Archives March 2025

New Delhi, March 27, 2025: The adoption of retail health insurance has increased amongst women in non-metros post-COVID-19. According to the latest findings by Niva Bupa Health Insurance Company Limited (formerly Max Bupa Health Insurance), one of India’s leading standalone health insurers, women in non-metro cities had an average 37% Y-o-Y increase in insured members from 2020 to 2024 compared to 24% growth in metros.

At Niva Bupa, women currently constitute 19% of overall policy proposers. The number of women purchasing health insurance for themselves and their families has grown 2.4 times since COVID-19, with growth being 3.1 times in non-metros and 1.7 times in metros. This growth reflects a larger socio-economic shift, where more women are coming forward to take charge of their health and secure their financial and healthcare futures.

Key Findings from Niva Bupa’s Analysis:

45% of all health insurance claims at Niva Bupa come from women. The percentage is slightly higher in South zone and Metros at approximately 48%. Incidentally, women also make up 45% of insured individuals at Niva Bupa

~80% of claims in the last five years were for women aged 28 and above, with serious health conditions often emerging around the age of 35.

The ailments tend to impact women at specific age groups – young adults (28 -35 years) accounted for 17% of all claims made by women. The percentage increased to 40% for middle aged women (36-54 years) and was 22% for women at an elderly age (55 years and above).

The top 6 ailments for which women seek treatment in hospitals include:

• Infections
• Genito urinary diseases
• Malignant cancer treatments
• Digestive issues
• Respiratory issues
• Eye related concerns

Some key observations basis the claims data were:

1. Infants (less than 2 years) and kids (2 to 12 years) suffer mainly from seasonal issues and respiratory concerns
2. For young adults (20 -27 years), maximum claim is related to maternity claims and related check-ups.
3. During middle age (36-54 years), the top 3 reasons for claims are eye related issues followed by cardiovascular and musculoskeletal disorders.
4. At an elderly age (55 years and above), women mostly made claims for serious concerns like malignant cancer cells, genito urinary treatments and cardiovascular disorders

Ailment incidences compared to men

The incidence of claims is higher for men compared to women, especially in cardiovascular diseases. However, in the age group of 41-50 years the incidence rate of claim for women is slightly higher compared to men indicating the need for women to take better care of their health as they grow older.

Pregnancy-related claims

It forms a substantial part of women’s health expenses, with 63% of childbirth claims being for C-sections and other complicated child birth procedures further emphasizing the rising costs of maternity care and the need for comprehensive health insurance.

The instances of complicated child birth procedures are higher in Western and Eastern zones of India (66% and 71% respectively).

Commenting on the findings, Nimish Agrawal, EVP & CMO, Niva Bupa Health Insurance, said: “The increasing participation of women in health insurance is an encouraging sign of financial empowerment and healthcare awareness. It’s heartening to see that women in non-metros are becoming more aware and realizing the importance to insure themselves and their families against any medical emergency. At Niva Bupa, we are committed to ensuring that women have access to the right coverage at the right time, empowering them to take charge of their health and financial well-being. Our focus remains on enhancing awareness, accessibility, and affordability of health insurance solutions tailored for women.”

Hyderabad, March 27th: Pension plans provide a structured approach to retirement planning, allowing individuals to build a substantial corpus over time.

According to an analysis by Policybazaar, investing in market linked pension plans with an assumed annual return of 15% can help in divisible accumulation up to rupees 5.32 crore over 20 years. A major benefit of these plans is the ability to withdraw 60% of the corpus tax-free, irrespective of the investment amount. While the remaining amount is mandatorily invested in annuity to ensure post-retirement income.

Sameep Singh investment product head of Policybazaarexplains,” Market-linked pension plans provide a smart, structured way to build your financial future. By consistently contributing, investors can leverage compounding to accumulate significant wealth over time”.

A pension plan requires regular contributions for a set period. These contributions grow through equity-based investments benefiting from compounding. At maturity, the investor can withdraw a portion of the corpus tax-free, while the rest must be converted into an annuity.

