Archives April 2025

Mumbai, India; April 30, 2025 – On the occasion of World Immunization Week, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd. (BSE: 500124, NSE: DRREDDY, NYSE: RDY, NSEIFSC: DRREDDY; hereafter referred to as “Dr. Reddy’s”), a global pharmaceutical company, expands its strategic partnership with Sanofi Healthcare India Private Limited (“SHIPL”) to introduce a novel drug, Beyfortus® (nirsevimab), in India. Beyfortus® contains the monoclonal antibody, nirsevimab, in a prefilled injection used for the prevention of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) lower respiratory tract disease (LRTD) in newborns and infants born during or entering their first RSV season. It is also administered in children up to 24 months of age, who remain vulnerable to severe RSV disease through their second RSV season. 

Under the arrangement, Dr. Reddy’s will have exclusive rights from SHIPL to promote and distribute Beyfortus® (nirsevimab) in India. This announcement follows Dr. Reddy’s successful exclusive distribution partnership with Sanofi for their portfolio of vaccines in India last year. Dr. Reddy’s is expected to launch Beyfortus® in India in the second quarter of the current fiscal year. 

RSV is a highly contagious virus that can lead to serious respiratory illness for infants. Two out of three infants are infected with RSV during their first year of life and almost all children are infected by their second birthday. In addition to being the most common cause of LRTD such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia in infants, RSV is also a leading cause of hospitalization in infants worldwide, with most hospitalizations occurring in healthy infants born at term. In 2019, there were approximately 33 million cases of acute lower respiratory infections globally, leading to more than 3 million hospitalizations, and it was estimated that there were 26,300 in-hospital deaths of children younger than 5 years.

Nitya Padmanabhan, Head of Sanofi Vaccines (India) said, “Bringing Beyfortus® to India is a pivotal step in our mission to protect every child from immunization preventable diseases like RSV. In India, where the disease burden is significant and early protection is critical, this collaboration with Dr. Reddy’s enables us to reach parents and healthcare providers with an innovative solution. Together, we are advancing equitable access to immunization and improving preventive care for numerous children in India.”

M.V. Ramana, Chief Executive Officer, Branded Markets (India and Emerging Markets), Dr. Reddy’s, said, “We are happy to extend our partnership with Sanofi in India – this time for a novel drug to address the RSV burden among newborns and infants in India. This partnership highlights our continued efforts to become the ‘partner of choice’ in bringing novel, innovative and trusted drugs to patients. Beyfortus® enables the access of healthcare professionals and parents to an improved drug in the prevention of RSV. Additionally, the launch of Beyfortus® will help us strengthen our immunization portfolio in India.”

Beyfortus® has been approved for use in the European Union, the U.S., China, Japan, and many other countries around the world. In India, Beyfortus® received its marketing authorization approval in June last year from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO).

New Delhi, April 29, 2025: The entire campus of IILM Lodhi Road pulsed with energy and intellect this Thursday as students, faculty, and dignitaries gathered to witness a defining moment in the university’s calendar — the conferment of the IILM Distinguished Global Thinker Award to Professor Ranjay Gulati, renowned Harvard Business School professor and a globally acclaimed voice in the field of organisational leadership.

A scholar who comfortably bridges the worlds of academic precision and real-world transformation, Professor Gulati is known for challenging business orthodoxy and elevating conversations around what truly drives performance. From his dual undergraduate degrees at Washington State University and St. Stephen’s College, to a Master’s from MIT Sloan and a Ph.D. from Harvard, his journey is one of deep academic rigour and fearless curiosity.

As the 14th honouree in a celebrated line of global thinkers, Professor Gulati took the stage with a powerful keynote on his groundbreaking book “Deep Purpose: The Heart and Soul of High-Performance Organisations.” What followed was no ordinary academic session. It was a wake-up call; a rallying spark for leadership that dares to feel.

