Whatfix Raises USD 125 Million Series E to Accelerate Expansion & Innovation of Digital Adoption Market

Bangalore, India, September 25th, 2024 –a global leader among digital adoption platforms (DAPs), today announced it has secured $125 Million in a Series E funding round, led by Warburg Pincus with participation from existing investor SoftBank Vision Fund 2. The company is raising the new round at a significant premium, reinforcing its dominance as the leader in Digital Adoption Platforms (DAPs) and expanding into DAP adjacent offerings.

The investment will enable Whatfix to expand its category leadership and enhance its integrated product suite through organic growth and strategic acquisitions. The company also aims to expand its market presence in the US, EMEA, and APAC regions to strengthen its footprint in the global public sector.

Since its funding round in 2021, Whatfix has achieved remarkable growth, solidifying its position as a leader in the newly established DAP category. The company serves a marquee global clientele, including Arrow Electronics, Schneider Electric, and Avnet, along with partners like Microsoft, Salesforce, Infosys, and Accenture, who trust Whatfix to accelerate ROI on their technology investments. Supporting 80+ Fortune 500 companies, Whatfix registered top-decile performance with a 4.5X increase in annual recurring revenue (ARR) since its 2021 round, with new products contributing 15% of revenue.

Pioneering the concept of “Userization,” Whatfix shifts responsibility to technology, ensuring it adapts to users, not the other way around. By integrating GenAI throughout its product suite, offering digital adoption, product analytics, and application simulation, Whatfix accelerates this user-first approach, building an experience layer across the enterprise software stack. This empowers enterprises to maximize technology ROI while allowing employees to build greater efficiency.

“Enterprises are grappling with the complexities of digital transformation and the ever-increasing pressure to deliver exceptional user experiences,” said Khadim Batti, CEO and co-founder of Whatfix. “Whatfix’s innovation is evident through the launch of four new products since 2021, securing five US patents with 18 more in the pipeline. This investment will add more fuel to the tank, accelerating a new era of innovation for our industry, bolstering the unparalleled value we bring to our customers, and reshaping the future of software adoption.”

As per Gartner’s 2023 Market Guide, 70% of organizations are projected to use DAPs by 2025, highlighting the critical role digital adoption platforms play in driving enterprise success. Leading this transformation, Whatfix has been the top DAP on Deloitte Tech Fast 500™ for three consecutive years and is the only DAP vendor to receive Customer’s Choice in the Gartner Peer Insights 2024 Voice of Customers for DAP report. Additionally, Whatfix is consistently recognized as a market leader in DAP reports from Gartner, Forrester, IDC, and the Everest Group.

“As organizations rapidly adopt an evolving array of AI-enabled technologies, Digital Adoption Platforms (DAPs) have become essential for successfully navigating digital transformation,” said Amy Loomis, Research Vice President, Future of Work at IDC. “DAPs provide valuable insights, empower users to be more agile, and drive significant business outcomes by accelerating application adoption and optimizing workflows. DAPs will evolve to address a broader range of enterprise needs, including AI-specific challenges, solidifying their role as a preferred approach to maximizing software ROI. By 2027, IDC predicts that 80% of G1000 organizations will rely on DAPs to mitigate technical skills shortages.”

Narendra Ostawal, Managing Director, Head of India Private Equity, Warburg Pincus, said, “Whatfix’s unique digital adoption platform is revolutionizing how organizations implement digital transformation programs, create outstanding user experiences, and empower users to fully leverage software functionalities and enhance productivity. As a partner of choice for top global enterprises across industries, we believe Whatfix has immense potential to capitalize on the tailwinds and solidify its position in the high-growth DAP market. We are delighted to partner with the Whatfix team led by Khadim and Vara, as they steer the company towards its vision and goal.”

Narendra Rathi, Investment Director, from SoftBank Investment Advisers, added, “Since our initial investment in 2021, we are pleased to see Whatfix’s strong growth and sustained innovation. Their role in the digital transformation journeys of Fortune 500 companies is a testament to their customer focus. We are excited to continue backing Khadim and Vara as they enter their next phase of growth.”

