Archives December 2025

Dec 12 : Nutrabolt, a global leader in active health and wellness, today announced a strategic agreement with Nutraprep India Pvt. Ltd. Under this arrangement, Nutraprep will serve as the exclusive licensee for manufacturing and distribution of select Nutrabolt products in India. 

Designed to bring internationally trusted formulations to India, this agreement focuses on local manufacturing built to global standards. As a part of this collaboration, Nutraprep will manufacture C4 Original Pre-Workout, XTEND Original, and Cellucor COR-Performance Creatine in India. Distribution will be led by Bright Performance Nutrition Pvt. Ltd., headed by Parag Bhatia, one of India’s premier distributors in the sports nutrition and wellness sector, recognized for its robust pan-India retail and omnichannel expertise.

“The sports nutrition market continues to evolve rapidly across India, and the need to adapt is evident,” said Justin Becker, SVP International at Nutrabolt. “Ultimately, feedback from Indian consumers drove us to forge a new route to market one that ensures we can meet scaling demand while maintaining our high standards for quality and value. We’re thrilled to deepen our role in India alongside the Nutraprep and Bright teams.”

“This partnership is a step forward for India’s performance-nutrition market,” said Amit Dhirwani, Founder and Director, Nutraprep. “Manufacturing locally allows us to meet global quality benchmarks while building the consistency and transparency consumers expect from this category. Our work with Nutrabolt helps us bring proven and established formulations to India, and Bright ensures that they are available where demand is growing. The category is expanding quickly, and our focus is on strengthening its foundation, trust, quality, and access.”

Tapping Into India’s High-Growth Performance Nutrition Ecosystem

India is now one of the most dynamic performance-nutrition markets globally, driven by expanding fitness adoption, growing discretionary spending, and increasing demand for science-backed supplements. This collaboration enables Nutrabolt, Nutraprep, and Bright to deliver globally aligned products at scale, tailored for India’s evolving fitness ecosystem.

NutraPrep’s manufacturing unit leverages advanced processing technologies aligned with Nutrabolt’s Quality and Food Safety standards. Its quality assurance system includes 300+ internal and third-party tests, covering microbiology, heavy metals, allergens, pesticides, and other contaminants, all in accordance with FSSAI regulations and Nutrabolt’s global quality benchmarks. The brand has also integrated a dual-QR, product-level authentication system through a leading verification technology partner, adding an enhanced layer of consumer trust. All ingredients are sourced from suppliers who comply with various internationally-recognized quality and food safety standards to ensure consistency in formulation, taste, and performance in line with Nutrabolt’s international portfolio.

XTEND Original was launched in India in October 2025, with C4 Original and Cellucor Creatine expected to follow in early 2026. Distribution will begin with major metros and Tier-1 markets, followed by a strategic expansion to build a pan-India footprint across offline retail, e-commerce, quick-commerce, and specialty nutrition channels.

Virginia’s new Virtual Fabrication Access Bridge, powered by the Virginia Alliance for Semiconductor Technology (VAST), is a first-of-its-kind online platform that connects more than 170 advanced semiconductor tools across five universities.

The single, unified access system will provide researchers, students, and start-ups with streamlined access to equipment that typically costs millions of dollars to own, reshaping the commonwealth’s microelectronics innovation landscape.

Virginia Tech contributes two key facilities to the platform: the Micron Center in Blacksburg, focused on chip fabrication and nanocharacterization, and the Center for Power Electronics Systems and Power Electronics and Packaging Laboratories in Arlington, specializing in semiconductor packaging.

“Virginia Tech has been a foundational partner and key driver of this ecosystem from its inception,” said Dan Sui, the university’s senior vice president for research and innovation. “Our most significant contribution is the sheer scale of our research enterprise and talent pipeline.”

The university enrolls a majority of the 600-plus students studying semiconductor-related topics in Virginia and leads the curriculum development for the Fast Track to Semiconductor Careers Certificate Program, which trains veterans and adult learners for high-demand jobs in the field.

