Archives February 2025

India, 17th February 2025:- Implementation of Indian Standards should be accorded top priority, said Smt. Nidhi Khare, Secretary, Department of Consumer Affairs, Government of India while chairing an inter-ministerial meeting on Implementation of Standards – Bringing more products under Quality Control Orders (QCOs) in New Delhi.

The Secretary emphasized on the role of QCOs in achieving the aim of ‘Atma Nirbhar Bharat” considering its twin objectives of uplifting quality ecosystem in domestic market and curbing sub-standard imports. Referring to the speech by Hon’ble Prime Minister on 78th Independence Day, wherein a thrust on Indian Standards has been envisioned to make Indian products stand out in the global market, she appealed to all the Ministries to prioritise Indian Standards.

The discussions during the meeting focused on the importance of Standards and its benefits through QCOs, which enforce mandatory compliance to standards for various products and play a vital role in protecting public health & safety and enhancing the competitiveness of industry, particularly Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The implementation of QCOs provides these businesses with a level playing field by ensuring that all market players meet the same quality standards. This initiative not only boosts the competitiveness of MSMEs in the domestic market, but also facilitates access to global markets, opening up new avenues for growth and exports.

The meeting witnessed participation from representatives of nearly 17 Union Ministries and Departments, including Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Textiles, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), Ministry of Steel, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), Ministry of Animal Husbandry, Dairying and Fisheries, Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals (DCPC), and Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI), among others.

The Department of Consumer Affairs briefed on the positive impact of the Quality Control Order (QCO) on the toys industry. The introduction and implementation of the QCO for Toys has led to remarkable improvements in both safety and quality standards for toys manufactured and sold in India.

The status of 628 products which are under consideration at the Ministries/Departments for bringing them under QCOs was also reviewed during the meeting. The discussions concluded with consensus for expediting the timelines for implementing QCOs for these products, which will further strengthen India’s commitment to improving product quality and impetus on Atma Nirbhar Bharat across different sectors.

Compliance with standards is voluntary unless made mandatory under Section 16 of the BIS Act, 2016. All ministries and departments of the Government are empowered in this regard. A detailed stakeholder consultation is carried out with industry before notifying and implementing QCOs.

February 2025, Gurgaon – Westin Gurgaon presents A Tale of Modern Indian Flavors, an exclusive three-day pop-up at Sunset Story, running from 21st to 23rd February 2025. Curated by the acclaimed Chef Ankit Malhotra, this immersive dining experience redefines Indian cuisine by blending traditional flavors with modern techniques, offering an innovative and artfully crafted culinary journey. Drawing inspiration from India’s rich gastronomic heritage, Chef Malhotra has meticulously designed a multi-course menu that seamlessly weaves together flavors, textures, and aromas from different regions of the country.

The adventure begins in the vivid gullies of Banaras, where chaat reigns supreme. Diners will begin their experience with an Amuse Bouche, where the sweet and tangy Melon Terrine Chaat meets the creamy richness of Mascarpone Yogurt, elevated with Chutney Caviar and Smoked Chaas, setting the stage for a journey of bold flavors.

As the journey ascends into the snow-laden valleys of Kashmir, warmth embraces diners with a selection of soulful Shorbas. The First Course brings a warming selection of soups, balancing earthy and nutty notes—guests can choose between the velvety Broccoli Almond Shorba, paired with a crisp and tangy Blue Cheese Kulcha, or the Kashmiri classic Yakhni Shorba, slow-cooked to perfection and served with the same delightful bread.

From the heartland of India’s most indulgent flavors, Punjab comes an unexpected fusion of Italian craftsmanship and North Indian soul. The Tandoori Paneer Tortellini, nestled in a silky Makhani Sauce and topped with a delicate Parmesan Cracker, offers a bold yet familiar taste. Alternatively, the Charcoal Chicken Ravioli, infused with smoky flavors and bathed in the same rich sauce, reimagines comfort food with finesse.

From the spice-laden kitchens of Maharashtra, the Bridging the Feast course brings together Puneri Potato Wada, topped with a crunchy Bakarwadi Crumble, and the unexpected yet comforting pairing of Tapioca Khichdi. For those craving a meatier option, the fiery Kolhapuri Chicken Drumstick makes a striking impression, complemented by the same textural contrast of the Bakarwadi crumble.