In a talk that felt more like an awakening than a lecture, Professor Gulati spoke candidly about the real purpose that is not just performative but profoundly embedded into the DNA of leadership. Students leaned in, faculty took notes, and minds visibly shifted gears. “Why do great companies fail?”. That question sparked an intense exploration. From denial to overconfidence, strategic drift to cultural inertia, he laid bare the importance of strategy that any great organisation should have. Drawing from his conversations with global changemakers, Gulati illustrated how purpose isn’t a poster on the wall, but a pulse that must start from within. “At Microsoft, they asked every employee to define their personal purpose before aligning with the company’s. Because how do you live a shared purpose if you’ve never sat with your own?”

Citing a quote that dates back to 1200 BC, he left the room with a lingering reflection: “You are what your deepest desire is. As your desire is, so is your intention. As your intention is, so is your will. As your will is, so is your deed. As your deed is, so is your destiny.”

Setting the tone for the evening was a warm welcome address by Dr. Harivansh Chaturvedi, Director General of IILM. “We are proud to build not just professionals skilled in strategy, but leaders grounded in values and purpose. Through this award, we reaffirm our commitment to nurturing institutions and individuals who touch minds, hearts, and souls”, he said. Adding gravitas to the event was the Chief Guest, Retd. Justice Hima Kohli who graced the occasion with her presence. Justice Kohli, known for her judicial leadership and advocacy of mediation, environmental stewardship, and family law, reminded attendees of the moral compass required in all fields of leadership.

The evening wasn’t just about honouring a thinker. It was about igniting a generation, one ready to lead with soul, not just strategy. From budding entrepreneurs to future policymakers, students left the session visibly inspired. As the evening proved, IILM continues to set the launchpad for leaders who are rewriting the rules with clarity, courage, and conviction. Beyond the award, the lecture reflected IILM’s core philosophy of preparing future leaders to drive with deep purpose and a strategic mindset to create lasting impact.

Fire Works in the Hamptons (A Magic in the Hamptons Book 3) by Celia Jerome, now available from Histria Books.

Histria Books is pleased to announce the release of Fire Works in the Hamptons (A Magic in the Hamptons Book 3) by Celia Jerome. This novel is published by Histria SciFi & Fantasy, an imprint of Histria Books encompassing outstanding, innovative works in the genres of science fiction and fantasy.

A HOT TIME IN THE HAMPTONS

Graphic novelist and Visualizer Willow Tate can draw images of beings from the neighbouring realm of magic, possibly drawing them from their world to ours in the process. So why has she foolishly decided to make the hero of her next book a fire wizard?

Is that why the strange fire bugs suddenly appear at the East Hampton fire works display and then start heating things up in and around the little Long Island town of Paumanok Harbor? These miniature arsonists are causing a whole lot of trouble, and when a baby swallows one and begins to cry flames, Willy knows she needs professional help to put a damper on the situation.

This time, the Department of Unexplained Events sends a fire fighter, Piet, a man whose very presence prevents fires from starting. With a tabloid reporter focusing his attention on Willow’s activities and a science teacher determined to turn the fireflies into an energy source, Willow will be hard-pressed to keep the town’s secrets safe.

Not only does she need to find a way to send the fireflies back to their own dimension, but she and Piet—who are starting to generate some heat of their own—have to track down a real arsonist who seems determined to set the area ablaze…

Celia Jerome lived in Paumanok Harbor near the tip of Long Island, New York. She believed in magic, yard sales, and small dogs.

Fire Works in the Hamptons by Celia Jerome., 439 pp., ISBN 978-1-59211-917-9, is available at HistriaBooks.com and from all major book retailers. The book is also available in eBook. Titles published under the various imprints of Histria Books are distributed worldwide by the Independent Publishers Group (IPG). For information on publishing with Histria Books, please visit HistriaBooks.com or contact us at info@histriabooks.com

7181 N. Hualapai Way, Suite 130-86, Las Vegas, NV 89166 USA

HistriaBooks.com

(561) 299-0802

Authority Kicks off Event in Kuwait to Showcases Generative AI’s Potential to Boost GCC Economy by $150 Billion

Kuwait City, Kuwait, 29 April 2025: The Gulf Cooperation Council Interconnection Authority (GCCIA), in collaboration with the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), has launched today (Tuesday, 29 April 2025) a pivotal workshop in Kuwait under the theme ‘Empowering the Future Grid: Exploring the Application of Generative AI in GCC Power Systems’.