“From day one, Whatfix has truly put us, the customer, first,” said, Jochen Heidner, Project Manager of Purchasing Systems at Mercedes-Benz and Whatfix customer for the CERTUS CC project. “Their digital adoption platform (DAP) has been instrumental in the CERTUS digital transformation journey, simplifying complex processes and empowering our teams to achieve more. What’s truly remarkable is their exceptional customer support—they’ve been helpful, and genuinely nice and supportive every step of the way.”

Adam P. Burden, Global Innovation Lead from Accenture LLP, said, “Software is more user-centric than ever, and Whatfix is at the forefront of this innovation in user enablement.  With Whatfix, you can tailor applications to each user’s workflow, optimize efficiency and create great outcomes. By using Whatfix’s AI-powered product suite—including application simulation, analytics, and digital adoption—our clients can better leverage both their existing and new technology investments. With the capabilities of Whatfix, we’re able to build products where the software serves the user, not the other way around. We look forward to our continued success together.”

A Day in the Life of a Women Eye Care Professional: Balancing Precision and Compassion

26.09.2024, New Delhi: The profession of eye care is often perceived as limited to clinical tasks like vision testing and prescribing corrective measures. However, for women eye care professionals, the role extends far beyond these basics. Women in this field not only excel in medical precision but also bring a unique blend of empathy, patient education, and emotional support to their practice. Their daily activities involve not just diagnosing and treating vision problems but also dedicating themselves to enhancing the overall quality of life for their patients. This holistic approach makes their contribution both impactful and invaluable in the realm of healthcare.

Dr. Rishi Raj Borah, Country Director of Orbis (India), emphasizes, “Women eye care professionals play an integral role in elevating the standard of care in India. Their ability to combine technical skill with compassionate patient interaction is what makes their contribution so essential. By focusing on both precision and empathy, they are able to provide a well-rounded approach to healthcare that goes beyond simple diagnosis.”

For a women eye care professional, the day often begins before sunrise, balancing family duties with professional preparation. She reviews patient histories, coordinates with her team, and readies the clinic for the day’s work. Each patient’s needs are unique, requiring meticulous attention to detail, especially in a field where minor anomalies can signal significant issues. Preparation is vital not just for the day’s success but also for managing the dual demands of her personal and professional life.

Consultations are at the heart of her work, where she must combine medical expertise with empathy. Women in this field often bring a unique sensitivity to patient interactions, understanding that many patients are anxious about their vision. An optometrist or ophthalmologist not only performs precise diagnostic tests but also provides reassurance and clear communication, particularly to women patients who might feel more comfortable discussing their concerns with another woman. This empathetic approach is crucial in building trust and ensuring that patients feel supported throughout their care.

The diverse cases that eye care professionals handle keep their work dynamic and challenging. For a woman in the field, this often means seamlessly transitioning from routine exams to complex cases like diabetic retinopathy or performing surgeries with the utmost precision. Women bring a unique perspective to problem-solving, often approaching cases with a combination of clinical skill and intuitive care, ensuring that patients receive the best possible outcomes.

Women eye care professionals also play a significant role in educating patients, particularly other women, about eye health. They offer advice on preventing digital eye strain, maintaining regular eye exams, and understanding how lifestyle factors like diet and UV protection impact eye health. Many women in this field extend their influence beyond the clinic, participating in community outreach or school vision screenings, where their compassionate approach can make a profound impact on public health.

As the day winds down, a women eye care professional reflects on her cases, follows up with patients, and prepares for the next day. Despite the demands of their personal lives, many dedicate time to continuous learning, staying updated with the latest research and advancements in eye care. This commitment to growth and education ensures they remain at the forefront of the field, providing the highest level of care to their patients.

The life of a women eye care professional is one of balance, dedication, and deep compassion. Their role goes beyond the technical aspects of eye care; it’s about improving lives, offering emotional support, and making a lasting difference in their communities. Through their expertise, empathy, and commitment to ongoing education, they empower their patients to see the world more clearly while balancing the challenges and rewards of their own lives.