The Virtual Fabrication Access Bridge addresses a critical challenge identified by federal agencies: the lack of broad access to fabrication infrastructure for education, research, and industry. Before its launch, researchers often relied on informal connections to access equipment at other institutions.

“We are proud to celebrate a major milestone with the launch of the Virtual Fabrication Access Bridge — a groundbreaking statewide platform that exemplifies VAST’s mission to build a collaborative, innovation-driven semiconductor ecosystem in Virginia,” said Masoud Agah, VAST’s executive director. “It stands as a powerful example of how VAST turns shared vision into real, scalable infrastructure.”

Breaking down barriers in microelectronics access

The Virtual Fabrication Access Bridge (VFAB) connects fabrication and characterization tools across five universities: Virginia Tech, University of Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth University, Norfolk State University, and George Mason University. Each university’s cleanroom and instrumentation facilities are searchable and reservable through the centralized, cloud-based portal.

“Before VFAB, if we needed access to a tool not available in our lab, we had to cold-email professors and hope for a collaboration,” said Xiaoting Jia, professor in the Bradley Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering.

The platform operates through single sign-on access, allowing users from any participating institution to reserve tools and track usage across the network. It serves internal university users as well as external academic researchers, start-ups, and commercial partners.

“As a land-grant institution, Virginia Tech has a long history of serving the Commonwealth of Virginia by leading statewide efforts in critical technology and training areas,” said Sui.

A strategic asset for national competitiveness

VFAB supports Virginia’s position in the national semiconductor resurgence driven by the CHIPS and Science Act, which has prompted historic federal investment in domestic semiconductor capacity.

Currently, the system supports more than 100 active users and spans over 65,000 square feet of laboratory space across participating institutions. Future priorities include expanding access programs for startups and offering micro-credentials and hybrid training programs.

The platform already supports over 100 active users, a 1:6 staff-to-equipment ratio, and more than 65,000 square feet of lab space — positioning it as a scalable node in the national innovation ecosystem.

Le Méridien Hotels and Resorts Debuts in Navi Mumbai as the City Enters a New Phase of Urban Momentum

BENGALURU, Dec 12: Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio of over 30 extraordinary hotel brands, proudly debuts Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts in Mumbai. Le Méridien Navi Mumbai is a contemporary expression of the Le Méridien brand – crafted for the culturally curious and evolved traveller who finds inspiration in art, design, and the everyday moments that shape a destination. Set within Navi Mumbai’s evolving urban landscape, Le Méridien Navi Mumbai invites guests to take in the city with a sense of ease, through its calm design sensibility, expansive views, and the brand’s signature emphasis on savouring the moment.

As one of the tallest hotels in the city, it brings together global flair and the area’s distinctive coastal character, shaped by its vibrant neighbourhoods and cultural touchpoints. With seamless access to key business hubs and the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport, located approximately 12 kilometres away, the hotel is poised to become a compelling address for bleisure travellers, offering a place to work, wander, and truly savour Navi Mumbai.

Kiran Andicot, Senior Vice President, South Asia, Marriott International commented,

“Navi Mumbai is on the cusp of tremendous growth, especially with the new airport nearing completion and opening the city to even greater opportunity. At Marriott International, we’re expanding at a strong pace in India, and it’s encouraging to see our pipeline progressing exactly as planned. Mumbai and the wider metropolitan region have always been a key area for us and the debut of Le Méridien brand in Mumbai with the opening of Le Méridien Navi Mumbai marks an important milestone.”

The hotel features 129 contemporary designed rooms and suites, each shaped by mid-century modernism and a calm, refined palette that reflects the brand’s design ethos. Framed by expansive views of the city and skyline, the suites offer an inviting retreat where artful details and intuitive touches create an atmosphere of effortless comfort. Anchoring the property’s visual narrative is a bespoke art installation inspired by the spirit of exploration. The lobby features a bespoke art installation crafted in wire mesh and canvas, showcasing hand-painted figures and small framed elements that nods to local culture. The piece adds a playful, artistic touch that complements the Le Méridien identity. For moments of relaxation, Tattva Spa offers treatments drawn from traditional therapies, complemented by a well-equipped fitness centre and an outdoor pool overlooking the hills.