Taking place until Wednesday (30 April 2025) at the Hilton Garden Inn, the event convenes key leaders from the Gulf electricity sector alongside global technology pioneers Microsoft, Oracle, and NVIDIA. 

As artificial intelligence (AI) reshapes the global energy landscape, the Gulf region stands at the forefront of this transformation. According to recent studies, AI could contribute up to $150 billion to the GCC’s economy, representing about 9% of the region’s total GDP.

GCC utility companies today demonstrate one of the highest levels of AI readiness globally, fuelled by strategic investment and vision.

Through initiatives like this workshop, GCCIA fulfils its core mandate of promoting integration, collaboration, and competitiveness among Gulf electricity systems. The Authority firmly believes that Generative AI will be a cornerstone technology in enhancing the operational resilience, sustainability, and global competitiveness of the region’s power networks — supporting not only internal connectivity among GCC countries, but also ambitious future plans for interconnection with Europe and international energy markets.

In this context, Eng. Ahmed Al Ebrahim, CEO of GCCIA, stated: “Today, we gather at the intersection of innovation and necessity. As the energy landscape evolves into a cleaner yet complex future, so too must our approaches and technologies for our future grids. Generative AI represents a frontier with the potential to transform our power grids into more resilient, efficient, and intelligent systems.”

He added: “Recognizing such needs, EPRI has just launched the Open Power AI Consortium representing a significant step forward in harnessing the power of AI to transform the energy sector. By fostering collaboration between technology leaders and energy partners, the consortium aims to create a more efficient, reliable, and sustainable power industry for the future through implementation of AI progressing from augmentation applications to Auto-piloting and ultimately reaching Autonomous application in operation and maintenance. The journey has just begun, and the possibilities are limitless as AI continues to unlock new potential in energy management and optimization.”

A Strategic Platform for Gulf Utilities to Shape the Future

The event’s agenda, developed with significant leadership from GCCIA and regional utilities, focuses on real-world case studies, best practices, and brainstorming sessions led by Gulf power sector experts.

Participants are sharing firsthand insights into how AI is already enhancing their operations and discussing strategies to scale adoption further across the region. Day one of the workshop witnessed the active participation of representatives from across the GCC power systems, who engaged in dynamic knowledge-sharing discussions. These interactions reaffirmed a collective determination to harness the full potential of AI in alignment with the visions of Gulf leadership — driving progress in sustainability, regional connectivity, and global competitiveness.

Beyond showcasing innovation, the workshop critically examines lessons learned from international AI deployment failures, where only 35% of organizations were confident their infrastructure could support AI solutions. By learning from these experiences, Gulf utilities aim to build smarter, future-proof AI systems that drive tangible value across their networks.

Over two days, sessions explore how Generative AI is transforming grid planning, operations, and asset management. Leaders from Microsoft share insights on leveraging the Copilot platform for energy operations, while Oracle and NVIDIA present cutting-edge AI applications for the power sector. EPRI experts contribute technical perspectives, collaborating with Gulf utilities to develop actionable roadmaps for AI integration.

Through its leadership, GCCIA underscores the enormous opportunity for Gulf utilities to invest in AI technologies to support sustainability goals, reduce carbon emissions, enhance system interoperability, and strengthen resilience across the entire Gulf region.

By empowering Gulf utilities with advanced AI capabilities, GCCIA is helping to position the region as a global model for smart, sustainable, and integrated electricity systems — ensuring secure, efficient, and competitive energy networks for decades to come.

Novotel Vijayawada Varun Unveils Pelli Sandadi 2.0,  A Redefinition of Modern Matrimony

Vijayawada, 29 April 2025 — Novotel Vijayawada Varun proudly introduces Pelli Sandadi 2.0, an all-encompassing luxury wedding package meticulously designed to blend cultural sophistication with contemporary elegance. The grand unveiling will take place today at 5:30 PM in the hotel’s convention.

