Category health

Feb 25: Yellow Fertility, has received the prestigious National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers (NABH) accreditation for its Gurgaon Sector 57 centre. This achievement marks a milestone in Yellow Fertility’s journey toward delivering globally benchmarked fertility treatments anchored in safety, transparency, and clinical excellence.

The NABH accreditation includes the complete spectrum of services offered at the Gurgaon clinic, including OPD consultations, fertility diagnostics, assisted reproductive treatments such as IUI, IVF and ICSI, embryology laboratory services, counselling, nursing care, pharmacy operations, and patient support services. This comprehensive coverage underscores the clinic’s end-to-end adherence to nationally recognised quality standards.

As part of the accreditation process, NABH conducted a rigorous and multi-layered assessment of the centre in areas such as patient safety and rights, clinical governance, infection prevention and control, medication management, ethical practices, staff competency, documentation systems, and overall quality management frameworks. The evaluation included detailed documentation reviews, on-site inspections, internal audits, staff interviews, process validations, and mock drills across both clinical and non-clinical teams.

Commenting on the milestone, Dr Reji, Group COO, Yellow Fertility, said,

 “NABH accreditation is a strong validation of the systems, processes, and people that define Yellow Fertility. It is part of our long-term strategy to build trust, ensure clinical excellence, and create a standardised quality framework across all its centres as we expand nationally. For patients, it means greater confidence, transparency, and trust as they navigate their fertility journey with us.”

Over the years, Yellow Fertility’s Gurgaon clinic has supported thousands of couples through personalised, ethical, and evidence-based fertility care. The NABH accreditation marks a key milestone in the clinic’s evolution and its commitment to delivering consistently high standards of care. With this achievement, Yellow Fertility continues to reinforce its position as a patient-first fertility care provider focused on outcomes, transparency, and globally aligned clinical standards.

This milestone reinforces Yellow Fertility’s commitment to building a strong and credible healthcare foundation as it continues its growth journey. With the recent NABH accreditation, the brand is well-positioned to advance toward its vision of establishing 100 centres by 2030, with planned expansions across key states including Haryana, Delhi, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Uttarakhand, West Bengal and Odisha.

Gurugram, Feb 24: Indira IVF Hospital Limited announced the inauguration of its new fertility clinic in Sector 51, Gurugram, further strengthening access to organised fertility and reproductive healthcare services across Haryana and the National Capital Region.

Located on the First Floor, the centre will offer a comprehensive range of fertility and assisted reproductive services. The clinic will operate with standardised clinical protocols and technology-enabled systems designed to ensure consistency, patient safety, and transparency across every stage of treatment.

The inauguration ceremony was graced by Ms. Neha Rathi, Indian Professional Wrestler, as the Chief Guest, Dr. Arvind Vaid, Zonal Business Director, Gynaecologist & IVF Specialist, Indira IVF Patel Nagar, Delhi as the guest of Honour & Dr. Abhilasha Mehta, Consultant Gynaecologist & IVF Specialist Centre Head, Indira IVF, Sector 51, Gurugram, & other dignitaries of Gurugram region.

Addressing the gathering, Ms. Neha Rathi said, “Access to specialised healthcare plays a crucial role in shaping healthier futures for families. The opening of Indira IVF in Gurugram strengthens the availability of structured fertility services in the region and underscores the importance of early evaluation and informed medical care.”

Commenting on the expansion, Mr. Nitiz Murdia, Managing Director, Indira IVF Hospital Limited, said, “The launch of our Gurugram centre reflects our continued commitment to improving accessibility to structured fertility care across growing urban hubs. As awareness around reproductive health increases, it is important that patients have access to evidence-based treatment supported by experienced clinical teams and standardised systems.”

Dr. Arvind Vaid, Centre Clinical Director, Zonal Business Director, Gynaecologist & IVF Specialist Indira IVF, Patel Nagar, Delhi, added, “Urban lifestyles, delayed parenthood, and underlying medical conditions are contributing to rising fertility concerns. The presence of a dedicated, technology-enabled fertility centre in Gurugram will encourage early consultation and structured treatment, which significantly improves clinical outcomes.”

Dr. Abhilasha Mehta, Consultant Gynaecologist & IVF Specialist and Centre Head, Indira IVF, Sector 51, Gurugram, said, “Fertility care requires timely diagnosis, scientific precision, and compassionate counselling. Our focus at the Gurugram centre is to provide personalised treatment plans backed by consistent protocols and advanced laboratory support, ensuring that couples receive comprehensive care under one roof.”