The journey reaches a crescendo in the coastal paradise of Kerala, where the fragrance of coconut and curry leaves lingers in the air. Chef Malhotra draws inspiration from the Malabar Coast, offering a fragrant Malabar Paneer Curry, paired with crispy Urlai Roast, or a beautifully Grilled Sea Bass, immersed in the same aromatic curry and plated with vibrant Green Asparagus. These mains are accompanied by comforting South Indian staples—Tomato Dal, flaky Malabar Paratha, Kerala Red Rice, and crispy Appalam—adding layers of flavor and authenticity to the meal.

The journey ends on a sweet note with The Finale, where tradition meets elegance. A decadent Milk Almond Tart, adorned with Gold Leaf and Vanilla Bean Ice Cream, creates a luxurious conclusion, while handcrafted Aniseed 72% Dark Chocolate Bark and Sweet Boondi Macarons provide a final flourish of indulgence.

Chef Amit Dash, Multi-Property Executive Chef, Westin Gurgaon & Sohna Resort & Spa said, “At Westin Gurgaon, we are not just redefining dining; we are pioneering a culinary revolution in the heart of the city. Our philosophy is rooted in innovation, authenticity, and an unwavering commitment to crafting experiences that celebrate India’s rich gastronomic heritage while embracing contemporary techniques. ‘A Tale of Modern Indian Flavors’ is a testament to this vision—a journey through India’s diverse culinary landscapes, thoughtfully curated to surprise and delight our guests. Through such unique dining experiences, we continue to push boundaries, making Westin Gurgaon a destination for food connoisseurs who seek both tradition and innovation on their plate.”

India, February 17, 2025: Serial entrepreneur, Luke Coutinho and eminent promoter, Narendra Firodia invest $1 million in You Care Lifestyle (YCL), an independent verification platform that conducts third-party lab tests on food, skincare and other health & wellness products to verify ingredients and quality.

A portion of the funding will be allocated to strengthen the processes for verification and authentication of products to ensure a high standard of reliability. Additionally, part of the funding will be used to support and invest in emerging clean brands, helping them scale and gain consumer trust. YCL also aims to expand the company’s offerings and plans to onboard brands and will look to test and verify approx 90-100 brands across food and cosmetic sectors by the end of 2025.

You Care Lifestyle has been co-founded by Luke Coutinho and Narendra Firodia. Luke Coutinho is a serial entrepreneur and is the founder of Luke Coutinho Holistic Healing Systems and Lifeness Science Institute and has also co-founded GoQii. Narendra Firodia is a well-known investor and social entrepreneur. He has invested in diverse industries like Telecom, Healthcare, Hospitality, Infotainment, Real Estate, Web Platforms and Mobile Applications, Sports and many more. He has successfully funded and steered multiple startups in tier 2 and 3 cities.

Speaking about the venture, Luke Coutinho, Founder, You Care Lifestyle, said, ”India’s consumer landscape is evolving, and with that comes a responsibility to ensure that people have access to genuinely clean and high-quality products. With YCL, our goal is to bridge the gap between authenticity and consumer trust by creating a rigorous and reliable third-party verification system. We are not just investing in a business; we are investing in a movement that champions ethical brands and empowers consumers to make informed choices. This is the future of clean commerce, and we are excited to build it.”

Narendra Firodia, Co-founder, You Care Lifestyle, added, ”Building an honest food chain is not just about setting high standards, it’s about supporting the brands that uphold them. At YCL, we are committed to identifying and investing in businesses that share our vision of transparency, integrity, and consumer well-being. By backing businesses that prioritize honesty and quality, we are shaping the future of the wellness industry in India and beyond.”

The launch of this new venture ‘You Care Lifestyle’ comes with the vision of creating a trustworthy third-party verification platform, that not only addresses critical issues like mislabelling and misinformation but also drives a behaviour shift towards informed consumer choice. YCL aims to empower brands to prioritise health-conscious products and to uphold the highest quality standards and consumers to prioritise health-conscious decisions and inspire them to make choices of authentic products.

Bengaluru – 17th February 2025 – Koteshwaram, a new haven for vegetarian cuisine, is thrilled to announce its grand opening. Located at Devanahalli – right on the Highway from Hyderabad to Bengaluru, Koteshwaram offers a diverse menu of delectable pure vegetarian dishes, crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and culinary expertise.