As per Policybazaar calculations, assuming a 15% compounded annual growth rate(CAGR):

● A ₹10,000 monthly investment can grow to ₹ 1.06 crore in 20 years with ₹63.6 lakh available for tax-free withdrawal.
● A ₹50,000 monthly investment can grow to ₹5.32 to croreallowing a ₹3.19 crore tax-free withdrawal.
A higher CAGR results in significant corpus growth over time, making early and consistent investment crucial. Investors can withdraw 60% of the copper tax-free, regardless of the investment amount. The remaining 40% is mandatorily invested in annuity, ensuring lifelong financial security post-retirement.

Returns depend on market performance, making them unpredictable. A 15% CAGR is an assumed figure and actual returns can be lower. Funds remain locked in for the policy term, restricting access to capital in case of emergencies. While annuities provide a stable income, their returns are generally lower than market-linked investments. While 60% of the corpus is tax-free, the annuity income from the remaining 40% is taxable as per the investor’s income tax slab.

Mumbai, March 27, 2025: Lord Hanuman has been one of the most revered figures in Indian storytelling. His tales of devotion and boundless strength have been etched into the collective memory of generations, passed down through folklore, cinema, and, most significantly, television.

But while many portrayals captured the dedication of Hanuman, a part of his story often remained unexplored, that of the boy and his journey which shaped him into a legend. This transformation, from a playful child to divine destiny is beautifully captured by Sony SAB’s ‘Veer Hanuman’, starring Arav Chowdharry as Kesari, Sayli Salunkhe as Anjani, Mahir Pandhi as Bali, and Sugreev and child actor Aan Tiwari as Lord Hanuman. Each actor brings depth and nuance to their respective characters, making it impossible not to be invested in their journeys.

Veer Hanuman dares to pause and look closer, at the young Maruti navigating his early years, his friendships, and the choices that led him to become Hanuman. The show peels back the layers, revealing Maruti’s inner world. In doing so, it reminds viewers that even the strongest heroes begin their journey with questions, and moments of doubt. It’s a portrayal rooted in emotion, making space for both his strength and his vulnerability.

But what truly sets this show apart is its stunning visual appeal. The elegant costumes, meticulously designed to reflect the grandeur of ancient India, are a feast for the eyes. The sets, crafted by acclaimed director and production designer Omung Kumar, are a masterclass in attention to detail and artistic brilliance. And the breathtaking graphics transport viewers to ancient kingdoms, recreating the grandeur and mystique of a bygone era.

The show has something for everyone, whether you’re a child fascinated by mythology, a parent seeking moral lessons, or a grandparent cherishing timeless stories. Veer Hanuman brings families together, offering wisdom, entertainment, and devotion in equal measure.

As long as stories of Lord Hanuman continue to be told, they will find new meanings in every era. And sometimes, the most powerful way to revisit a legend is to go back to where it all began — with a boy discovering who he is meant to be, beautifully brought to life by Sony SAB.”

Udaipur, 27th March 2025: Hindustan Zinc Limited, India’s largest and the world’s second-largest integrated zinc producer, has implemented Detect AI an advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI) – powered camera surveillance system, across its operations. This innovative solution ensures workplace safety, operational efficiency and compliance monitoring. By leveraging the advanced AI-powered system Hindustan Zinc is enhancing workplace safety, eliminating manual intervention and augmenting operational efficiency.

This cutting-edge computer vision and machine learning-based safety monitoring system seamlessly integrates with existing IoT (Internet of Things) – enabled surveillance infrastructure thereby reducing the need for manual intervention. Utilizing real-time image and video analytics, deep learning models, and edge computing, it autonomously detects unsafe industrial practices such as non-adherence to protective equipment guidelines, unauthorized personnel access, and work-at-height protocols. The system categorizes these non-compliances using predictive analytics and triggers automated alerts via cloud-based AI inference engines thereby generating comprehensive data-driven insights. With seamless API integrations, real-time KPI tracking, and intelligent automation, Detect AI transforms industrial safety by reducing incidents, enhancing compliance, and enabling proactive risk mitigation.