Priced at ₹5,55,000, this thoughtfully curated package consolidates all essential elements of a wedding—bespoke décor, gourmet & traditional cuisine, curated entertainment, and seasoned event orchestration—into a seamless experience under one roof. It embodies the mantra: One Package | Zero Stress | Infinite Memories.

“Weddings are monumental life events, and the journey to the altar should be as memorable as the ceremony itself,” remarked Mr. Manish Pathak, Hotel Manager, Novotel Vijayawada Varun. “With Pelli Sandadi 2.0, we have reimagined the planning process into a harmonious, stress-free celebration.”

The overwhelming success and positive response to Pelli Sandadi Package One among our guests inspired the creation of this upgraded edition, offering even greater luxury, personalization, and convenience.

This upgraded offering is envisioned for discerning modern couples seeking a harmonious fusion of tradition, luxury, and convenience. Attendees of the launch will witness live wedding set-ups, immersive showcases, and curated tastings from the hotel’s master chef – Mr. Shivarama Krishna. Novotel’s elite in-house planners and select vendor partners will be available for consultations, helping guests conceptualise their dream wedding.

Pelli Sandadi 2.0 signifies Novotel’s unwavering commitment to transforming Vijayawada’s wedding landscape with elegance, affordability, and elevated hospitality.

If there’s one thing Amit Gandhi has learned over two decades in healthcare—it’s that real transformation isn’t just driven by systems, technology, or capital. It’s driven by people. By leaders who step up in the face of complexity and uncertainty and choose to make a difference. That belief has now taken the shape of a new podcast: The Healthcare Tribe.

Launched by Amit, a healthcare industry expert and the founder of The Insight Tribe (www.theinsighttribe.com), the podcast is a space for thoughtful, real conversations with the people shaping the future of healthcare. These are leaders you may have read about or worked with—executives, clinicians, entrepreneurs, investors—but this time, you’ll hear their stories.

The turning points. The setbacks. The decisions that defined them. “Healthcare is one of the most complex sectors to build in. Everyone talks about innovation and disruption—but what about the people behind it all? What really drives them? That’s the question I wanted to explore,” says Amit.

Each episode dives deep into the personal and professional journeys of these changemakers—what shaped them, what they’ve learned, and what they believe it truly takes to lead in healthcare today. But it doesn’t stop there. The podcast also offers a window into the current landscape of each speaker’s domain, unpacking trends, challenges, and insights that

are relevant to anyone working in or around healthcare.

The idea is simple: to inspire and empower healthcare professionals by sharing leadership journeys that matter. And to build a community that believes leadership—more than anything else—is what will define the future of healthcare.

The Healthcare Tribe with Amit Gandhi is now streaming on Youtube and Spotify. Because behind every healthcare breakthrough, there’s a leader with a story worth sharing.

New Delhi, 29 April 2025: ZS, a global management consulting and technology firm, has released its India social responsibility report for 2024. The report highlights the impact of its initiatives on 85,655 beneficiaries through social programs and strategic partnerships with nonprofit organizations. With a donation of INR 9.3 crores in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, ZS collaborated with 20 nonprofit partners to address critical societal challenges in four key areas: healthcare, education, economic empowerment, and environment and sustainability. The firm’s 2,246 volunteers contributed a total of 7,663 hours to programs in these focus areas, demonstrating ZS’s commitment to meaningful Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) priorities.

Commenting on the report, Mohit Sood, regional managing principal at ZS, said, “Access to quality healthcare, education and sustainable livelihoods remains a critical challenge. At ZS, we recognize that meaningful transformation requires strategic action beyond mere intent. Through ZS Cares, we leverage our expertise, resources and partnerships to create a tangible impact where it matters most. In FY 2024-25, we enabled healthcare access to over 72,000 individuals, empowered 7,707 students through STEM education, scholarships and mentorship programs, and supported 713 individuals in achieving financial independence. As we continue this journey, our focus remains clear—to improve life and how we live it.

ZS is deeply committed to driving positive social change and empowering communities across India. Through sustained volunteer engagement and strategic partnerships, ZS invests in initiatives that create a lasting impact. We focus on building a brighter future for individuals and communities, contributing to a more equitable and sustainable society.

