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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.

Dec 11: Lloyds Metals and Energy Limited represented by its MD, Mr. B Prabhakaran has  entered in a non-binding MoU with Tata Steel Limited represented by its CEO & MD, Mr. T V Narendran to explore strategic partnership in the areas of raw material mining, logistics, pellet and steel making.

The proposed partnership aims at utilising the natural synergy in the business operations between Lloyds Metals and Tata Steel. The MoU sets out a framework for both companies to evaluate potential cooperation in greenfield steel making projects, iron ore mining, slurry pipeline infrastructure, pellet making in iron ore rich states in India, direct reduced iron production and exports of value-added low carbon iron and steel products among other associated areas of mutual interest. The objective is to utilise the complementary strengths of Tata Steel and Lloyds Metals to promote sustainable and efficient growth in the domestic steel sector.

Under the MoU, both the companies intend to explore the following opportunities in Gadchiroli district of Maharashtra:

1. Cooperation to operate mining concessions and associated infrastructure, with the objective to increase iron ore production and be a prominent player in this growing region developing as the next steel hub in the country.
2. Evaluate potential strategic cooperation of Tata Steel in the existing integrated steel projects being developed by Lloyds Metals.

All proposed initiatives are subject to further detailed evaluation, due diligence, and receipt of requisite internal and regulatory approvals.

Tata Steel has also become a co-owner in Brahmani River Pellet Limited (BRPL), by acquiring a 50.01% stake in the company. This plant operates a 4 MTPA pellet plant in Jajpur, Odisha along with a 212 km slurry pipeline, both connecting a Beneficiation plant situated at Barbil.

Tata Steel is one of the oldest steel companies in the world, with a crude steel making capacity of 35 MTPA, making it the 8^th largest steel company in the world. Tata Steel has integrated steelmaking facilities with a diverse portfolio of value added and branded steel products.

Lloyds Metals is a pioneer in mining and metal operations in Maharashtra and currently operates the largest iron ore mine in the country located in Gadchiroli. Along with a focus on producing high quality DRI, pellets and iron ore, Lloyds Metals is now venturing into integrated steel manufacturing positioning Gadchiroli as the emerging steel hub in India.

New Delhi, Dec 11: Amidst moderately paced economic activity, unemployment increasing, elevated inflation level and uncertain economic outlook, the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) has decided to lower the target range for the federal funds rate by 0.25 percentage point from 3.75%-4% to 3.5-3.75%, said Mr Rajeev Juneja, President, PHDCCI, in a press statement issued here today.

This announcement was coupled with expansionary monetary policy measures of lowering the interest rate paid on reserve balances to 3.65% (effective December 11, 2025), undertaking open market operations as necessary to maintain the federal funds rate in target range, conducting standing overnight repurchase agreement operations at a rate of 3.75%, standing overnight reverse repurchase agreement at 3.5% and with a per-counterparty limit of $160 billion per day, among others, to ease liquidity conditions, and lower the cost of short-term funding.

This move will reduce borrowing costs for firms and households, boost investment and consumption, and thereby stimulate economic activity, he said.

“Further, the Committee will initiate purchases of shorter-term Treasury securities if needed. This will lead to expansion of US Federal Reserve’s (US FED) holdings of short-term Treasuries to maintain an “ample level of reserves on an ongoing basis”, added Mr Juneja.

“Looking ahead, we anticipate that the U.S. FED will continue to carefully monitor the evolving macroeconomic landscape and adjust its monetary stance as dictated by data. We view this measure as supportive of global financial conditions, with positive implications for emerging markets, including India,” said Dr Ranjeet Mehta, CEO & Secretary General, PHDCCI.

Covestro AG today announced the successful closing of its strategic partnership with XRG P.J.S.C. (formerly ADNOC International Limited, together with its subsidiaries in the following “XRG”). The agreed capital increase of EUR 1.17 billion was carried out as planned, providing Covestro with additional resources to support the implementation of its “Sustainable Future” strategy. 

Dr. Markus Steilemann, CEO of Covestro, said:

“With today’s closing of the transaction, we can now begin our joint journey with XRG. Together with XRG as a strong and long-term partner, we are well positioned to drive Covestro’s transformation and create long-term value for our customers, employees, and stakeholders worldwide.” 