With this launch, Indira IVF continues to expand its national footprint, adding to its network of 200+ clinics across India. The Gurugram centre will offer a full range of fertility and assisted reproductive services for both male and female infertility, supported by standardised laboratory practices, electronic medical records and patient safety systems.

Gleneagles Hospitals, Lakdi-ka-pul , Achieves Milestone in Adult Laparoscopic Donor Liver Surgery and Pediatrics Liver Transplantation

Hyderabad, Feb 20: Gleneagles Hospitals, Lakdi-ka-pul (part of the Fortis Network), Hyderabad, has reinforced its position as one of India’s leading liver transplant centres, having performed over 1,500 successful liver transplants in the past 15 years with a survival rate of more than 95%—on par with leading global centres.

At the heart of this achievement is a multidisciplinary team led by Dr. Vishal K. Chorasiya, Head of HPB and Lead Liver Transplant Surgeon, who has performed over 2,500 liver transplant surgeries in his career. He is supported by surgeons Dr. Manikanteshwar Rao D and Dr. Tharun Gattu, hepatologists Dr. Kavya Dendukuri and Dr. Sameer Kumar Godey, transplant intensivists Dr. Ganesh Chowhan and Dr. Kartika Balaji, anaesthetist Dr Varsha CH and transplant radiologist Dr. Uma Karri.

Laparoscopic Donor Surgery: A Game-Changer for Adult Donors

One of the hospital’s recent milestones is the introduction of Pure Laparoscopic Donor Hepatectomy for adult living liver donors—a minimally invasive procedure that offers minimal pain, almost no visible scarring, faster recovery, shorter hospital stay and quicker return to work. Unlike traditional open surgery that requires a large abdominal incision, this keyhole approach uses small cuts and advanced surgical instruments, significantly reducing physical trauma for donors—often young parents or siblings stepping forward to save a loved one’s life.

“At Gleneagles Hospitals, Lakdi-ka-pul, our focus is to honour the generosity of adult donors by making the procedure as safe and comfortable as possible,” said Dr. Vishal K. Chorasiya. “Laparoscopic donor liver retrieval gives them the confidence that they can save a loved one while experiencing less pain, shorter hospitalisation and minimal scarring—donor safety is our top priority.”

“Our team has invested in advanced minimally invasive techniques, imaging and peri-operative protocols so that adult donors receive world-class care close to home,” added Dr. Ganesh Chowhan, Transplant Intensivist. “This allows us to expand access to living donor transplants for adults who might otherwise face long waiting times and disease progression.”

The hospital is also planning to introduce Robotic Donor Hepatectomy soon, further enhancing precision and donor comfort at affordable costs

Mr Bharath Kanth Reddy, Regional CEO, Gleneagles Hospitals (Part of Fortis Network), Chennai & Hyderabad said“Liver transplantation is one of the most demanding areas in modern medicine, and we are proud that Gleneagles Hospitals, Lakdi-ka-pul has emerged as a trusted destination for patients from across Telangana, Andhra Pradesh and beyond.” “By combining advanced techniques like laparoscopic donor surgery for adults with a specialised pediatric liver transplant programme, our teams are able to offer hope to entire families at the most difficult time in their lives.”

Mr Anil Vinayak, Group COO, Fortis Healthcare Limited said,

“At Fortis, our focus is to back strong clinical programmes with the right investments in technology, talent and systems so that outcomes remain consistently high across the network.” “The liver transplant achievements at Gleneagles Hospitals, Lakdi-ka-pul, reflect our commitment to building centres of excellence that deliver world-class care, while staying accessible and patient-centric for communities we serve

Specialisation in Pediatric Liver Transplants

Gleneagles Hospitals, Lakdi-ka-pul has also developed a comprehensive pediatric liver transplant programme, making it one of the leading centres in India for treating children with severe liver disorders such as biliary atresia, metabolic liver disease and acute liver failure.

In paediatric cases, most transplants are performed using open surgical techniques tailored to the child’s size and condition. The team specialises in highly complex procedures, including monosegment graft liver transplants for very small infants, where only a tiny segment of the donor’s liver is transplanted.pmc.

“Pediatric liver transplant surgery demands a different level of precision—tiny vessels, fragile tissues and very limited physiologic reserve,” said Dr. Kavya Dendukuri, Pediatric Hepatologist. “Our dedicated transplant team brings together surgeons, hepatologists, intensivists and nurses specifically trained to care for these children before, during and after transplant.”

“Living donor transplantation for children gives us the flexibility to operate at the right time, before complications become irreversible,” noted Dr. Tharun Gattu, Liver Transplant Surgeon. “With meticulous planning and long-term follow-up, many of our young patients are able to return to school, participate in normal activities and enjoy an excellent quality of life.”