Hindustan Zinc has unlocked high-potential opportunities by leveraging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), computer vision, drone technology, the Internet of Things (IoT), and Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality (AR/VR). These projects cover diverse areas, including process optimization, enhanced metal recovery, asset reliability, productivity, and sustainability. By integrating this cutting-edge technology across mining sites across Rajasthan – including Rampura Agucha, Sindesar Khurd, Rajpura Dariba, Zawar and Kayad – Hindustan Zinc has enhanced operational efficiency by 20-30% while significantly reducing the need for manual intervention by nearly 50%.

Emphasizing the role of AI in the manufacturing sector, Mr. Arun Misra, CEO Hindustan Zinc Limited, said “At Hindustan Zinc, we have embedded technological excellence and automation into our operations to power ahead on the path of sustainable and responsible growth. It is our vision to eliminate manual intervention and automate our processes with advanced technologies such AI/ML, IIoT, computer vision. The implementation of this technology positions us ahead of the industry curve, integrating such innovative solutions for manufacturing excellence.”

Hindustan Zinc continues to drive innovation in the metals & mining sector by deploying advanced technologies that enhance safety, efficiency, and sustainability. The company has established a first-of-its-kind digital collaboration centre that analyses data from all business units and provides real-time insights for robust decision-making process. This AI-powered computer vision solution is part of the company’s broader strategy to implement digital transformation across its operations. The company is collaborating with new-age startups utilizing emerging-tech for real-time industrial diagnostics to monitor equipment and provide actionable insights to enhance performance and productivity.

Hindustan Zinc Limited, a Vedanta Group company, is the world’s second-largest integrated zinc producer and the third-largest silver producer. The company supplies to more than 40 countries and holds a market share of about 75% of the primary zinc market in India. Hindustan Zinc has been recognized as the world’s most sustainable company in the metals and mining category for the second consecutive year by the S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment 2024. Hindustan Zinc is also a certified 2.41 times Water-Positive company. As a world leader in the metals and mining industry, Hindustan Zinc is pivotal in providing critical metals essential for the global energy transition for a sustainable future.

New Delhi, India, March 27: ZYOD, a leading tech-enabled B2B apparel manufacturing company, is pleased to announce the appointment of Ankit Shukla as the Vice-president of Business. With a deep understanding of market dynamics and strategic expansion, Ankit has successfully led business transformations, championing innovation and adaptability in every role he undertakes. His leadership will strengthen ZYOD’s presence in fashion manufacturing while ensuring exceptional value for partners and consumers.

Ankit brings over 20 years of diverse industry experience in business growth to his new role at ZYOD. As Vice President of Business, he will lead global expansion efforts and drive innovation within the B2B fashion ecosystem. His focus will include strategic market expansion, revenue growth, supply chain optimization, and the seamless integration of advanced technologies to enhance operational efficiency.

Expressing his vision for the role Ankit Shukla said, “I am excited to join the talented team at ZYOD and contribute to its mission of innovation and disruption in the fashion industry. My focus will be on strengthening ZYOD’s position as a global leader in agile fashion manufacturing, leveraging AI and automation to enhance speed, scalability, and sustainability in fashion sourcing. Together, we aim to meet the evolving demands of the market and drive transformative growth for brands worldwide.”

Ankit Jaipuria, Co-Founder, ZYOD said, “Ankit’s expertise and strategic acumen in apparel manufacturing will be invaluable as we drive ZYOD’s growth forward. His leadership will play a crucial role in strengthening industry alliances, expanding our global presence, and reinforcing our position as a leader in the fashion manufacturing space.”

Hyderabad, March 27th, 2025: City based renowned Vaastu practitioner, Dr Venugopal Rao Veeramaneni, was conferred the prestigious ‘Visionary Mentor in Vastu Sciences and Spiritual Leadership’ Award at the 13th World Leaders Summit, held at the University of Oxford, UK, today. Dr. Veeramaneni received the award from H.E. Mr. Vít Jedlička, President of the Free Republic of Liberland, in a glittering ceremony that brought together distinguished leaders, innovators, and visionaries from across the world including H.E. Mr. Virendra Sharma, Former MP, House of Commons, UK; Col. Mailyn T. Panganiban, of the Armed Forces of Philippines; Dr. Ihuaku Patricia Nweke, Author, Entrepreneur & Founder, CedarCube UK; Bhagwanji Chohan, Councillor and Former Mayor of Brent UK and Adv. Udaiveer Singh Bindra, Convenor and President, UK Chapter, World Leaders Summit. The event celebrated global achievers in various fields.