Le Méridien Navi Mumbai presents a collection of culinary experiences that honors creativity, and the pleasure of savoring the moment. Hill View Café serves global favorites alongside serene vistas of the Parsik Hills. Mizuki, the hotel’s modern Asian restaurant, pairs contemporary flavors with sweeping skyline views from the top floor. At the lobby, Tasse et Café offers an inviting, European-inspired coffeehouse setting, while the signature Le Scoop programme brings a playful touch with handcrafted frozen treats that celebrate the joy and art of living well.

Le Méridien Navi Mumbai encourages guests to explore the destination through nature-led and cultural activities, whether admiring the seasonal spectacle at the Flamingo Sanctuary, taking in the scenic calm of the Parsik Hills, or immersing themselves in the meditative beauty of the Dhamma Vipula Buddhist Pagoda. Together, these experiences showcase the destination’s unique character. The Le Méridien Family Kids Club offers hands-on, engaging activities where children and their families can connect through creative activities, destination- inspired play and moments of shared exploration. Seasonal experiences and the year-round La Vie programme further bring the brand’s identity to life, celebrating the beauty of everyday moments.

With over 20,000 square feet of versatile event spaces, the hotel offers three banqueting spaces, including one of the largest outdoor venues in Navi Mumbai. Designed for easy transitions and thoughtful service, these venues are ideal for large and small conferences, board meetings, social gatherings, and weddings.

“Le Méridien Navi Mumbai is an invitation to experience this dynamic city through a new lens,” said Saurabh Chowdhury, General Manager, Le Méridien Navi Mumbai. “Anchored in the brand’s spirit of savouring the good life, we bring together thoughtfully designed spaces, curated culinary journeys and immersive programmes that celebrate Navi Mumbai’s distinctive character, while our commitment to the community ensures every stay feels connected to the destination, its people and its culture.”

Turkish Airlines has opened its first-ever European lounge at Edinburgh Airport, aside from the world-famous one at its İstanbul hub, bringing another dimension of its world-renowned hospitality to travellers in Scotland. The new lounge further elevates Edinburgh’s premium travel offering while reinforcing airport’s growing role as an international gateway.

Türkiye’s flag carrier, which flies to more countries than any other, hosted a celebratory event at Edinburgh International Airport on 10 December to mark the opening of its eighth lounge outside of Türkiye. Turkish Airlines continues to bring scaled down slices of its five-star Lounge in İstanbul to its international gateways to maintain a seamless and luxurious experience.

Spanning 673m² and accommodating 149 guests, the lounge offers a premium experience with facilities including an open buffet featuring a Turkish pide service at lunch and dinner; a luxury relaxation area with TVs and Wi-Fi; and two prayer rooms. The lounge also includes an accessible restroom for the guests with reduced mobility, a baby care room and flight information screens.

Turkish Airlines Chief Operations Officer M. Akif Konar said:

“The opening of our new Turkish Airlines Lounge at Edinburgh Airport marks an important milestone for our airline. As our first abroad lounge in Europe and our eighth outside of Türkiye, this investment demonstrates our deep commitment to our European operations where we already possess a strong presence as the best airline* of the continent. Looking ahead, we will continue to build on our presence in the region and bringing our award-winning hospitality closer to travellers here.”

Edinburgh International Airport Chief Commercial Officer Stephanie Wear, said:

“The opening of the new Turkish Airlines Lounge marks an exciting chapter for both us and the airline as they launch their first lounge in the Europe abroad at Edinburgh Airport. It demonstrates Turkish Airlines’ commitment to the airport and to enhancing the travel experience for passengers. Open to all travellers, the lounge offers a relaxing space with fantastic runway views and some great food and beverage options whilst you wait for your flight.”