Drone Destination & DeHaat partner to democratise Agri Drone solutions for Rural India

Hyderabad/New Delhi, India, 25th September 2024: Drone Destination, India’s foremost Drone-as-a-Service provider and the largest DGCA-certified Drone Pilot Training company in India, and DeHaat, a India’s largest full-stack Business to Farmer (B2F) platform, today announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate in bringing cutting-edge drone technology to India’s farmlands. This partnership aims to enhance agricultural efficiency by offering drone spraying services while promoting DeHaat’s wide range of agricultural inputs, including seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides, to farmers across rural India.

Under this collaboration, Drone Destination will provide drone spraying facilities to interested farmers, ensuring that DeHaat’s innovative products reach the country’s hinterlands. Additionally, DeHaat, through its vast network of 14,000+ DeHaat Centers spread across 11 states and catering to 2.7Mn+ farmers, will generate leads for drone services and offer agricultural services directly to end-users. This agreement will streamline access to modern agricultural solutions, driving productivity and sustainability for Indian farmers.

 According to Mr. Chirag Sharma, CEO, Drone Destination, “We are excited to join hands with DeHaat in revolutionizing India’s agricultural sector. Drone technology has immense potential to enhance farm productivity, and with DeHaat’s strong market presence, we can reach more farmers and deliver innovative solutions to help them thrive in today’s competitive environment.”

 Commenting on the partnership, Amrendra Singh, Co-founder & Director, DeHaat, said, “DeHaat, with its ‘Farmer’s First’ vision has always stood for empowering the Indian farming ecosystem through strong technological interventions. Our collaboration with Drone Destination represents another significant step forward in that direction. By integrating drone technology with our comprehensive agricultural services, we aim to provide farmers with cutting-edge tools that can increase crop yield and ensure sustainable farming practices.”

 Drone Destination will be registered as a service provider on DeHaat’s platform, allowing farmers to access drone services directly and effortlessly. DeHaat will also list its agricultural products and services on Drone Destination’s platform, ensuring seamless integration and accessibility for rural farmers. In addition, both companies will work together to aggregate orders for drone spray services, ensuring an efficient and streamlined process for farmers.

The collaboration is expected to drive significant advancements in rural farming communities by facilitating the adoption of advanced technologies, ultimately helping to enhance productivity and improve overall agricultural outcomes.

Authored Article- The Filtered Truth: Unlocking the Benefits of Ultra-Filtered Milk

By- Dr. Preeti Nagar, Dietician at Noida International Institution of Medical Sciences College & Hospital (NIIMS)

 Ultra-filtered milk, also known as UF milk or diafiltered milk, is a game-changer for those seeking a healthier dairy option. This innovative product boasts enhanced nutritional properties, making it an ideal choice for individuals with specific dietary needs. But what sets ultra-filtered milk apart from regular milk, and who can benefit from it?

The Ultrafiltration Process

Ultra-filtered milk undergoes a unique process where regular milk is passed through membranes, removing excess water, lactose, and some minerals. This process retains larger molecules like proteins and fats, resulting in a milk product with increased protein content and reduced sugar levels.

Key Benefits of Ultra-Filtered Milk

  1. Increased Protein Content: Ultra-filtered milk contains nearly twice as much protein as regular milk, making it perfect for athletes, bodybuilders, and those seeking high-performance nutrition.
  2. Less Sugar: The ultrafiltration process reduces lactose, making ultra-filtered milk an attractive option for those managing diabetes or monitoring sugar intake.
  3. Lactose-Free: Ultra-filtered milk is 99.9% lactose-free, alleviating symptoms of lactose intolerance.
  4. Enhanced Calcium and Vitamin D: Some ultra-filtered milk brands are fortified with calcium and vitamin D, promoting bone health.
  5. Longer Shelf Life: Ultra-filtered milk has a longer shelf life due to higher pasteurization temperatures.

Who Can Benefit from Ultra-Filtered Milk?

  1. Athletes and bodybuilders seeking high protein intake.
  2. Individuals with lactose intolerance or sensitivity.
  3. Those managing diabetes or monitoring sugar intake.
  4. Individuals require enhanced calcium and vitamin D for bone health.