The closing of the transaction marks the official start of the partnership, building on all underlying agreements and prior regulatory clearances. 

Ahmedabad, Dec 11: Zydus Lifesciences Ltd., an innovation-led healthcare company, with an international presence has launched ‘Zyrifa’, a Denosumab biosimilar. Denosumab is a monoclonal antibody with several indications related to bone health, primarily in the treatment of osteoporosis and the prevention of skeletal complications in cancer patients. This will provide access and treat patients with bone metastases due to breast, prostate, lung, myeloma, kidney, thyroid, head & neck, and other solid tumours. Metastases, is when the cancer spreads to the bones and other organs in the body indicating an advanced stage of cancer. ‘Zyrifa’ is priced at MRP of Rs 12,495.

Bone metastases are a serious complication across multiple cancers, significantly impacting patient quality of life. Patients experience pain, fractures, spinal cord compression, reduced mobility, and loss of independence, often impacting their dignity and increasing mortality risk. The condition most commonly affects the axial skeleton (spine, pelvis, ribs), leading to severe complications.

Speaking on this launch, Dr. Sharvil P. Patel, Managing Director, Zydus Lifesciences Limited., said

“With Denosumab 120 mg SC, we aim to bring access, affordability of medication in cancer patients needing critical care. This will help patients to retain mobility, and support them in their fight against cancer”

Population scale analyses and registry studies consistently show high bone involvement rates in advanced disease; in advanced breast or prostate cancer, bone involvement affects 50 -70% of patients, whereas 15-40% of lung, kidney, thyroid, and melanoma cases also develop skeletal metastases over time.

Zydus Lifesciences Limited has been launching a wide range of biosimilars to treat various cancers ranging from breast cancer to prostate cancer, various other solid tumours and blood cancer. The company has also partnered with diagnostic companies.

Mumbai, Dec 11: Arth by Emcure, in collaboration with Jai Vakeel Foundation, hosted “Inclusion Ke Sitaare” at JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu to recognise individuals and organisations supporting inclusion through education, employment, representation and community participation for neurodivergent and intellectually disabled individuals.

 Actor Aamir Khan attended as Chief Guest and spoke about the role of families, caregivers and educators in building acceptance, encouraging more people to support inclusion in everyday life. The event was led by Namita Thapar, Executive Director of Emcure Pharmaceuticals and founder of Arth by Emcure, and Archana Chandra, CEO of Jai Vakeel Foundation, who emphasised that true inclusion comes when every person feels valued, accepted and able to participate equally in society.

Awards were presented to contributors from across India who have taken meaningful steps to remove barriers and build inclusive environments. The honours included recognition for Akshar School for inclusive education, Sol’s Arc for expanding inclusive employment opportunities, Astha for enabling accessible public services, and Buddy Up Network for responsible and positive media representation. Dr. Smita Mahobia was also acknowledged for her individual efforts in guiding families and creating supportive pathways.

The awardees were selected by a jury comprising Dr. Justice D. Y. Chandrachud, former Chief Justice of India, Shilpi Kapoor, Founder of BarrierBreak, Arman Ali, former Director of the National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled People, Kanchan Pamnani, Advocate and Solicitor, and R. S. Prasanna, Film Director. The jury reviewed eligible nominations and deliberated to identify those advancing meaningful inclusion in their communities.

A performance by a children’s group that included children with intellectual disabilities opened the evening, reflecting the confidence and joy that participation brings.

According to a 2022 systematic review published in the Journal of Neurosciences in Rural Practice, the estimated prevalence of intellectual disability in India is around 2 percent, indicating that millions of individuals require sustained inclusion and support across education and community environments (Source: PMC National Library of Medicine). A 2024 workforce inclusion report by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) notes that persons with disabilities in India have a labour force participation rate of approximately 36 percent, much lower than the general population.

Organisers said such gaps highlight why recognition of inclusive practices can encourage more schools, workplaces and civic systems to support people with intellectual disabilities in everyday life.

Speaking at the event, Ms. Thapar said, “Inclusion is meaningful when every child and adult can participate with confidence and support”. Ms. Chandra added that, “acknowledging supporters and advocates helps families feel encouraged and recognised in their efforts”.