The programme has achieved some of the best paediatric liver transplant success rates in the country, offering renewed hope to families facing life-threatening conditions.

World-Class Infrastructure and Multidisciplinary Care

The hospital’s transplant programme is supported by state-of-the-art modular Operation Theatres, a dedicated Liver Intensive Care Unit with specially trained transplant nurses, 24/7 laboratory services, advanced radiology, blood bank facilities and a dedicated transplant coordination team.

“Liver transplantation is not just surgery—it is a comprehensive process involving careful evaluation, preparation, critical care and lifelong follow-up,” said Dr. Manikanteshwar Rao D, Liver Transplant Surgeon. “Our multidisciplinary approach ensures every aspect of patient and donor care is addressed with precision and compassion

Each donor undergoes thorough medical evaluation to ensure safety, and stringent infection control protocols and international transplant guidelines are followed at every step

A Beacon of Hope for Patients

Over the past 15 years, more than 1,500 families have experienced renewed life through liver transplantation at Gleneagles Hospitals, Lakdi-ka-pul. From complex adult transplants to delicate paediatric surgeries, and from traditional open procedures to advanced minimally invasive donor surgery, the hospital continues to set benchmarks in transplant medicine. With a world-class team, cutting-edge infrastructure, outstanding survival outcomes and a patient-first approach, Gleneagles Hospitals stands as a beacon of hope for families from Telangana, Andhra Pradesh and neighbouring states battling end-stage liver disease.

Mumbai ,Feb 20 :At Mumbai Climate Week, the WHO-WMO Climate and Health Joint Programme, The Rockefeller Foundation, and Wellcome announced two new integrated initiatives to protect South Asians from extreme heat a rapidly escalating threat to human health and economic stability in the subcontinent.

The two new initiatives, funded by The Rockefeller Foundation and Wellcome, will strengthen South Asia’s ability to detect, prepare for, and respond to extreme heat and other weather- and climate-related health impacts.

The South Asia Climate–Health Desk, established as part of the WHO–WMO Climate and Health Joint Programme and implemented with the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), India Meteorological Department (IMD), and other partners will improve how climate and weather information is translated into action to protect health.

Complementing this work, the South Asia Scientific Research Consortium, supported through a Rockefeller Foundation grant to the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Pune, will deepen the region’s scientific understanding of how heat affects different populations. These projects are the first two components of a broader, more ambitious regional strategy to address extreme heat risks to health. As part of a growing suite of Joint Programme initiatives, including regional activities of the Global Heat Health Information Network, these are first steps of coordinated science-driven efforts to protect communities, with more updates on the broader rollout coming soon.

“Extreme heat is a growing risk for lives and livelihoods in South Asia,”

said Dr. Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, IMD’s Director General of Meteorology and Permanent Representative of India to WMO.

“IMD welcomes this partnership with IITM under the South Asia Climate-Health Desk, which will strengthen the science-to-services pathway, improve early warning support for health, and help decision-makers act in time to protect communities during severe heat events.”

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called for urgent global action to address the growing risk of extreme heat worldwide, which takes a heavy toll on health in South Asia – the world’s most populated region. According to WMO, Asia is warming nearly twice as fast as the global average, intensifying extreme weather and placing growing pressure on lives and livelihoods, health systems, economies, and ecosystems across the region, putting the most vulnerable and exposed communities at critical risk.

In India and Pakistan, pre-monsoon temperatures regularly rise above 50°C, and heat-related mortality in the region today exceeds 200,000 deaths per year. At the same time, extreme heat undermines economic stability and productivity. In 2024 alone, heat exposure in India led to 247 billion potential labor hours lost – reducing labor capacity and leading to an estimated 194 billion loss in income, according to the Lancet Countdown.

“Few regions feel the impacts of extreme heat as sharply as South Asia, and I welcome the clear determination to respond. We all know that every death primarily due to excess heat can be prevented and heat health action plans are saving lives,” said Professor Celeste Saulo, Secretary-General of the World Meteorological Organization. “By uniting science, government leadership and support, and community action, countries here are proving that this challenge can be met.”

Addressing extreme heat requires coordinated, transdisciplinary action. This integrated effort equips governments, public services, communities, and health systems with the actionable knowledge they need to prevent avoidable illness and save lives. The two coalition initiatives include:

1.South Asia Climate–Health Desk: Led by IITM in partnership with IMD, this new unit will help meteorological institutions and health partners in South Asia work closely together to develop more robust decision support tools, such as early warning and risk assessments. Representing one of the first units to be launched as part of the Joint Programme spanning Research and Development (R&D) and operational domains in climate and health, it will strengthen the ability of a wide range of stakeholders to co-develop, validate, and share health‑relevant and fit-for-purpose weather and climate information, so communities, health authorities, and health services can build resilience and act quickly before and during dangerous heat events and other climate-related health risks including disease outbreaks.