Who Should Avoid Ultra-Filtered Milk?

  1. Those with milk allergies.
  2. Individuals concerned about processed foods.
  3. People sensitive to additives.
  4. Those following specific dietary restrictions (e.g., ketogenic or paleo diets).

Impact on Lactose-Intolerant Individuals

Ultra-filtered milk is a boon for lactose-intolerant individuals, offering:

  1. Lactose-free benefits.
  2. Added lactase enzymes to aid digestion.
  3. Enhanced nutritional profile with more protein and less sugar.

Ultra-filtered milk offers numerous benefits, especially for those seeking higher protein, lower sugar, or lactose-free options. While it may not be suitable for everyone, this innovative dairy product is a valuable addition to the market.

U.S. Polo Assn. Joins Zepto’s Quick-Commerce Revolution, Expanding Fashion and Apparel Offering

Bengaluru, 25th September 2024 — In a landmark move that marks the next phase of the quick-commerce revolution, U.S. Polo Assn. (USPA), the official brand of the United States Polo Association, is collaborating with Zepto operators to bring its exclusive collection to the platform. Zepto, India’s fastest growing consumer internet platform known for its 10-minute delivery promise, is expanding its offering to include premium apparel and fashion, starting with USPA.

This collaboration not only enhances Zepto seller’s portfolio but also signifies a shift in how shoppers can access fashion—from groceries and personal care to now clothing from premium international brands—all within the same rapid delivery window.

On the announcement, Aadit Palicha, co-founder & CEO, Zepto shared, “We’re thrilled about this partnership. USPA, a brand that is synonymous with premium quality and timeless style. This collaboration marks a pivotal moment in our quick-commerce journey as Zepto expands into the fashion and lifestyle space. With USPA on board, our sellers are delivering a new level of convenience to fashion shoppers across India.”

Shailesh Chaturvedi, MD & CEO, Arvind Fashions Limited says “With U.S. Polo Assn.’s sporty coolness and Zepto’s lightning-fast delivery, we are bringing a new level of accessibility and convenience to our customers. That’s such an exciting trend setting solution for modern day needs of our consumers.”

U.S. Polo Assn.’s collection is live on the platform, offering Zepto platform users a curated selection of timeless, stylish apparel. From classic polo shirts to casualwear, Zepto users can now enjoy iconic USPA pieces delivered within minutes.

This collaboration represents a significant leap in quick-commerce, with Zepto sellers expanding from essentials to premium fashion. Whether it’s grabbing a classic polo shirt minutes before an event or ordering casualwear for a spontaneous outing, Zepto’s users can experience the unmatched convenience of fast, high-quality fashion—a true game-changer for those who value both speed and style.

University of Leeds and TERI SAS University Sign MoU to Foster Academic Cooperation and Research Collaboration

New Delhi: The University of Leeds (UoL) and TERI School of Advanced Studies have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) during an official visit by a UoL delegation to the institute. This strategic agreement aims to enhance academic cooperation and establish a long-term collaborative partnership between the two institutions.

Under the MoU, the partnership will focus on developing collaborative research projects, organising joint academic activities such as courses, conferences, and seminars, facilitating the exchange of research and teaching personnel, and creating opportunities for student placements and exchanges. The exchange of publications and other materials of common interest will further enrich the partnership. A key area of focus will be collaboration with the University of Leeds’ School of Politics and International Studies (POLIS), ensuring a vibrant exchange of expertise and thought leadership.

Professor Adam Tyson, Pro-Dean International for the Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Leeds, highlighted the significance of the agreement and said, “We are excited to formalise this collaboration with TERI School of Advanced Studies, which represents a pivotal step in broadening our international academic and research networks. This MoU underscores our commitment to fostering cross-border partnerships that contribute to addressing global challenges. By combining the strengths of TERI SAS and the School of Politics and International Studies at the University of Leeds, we will work together on innovative research and education initiatives that advance understanding in key areas such as sustainability, governance, and international relations. This partnership is not only a platform for academic exchange but also a means to contribute meaningfully to the solutions needed for the future. We look forward to the mutual learning and transformative impact this collaboration will bring.”