Located on Level 2 near gate 16, the lounge will be available to Turkish Airlines Business Class passengers, Miles&Smiles members (Elite, Elite Plus and Elite Corporate Club) travelling in any class; and holders of the carrier’s Miles&Smiles Premier Visa Signature Card issued in the United States. Guests with a Paid Lounge membership card can also enter the lounge ahead of their flight.

Turkish Airlines operates 10 weekly flights between Edinburgh and Istanbul which allows travellers from Scotland to connect via Turkish Airlines’ unparalleled global network to 356 destinations in 132 countries.

Mumbai, Dec 12: SIMEST, the CDP Group company dedicated to supporting the international expansion of Italian enterprises, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC), one of India’s oldest and most respected business bodies. The agreement aims to bolster bilateral economic cooperation and unlock new investment opportunities between Italy and India.

The MoU was signed during the Italy–India Business Forum in Mumbai, in the presence of Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Antonio Tajani, and India’s Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal. The signatories were Regina Corradini D’Arienzo, CEO of SIMEST, and Dr. Rajeev Singh, Director General of ICC.

According to both organisations, the partnership will strengthen collaboration between Italian and Indian companies through joint initiatives, improved access to business opportunities and targeted support for cross-border investments. The agreement provides for coordinated efforts to promote investment flows using SIMEST’s financial instruments, deepen information sharing on mergers and acquisitions, industrial projects and startups, and establish long-term networks to connect business communities in both countries.

The collaboration is positioned as a key step in enhancing commercial and industrial linkages between Italy and India at a time when both economies are seeking to boost bilateral trade and investment.

In a joint statement, Corradini D’Arienzo and Dr. Singh said, “The signing of this agreement with the Indian Chamber of Commerce confirms SIMEST’s clear commitment to supporting the investments of Italian companies in a key market for Made in Italy such as India, providing them with dedicated financial tools and specialised know-how. The MoU forms part of the wider action of the Italian System led by the Foreign Ministry together with CDP, SIMEST, ICE and SACE, which supports the international expansion of our productive sector and expands opportunities for economic cooperation in countries offering the highest added value for Made in Italy and ICC is happy to partner.”

They added that India has been identified as a priority market in the Italian Foreign Ministry’s Export Action Plan. SIMEST has strengthened its presence in the country by opening an office in Delhi in 2025 and introducing a dedicated measure to promote Italian investments in India.

The agreement is expected to act as a catalyst for new partnerships, industrial ventures and business collaborations, marking a strengthened phase of cooperation between the two nations.

The nonprofit’s 54^th annual Men’s Dinner fundraiser supports local cancer charities. 

St. Louis, Mo., Dec 12: St. Louis Men’s Group Against Cancer (STLMGAC) – a leading nonprofit dedicated to funding cancer research, prevention, and care activities in the St. Louis region – recently hosted its 54^th annual Men’s Dinner that raised $925,000 for local charities.

This year’s event, held at the Ritz-Carlton, featured Pro Football Hall of Famer and Emmy Award-winning broadcaster Terry Bradshaw as keynote speaker. A four-time Super Bowl champion quarterback with the Pittsburgh Steelers and two-time Super Bowl MVP, Bradshaw is also a longtime co-host of FOX NFL Sunday and recipient of multiple Emmy awards.

Funds raised from the dinner benefit a range of St. Louis-area organizations that support cancer research, treatment, and patient care. Local beneficiaries include the American Cancer Society-Hope Lodge, The Bennet Project, BJC Healthcare, The Breakfast Club, Camp Rainbow, The Cancer Support Community, The December 5^th Fund, Friends of Kids with Cancer, Gateway to Hope, HavenHouse St. Louis, Make A Wish Foundation – Missouri, Mercy Cancer Center, Ronald McDonald House Charities of St. Louis, SSM Health Foundation St. Louis, Siteman Cancer Center, St. Louis Children’s Hospital Foundation, Valeda’s Hope, Washington University School of Medicine, and many more organizations.

“For more than five decades, St. Louis Men’s Group Against Cancer has united our community in the fight against cancer,” said Executive Director Anita Kraus. “The generosity of our donors and partners allows us to make a lasting impact in supporting families, fueling lifesaving research, and sustaining vital programs across the St. Louis region. We are proud of our Men’s Dinner’s 54-year legacy and look forward to continuing this shared mission of hope and healing.”