Koteshwaram aims to redefine the vegetarian dining experience, offering an artistic ambiance and pure Vegetarian dishes that cater to all palates. From traditional Indian delicacies to global vegetarian favorites, the menu features an array of flavorful options, including pizzas, pasta, and Chaats.

“We are passionate about creating a culinary experience that celebrates the richness and diversity of vegetarian cuisine,” says Udaya Mogaveera – Founder – Koteshwaram “Our menu is designed to showcase the versatility of Pure vegetarian food, offering dishes that are both nutritious and satisfying.”

The restaurant’s warm and inviting atmosphere makes it the perfect pitstop for anyone who likes to go on a long drive to Nandi Hills, or travel to Hyderabad and back with friends and family. Koteshwaram has ample parking space, (up to 200 cars can be parked easily) Play area for the kids, Lots of open space, and is surrounded by greenery.

Koteshwaram is committed to providing exceptional service and creating a memorable dining experience for every guest.

Noida, February 17, 2025: Spectrum@Metro, located in Sector 75, Noida, turned Valentine’s Day into an unforgettable celebration with Daawat-e-Ishq, a vibrant fusion of love, music, and exquisite flavors. The live music and food festival brought together couples and food enthusiasts for a magical evening, blending India’s rich culinary heritage with soulful melodies. Renowned singer Danny’s captivating performance added to the romantic ambiance, making the night even more special.

The festival, themed “Daawat-e-Ishq,” took visitors on a delightful gastronomic journey, where they savored authentic regional specialties, each dish representing warmth and passion. From decadent desserts to aphrodisiac-inspired delicacies, the event showcased an array of flavors crafted to celebrate love. The festival also featured interactive sessions with renowned chefs, who shared insights into preparing the perfect romantic meal.

As a vibrant live music and food fest, Daawat-e-Ishq provided an unparalleled experience where melodies and flavors intertwined seamlessly. Guests enjoyed soulful performances, engaging culinary experiences, and an atmosphere filled with love and joy, making it a must-visit Valentine’s Day celebration.

Ajendra Singh, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Spectrum@Metro, said, “Daawat-e-Ishq was not just a food festival; it was a tribute to love and togetherness. We are delighted by the overwhelming response and the beautiful memories created. Whether it was a romantic dinner, a fun-filled evening, or an exploration of delicious cuisines, this event truly had something special for everyone.”

Spectrum@Metro, a premier retail and entertainment destination in Sector 75, Noida, continues to host unique and engaging events that bring people together. Daawat-e-Ishq was a celebration of love, flavors, and the joy of togetherness, leaving guests with cherished memories of a truly special Valentine’s Day.

Mumbai, February 17, 2025: The world of business is rapidly transforming under the influence of artificial intelligence (AI). Organisations are seeking leaders who can utilise AI to drive innovation, streamline operations, and gain a competitive edge. In response to this need, Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan’s S.P. Jain Institute of Management and Research (SPJIMR), ranked India’s #1 Business School (FT ‘Masters in Management’ Rankings 2024), in collaboration with Emeritus, has announced the launch of its ‘Executive Certificate Programme in AI for Business’.

Designed to address the growing demand for AI expertise in India, this programme empowers professionals with the skills to implement AI-driven strategies, aligning them with organisational goals to promote innovation and efficiency. According to PwC’s 2024 Global AI Jobs Barometer, the demand for AI-related roles is surging, with job postings in this field increasing 3.5 times faster than the average across sectors. A study by BCG and NASSCOM indicates that India’s AI market, growing at an estimated CAGR of 25–35%, is expected to reach $17 billion by 2027, highlighting the urgent need for strategic AI leadership.

Prof. Ashish Desai, Associate Professor and Programme Director for the Executive Certificate Programme in AI for Business at SPJIMR, while commenting on the programme launch, said, “This seven-month online programme is designed to help mid-to-senior-level professionals and business leaders unlock AI’s transformative potential to drive innovation, optimise operations, and achieve sustainable growth. With live online sessions from our faculty and an advanced curriculum, participants will gain practical and strategic insights to leverage AI for business advantage.”

The Executive Certificate Programme in AI for Business offers live online sessions delivered by SPJIMR’s esteemed faculty. Its curriculum includes hands-on projects, case studies, and a focus on practical applications. Participants will also benefit from a cohort-based learning approach, promoting collaboration and networking opportunities.