2.South Asia Scientific Research Consortium: Led by IISER Pune, this consortium of research institutions, including MS Swaminathan Research Foundation and IITM, will deepen understanding of how heat affects people across South Asia—depending on where they live, the work they do, and the different conditions they face. By developing tailored heat‑risk thresholds, this consortium aims to ultimately strengthen heat action planning, early warning systems, and preparedness efforts, helping communities and institutions better adapt to rising temperatures in one of the world’s most heat-vulnerable regions.

This announcement is the first in a series of rollouts planned in 2026, highlighting work being carried out in the region. The Rockefeller Foundation and Wellcome’s US $11.5 million investment in the WHO-WMO Climate and Health Joint Programme aims to expand climate‑informed health action in vulnerable regions. The two philanthropies committed the funds to pioneer new models of science-driven collaboration between health partners and meteorological departments, aiming to bridge a gap that often leaves health systems without critical climate information that can protect communities and save lives.

Through the establishment of these initiatives, South Asia is leading the way in implementing this integrated climate and health approach that connects research, climate monitoring and forecasting, and health responses to protect people from the health risks of climate variability and change.

“After a decade of punishing and increasingly deadly heatwaves across India and the wider South Asia region, it’s clear that business‑as‑usual public health approaches are no longer enough. Protecting India’s most vulnerable communities requires rethinking how we deliver care and invest in the solutions frontline providers and patients urgently need today,” said Dr. Naveen Rao, Senior Vice President of Health at The Rockefeller Foundation. “Through our support to the Joint Programme, we aim to help turn cutting‑edge science into real‑world impact, helping India and the region build a resilient, climate‑ready health system fit for the 21st century.”

“Rising temperatures due to climate change are a public health threat, endangering people’s lives and livelihoods throughout the world. In South Asia, extreme heat is hitting communities hard – in particular children, pregnant people, older people, outdoor workers and those communities with the least resources to respond,” said Dr. Alan Dangour, Director of Climate and Health at Wellcome. “We need to invest in science-led solutions that both cut emissions and build resilience, with public health at the core of decision-making. Wellcome is proud to work with partners and communities across South Asia to develop the evidence, tools and solutions that will ultimately improve health and save lives.”

Bangalore, Feb 20 : Clarks Exotica Convention Resort and Spa successfully hosted DERMACON 2026 at the Ocean Convention Centre, the 54th National Conference of the Indian Association of Dermatologists, Venereologists & Leprologists (IADVL), from January 28 to February 2, 2026. One of the most significant global gatherings in dermatology and skin science, the conference witnessed the participation of over 5,000 dermatologists and venereologists from across the world, reinforcing Bangalore’s position as a preferred destination for large-scale medical conventions.

Held primarily at the resort’s iconic Ocean Convention Centre, DERMACON 2026 featured an expansive exhibition showcasing the latest advancements in skincare products, dermatological equipment, and clinical innovations. The conference revolved around the theme “Empowering Skin Science: Implications, Ingenuity & Inclusivity”, focusing on emerging research, clinical excellence, dermatosurgery, and allied specialties.

All convention and meeting venues at Clarks Exotica were fully occupied throughout the event, including the Ocean Convention Centre, Galaxy Grand Ballroom, Lotus Ballroom, Pool Side venue, Lily Conference Room, Rose Conference Room, Tulip Conference Room, Geneva Boardroom, Jasmine Conference Room, Sunflower Conference Room, and Orchid Conference Room, enabling seamless parallel sessions, workshops, exhibitions, and networking engagements.

“DERMACON 2026 was a landmark event for the dermatology community, and we are honoured to have partnered in hosting a conference of this magnitude,”

said Mr. Balaji M., CEO, Clarks Exotica Convention Resort and Spa.

“Our integrated convention infrastructure, combined with meticulous planning and service excellence, allowed us to deliver a world-class experience for both delegates and organisers.”

Complementing the conference experience, Clarks Exotica provided a luxury stay for attendees, with over 497 rooms booked during the conference period. Delegates enjoyed a refined blend of comfort, personalized hospitality, and tranquil surroundings, offering the perfect retreat after intensive academic sessions. The resort’s proximity to the airport and its expansive campus further enhanced convenience for international and domestic participants alike.