Since its inception in 1969, STLMGAC has raised more than $6 million for over 40 organizations serving the local community. The independent nonprofit provides meaningful support for individuals and families affected by cancer while advancing scientific research in pursuit of a cure.

Pictured from left to right are World Wide Technology president and 2025 STLMGAC Man of the Year Joe Koenig with Terry Bradshaw.

For information about the St. Louis Men’s Group Against Cancer, call (314) 786-5950 or visit website.

Global demand for electricity is climbing at one of the fastest rates in decades, up 4.3% in 2024 alone, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA).

Dec 11: A significant source of demand comes from data centers, where artificial intelligence is driving an unprecedented appetite for power. And while that story has captured the spotlight, there is another factor driving electricity demand: millions of electric vehicles.

In some countries, the growth in demand is putting strain on electricity grids because most people are charging at home.

“When consumers build out charging infrastructure in the residential electrical network, the consumer is forcing a utility to make significant investments in infrastructure in order to maintain reliability of the system network, as the number of vehicles needing charging increases,” said IEEE Senior Member Shawn Chandler.

How EVs Impact the Grid

By 2030, IEA expects more than 150 million electric charging stations to be installed worldwide, two-thirds of them private home chargers.

That pattern matters because home charging pushes demand directly onto local distribution circuits that were never designed for it. Chandler notes that a single EV battery can be 75 kilowatt-hours or more; recharging it in just a few hours can draw seven to ten times the load of a typical household.

While utilities have managed gradual increases in demand before, the sudden wave of EV charging is different. That’s why utilities are increasingly looking at “managed charging” programs — shifting charging times or spreading load across the day — as they plan for the next decade of electrification.

How Data Centers Drive Electricity Demand

The data centers that power artificial intelligence are expected to account for approximately 3% of global electricity consumption by 2030, up from 1.5% in 2024. But that demand could be uneven. A large, hyperscale data center may use as much electricity as a small city, and many data centers are clustered in tight geographic areas.

“AI data centers require extremely high and concentrated loads,” said IEEE Member Mauricio Salles. “They pose challenges for transmission system operators. The production of green hydrogen, the electrification of transportation and the electrification of everything also contribute to this increase.”

And because data centers tend to be clustered in developed countries, that means they will likely take up a greater proportion of electricity in those countries, in some cases up to 9%. In developed countries, for every five megawatts of new electricity that comes online, one is dedicated to data centers. In developing countries, that figure is one in twenty.

That buildout of data centers shows no signs of slowing down, at least for the next few years. In “The Impact of Technology in 2026 and Beyond: an IEEE Global Study,” a recent survey of global technology leaders, close to half (49%) of respondents expected that it would take five to seven years to build the global data center infrastructure required to meet growing AI development and demand.

“Because of the rapid growth of AI and worldwide demand for its use, more and more electricity will be needed to maintain AI systems,” said IEEE Senior Member Otavio Andre Chase.

Other Sources of Electricity Demand

Artificial intelligence and electric vehicles aren’t the only sources of new electricity demand.

Increasingly, manufacturing and infrastructure have come to rely on electricity as a power source, rather than fossil fuels. That means that while demand for electricity is increasing, it doesn’t directly translate to overall energy demand.

To meet demand while maintaining clean energy goals, experts have increasingly looked toward nuclear power, alongside wind and solar energy.

“The need to combine wind and solar with traditional generation is on the table,” Salles said. “The balance lies in creating a generation portfolio that is clean but also flexible enough to handle the variability of renewables. Ideally, climate goals and energy planning would be integrated so that capacity expansion simultaneously meets growing demand and emissions reduction obligations.”

Keeping The Grid Reliable

Aside from building additional capacity, grid operators and utilities are exploring a couple of other strategies.

