission and ensuring better health outcomes.

According to the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO), approximately 25.77 lakh people are living with HIV in India, while Karnataka accounts for an estimated 2,91,348 people living with the infection. The state is also estimated to have 15,362 young people aged 15–24 years living with HIV. While Karnataka has achieved a 65.83% reduction in annual new HIV infections since 2010, sustaining this progress will require continued awareness, early diagnosis and greater uptake of voluntary HIV testing, particularly among young people.

Even with the advances in modern medicine, late diagnosis continues to be a significant challenge because HIV may not cause noticeable symptoms for several years. By the time symptoms appear, the immune system may already have been affected. This is why HIV testing should be viewed as a routine preventive healthcare practice for individuals with potential exposure risks, rather than something considered only after illness develops.

NACO recommends that HIV testing be carried out with informed consent, confidentiality and counselling services. Karnataka's decision to organise awareness and counselling camps across colleges is therefore a welcome step. Educational institutions provide an ideal environment to engage young adults who are beginning to make independent decisions about their health. By creating safe spaces for awareness and voluntary screening, colleges can help reduce stigma, encourage informed decision-making and improve health-seeking behaviour.

Between 2018–19 and 2023–24, more than 16 million HIV tests were conducted across Karnataka through Integrated Counselling and Testing Centres (ICTCs) and other approved testing facilities. While testing access has expanded considerably, many young people continue to seek testing only after symptoms appear or following a perceived high-risk exposure. Encouraging voluntary testing among asymptomatic individuals can lead to earlier diagnosis, timely treatment and reduced transmission within the community.

Advances in Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) now enable people diagnosed early with HIV to live long, healthy and productive lives. Individuals who achieve sustained viral suppression through consistent treatment can also prevent the sexual transmission of HIV, a concept recognised globally as Undetectable = Untransmittable (U=U). Early diagnosis, therefore, benefits not only the individual but also strengthens public health efforts to reduce new infections.

Karnataka's initiative should be viewed as an opportunity to reshape societal thinking about HIV. Success should not be measured only by the number of tests conducted, but by whether more young people feel informed, confident and empowered to voluntarily know their HIV status. Families, educational institutions, healthcare professionals and policymakers all have a shared responsibility to ensure that conversations around HIV move away from fear and stigma towards awareness, prevention and timely action.

If we can make HIV testing as routine and accepted as any other preventive health check-up, we will move one step closer to achieving India's goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.

References

National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO) – HIV Counselling & Testing Services
https://naco.mohfw.gov.in/division/basic-services/hiv-counselling-testing-services/

National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO)
https://naco.gov.in/

Ministry of Health & Family Welfare – Annual Report 2025–26 (NACP-V)
https://notto.mohfw.gov.in/WriteReadData/Portal/News/951_1_Annual_Report_of_the_MoH_FW__2025_-_2026.pdf

Karnataka State AIDS Prevention Society (KSAPS)
https://ksaps.karnataka.gov.in/

Janasamruddhi 2.0: A New Business Era Begins With E-Commerce And Direct Marketing

Janasamruddhi Multipurpose Cooperative Society Ltd., with a legacy of nearly 12 years, has entered a new phase with a fresh business vision focused on creating wider opportunities for its agents, customers and business partners across India.

The new chapter, Janasamruddhi 2.0, introduces a technology-driven e-commerce and direct marketing platform designed to serve customers across India through 25 different categories. The platform brings together diverse products and services covering sectors such as insurance, real estate, fashion, apparel and several other consumer and business categories.

The new initiative was formally inaugurated in Bengaluru on 16 August 2026 in the presence of around 200 JSM agents representing 25 branches from different parts of Karnataka. The participation of agents from across the state reflected the enthusiasm surrounding the organisation’s new business direction and its vision for the future.

A key objective of Janasamruddhi 2.0 is to make the JSM agent network stronger and create greater opportunities for economic growth. Instead of limiting agents to a single line of business, the new model aims to provide access to multiple products and services through one integrated platform.