Through this programme, participants will be able to:

•  Utilise AI-powered solutions to drive business innovation and competitive advantage.
•  Align AI-driven strategies with organisational objectives to gain a competitive edge
•  Improve decision-making through data-driven insights and predictive analytics.
•  Solve complex business challenges using supervised and unsupervised learning techniques.
•  Master advanced AI applications, such as Generative AI, recommender systems, and natural language processing.
•  Build and manage AI teams and projects to promote innovation and streamline operations.
•  Implement AI strategies effectively while addressing scalability and resource allocation challenges.
•  Gain hands-on experience with real-world case studies and applied AI projects.
•  Optimise business processes through digitisation and automation for sustainable growth.

The programme provides optional on-campus immersion at SPJIMR, Mumbai, enabling participants to engage with faculty and peers in person. Key modules include AI Ecosystem, AI and Deep Learning, Generative AI, AI Strategy and Deployment, and AI Applications in Business.

Programme Details:

•  Start Date: March 30, 2025
•  Duration: 7 months
•  Eligibility: Graduate/diploma holder (10+2+3) in any discipline with at least 2 years of work experience as of March 30, 2025.
•  Programme Fee: INR 1,25,000 + GST
•  Learning Mode: Live online sessions by SPJIMR faculty – 3 hours per week, Sundays.
•  Certification: Upon successful completion of the programme, with a minimum attendance of 70 percent and satisfactory academic performance, participants will receive a certificate of completion from SPJIMR. Graduates also gain SPJIMR Executive Alumni status.

Chandigarh, February 17, 2025 – India’s care sector is at a critical juncture, requiring a strong workforce to meet both national and global demands. Speaking at the summit on ‘ Transforming the Future of the Skilled Workforce in the Care Sector ’ organized by NSDC International in Chandigarh, Shri VK Paul, Member (Health), NITI Aayog emphasized the need to expand skilling initiatives beyond traditional medical education and strike a balance between quality and quantity.

Talking about skilling initiatives, Mr. Paul said that NSDC International is playing a vital role in this endeavor, ensuring that care professionals trained in India are globally employable. He highlighted the importance of developing a curriculum, strengthening regulatory frameworks, and scaling up skill-based training programs to address workforce shortages, including in specialized areas such as geriatric care. “ Private sector support is essential to bridge the skill gap. With structured policies and strong industry-academia partnerships, India can grow its healthcare skilling ecosystem and emerge as a major contributor to the global workforce,” he added.

The summit was attended by vice-chancellors of 50 institutions and about a dozen AIIMS chiefs working towards a strong healthcare ecosystem.

Mr. Paul further added , “ India’s healthcare workforce is a vital asset for both the nation and the world. With the growing global demand for skilled professionals , structured skilling initiatives play a vital role in equipping our workforce with the expertise required to meet international standards. NSDC International’s efforts in developing a highly trained care talent pool have contributed significantly to this vision , enabling professionals to excel in diverse healthcare environments. By strengthening skill development and placement pathways , we are not only meeting workforce requirements domestically , but also reinforcing India’s position as a trusted provider of skilled care professionals across the globe.”

Speaking on this , Alok Kumar, CEO, NSDC International said , “ With a projected global shortage of 15 million caregivers by 2030 , the demand for skilled professionals is at an all-time high. Countries such as Germany , Japan and Canada have seen the number of international caregivers grow by over 30% in the last two years alone. India , with its young and skilled workforce , has the potential to bridge this gap. At NSDC International , we are committed to developing a globally competent caregiver workforce by aligning skilling programmes with international recognition , streamlining certification processes and integrating cultural adaptability training. By fostering strategic global partnerships , we aim to establish India as a trusted provider of skilled care professionals , creating dignified employment opportunities while strengthening the global healthcare system.”

The summit witnessed meaningful discussions on policy recommendations and strategic initiatives aimed at building a sustainable and future-ready caregiver workforce. A major highlight was a dialogue between vice-chancellors and directors of leading healthcare institutions, which discussed the critical role of education in bridging the shortage of healthcare workers. By strengthening collaboration between academia, industry, and policymakers, the summit set the stage for innovative solutions that will enhance skilling, workforce mobility, and India’s contribution to the global healthcare ecosystem.