Dr. Venugopal Rao Veeramaneni was honoured with this prestigious award in recognition of his remarkable contributions to Astrology and Vaastu Sciences. His extensive work, spanning groundbreaking research papers, mentorship, and global training initiatives, has empowered budding practitioners and enthusiasts worldwide. A true visionary, Dr. Veeramaneni’s dedication to the field has not only advanced the understanding of Vaastu and Astrology but also positioned him as a guiding force in spiritual leadership.

Speaking about the award Dr Venugopal Rao Veeramaneni, said, receiving this award is truly an honour and fills me with a profound sense of fulfilment. Being recognized at a prestigious forum like the World Leaders Summit at the iconic University of Oxford makes this moment even more special. I took a leap of faith, leaving behind a lucrative career as a scientist, to dedicate myself to the practice and promotion of our ancient sciences. This recognition strengthens my resolve to further explore the depths of Astrology and Vaastu Sciences, showcasing their profound ability to bring peace and prosperity to humanity. I am committed to ensuring the world acknowledges the immense wisdom these sciences hold.

NEW DELHI, India – March 27, 2025

RAH Infotech, India’s leading value-added distributor and provider of cybersecurity and IT solutions, is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Jitendra Khadke as Senior Vice President. With over 24 years of extensive experience in the IT distribution industry, Mr. Jitendra brings deep expertise in sales leadership, product management, and partner enablement, particularly in the Cybersecurity & Enterprise Software domain.

As Senior Vice President, Mr. Jitendra Khadke will play a pivotal role in spearheading RAH Infotech’s technological strategy, enhancing its product portfolio, and strengthening collaborations with partners and vendors (OEMs). His leadership will focus on driving innovation, optimizing go-to-market strategies, and ensuring the company continues to deliver best-in-class cybersecurity and IT solutions.

Commenting on his new role, Mr. Jitendra Khadke, newly appointed Senior Vice President at RAH Infotech stated: “I am thrilled to join RAH Infotech at this exciting juncture. The company has consistently demonstrated its leadership in IT distribution, and I look forward to leveraging my expertise to drive technology adoption, expand our portfolio, and create value for our partners and customers. Together, we will continue to strengthen our position as a trusted distributor and solution provider in the cybersecurity and enterprise software landscape.”

Mr. Jitendra’s appointment underscores RAH Infotech’s commitment to technological excellence and market leadership. Throughout his career, he has successfully led multiple initiatives, driving revenue growth and strengthening business relationships. His expertise spans sales leadership and strategy, where he has developed and executed strategic sales initiatives to expand market share and revenue across multiple product categories. In product management, he has handled a diverse IT product portfolio, ensuring effective product positioning and market success through collaboration with vendors, manufacturers, and internal teams. He has also played a crucial role in partner onboarding and enablement by leading programs that provide technical training, sales support, and strategic business planning to empower partners and accelerate business growth.

Additionally, his extensive experience in OEM collaboration has enabled him to act as a vital link between partners and OEMs, crafting tailored business solutions that align with market needs while ensuring vendor objectives are met. Furthermore, his strong relationship management skills have helped build and maintain key stakeholder relationships in the distribution and vendor ecosystems, ensuring alignment with market trends, product innovations, and sales strategies.

Mr. Ashok Kumar, Founder & Managing Director at RAH Infotech, welcomed Mr. Jitendra’s appointment, adding: “We are delighted to have Mr. Jitendra join our leadership team. His extensive experience and deep industry knowledge will be instrumental in enhancing our technology strategy and driving business growth. With his expertise, we are confident in our ability to scale new heights and deliver unparalleled value to our partners and customers.”

Magnum to unveil an indulgent new flavor     

26th March 2025: Magnum, the iconic ice cream crafted with Belgian chocolate, returns to Lakmē Fashion Week x FDCI to celebrate indulgence, luxury, and pleasure. With a legacy intertwined with fashion and luxury, Magnum continues to create opulent experiences bringing its much-loved Magnum Chocolate Dipping Bar to India’s premier fashion and beauty platform. The brand is set to elevate the pleasure quotient at Lakmē Fashion Week, taking place from March 26th to 30th, 2025, at Jio World Convention Centre, Mumbai.