 Professor Suman Kumar Dhar, Vice Chancellor of the TERI School of Advanced Studies, expressed his delight about the partnership, stating, “This collaboration with the University of Leeds marks a significant step toward enhancing our academic and research activities. TERI SAS is dedicated to advancing knowledge and understanding through collaboration with esteemed institutions worldwide. This MoU will enable us to combine our resources and expertise, fostering innovative research and actionable insights into sustainable development. By working together, we can develop impactful solutions that address critical environmental and social issues on a global scale.

I would like to congratulate the faculty members of the School of Politics and International Studies at the University of Leeds and the Department of Policy and Management Studies at TERI SAS for jointly facilitating an innovative academic course titled ‘International Collaborative Studio on Public Policy’ as part of the Master’s Programme in Public Policy and Sustainable Development at TERI SAS. We look forward to many more collaborative academic and research initiatives between the two collaborative institutions.”

The strategic goals of both organisations to advance diverse research and expand their global networks are aligned with the newly formed relationship. The University of Leeds and TERI School of Advanced Studies are certain that their collaboration will produce innovative discoveries and impact society for a very long time.

Coromandel International Increases Shareholding in Senegal-based Rock Phosphate Mining Company BMCC

National, September 25, 2024: Coromandel International Limited (BSE: 506395, NSE: COROMANDEL), India’s leading agri solutions company, today announced acquisition of additional equity stake in Baobab Mining and Chemicals Corporation (BMCC), Senegal, through its wholly owned subsidiary Coromandel Chemicals Limited. Coromandel will acquire an additional 8.82% equity stake in BMCC, taking its overall shareholding to 53.8%. Coromandel will invest USD 3.84 million (INR 32 cores) in BMCC, besides loan infusion of US$ 6.5 million (INR 54 crores) to fund expansion projects and meet working capital requirements.

Rock phosphate is a critical raw material for manufacturing Phosphoric Acid, an intermediate used for Phosphatic fertiliser production. BMCC, incorporated in 2011, has renewable exploitation permit for processing phosphate ore and Coromandel acquired 45% stake in September 2022. The company has since stabilised mining operations and is currently commissioning fixed processing plant to optimise the rock production.

Commenting on the investment, Mr. S. Sankarasubramanian, Managing Director & CEO, Coromandel International Limited, said, “With India importing majority of its rock requirement, investment in rock phosphate mines will be critical for attaining long term supply security for its phosphate fertiliser production. The Senegal rock is currently being blended at Coromandel’s Visakhapatnam unit along with other rock sources thereby providing us operational flexibility. Over the past two years, we have taken various initiatives to optimise rock production at BMCC and the increased throughput will support in securing rock phosphate for the upcoming Phosphoric Acid plant at company’s Kakinada Unit. The additional stake in BMCC is strategically important for capturing value chain and building self-sufficiency in our operations.”

IMS Noida Prioritizes Student Holistic Well-being with Dental, Eye, and Health Check-up Camp

Noida, September 25, 2024 – Institute of Management Studies (IMSNoida successfully organized a two-day, dentaleye, and health checkup camp on September 24 and 25. The camp was organized by IMS Law College, with the support of Hon’ble Director General Prof. (Dr.) Vikas Dhawan, Head of Department Prof. Dr. Bhavesh Gupta and Program Coordinator Assistant Prof. Govind Goyal, to promote health and wellness among students and faculty.

Participants were provided with a wide range of health screenings, including cholesterol, CBC, blood sugar, BP, and parathyroid hormone (PTH) tests, as well as dental and eye assessments. The camp saw an enthusiastic turnout, with a total of 480 tests conducted over the two days.

At IMS Noida, we believe that the wellbeing of our students and faculty is paramount. This health camp is a reflection of our commitment to promoting a healthy lifestyle, both physically and mentally. By partnering with leading healthcare providers, we are ensuring that our community has access to essential health services and is empowered to prioritize their health. I am proud of the initiative taken by our team and the overwhelming participation it received,” said Prof. Dr. Vikas Dhawan, Director General, IMS Noida.