“The impact created would not have been possible without the dedication of ZSers and the support of our NGO partners,” said Rohit Bhagwat, office managing principal and global ESG working group member at ZS.

He mentioned, “ZS will continue investing in sustainable initiatives that empower people and uplift communities. Together, we are not just supporting change, we are leading it. Let’s keep pushing boundaries, amplifying our impact and shaping a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.”

MUMBAI / April 29, 2025: Honourable Maharashtra Governor C.P. Radhakrishnan today inaugurated the newly revamped Aditya Jyot Eye Hospital in Wadala, Mumbai. A unit of Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital, the revamped 9,000 sq. ft. facility marks a major step forward in the group’s mission to offer advanced and accessible eye care across Maharashtra.

From Left to Right – Hon’ble Maharashtra Governor Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan and Dr. Adil Agarwal, CEO, Dr Agarwals Group of Eye Hospital

The hospital has been transformed into a state-of-the-art facility, equipped with a modular operating theatre, a world-class laser refractive operation theatre, a modern optical retail and diagnostic display unit, and a fully stocked in-house pharmacy. Designed to deliver a seamless and all-inclusive eye care experience, the centre now offers a comprehensive range of ophthalmic services under one roof, including advanced treatments in Cataract, Retina, Cornea, LASIK, Glaucoma, Uveitis, Squint, Pediatric Ophthalmology, Neuro-Ophthalmology, and Oculoplasty.

The hospital is equipped with cutting-edge ophthalmic technology to support high-precision diagnosis and treatment. Key systems include the Alcon Constellation surgical unit and the 3D ARTEVO microscope for advanced retinal and cataract procedures, the WAVE LIGHT EX500 for high-speed LASIK, and laser platforms such as the ZEISS Green Laser and YAG Laser for retinal and posterior capsulotomy treatments. Diagnostic and imaging capabilities are powered by the NIDEK Mirante, ZEISS OCT 5000, Pentacam, ZEISS IOL Master, and B-scan, while clinical examinations are enhanced with tools like the indirect ophthalmoscope and applanation tonometer—ensuring comprehensive, world-class eye care under one roof.

Hon’ble Maharashtra Governor Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, who graced the occasion as Chief Guest, said, “It is truly inspiring to witness the transformation of Aditya Jyot Eye Hospital, a unit of Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital, into a premier centre of excellence as part of the Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital network. This state-of-the-art facility exemplifies how cutting-edge medical innovation, when guided by a patient-first philosophy, can significantly raise the bar for healthcare delivery. I commend the entire team for their steadfast commitment to enhancing vision care across Maharashtra and for ensuring that world-class eye treatment is within reach for every citizen.”

Dr. Adil Agarwal, CEO, Dr Agarwals Group of Eye Hospital, said:” At Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital, our journey in recent years has been marked by remarkable growth—not just in numbers, but in the depth and quality of care we provide. With a network of over 230 hospitals across India and abroad, including 30 hospitals in Maharashtra alone, our commitment to this state remains unwavering. This newly revamped hospital stands as a testament to our pursuit of clinical excellence, where advanced technology meets compassionate, patient-centric care—delivered by a team of highly skilled and dedicated specialists.

Prof. Dr. S. Natarajan, Medical Director of Aditya Jyot Eye Hospital, said: “This transformation marks a major milestone in our mission to offer world-class eye care. It strengthens our ability to reach more patients, train the next generation of ophthalmology leaders, and continue our legacy as a trusted name in eye health. I am deeply thankful to our team, partners, and supporters who made this possible.”

Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital currently operates over 230 hospitals across 10 countries, including 18 in Mumbai and 30 across Maharashtra. The group serves more than 2 million patients annually and performs over 200,000 surgeries globally. Moving forward, it remains committed to expanding its presence by adding more facilities in both Maharashtra and Mumbai to further enhance access to quality eye care.

As part of its ongoing efforts to promote eye health, the hospital is offering free eye check-ups for senior citizens aged 50 and above, available until May 31.