At the top of the list is the force of markets, incentivizing EV owners to charge during off-peak times by charging less. Data centers are also shifting workloads to off-peak hours. Those sorts of incentives, usually referred to as dynamic pricing or managed charging, often require regulatory approval.

Scottish utilities also successfully demonstrated the ability of massive, grid-scale batteries to help smooth power demands. They’re also modernizing transmission lines and transformers to be able to handle the load.

Salles said utilities need to expand the use of transmission and distribution systems and adopt high sophisticated load forecasting systems.

“It is crucial that the entry of new intensive electricity demand centers be coordinated with the expansion of the necessary infrastructure,” Salles said.

Grids are also crossing national borders.

“Interconnection with other electrical systems also brings improvements in flexibility and energy exchange between locations with surpluses and deficits,” Salles said.

India’s fintech revolution is accelerating faster than ever, driven by agile innovators who are breaking barriers, simplifying payments, and building accessible financial ecosystems for millions. From sound-based transactions to AI-driven credit and merchant-first solutions, these companies are reshaping how the country sends, spends, and manages money. Here are seven fintech pioneers leading this transformation

1. ToneTag – Sound-Based Payments for a Contactless Future

ToneTag is transforming digital payments with its unique sound-wave technology that enables secure, contactless transactions even without the internet. By eliminating hardware dependency and enabling payments on basic devices, ToneTag is making digital adoption seamless for millions across India.

2. PhonePe – Driving UPI Leadership at Scale

PhonePe has become synonymous with digital payments in India, offering fast UPI transfers, insurance, investments, and merchant solutions. Its deep penetration across metros and smaller towns continues to accelerate India’s shift to a cashless economy.

3. Razorpay – Powering India’s Digital Businesses

Razorpay is the backbone of thousands of Indian startups and SMEs, offering payment gateways, vendor payouts, payroll, and financing solutions. Its full-stack financial platform is redefining how businesses manage money.

4. Paytm – Creating an Integrated Financial Ecosystem

Paytm remains a major driver of India’s digital payments revolution with its wallet, UPI, QR ecosystem, and offline merchant network. It continues to innovate with lending, wealth management, and commerce solutions.

5. CRED – Turning Credit Discipline Into Rewards

CRED gamified credit card bill payments and transformed financial responsibility into an engaging experience. With lending, travel, and commerce integrations, it is reshaping how aspirational consumers engage with finance.

6. BharatPe – Bringing Digital Payments to India’s Merchants

BharatPe revolutionised offline payments with its interoperable QR codes and merchant-first approach. Its lending and POS innovations are empowering small businesses across Tier 2 and Tier 3 India.

7. Slice – Reinventing Credit for Young India

Slice is modernising credit access for millennials and Gen Z through simple onboarding, transparent usage, and flexible repayment options. Its focus on usability and affordability is reshaping consumer credit.

Dec 11: About 400 Children with visual impairment, their siblings and parents from the Institute for Vision Rehabilitation  of the L V Prasad Eye Institute indulged in a day of shared laughter and joy at Wild Waters, a 30-acre amusement theme park in Shankarpally. The special day of fun celebrated inclusion, confidence, and togetherness, the values that deeply resonate with IVR’s mission to empower those for whom medical science has no definitive cure.

The day began at the LVPEI campus with a scrumptious breakfast, followed by a vibrant cultural program presented by the children. Their performances filled the campus with high spirits, setting the perfect tone for the day. Dr Tarjani Dave, Head of the Ocularistry Laboratory at LVPEI, graced the event as the special guest. She inspired and encouraged the children with her heartfelt words, asking them to repeat in unison, “I’m strong, I’m capable, I’m beautiful, I’m unlimited.” The affirmation echoed through the campus, symbolizing empowerment, confidence, and the limitless potential that the IVR strives to nurture in every child.

Accompanied by their siblings, parents, and support staff, the children enjoyed games and rides designed to engage their senses and comfort levels. Separate lawns were dedicated for these activities, where IVR’s rehabilitation professionals thoughtfully curated games that encouraged participation, teamwork, and fun. The setup ensured that every child could confidently compete while parents and siblings stood close by, offering both reassurance and encouragement.