Adding a touch of excitement to the event, the Mr.& Miss Whistle Smile Contest was organized, providing a fun and engaging competition for students. Participants were judged based on the brightness of their smiles and their oral health, adding an entertaining element to the health camp. The contest not only created a lively atmosphere but also helped raise awareness about the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene and dental care. By blending fun with education, the competition encouraged students to take their dental health seriously, while enjoying the camaraderie and friendly competition among their peers, and further motivating participants to actively care for their smiles.

IMS Noida extends its sincere gratitude to Clove Dental, Max Hospital, and Sharp Sight for their invaluable collaboration in making the health camp a success. Their expertise in dental, medical, and eye care ensured comprehensive check-ups and screenings for all participants. Clove Dental provided thorough oral health assessments, Max Hospital conducted key health tests like cholesterol and blood sugar, while Sharp Sight offered detailed eye evaluations. Their collective efforts significantly contributed to the success of the event, reinforcing IMS Noida’s commitment to student and faculty wellbeing.

Legrand India Lights Up the Festive Season with Engaging Activities and Innovative Product Amplification

New Delhi, September 25, 2024: Legrand India, a global leader in electrical and digital building infrastructure solutions, has successfully launched a series of innovative activities aimed at maximizing engagement during the festive period across India. The initiatives focused on amplifying the launch of two new products, the Desktop Power Center and the Dizly Distribution Board, leveraging the festive season to enhance market presence.

As part of this campaign, Legrand has initiated an engaging retail activity named ‘Legrand Ke Superstars,’ targeting retailers in 50 cities, starting with Delhi. This initiative will take place through Navratri onwards until Diwali and aims to build awareness of the Lyncus range, the Dizly Distribution Board, and the Desktop Power Center, reinforcing Legrand’s commitment to innovative solutions in electrical infrastructure.

Rath Yatra Celebration in Puri
To ensure a seamless and worry-free experience for travellers during the Rath Yatra in Puri, Legrand installed 10 Allzy-powered charging stations at the Puri railway station and around the Mela booking areas in July this year. These stations allowed travellers to stay connected with their loved ones and capture special Rath Yatra moments, showcasing the versatility of Allzy, the all-rounder switch.

Ganesh Chaturthi Installation in Mumbai
In Mumbai, Legrand created a unique and interactive experience at the iconic Lalbaug Ganesh Pandal and the electrical market at Lohar Chawl. Visitors had the opportunity to engage with an innovative display featuring the Kamaal Ka Switch – Lyncus, a light and shadow art installation at Lalbaug Cha Raja pandal, captivating devotees as they waited in line for darshan.

Onam Celebrations in Kerala
Legrand celebrated the spirit of Onam in retail stores across Trivandrum, Kottayam, Calicut, Thrissur, and Kochi by engaging with over 300 people across more than 90 counters. The festivities included the vibrant presence of Mahabali and Chenda Melam to wish the retailers and electricians in a traditional manner by expressing gratitude through special gifts and local delicacies. The activity entailed showcasing the new product launches – Dizly Distribution Board and Desktop Power Center along with the Kamaal Ka Switch, Lyncus range.

These festive activities not only enhanced brand visibility but also reinforced Legrand’s commitment to providing innovative solutions tailored to the needs of the Indian market. As the company continues to expand its footprint, these engagements exemplify its dedication to fostering strong relationships with both retailers and customers.

Mr. Sameer Saxena, Director of Marketing, Group Legrand India, stated, “As we embraced the festive spirit, our activities reflected Legrand’s commitment to innovation and connection. The introduction of our Desktop Power Center and Dizly Distribution Board, alongside initiatives like ‘Legrand Ke Superstars,’ allowed us to engage meaningfully with our retail partners and customers. By enhancing their experiences during significant festivals, we not only showcased our cutting-edge solutions but also built lasting relationships within the community. We were excited to be part of these celebrations and looked forward to the continued growth of our brand in India.”