Makar Sankranti and Pongal brings an exciting selection of films and series across streaming platforms! From the heartfelt romance of The Great Gujarati Matrimony on ShemarooMe, to the legacy of The Roshans on Netflix, and the thrilling Paatal Lok Season 2 on Amazon Prime Video, there’s something for everyone. Whether it’s gripping crime dramas like Chidiya Udd, action-packed tales like Pani, or supernatural adventures with Power of Paanch, this week promises to captivate and entertain.

The Roshans- Netflix
A captivating documentary series, The Roshans, premieres exclusively on Netflix on January 17, 2025, offering an intimate exploration of one of Bollywood’s most iconic families. Spanning three generations, the series chronicles the journey of music director Roshan Lal Nagrath, his sons—filmmaker Rakesh Roshan and composer Rajesh Roshan—and his grandson, superstar Hrithik Roshan. Featuring rare archival footage, candid interviews, and heartfelt anecdotes from industry stalwarts like Shah Rukh Khan, Priyanka Chopra, and Karan Johar, The Roshans celebrates their enduring legacy and unparalleled contributions to Indian cinema. A must-watch for film enthusiasts!

Paatal Lok season 2
Paatal Lok returns with its highly anticipated second season on January 17, 2025, five years after its groundbreaking debut. This time, Inspector Hathiram Chaudhary (Jaideep Ahlawat), the weary yet determined protagonist, takes on a high-profile murder investigation that leads him to the remote landscapes of northeast India. Alongside his trusted ally Ansari (Ishwak Singh), Hathiram confronts formidable adversaries and personal demons in his quest for justice. The new season introduces compelling characters played by Jahnu Barua, Tillotama Shome, Nagesh Kukunoor, and Anurag Arora, each adding depth and complexity to the story. With a darker, grittier tone, Paatal Lok Season 2 promises to unravel a sinister conspiracy while exploring Hathiram’s turbulent psyche and relentless pursuit of truth. Don’t miss it!

Chidiya Udd – Amazon MX Player
Chidiya Udd, a gripping series on human trafficking, premieres on January 15, 2025, exclusively on Amazon MX Player. Headlined by Jackie Shroff and Sikandar Kher, the show delves into the harsh realities of Mumbai’s red-light district, Kamathipura. Inspired by real incidents and based on Abid Surti’s book Cages, the story follows Seher (Bhoomika Meena), a 20-year-old from Rajasthan, who arrives in Mumbai with dreams of a brighter future. Set against a backdrop of gang wars and the city’s dark underbelly, Chidiya Udd explores her harrowing struggle to survive in a ruthless world. This hard-hitting narrative shines a light on the grim truths of trafficking, promising a poignant and emotional journey. Don’t miss it!

The Great Gujarati Matrimony- ShemarooMe
ShemarooMe presents The Great Gujarati Matrimony, streaming exclusively from January 18, 2025. Directed by Preetsinh Gohil, this heartwarming romantic movie follows three compelling characters—an aspiring actress with big dreams, a cheerful matchmaker, and a practical investment banker—on a journey of love, self-discovery, and cultural celebration. Featuring Siddhi Idnani, Mitra Gadhvi, and Devarshi Shah, the film blends romance, emotions, traditions while offering a fresh perspective on modern relationships. Perfect for cozy family viewing, The Great Gujarati Matrimony is a celebration of relationships and the values that bind us together. The movie also stars Hiten Kumar, Tatsat Munshi, Jhanvi Gurnani, and Sucheeta Trivedi, who bring depth to the story with their flawless performances.

Viduthalai Part 2- Zee5
Viduthalai Part 2 (Freedom Part 2) premiered on January 17, 2025, exclusively on ZEE5, continuing the gripping narrative directed by Vetrimaaran. A sequel to Viduthalai Part 1, this Tamil-language period political crime thriller, adapted from Jeyamohan’s short story Thunaivan (Companion), delves deeper into the life of Perumal Vaathiyaar (Vijay Sethupathi), a revolutionary fighting for justice. Featuring a stellar ensemble cast including Soori, Gautham Vasudev Menon, and Manju Warrier, the film uncovers Vaathiyaar’s tumultuous backstory, his radical ideology, and the devastating consequences of his fight against oppression. Packed with intense confrontations, emotional depth, and moral dilemmas, Viduthalai Part 2 is a powerful tale of resistance and sacrifice, culminating in an unforgettable climax. Don’t miss this cinematic masterpiece!