Much like fashion, where every detail is thoughtfully curated, Magnum crafts experiences with the finest Belgian chocolate, turning every bite into pure indulgent pleasure. This season at Lakmē Fashion Week, Magnum introduces a series of luxury experiences, from the much-loved Chocolate Dipping Bar to unique collaborations that fuse flavor with high fashion. The celebration peaks with the iconic Magnum Party, an evening of glamour and indulgence, bringing together fashion’s elite for an unforgettable experience of luxury and pleasure.

• An Iconic Celebration and a New Magnum Flavor Unveil – Magnum is set to make a statement at Lakmē Fashion Week with a grand unveiling. Graced by fashion icons, the evening will blend luxury and true pleasure, culminating in the reveal of Magnum’s newest indulgent flavor. Set against a backdrop of glamour, the event will immerse attendees in the world of Magnum, further solidifying its place at the intersection of fashion and indulgence, and creating an experience as rich and unforgettable as its Magnum Bar.
• Exclusive Designer Magnums by India’s most celebrated Fashion Designers – Special edition Magnum creations inspired by trailblazing Indian designers: Falguni Shane Peacock, Amit Aggarwal, and Shantanu Nikhil celebrating the art of indulgence through their unique signature creations, with each Magnum bar encapsulating their design sensibilities.
• A Bespoke Candle Collection – Expanding its sensory experience, Magnum introduces limited-edition candles inspired by its signature flavors, crafted in collaboration with esteemed Indian designer Ritika Mirchandani. These exquisite aromas capture the essence of indulgence, inviting guests to experience pleasure beyond taste—engaging scent, style, and sophistication in a true multisensory celebration.

Speaking on Magnum’s commitment to creating unparalleled experiences at the Lakmē Fashion Week, Toloy Tanridagli, Head of Ice Cream Business, HUL, shared: “Magnum is thrilled to return to Lakmē Fashion Week X FDCI, where fashion and luxury converge in the most spectacular way. As the platform marks 25 iconic years, Magnum reaffirms its commitment to crafting extraordinary experiences and unforgettable moments of indulgent pleasure delights. From the much-anticipated Magnum Party to immersive brand experiences, we are proud to be part of this landmark celebration, and as we continue to make waves worldwide, our ambition for India is to redefine luxury and pleasure, setting new standards for indulgent experiences.”

As Magnum continues to redefine boundaries, its presence at Lakmē Fashion Week is a testament to its commitment to blending luxury, taste, and creativity. From bespoke collaborations to immersive experiences, Magnum invites guests to step into a world where fashion meets pleasure.

Varanasi, March 26, 2025: The Sustainable Cities Challenge (SCC) — organized by the Toyota Mobility Foundation (TMF) — brought together 10 global innovators for an Innovator Academy held under the $9 million global Sustainable Cities Challenge. Developed in collaboration with the Municipal Corporation of Varanasi, Varanasi Smart City, Challenge Works, and World Resources Institute, the Varanasi Sustainable Cities Challenge aims to identify and scale data-driven solutions for managing crowd movement in the old city of Kashi.

India’s spiritual hub, Varanasi, attracts millions of visitors each year. While this influx energizes the local economy, it also results in mobility issues — making the need for innovative solutions the key to ensuring safety, accessibility, and efficiency in mobility for residents, tourists, and vulnerable communities.

A key highlight of the workshop was a crowd-mapping workshop, led by Shri Akshat Verma (IAS), Municipal Commissioner, Varanasi Municipal Corporation, and CEO & Director of Varanasi Smart City Limited. The workshop featured insights from a crowding survey conducted by WRI India and The Urban Lab, which were showcased through an interactive exhibition. The exhibit demonstrated how real-time crowding data can enhance mobility planning, improve accessibility, and transform pedestrian experiences in rapidly growing urban centers.