Families, educators and supporters attended the ceremony, united in the belief that every person deserves the right to belong and be included in society.

MS Dhoni changed the atmosphere of Mission Possible from the moment he arrived on the campus of Vadodara-based Parul University creating a sense of excitement and optimism within the student body. By speaking about his perspectives on how success is achieved by making mundane day to day choices that eventually lead to larger achievements, he provided the students with extremely helpful and clear explanations. Finally, Dhoni described the importance of keeping your thoughts steady by focusing on maintaining consistency towards an ultimate goal through the changes that continue to take place in our environments.

In discussing the subject of motivation, MS Dhoni described,

 “How many people are now motivated by the attention and recognition that they receive and therefore, how important it is to identify the areas that you want to give your time and energy to, since this will allow you to remain focused on your goals.” His thoughts on ambition stayed clear: purpose matters just as much as effort and clarity often creates its own sense of direction.

MS Dhoni elaborated,

“When it comes to motivation, everyone has a different source for it and his motivation has been representing the country. Habits, preparation, relaxation and discipline give me confidence and having a routine is usually the most supportive aspect of your life in those difficult moments of life.”

A thoughtful moment came when MS Dhoni appreciated Parul University students who secured placements in respected organizations across various fields. He highlighted, 

“The persistent labor that goes into achieving results, including projects, interviews, internships and the gradual development of professional preparation.” He also highlighted, “The type of preparation culture in which many students at PU actively participate throughout the year.”

MS Dhoni also spoke about responsibility in a straightforward manner. He pointed out, “How personal awareness and discipline influence results, whether in academics, professional situations or everyday decisions.”

Toward the conclusion, MS Dhoni shared a thought that shaped the tone of the session:

“Life moves through the choices a person makes. He said, “The growth can be seen in small improvements that gradually become noticeable, especially when someone stays committed to steady progress.”

Mission Possible at Parul University carried a sense of clarity and direction. The comments made by MS Dhoni were all simple, practical, and relatable. Because of this, the learning environment that PU is creating fits in with Dhoni’s words and approach to life. The conversations also provided a steady hand of support at a significant moment. The learning environment also created a strong atmosphere for reflection, laser-focused learning and renewed purpose.

Essensai067 Welcomes the Festive Season with Christmas and New Year Celebrations in Bengaluru  

Bengaluru, Dec 11: Essensai067, Bengaluru’s cultural and lifestyle destination, has kicked off the festive season with a month-long celebration that began on November 30. Rooted in community, connection, and conscious celebration, the line-up features Essensai Lights Up, the Essensai Christmas Fest on December 20–21, and a soulful New Year’s Eve experience on December 31.

 

The campus has been transformed for the season with a 30-foot Christmas tree, Christmas Miracle installations, hot chocolate booths, and interactive activities that create simple, joyful moments for visitors throughout December.

 

The two-day Essensai Christmas Fest brings a neighbourhood-carnival charm with artisanal pop-ups, kids’ activity zones, Santa walkthroughs, street performances, outdoor movie screenings, and curated festive corners offering a full-day experience for families and friends.

 

Essensai067’s New Year’s Eve celebration introduces a mindful alternative to the city’s loud, high-energy gatherings. This year’s theme, Grace In Motion, pays tribute to women’s achievements in 2025, including India’s historic Women’s Cricket World Cup win. Guests can expect a soothing welcome with herbal drinks, an ambience set by soft jazz and indie instrumentals, and a headline performance by The Womaniaz, the renowned all-women band. Candle-lit seating, mindful dining options across Essensai’s restaurants, and a serene, noise-free countdown shape an intimate and meaningful transition into 2026.

 

With its thoughtfully curated festive experiences, Essensai067 reinforces its commitment to mindful celebration   offering Bengaluru a soulful, community-driven, and emotionally grounding way to mark the season.

Hyderabad, Dec 10: The Federation of Telangana Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FTCCI), in collaboration with the Indian Dairy Association – Telangana Local Chapter, will be organising a full-day seminar titled “Innovations and Opportunities in Dairy Entrepreneurship: From Farm to Market” on 12th December 2025 at the KLN Prasad Auditorium, Federation House, Red Hills, Hyderabad.