“DERMACON 2026 was a triumph because of the people behind the scenes at Clarks Exotica,”

added Ms. Nilisha, Vice President.

“Our team’s expertise in managing large-scale, concurrent sessions ensured a seamless experience for every attendee. Their commitment to excellence is why we continue to be a preferred global venue.”

The conference was coordinated under the leadership of Dr. Raghunath, the key coordinator of DERMACON 2026, whose vision and collaboration played a pivotal role in delivering a well-curated and impactful academic programme.

DERMACON 2026 adds to Clarks Exotica’s strong legacy of hosting prestigious medical and professional conventions, further strengthening its reputation as one of India’s premier destinations for large-format conferences, conventions, and global business events.

New Delhi, Feb 19: Two weeks into Zomato’s Healthy High-five challenge, the data shows a meaningful shift in how urban India orders food: making protein the priority, not an afterthought.

Since February 1, over 10 lakh Indians have collectively begun their High-five journey, ordering healthy meals with over 20 grams of protein more than 15 lakh times. Here’s what the data shows: people are going beyond the first milestone. Over 10,000 customers have earned their first free meal.

A customer from Bengaluru exemplifies this frequency, he has logged 33 high-protein orders in just two weeks, earning multiple free meals along the way. Since Healthy Mode launched in late 2025, a customer from Chennai has placed 811 orders through the feature. These patterns suggest sustained behavior change, not temporary experiments.

The geographic breakdown reveals expected metro dominance: Bangalore leads with 3.78 lakh high-fives, closely followed by Delhi and Mumbai. Interestingly, grilled chicken has emerged as the most-ordered dish in the challenge with over 1 lakh orders in February, suggesting customers are consciously switching to healthier options without sacrificing taste or familiarity.

Aditya Mangla, CEO, Zomato, said,

“We’ve always felt that people want to make healthier choices. They just need it to be simpler and more accessible. The Healthy High-five challenge was our small attempt to enable that. Two weeks in, with over 10 lakh customers participating, it’s encouraging to see not just orders come in, but early signs of habits taking shape.”

Since the launch of Healthy Mode on the Zomato app in late 2025, the feature has driven 74 lakh orders from 12 lakh customers, indicating growing user inclination towards healthy meal options. There’s been a 20% uptick in orders for dishes with ‘High’ healthy scores, compared to September’25.

The Healthy High-five challenge runs till the end of February 2026 on the Zomato app. To participate, order dishes that meet specific nutritional criteria: a minimum of 20g of protein and a high Healthy Score. Healthy Score evaluates dishes on protein, complex carbs, fibre, and micronutrients, and not just calories.

• Every qualifying order once delivered, earns the customer a ‘High-five’
• 4 High-fives unlock a free dish from a curated menu of high-nutrition options listed under the Healthy Mode.

Mumbai, Feb 19: AlfAccurate Advisors Pvt. Ltd., with Arham Yuva Seva Group (AYSG), have partnered for the CSR initiative “Arham Dialysis Sahay,” aimed at supporting underprivileged individuals battling chronic kidney disease by ensuring access to life-saving dialysis treatment.

Dialysis is not a one-time procedure but a recurring medical necessity that places significant financial and emotional strain on families, particularly those from economically weaker backgrounds. Recognizing this challenge, the initiative provides holistic support designed to ease both medical and lifestyle burdens faced by patients.

Under this program, ₹20 lakh worth of assistance has been extended, benefiting 108 dialysis patients. Financial aid was distributed through verified cheque support, enabling beneficiaries to continue treatment at medical centres of their choice. In addition to treatment sponsorship, essential grocery kits containing staple food items were provided to help families manage daily nutritional needs amid rising healthcare expenses.

To promote long-term health monitoring, blood pressure measurement devices were also distributed, empowering patients to track their health independently. Trolley bags were included to help beneficiaries conveniently carry essential supplies and medical equipment.

Chronic kidney disease is a growing healthcare concern in India, with many patients forced to discontinue treatment due to financial limitations. The costs for these treatments run upto ₹1.5 lakh per year. Arham Dialysis Sahay aims to bridge this gap by combining financial assistance with compassionate community support

AlfAccurate Advisors’ participation reflects a commitment to responsible corporate citizenship, while AYSG – a nationwide non-profit with over 1,500 volunteers inspired by Param Namramuni Gurudev – ensured effective implementation through beneficiary verification, logistics coordination, and on-ground execution.

“Our CSR philosophy focuses on creating sustainable impact by supporting healthcare access and easing the burden on families facing long term medical challenges. We sincerely thank Arham Yuva Seva Group for their noble initiative,”said Mr. Rajesh Kothari, Founder & Managing Director, AlfAccurate Advisors, one of the leading Investment Management firms in India.