The workshop was also attended by dignitaries including Shri S. Rajalingam, IAS, District Magistrate, Varanasi; Shri Pramod Kumar, IPS, DCP Gomti Zone; Shri Himanshu Nagpal, IAS, Chief Development Officer Varanasi; Shri Rajesh Kumar Pandey, ADCP Varanasi; Shri Satyam Mohan, Chief Executive Officer, Varanasi Cantonment Board; Shri Shambhu Sharan, SDM, Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple; Shri Arpit Gupta, Station Director, Varanasi Railway Station; Shri Prakash Chandra, Additional District Magistrate, Varanasi; Smt Savita Yadav, Additional Municipal Commissioner, Varanasi; and Shri Amrendra Tiwari, Chief Engineer (Civil) Varanasi Smart City Limited.

“I hope that this workshop and all our future collaborations will result in a fruitful outcome for the city of Varanasi. Through the Challenge, we will be able to solve that in due time.” said Shri Akshat Verma (IAS). “I hope that we will utilize this opportunity and bring the best from the city and from all the innovators.”

Pras Ganesh, Executive Program Director, Toyota Mobility Foundation, added, “Varanasi is a city steeped in history, yet despite the best efforts of the city administration a growing number of pilgrims and tourists have created mobility challenges that are very much of the present. The SCC Innovator Academy is giving us a glimpse into how data and technology can help reimagine movement in such a complex urban setting. By integrating insights from the community, we can create human centric data solutions that are not just efficient but also inclusive and sustainable.”

Kathy Nothstine, Director of Cities and Societies, Challenge Works, remarked, “Cities everywhere are struggling to manage crowding and mobility efficiently. What’s exciting about this initiative is how it brings together global innovators to tackle these challenges head-on. By leveraging data and technology with people’s real experiences, we can turn urban mobility problems into opportunities for smarter and more inclusive urban futures.”

“Urban mobility is evolving rapidly, and real impact comes from bridging innovative technology with on-the-ground solutions,” said Pawan Mulukutla, Executive Program Director – Integrated Transport, Clean Air & Hydrogen, WRI India. “Through the SCC Innovator Academy, we’re seeing how data-driven approaches can genuinely improve how people move in dense city environments like Varanasi.”

The workshop also provided a collaborative platform for city officials, urban planners, and mobility and technology experts to exchange knowledge on scalable solutions for urban crowding challenges. The exhibit and workshops reinforced the critical role of data-driven innovations in shaping the future of urban mobility in India.

26 March 2025 – India: Following the resounding success of its Investor Conference held last year, Arihant Capital Markets Ltd., kickstarted its much-anticipated Bharat Connect Conference – Rising Stars, a virtual gathering of industry leaders, experts, and investors from across the financial landscape. The two-day conference will see participation from more than 200 leading financial companies in India.

The conference started today virtually between 10 AM and 5 PM, offering opportunities for investors to connect with leaders from over 200 companies and gain in-depth insights into growth strategies, industry trends, and future prospects.

Commenting on the conference, Arpit Jain, Joint Managing Director, Arihant Capital Markets Ltd, said “At Arihant Capital, we are committed to bridging the gap between companies and investors by providing an interactive platform. We are working towards creating powerful dialogue, learning, and new opportunities for the investors. Bharat Connect Conference is designed to empower investors with firsthand access to market insights while also helping companies enhance their visibility among key stakeholders.”

Investor conferences hosted by Arihant Capital provide a wealth of insights and opportunities for a broad spectrum of market participants, including FIIs, mutual funds, insurance companies, banks, HNIs, family offices, and retail investors. The conference offers:

• Access to Key Information – Gain a deeper understanding of company fundamentals, growth strategies, and market dynamics.
• Enhanced Company Visibility – A valuable platform for both listed and unlisted companies to engage with potential investors.
• Diverse Market Cap Coverage – Insights into businesses across large-cap, mid-cap, and emerging sectors.

“Our virtual conferences have been instrumental in fostering meaningful discussions and unlocking investment opportunities. With this upcoming edition, we aim to continue building a strong, insightful, and inclusive platform where investors and companies can connect seamlessly to drive growth and innovation,” said Shruti Jain, CSO Arihant Capital.