Pani – SonyLiv
SonyLIV’s gripping new series Pani premieres on January 16, 2025, blending intense action with emotional depth to explore the fragile balance between progress, power, and personal relationships. Directed by Joju George, in his much-anticipated directorial debut, this action-thriller follows the journey of Giri (Joju George), a local kingpin whose life is upended when two criminally inclined youngsters disrupt the peace of his family and city. As Giri’s quest for vengeance intensifies, the narrative delves into themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the cost of power. Featuring a stellar cast including Sagar Surya, Junaiz V.P., Bobby Kurian, and Abhinay, Pani promises a riveting tale of urban upheaval and personal retribution.

I Want To Talk – Prime Video
Shoojit Sircar’s heartfelt drama I Want to Talk streams on Prime Video starting January 17, 2025, after its theatrical release on November 22, 2024. Starring Abhishek Bachchan as Arjun Sen, a cancer survivor facing life-altering challenges, the film portrays a deeply emotional journey of resilience and healing. As Arjun navigates his battle with multiple surgeries and a grim prognosis, he struggles to mend his relationship with his teenage daughter, Reya, while dealing with societal judgment and personal loss. Aided by his nurse Nancy (Kristin Goodard) and guided by his doctor, Jayant Deb, Arjun defies expectations, finding humor, hope, and strength in the face of adversity. With poignant storytelling and a moving exploration of father-daughter bonds, I Want to Talk is an inspiring tale of love, perseverance, and the triumph of the human spirit. Don’t miss this unforgettable journey.

Power of Paanch- Disney+ Hotstar
Power of Paanch, a supernatural drama, premiered on Disney+ Hotstar on January 17, 2025. Starring Riva Arora and Urvashi Dholakia, this fantasy-filled series follows a group of teenagers who discover they possess elemental powers—wind, fire, and water—after a trip to Dehradun. What begins as a thrilling journey of self-discovery quickly turns into a battle against dark forces, as the friends grapple with the weight of their newfound abilities. As secrets surface and betrayals unfold, they must come together to protect themselves and the world from greater dangers. With a perfect blend of action, fantasy, and emotional depth, Power of Paanch is sure to captivate audiences. Don’t miss it!

17th February 2025; Mumbai: Today we are excited to announce that STAAH has earned the status as Expedia Group’s Elite Connectivity Partner for 2025. This recognition underscores our focus on building and maintaining a high-quality software connection that empowers you to serve guests better and grow your business on Expedia Group’s travel Platform.

There are two status tiers: Elite is the top tier status, followed by Preferred. Only the top 2% of connectivity software companies are qualified for Expedia Group’s Elite status this year, and over 400 global companies are eligible.

Expedia Group offers high visibility across 200 websites and native apps, plus expanded distribution through 90,000 travel agencies and business partners around the world. Leverage your connection with STAAH to distribute rates and availability to Expedia Group, reducing complexity in your daily business operations and attracting new loyal travelers.

National, February 17, 2025: Apollo Hospitals, Asia’s foremost integrated healthcare services provider, today announced a landmark achievement of 25,000 successful organ transplants across its hospital network. This remarkable milestone puts the spotlight on Apollo Hospitals’ unwavering commitment to saving lives and transforming healthcare through innovation, expertise, and compassionate care. The 25,000 transplants are not just a numerical accomplishment but reflect the hope, and resilience of patients and the donor families and the dedication of the Apollo Hospitals transplant team.

Building upon this legacy of excellence, Apollo Hospitals also launched the “Perfect Match” Campaign, a comprehensive initiative to raise awareness about the critical need for organ donors, dispel common myths surrounding organ donation, and inspire individuals to register as potential donors. The campaign has made a beginning in addressing the widening gap between the number of patients awaiting life-saving transplants and the availability of suitable organs.

The “Perfect Match” Campaign included a variety of outreach activities, including community health talks, educational workshops, online resources, and partnerships with patient advocacy groups. Dr. Ravichand Siddachari, Sr Consultant HPB, Liver and Pancreas Transplant at Apollo Hospitals, led an engaging and informative session with residents of the Rainbow Vistas community in Hyderabad. During the session, Dr. Siddachari addressed key questions about transplant eligibility, the organ donation process, and the profound impact that organ donation can have on individuals and families facing life-threatening illnesses.