The initiative highlights how collaborative CSR efforts can create meaningful, sustainable impact by supporting vulnerable communities with dignity, care, and continuity of treatment

Gadchiroli, Maharashtra: A Pune based charity, Mukul Madhav Foundation (MMF) has reached a significant milestone with the completion of its 24th Period Positive Holiday Home across 24 hamlets in the Dhanora block of Gadchiroli district—one of India’s most backward, tribal, and naxal-affected regions as identified by the Government of India. What began as a small, compassionate response during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic has today evolved into a model of dignity, sustainability, and women-led empowerment.

For generations, menstruating women and girls in parts of Gadchiroli were compelled to stay in unsafe period huts, locally known as Kurma Ghars located at the end of the forest. These spaces exposed them to health risks, social exclusion, and physical danger as they are not allowed to cook or do any kind of common domestic work and food and water delivered by villagers.

Recognising that menstruation should not result in isolation or punishment, MMF reimagined these huts as safe, hygienic, and eco-friendly spaces termed Period Positive Holiday Homes. The women of Tukum village – where the first modern period hut was built in 2020 introduced by implementation partner Yuva Parivartan and subsequently MMF also invited corporates, individuals, and other NGOs, such as Project Naveli, to support the initiative, with Finolex Industries Limited remaining the principal donor. MMF firmly believes in collaborating with like-minded individuals and organisations to strengthen impact.

The voices of many women echoed the same painful truth. “We stayed there alone, in fear,” they recalled. “One of our sisters died of a snake bite. There was no one to help her. Our relatives could not come near, and the men stood at a distance, watching helplessly, because they believed they would become impure if they touched her.” Such was the harsh reality faced by women and young girls.

In earlier times, as their menstrual dates approached, anxiety would begin to build. The thought of moving into the thatched hut filled them with dread. The structure had no proper ventilation and lacked even the most basic facilities. It was dark, cramped, and unsafe. For bathing or washing clothes, the women had to walk nearly a kilometre to the nearest water body, often alone and vulnerable.

What should have been a natural biological process became a period marked by isolation, fear, and indignity.

Built using innovative bottle-brick construction, the initiative tackled two challenges simultaneously—plastic waste and menstrual stigma. What began as basic Safe Resting Homes has evolved into Period Positive Holiday Homes, transforming both physical infrastructure and community mindsets.

Initially simple rooms with basic sanitation, the spaces were redesigned through continuous engagement with women to ensure dignity, safety, and comfort. Today, each Holiday Home includes safe toilets and bathing facilities with assured water supply, solar lighting and fans, comfortable mosquito-protected sleeping spaces, kitchenettes with smokeless chullas, clean drinking water, first aid support, secure storage, and climate-responsive design features.

Recognising that menstrual health is inseparable from access to water and sanitation, the initiative integrates strong WASH infrastructure to ensure privacy and hygiene. Over time, these homes have become more than resting spaces—they are centres of empowerment. Equipped with sewing machines and basic training facilities, several Holiday Homes now support skill development and livelihood generation, enabling women to rebuild confidence, income, and agency.

The project has also created livelihood opportunities through the training of local masons, painters, and helpers, green job creation via bottle-brick construction, and promotion of sanitary napkin production at the village level. In building dignity for women, the initiative has contributed to strengthening local economies and skills.

The impact of the Period Positive Holiday Homes has drawn national and international recognition. The initiative has been featured by BBC News, highlighting its innovative approach to addressing menstrual stigma and sustainable construction. It also received special recognition on the popular television show Kaun Banega Crorepati, where its story was shared with a nationwide audience, further amplifying the message of dignity, safety, and empowerment for women.

State Public Health Minister Prakash Abitkar inaugurated the “Period Positive Holiday Homes” at Pawni, located in Dhanora taluka of Gadchiroli district.

He expressed heartfelt gratitude to Mukul Madhav Foundation, Finolex Industries, and Yuva Parivartan for improving healthcare support in remote villages by providing Period Positive Holiday Homes for women. He stated that MMF has implemented 24 such projects across different villages in Dhanora taluka, describing it as remarkable social work by MMF and Finolex Industries.

He further expressed hope that the organizations would continue supporting similar initiatives in the future, with a strong focus not only on women’s health but also on skill development programs to help women improve their economic status.

He emphasized the importance of improving the health of poor women and maintaining proper hygiene during menstruation to prevent infections.