The largest lactation management and breast milk banking conference will be in Hyderabad on 28th and 29th September

Hyderabad, September 25, 2024-The city will be the host to the largest lactation management and breast milk banking conference in Hyderabad on the 28th and 29th of September at Hotel Marigold, Hyderabad. Besides Marigold, the conferences will be held in different locations in the city.

Called as 4th International Conference, South Asian LAMBCON 2024 will have 500, including 20 international delegates from Sri Lanka, Nepal, East Timor and the Philippines attending.

Shri Dr. B.N. Gangadhar, Chairman, National Medical Commission; Shri R.V. Karnan, Commissioner, Health and Family Welfare, MD, National Health Mission; Dr. Sridhar Prahlad Ryavanki, Health Specialist, UNICEF Field Office for Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana; Dr Zelalem Birhanu Taffesse, Chief Field Officer, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Telangana will grace the inaugural on 28th September.

The conference will feature 30+ sessions, with topics ranging from Basic Lactation Management, Advanced Lactation Management, to Human Milk Banking.

Sushena Health Foundation, in partnership with Dhaatri Mothers’ Milk Bank and supported by several esteemed organizations including the Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP), National Neonatology Forum (NNF), Rishihood University (RU), National Neonatology Forum – Telangana State Chapter (NNF-TS), UNICEF, and the Pediatrics Academy of Telangana is organising the 4th International Conference, South Asian LAMBCON 2024.

41.8% of babies in Telangana are breastfed early, while in India, only 54% of babies experience early breastfeeding. Furthermore, 90% of infant deaths can be prevented using the simple and accessible solution of breastfeeding and mothers’ milk banking. These statistics highlight that even the well-educated sections of our population are not fully aware of breastfeeding and lactation management, said Dr Santosh Kumar, Kraleti, Member National Medical Commission, Founder and General Secretary, Sushena Health Foundation while addressing a press conference on Wednesday at Press Club.

Sushena Health Foundation to open India’s first Colostrum Milk Bank at Hyderabad. Colostrum is the first form of breastmilk that is released by the mammary glands after giving birth, he added.

Research has shown that a mother’s milk is rich in nutrition and serves as the best possible vaccination against the myriad diseases that can be contracted in the years following infancy added Dr K Durgbhavani, Senior Pediatrician and Neonatologist, Vice President of Sushena Health Foundation.

Sushena Health Foundation is leading the country’s efforts to increase the percentage of breastfed babies to 90% in the next five years and to reduce the infant mortality rate from the current 29.1 deaths per 1,000 live births to near zero. In the short span of seven years since its inception, Sushena Health has successfully established and is operating multiple milk banks across the country. The organization leads the operations in providing supplemental nutrition to lactating mothers in government healthcare facilities and offers consultancy to private hospitals on lactation management.

LAMBCON 2024 is the venue to learn more about the on-ground impact of Sushena Health Foundation’s efforts so far and to understand how everyone can take part in the immense endeavour of making India a leader in breastfeeding and lactation management. The conference is open to all and is primarily aimed at practicing pediatricians, neonatologists, gynaecologists, lactation consultants, lactation counsellors, and nurses. Participants will have the opportunity to significantly enhance their knowledge and understanding of lactation management.

Among the acclaimed dignitaries gracing the occasion are Dr Arun K. Singh, Head of the Department of Neonatology, AIIMS Jodhpur, National Advisor, Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram, MoHFW; Founders and Advisors of LAMBCON, Shri Dr Santhosh Kumar Kraleti, Member, National Medical Commission, Founder & General Secretary, Sushena Health Foundation; Dr. Srinivas Murki, Chief Consultant Neonatologist, DM Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Fernandez Hospital, Senior Neonatologist, Paramitha Hospital, Hyderabad; Dr. Kalavalapalli Durga Bhavani, Pediatrician, Director & Co-founder, Institute of Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Adiposity (IDEA) Clinics, India; and the LAMBCON Organizing Secretary, Dr. Nitasha Bagga, Consultant Pediatrician and Neonatologist, Rainbow Hospital, Hyderabad, Dr Swapna Lingaladinne, Associate Professor, Neonatologist, Niloufer Hospital, Hyderabad.