Under this concept, agents can connect customers with products and services according to their requirements. The platform is envisioned as a multi-category ecosystem covering insurance, real estate, fashion, apparel and many other segments, giving agents a broader opportunity to build customer relationships and develop new business.

The new ideology and business direction have been brought forward by DK Reddy, Liaisoning Officer of Janasamruddhi Multipurpose Cooperative Society Ltd. and a business consulting expert. His vision is to combine the strength of the existing JSM network with technology, e-commerce and a structured direct marketing concept.

The initiative places particular importance on the economic growth of JSM agents. By providing multiple business categories through a single platform, the organisation aims to give its agents more avenues to engage with customers and participate in different areas of business.

The launch event was witnessed and organised by JSM Vice President Padmaraj, along with directors Anand, Khajapasha, Anusuyamma, Pushpalatha, Kamalamma and Nagaraj. Their presence marked the support of the leadership team for this new direction and the transition towards a broader business ecosystem.

The participation of approximately 200 agents from 25 branches across Karnataka also provided an opportunity for the agent network to understand the vision behind Janasamruddhi 2.0 and the possibilities offered by the new platform.

With its 12-year legacy, established network and new technology-driven approach, Janasamruddhi aims to build a larger ecosystem connecting customers, agents, products and services across India.

The Bengaluru launch marks an important milestone in the journey of Janasamruddhi Multipurpose Cooperative Society Ltd. The organisation now looks towards a new business phase built around e-commerce, technology, multiple categories, direct marketing and stronger opportunities for its agent network.

Janasamruddhi 2.0 is envisioned as a new beginning where agents can access wider opportunities, customers can discover more products and services, and the organisation can expand its presence across India.

The new journey begins with a clear vision: stronger agents, wider opportunities and a larger business ecosystem.

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Phoenix Mall Of Asia Celebrates Independence Day With Grand Sounds Of Indian Military Bands

Photo caption: Brigadier Narender Singh Ji hoists the national flag at Phoenix Mall of Asia, Bengaluru, as part of the Independence Day celebrations.

* And A Vibrant Showcase Of Entrepreneurship

* Celebrating the Many Expressions of India, Phoenix Mall of Asia Brings Military Music, Entrepreneurship and Live Entertainment Together

Phoenix Mall of Asia, Bengaluru, marked India’s 80th Independence Day with a vibrant celebration of music, community, entrepreneurship and live entertainment on Saturday, 15th August 2026. The day brought together a community run, a special performance by the Indian Military Bands, comprising the Army Brass Band, Pipe Band and Jazz Band, the AWWA Entrepreneurs Exhibition and Ramcharan Collectives Live.

The celebrations commenced with the ceremonial flag hoisting by Brigadier Narender Singh Ji, while the morning continued with a community run, bringing participants together in a spirited celebration of fitness, camaraderie and the nation’s 80th Independence Day.

The Indian Military Bands then took centre stage with a powerful showcase of military music traditions. Featuring the Army Brass Band, Pipe Band and Jazz Band, the performance brought together patriotic melodies, ceremonial marches, traditional pipe music and jazz arrangements. The precision and distinct character of each ensemble created a stirring musical experience for audiences gathered at Fan Park. With a musical legacy extending back to the 19th century, Indian Military Bands have played an integral role in some of the country’s most significant ceremonial occasions, from the Republic Day parade on Kartavya Path to state ceremonies and international military music festivals.

The AWWA Entrepreneurs Exhibition added a showcase of enterprise and creativity to the day's line-up, giving visitors an opportunity to discover products and initiatives by entrepreneurs associated with the Army Wives Welfare Association. The exhibition brought stories of entrepreneurship and community into the Independence Day experience.

Adding a contemporary musical note to the celebrations, Ramcharan Collectives Live brought live entertainment to the stage, rounding off a diverse line-up that moved from fitness and military tradition to entrepreneurship and music.