“Reaching 25,000 transplants is a commendable achievement, but it also serves as a reminder of the immense need that exists,” said Dr. Ravichand Siddachari. “Every day, patients are added to the transplant waiting list, and sadly, many do not receive the organ they need in time. Through the ‘Perfect Match’ Campaign, we have endeavored to empower individuals to make informed decisions about organ donation and to become part of a life-saving movement.”

V. Tejesvi Rao, CEO-Telangana Region, Apollo Hospitals underlined the importance of public awareness and education, “Apollo Hospitals has always been committed to advancing the field of organ transplantation in India. With the ‘Perfect Match’ Campaign, we have taken a small but significant step forward in our efforts to increase organ donation rates and ensure that more patients have the opportunity to receive the transplants they need to live longer healthier lives.”

Dr. Ravindra Babu, Director Medical Services-Telangana Region, Apollo Hospitals said “Our team is deeply committed to providing world-class care to transplant patients. The ‘Perfect Match’ campaign is another step towards fulfilling our mission to make organ transplantation accessible to all patients who need it. We encourage everyone eligible to register to become an organ donor.”

Apollo Hospitals has been a pioneer in organ transplantation in India, establishing itself as a Center of Excellence for a wide range of transplant procedures. The hospital’s multidisciplinary transplant teams comprise highly skilled surgeons, physicians, nurses, and support staff who are dedicated to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care.

Apollo Hospitals offers comprehensive transplant services including heart, lung, liver, kidney, pancreas, cornea, small bowel, and bone marrow transplants. Dedicated transplant units with specialized equipment and highly trained staff provide optimal care for transplant patients. Transplants are performed for both adult and pediatric patients, with specialized care tailored to the unique needs of each age group. Apollo Hospitals utilizes cutting-edge surgical techniques, including minimally invasive approaches, to improve patient outcomes and reduce recovery times. Advanced immunosuppression protocols prevent organ rejection and ensure long-term graft survival.

State-of-the-art facilities include dedicated transplant centers in Jubilee Hills, Kakinada, and Vizag, with dedicated state-of-the-art laboratories, operation theatres (OTs), and transplant intensive care units (ICUs), ensuring unparalleled diagnostic precision, seamless surgeries, and 24/7 critical care. The OTs are maintained following strict infection control protocols. Apollo’s transplant ICUs are supported by advanced tools such as ventilators, continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT), extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), multi-parameter monitors, and more.

Apollo Hospitals also has extensive experience in performing living donor transplants, ensuring that patients have access to this life-saving option. It actively participates in national and regional organ-sharing networks, working to maximize the availability of deceased donor organs for transplant. Apollo Hospitals is actively involved in research and innovation in the field of organ transplantation, contributing to advancements in surgical techniques, immunosuppression strategies, and patient management.

The Heart Transplant program offers hope for patients with end-stage heart diseases such as congenital heart disease, cardiomyopathy, and coronary heart disease. For those not immediately eligible for a heart transplant, circulatory support, such as extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) or a left ventricular assist device (LVAD), is provided until a donor organ is available.

Apollo Hospitals takes immense pride in being the first hospital chain to pioneer lung transplants in India. The program also conducts combined Heart and Lung Transplantation, typically recommended for those with complex congenital heart defects.

Over 4,600 liver transplants, including 500 pediatric cases from more than 50 countries have been performed at Appollo. Organs can be procured from either living donors (Live Donor Liver Transplantation (LDLT)) or deceased donors (Deceased Donor Liver Transplantation (DDLT)). In LDLT, the team works closely with donors and recipients throughout treatment to ensure the highest standards of care.

The Kidney Transplant Program offers extensive services including swap kidney transplants, ABO-compatible and incompatible renal transplants. The Apollo Cancer Centre’s Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) Program is known for launching the region’s first Outpatient Bone Marrow Transplant Program, providing significant benefits such as a 50% reduction in costs, shorter hospital stays, and improved patient well-being. The Corneal Transplant program at Apollo Hospitals utilizes cutting-edge technologies like the FEMTO LDV Z8 laser machine.