“The Period Positive Holiday Home goes beyond awareness—it creates safe, nurturing spaces where girls and women can manage menstruation with comfort, confidence, and dignity. At MMF, we believe meaningful change happens when communities, partners, and institutions come together to respond collectively to the real needs of society, placing hygiene and care at the heart of menstrual health.

We are deeply grateful to the local communities who welcomed us with such warmth, despite the challenging terrain and circumstances. Their trust and support strengthened our resolve and enabled us to continue this journey with commitment and compassion,” said Mrs. Chhabria of Mukul Madhav Foundation.

“I commend Mukul Madhav Foundation for its sustained leadership in advancing period positive home construction in tribal communities. By integrating dignity, privacy and menstrual well-being into the design of homes, their commitment deserves sincere appreciation.” – Says Dr. Rani Bang, Co-founder, SEARCH Gadchiroli

“At Yuva Parivartan, we deeply value our partnership with Finolex Industries Ltd. & Mukul Madhav Foundation and are grateful for their continued trust and support. What began as a small intervention has grown into a powerful movement that restores dignity, safety, and confidence to women and girls during menstruation. MMF’s commitment to listening to communities, improving infrastructure thoughtfully, and integrating sustainability and livelihoods has transformed Period Positive Holiday Homes into spaces of care, learning, and empowerment. We thank MMF for standing with us and the communities of Gadchiroli in reimagining menstruation with dignity and compassion.” Darshana Sawant

“Empowering women is a truly revolutionary step — it changes mindsets, reshapes futures, and unlocks the limitless potential of our society. When we invest in women, we invest in lasting progress,” said Sandip Patil IPS DIG, Nagpur region.

As MMF marks this achievement, the Foundation reiterated its commitment to creating environments where menstruation is addressed with care rather than exclusion, and where women are supported to live healthy, confident, and self-reliant lives.

This is Finolex Pipes and Fittings:

We are India’s most trusted PVC pipes and fittings manufacturer. For 44 years, we have impacted the sanitation, plumbing and agricultural sectors with prudent investments across our value chain. Right from the sourcing of quality raw materials and resin production to manufacturing, storage, transport, sales, marketing, and even further downstream to include customer engagement.

To stay focused on making superior quality pipes and fittings, and nothing else but that, for forty-four years, is no mean feat. Aligning every decision, every action, every resource towards delivering quality pipes and fittings. To choose to do just this one thing and do it well. So that once our customers install our pipes, they completely forget about us. We take great pride in this dependable quality that has not only earned us ISO 9001:2015 certifications across plants, but also earned us the sincere affection of farmers, plumbers, homeowners, partners, associates and shareholders. They have all come to expect the world from us. Because that’s exactly what we expect from ourselves.

When we choose to diversify, it’s upstream with an open sea jetty to manage our raw materials, and downstream into last mile fulfilment. When we evolve, it has to be in our understanding of customer expectations and finding better machines and processes to meet those expectations. When we choose to expand, it is into newer markets, delivering our pipes and fittings to newer customers. And when we measure our growth, it is in reputation. The effect of which reflects in our bottom line, growing manifold in the last decade.

This quality focus is not just restricted to our products but defines every aspect of our functioning. Whether quality support for our dealers, vendors and suppliers. Quality opportunities to our employees. Superior quality of life, education and health of the people we serve through our various social responsibility initiatives.

Over the last forty-four years, we have steadily added depth to our company, instead of spreading ourselves wide and thin. Consistently delivering the exact same products that fulfil the exact same promise. Every time. That’s what makes us a strong brand, with a strong network, and even stronger goodwill. We are Finolex Industries Limited.

Partners in Compassion: 

Mukul Madhav Foundation (MMF), our CSR partner, is a registered charitable trust under the Bombay Charitable Act, 1950. It has dedicated itself to uplifting underprivileged and vulnerable communities with opportunities that pave their path to success. Empowering them with educational facilities, hospitals, healthcare, sanitation and environmental support, social welfare and so much more. Creating a foundation for individuals, their communities and their environment to thrive. MMF also supports existing infrastructure 

Sesame Workshop, the global nonprofit behind Sesame Street, with support from global healthcare company Abbott, today launched new healthy habits resources in India. This program aims to help families establish routines around nutrition, physical activity, and sleep from an early age, laying the foundation for lifelong wellness and reducing the risk of chronic illnesses. Abbott and Sesame Workshop in India are sharing resources in Hindi to help make health concepts easy and simple to understand and practice. This adaptation of the global program reflects local culture, community systems, and the unique needs of children and caregivers in India.