Ritu Mehta, Centre Director, Phoenix Mall of Asia, Sr. VP Marketing South, said:
"Independence Day brings with it a wonderful sense of pride and togetherness, and we wanted to reflect that spirit through experiences that could be enjoyed by our community. From the energy of the community run and the extraordinary musical traditions of the Indian Military Bands to the entrepreneurial spirit showcased through AWWA and the live performance by Ramcharan Collectives, the day offered something for everyone. We were delighted to see our visitors come together to celebrate the occasion and experience the many facets of India's spirit in one place."

The day's celebrations reflected the diverse ways in which Bengaluru came together to mark Independence Day, combining fitness, the ceremonial grandeur of military music, entrepreneurship and contemporary entertainment.

Herbalife Reinforces Commitment To Metabolic Wellness And Healthy Ageing At IISc's RISE For Healthy Ageing Conference 2026

Herbalife, a premier health and wellness company, participated as the Platinum Sponsor at the RISE for Healthy Ageing Conference 2026, hosted by the Longevity India Initiative at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) The association reinforces Herbalife's commitment to advancing healthy ageing through science-backed nutrition, metabolic wellness, innovation and collaboration.

As India experiences a growing burden of metabolic health challenges, including diabetes, obesity, hypertension and other non-communicable diseases, healthy ageing is emerging as an increasingly important public health priority. At Herbalife, we believe that supporting metabolic wellness through evidence-based nutrition, healthy lifestyle practices and community support can play a critical role in helping people live healthier, and more active lives as they age.

The two-day conference brought together leading scientists, clinicians, researchers, policymakers, innovators, and industry leaders from leading institutions across India and around the world to discuss and highlight the role of artificial intelligence, digital health technologies, biomarkers and nutrition science in enabling more predictive, preventive and personalized approaches to healthcare. Hosted by the Longevity India Initiative at IISc, the conference provided a platform for advancing dialogue on longevity science, and preventive health, while fostering collaboration across academia, healthcare, technology and industry.

As part of the conference, Herbalife hosted a special workshop titled “Healthy Ageing Begins with Healthy Metabolism," virtually engaging more than 20,000 associates, preferred customers and employees across India. The session highlighted scientific credibility, practical relevance, and highly engaging format. A key takeaway from the workshop was the role of community in supporting lasting behavior change. Participants especially valued the insights on metabolism, sleep, stress management, physical activity, community impact, and healthy lifestyle habits.

Speaking about Herbalife's association with the conference, Ajay Khanna, Managing Director, Herbalife India, said: "As populations around the world live longer, the focus must evolve from simply increasing lifespan to improving the healthspan. Metabolic health is a critical foundation for healthy ageing, supported by good nutrition, active lifestyles, scientific advancement and strong social connections. Platforms such as the RISE for Healthy Ageing Conference enable meaningful dialogue across academia, healthcare and industry, helping translate scientific knowledge into practical solutions that empower people to lead healthier, more active lives."

Speaking about the collaboration, Prof. Deepak Kumar Saini, Professor, Developmental Biology and Genetics, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, said: "Healthy ageing requires a deeper understanding of the biological, clinical and lifestyle factors that shape longevity and quality of life. The RISE for Healthy Ageing Conference brought together diverse expertise to advance scientific dialogue and collaboration. We are pleased to partner with Herbalife, whose commitment to evidence-based health and wellness aligns with our efforts to translate research into practical solutions that benefit communities."

As a company rooted in science-backed nutrition and wellness, Herbalife continues to support initiatives that encourage knowledge sharing, innovation and collaborative action to help people live healthier, more active lives at every stage.

About Herbalife International India Private Ltd.

Herbalife (NYSE: HLF) is a premier health and wellness company, community and platform that has been changing people's lives with great nutrition products and a business opportunity for its independent distributors since 1980. The Company offers science-backed food products to consumers in more than 90 markets through entrepreneurial distributors who provide one-on-one coaching and a supportive community that inspires their customers to embrace a healthier, more active lifestyle to live their best life. For more information, visit https://www.herbalife.com/en-in