Chennai/April 29, 2025 — Sundaram Finance Ltd., one of India’s most trusted NBFCs, is revising Deposit Interest Rates effective 1st May 2025, in line with the RBI’s repo rate revision announced recently. Revised rates for Senior Citizens are 7.70% for 12 months and 8% for 24 and 36 months. Similarly, for others, 7.20% for 12 months and 7.50% for 24 and 36 months.

The adjustments reflect Sundaram Finance Ltd.’s measured response to broader economic conditions and market dynamics and are a part of their financial strategy to align with current economic trends.

Recently, the company introduced a Digital Deposit facility, making savings simpler, safer, and more accessible than ever. Customers can conveniently invest and manage their deposits digitally through a seamless and secure process, enjoying peace of mind and attractive returns. This online transaction can be initiated through the company portal.

ABOUT SUNDARAM FINANCE

Sundaram Finance was established in 1954, and the company has today grown into one of the most trusted and diversified financial services groups in India providing financing for commercial vehicles, cars & utility vehicles, tractors and farm equipment, construction equipment, SME finance and a range of working capital products for financing diesel, tyres, insurance.

Through its subsidiaries and group companies, the company offers home finance, loans against property, mutual funds and investment management solutions and the full range of general insurance products and services. It has a nationwide presence of over 700 branches, over 1.1 lakh depositors and over 4.75 lakh lending customers.

Sundaram Finance’s vision is to be the most respected NBFC in the country and its mission is to deliver the Sundaram experience to all customers, big and small, in keeping with the ethos of the Company. Sundaram Finance embraces a philosophy that balances Growth with Quality and Profitability and remains rooted in its ideal of protecting and enhancing shareholder value. The founding philosophy of the company is that everything begins with the customer. Our founder, Late Sri T S Santhanam, enshrined in the company its core values – The Sundaram Way – that have been the company’s guiding light over the decades. The company is deeply rooted in its values and proud of its heritage, also constantly innovating in terms of technology and processes to deliver the unique Sundaram experience to its customers and stakeholders.

Mumbai / Chang International Circuit, Buriram (Thailand), 29 April 2025: The riders of IDEMITSU Honda Racing India team took on the challenge of Round 1 of the 2025 FIM Asia Road Racing Championship, held at the legendary Chang International Circuit in Buriram, Thailand. Today marked the conclusion of Round 1, bringing an intense and action-packed weekend to a close.

The Indian duo, Kavin Quintal and Johann Reeves, completed today’s race with determination and consistency in the fiercely competitive Asia Production 250cc (AP250) class.

Kavin Quintal, the 19-year-old rider started the 10-lap race from the 23^rd grid position for race 1. He finished at 19^th position with a total time of 19:06.659. In race 2, he fought back stronger and despite the tough competition, Kavin showed resilience and strategic race craft, managing to maintain his position. He finished at 13^th position after a hard-fought race today, crossing the chequered flag with a total time of 19:07.972 and his fastest lap was recorded at 1:53.676.

Meanwhile, Johann Reeves started from 29^th on the grid in his debut season at the ARRC. In race 1, he put an intense fight, maintaining consistent lap times and gaining valuable experience on the demanding circuit. Johann finished at 15^th position in the race 1 with a total time of 19:05.726. In race 2, Reeves held his ground and finished the race at 18^th place with a total time of 19:11.232 and his fastest lap was 1:53.861.

Kavin earned 3 points in race 2 while Johann bagged 1 point in race 1, bringing their cumulative team total to 4 points for this season in the Asia Production 250cc (AP250) class.

Sharing his thoughts, Kavin Quintal said “Today’s race at Chang Circuit was tough right from the start. The technical layout demanded full concentration. I knew it wouldn’t be easy. I managed to fight my way up to 13^th. While there’s still a lot to learn, I am proud of the progress. This wraps up Round 1, and I am more motivated than ever to come back stronger for the next one.

 Johann Reeves added, “Today’s race at Chang Circuit was a real test. Starting 29^th, I gave it everything and finished at 19^th. I am glad to garner some points for the team in the race 1. The competition is tough and the track unforgiving, but there’s a lot to take forward. Round 1 is done and I am feeling motivated and ready to push even harder in the next one”