As part of this program, a family special, Elmo’s World: Dance Party, was premiered in Hindi on the India YouTube channel Featuring everyone’s favorite Sesame Street residents, lively music, and engaging movement activities, the special encourages children and caregivers to explore healthy behaviors together in a fun and supportive environment.

The program was officially launched recently in Lucknow by Smt. Leena Johri, Additional Chief Secretary – Women and Child Development, Government of Uttar Pradesh. The on-ground launch brought together representatives from the government, Sesame Workshop India, Abbott India, and frontline health workers from local Anganwadi centers. This on-ground launch represents a significant step toward fostering healthy routines from an early age.

At the event, Anganwadi workers received the healthy habits resources, highlighting the critical role of community systems and government support in promoting healthy behaviors at the grassroots level. Designed with a strong focus on early childhood, the resources feature beloved Sesame Street characters and use play-based learning and simple activities to help children and caregivers adopt healthy habits. In India, the program offers Hindi-language resources such as storybooks, activity books, yoga guides, calendars, flashcards, and interactive games. These materials are distributed through childcare centers, community platforms, and digital channels to support families and frontline workers (from local Anganwadi Centres).

During the launch, Smt. Johri emphasized the need to address the physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing of children in a timely manner, noting that encouraging healthy habits, such as balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, structured daily routines, and positive thinking, from an early age plays a crucial role in enabling children to lead healthy and empowered lives. She also drew attention to the importance of focused efforts in remote and underserved areas, stressing the value of play-based and activity-oriented learning, connection with nature, and the creation of safe, supportive, and nurturing environments for children.

She further reiterated the Department of Women and Child Development’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the implementation of programs related to nutrition, health, education, and mental wellbeing at the grassroots level, and highlighted the importance of collaborative initiatives involving government systems, local communities, Anganwadi workers, ASHA workers, and social organizations in achieving these objectives.

Reflecting on the initiative, Sonali Khan, Managing Director, Sesame Workshop India, said

“The healthy habits program is rooted in the belief that healthy habits, when introduced early, can shape a child’s wellbeing for life. Through this initiative, we are reaching more than 10000 children and caregivers on-ground by working closely with Anganwadi centres and ASHA workers, while also connecting with millions of families through digital platforms, including our YouTube special and related resources. By aligning with existing government programs and community systems active in Uttar Pradesh, the initiative complements the state’s ongoing efforts to strengthen nutrition, health, and early childhood development, helping make healthy routines a part of everyday life for children and families”

Mumbai, Feb 19: The Ministry of Ayush, Government of India, commemorated World Unani Day 2026 by organising a two-day National Conference on “Innovation and Evidence in Unani Practice” on February 14–15, 2026, in Mumbai. Held under the aegis of the Central Council for Research in Unani Medicine (CCRUM), the conference brought together policymakers, researchers, academicians, and industry stakeholders in a hybrid format.

Shri Prataprao Jadhav, Hon’ble Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of Ayush and Minister of State, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, graced the occasion as Chief Guest. Shri Babasaheb Mohanrao Patel, Minister of Co-operation of Maharashtra, and Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Ministry of Ayush were present as the Guests of Honour. The event was also attended by senior dignitaries including Ms. Monalisa Dash, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Ayush; Dr. M. A. Qasmi, Advisor (Unani), Ministry of Ayush; Dr. Syed Shah Alam, Director, NIUM, Bengaluru; and Dr. N. Zaheer Ahmed, Director General, CCRUM.

Observed annually on February 11 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Hakim Ajmal Khan, Unani Day highlights the legacy and contemporary relevance of Unani Medicine. The 2026 conference focused on strengthening scientific validation, promoting innovation in diagnostics and therapeutics, advancing clinical documentation, and fostering integration of traditional knowledge with evidence-based medical approaches.

The deliberations addressed the growing need for rigorous research, standardisation, and outcome-based studies to enhance the credibility and global acceptance of Unani practice, particularly in the context of rising chronic and lifestyle diseases.

An industry delegation led by Hamdard Laboratories also participated in the conference, represented by Mr. Abdul Majeed, Chairman and Managing Trustee, Hamdard Laboratories, along with other senior representatives. On the occasion, an MoU was exchanged between Hamdard Laboratories (India), represented by Dr. Santosh Joshi, Head, R&D, Hamdard Laboratories and Dr. N. Zaheer Ahmed, Director General, CCRUM, to strengthen collaborative research and innovation in Unani Medicine.

The conference served as a platform for knowledge exchange, thematic discussions, and showcasing research outcomes aimed at reinforcing the role of innovation and evidence in advancing Unani practice within India’s evolving healthcare framework and the broader vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.