For the parents, particularly the mothers, the day was much more than recreation. It was a meaningful opportunity to connect. As they shared stories, laughter, and experiences, bonds were formed that would go beyond the event. “It was heartening to see the parents, especially mothers open up, share hope, and celebrate their children’s strengths,” said Dr Beula Christy, Head of the Institute for Vision Rehabilitation at LVPEI. “Such moments remind us that rehabilitation is as much about emotional support and community as it is about learning and independence.”

The Institute for Vision Rehabilitation at LVPEI is one of the very few globally integrated facilities within an eye institute, created to serve individuals for whom medical or surgical options offer limited solutions. Its holistic model focuses on maximizing functional vision, promoting lifelong independence, and restoring dignity through education, training, and psychological support.

Throughout the day, the families explored a variety of rides and water activities, enjoyed freshly prepared meals at the park’s food courts, and soaked in an atmosphere of warmth and acceptance. As the sun set, the air resonated with laughter, renewed confidence, and heartwarming memories. The event was made possible through the generous donations of a number of individual donors.

LVPEI’s Institute for Vision Rehabilitation continues to stand as a beacon of inclusion and possibility, proving that while vision may be impaired, the human spirit and capacity for joy remain boundless.

A Day of Inclusion, Fun and Joy: LVPEI’s Institute for Vision Rehabilitation organizes day out for children with visual impairment

Hyderabad, Dec 11: About 400 Children with visual impairment, their siblings and parents from the Institute for Vision Rehabilitation (IVR) of the L V Prasad Eye Institute (LVPEI) indulged in a day of shared laughter and joy at Wild Waters, a 30-acre amusement theme park in Shankarpally. The special day of fun celebrated inclusion, confidence, and togetherness, the values that deeply resonate with IVR’s mission to empower those for whom medical science has no definitive cure.

The day began at the LVPEI campus with a scrumptious breakfast, followed by a vibrant cultural program presented by the children. Their performances filled the campus with high spirits, setting the perfect tone for the day. Dr Tarjani Dave, Head of the Ocularistry Laboratory at LVPEI, graced the event as the special guest. She inspired and encouraged the children with her heartfelt words, asking them to repeat in unison, “I’m strong, I’m capable, I’m beautiful, I’m unlimited.” The affirmation echoed through the campus, symbolizing empowerment, confidence, and the limitless potential that the IVR strives to nurture in every child.

Accompanied by their siblings, parents, and support staff, the children enjoyed games and rides designed to engage their senses and comfort levels. Separate lawns were dedicated for these activities, where IVR’s rehabilitation professionals thoughtfully curated games that encouraged participation, teamwork, and fun. The setup ensured that every child could confidently compete while parents and siblings stood close by, offering both reassurance and encouragement.

For the parents, particularly the mothers, the day was much more than recreation. It was a meaningful opportunity to connect. As they shared stories, laughter, and experiences, bonds were formed that would go beyond the event.

“It was heartening to see the parents, especially mothers open up, share hope, and celebrate their children’s strengths,” said Dr Beula Christy, Head of the Institute for Vision Rehabilitation at LVPEI. “Such moments remind us that rehabilitation is as much about emotional support and community as it is about learning and independence.”

The Institute for Vision Rehabilitation at LVPEI is one of the very few globally integrated facilities within an eye institute, created to serve individuals for whom medical or surgical options offer limited solutions. Its holistic model focuses on maximizing functional vision, promoting lifelong independence, and restoring dignity through education, training, and psychological support.

Throughout the day, the families explored a variety of rides and water activities, enjoyed freshly prepared meals at the park’s food courts, and soaked in an atmosphere of warmth and acceptance. As the sun set, the air resonated with laughter, renewed confidence, and heartwarming memories. The event was made possible through the generous donations of a number of individual donors.

LVPEI’s Institute for Vision Rehabilitation continues to stand as a beacon of inclusion and possibility, proving that while vision may be impaired, the human spirit and capacity for joy remain boundless.