The event is being organised as part of National Milk Day 2025 celebrations commemorating the birth anniversary of Dr Verghese Kurien, widely regarded as the Father of India’s White Revolution.

The National Milk Day seminar will be graced by distinguished dignitaries including Chief Guest Sri Vakiti Srihari, Honourable Minister for Animal Husbandry, Dairy Development & Fisheries, Government of Telangana; Guest of Honour Sri Ilamparithi K., IAS, Special Chief Secretary, Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairy Development, Government of Telangana; Special Guest Sri Gutha Amith Reddy, Chairman, Telangana Dairy Development Co-operative Federation Ltd.; and Keynote Speaker Sri Ch. Rajeshwara Rao, Chairman, Indian Dairy Association – Telangana Local Center. Senior FTCCI leadership comprising President Sri R. Ravi Kumar, Senior Vice President Sri K. K. Maheshwari, Vice President Sri Srinivas Garimella and Sri S. Chandra Mohan, Chairman of FTCCI’s Agro & Food Processing Committee, will preside over the programme.

The one-day seminar features four comprehensive technical sessions with participation from experts representing academia, industry, dairy cooperatives and financial institutions. The sessions will focus on Dairy Farming and Production, Processing and Value Addition, Dairy Technology and Digital Transformation, and Financial Support. The objective is to create a knowledge-sharing platform that supports dairy startups, FPOs, cooperatives and entrepreneurs in expanding their enterprises and exploring new business opportunities.

The seminar is especially relevant for dairy entrepreneurs and startups, farmers and FPOs, cooperatives and processors, food technologists and researchers, financial institutions and investors, policy-makers, government officials, students and aspiring dairy entrepreneurs.

India’s young workforce is navigating a new financial reality. Rising living costs, unpredictable work schedules, and the pressure to maintain an aspirational lifestyle often create a sense of ongoing financial strain. Instead of cutting down on essentials or delaying important upgrades, young professionals are turning to a smarter solution: monthly subscriptions that reduce upfront costs and spread out expenses without compromising quality. These subscriptions not only ease financial pressure but also help them access better products, services, and experiences in a predictable, manageable way.

Here are the subscription models helping India’s young professionals reduce financial stress:

1. BytePe: Premium Tech Without EMI Burden

BytePe offers subscription-based access to premium smartphones and electronics, catering to India’s Gen Z and millennial consumers who value affordability, convenience and flexibility. BytePe partners with banks and fintechs to enable responsible financing and also provides upfront purchase options with insurance and assured buyback. By focusing on access over ownership, BytePe is redefining technology consumption, supporting a circular economy and keeping users financially agile in a digital-first world.

2. Cult Fit Membership: Predictable Fitness Costs Without Long-Term Lock-Ins

Gym memberships usually demand heavy upfront payments, but Cult Fit’s monthly subscription helps young professionals stay active without financial shock. With access to gyms, studio classes, and online workouts, the subscription provides flexibility for people with erratic work hours and tight budgets. Instead of committing to annual fees that often go unused, the monthly model ensures users pay only when they need it, making fitness a sustainable and stress-free habit.

3. Zomato Gold: Smarter Food Expenses for Busy Workdays

Eating out or ordering in has become routine for professionals managing long working hours. Zomato Gold’s membership helps them save on delivery charges, exclusive discounts, and priority access during peak hours. At a low monthly cost, it significantly reduces food-related expenses that would otherwise add up quickly. For young employees living alone or relocating frequently for work, a food subscription is a simple way to manage budgets while maintaining convenience.

4. Niyo Global Card Services: Hassle-Free Travel and Forex for Work Trips

Work-related travel is common among young professionals, whether domestic or international. High forex markups and unpredictable card charges often create budget anxiety. Niyo Global’s card services, offered via a subscription-like model with value-added benefits, help users lock in transparent and lower fees. Features such as airport lounge access, zero percent forex markup, and real-time expense controls reduce financial surprises during travel, making budgeting easier.

5. LinkedIn Premium: Career Growth Without Large Skill-Building Costs

Career progression is crucial for India’s ambitious young workforce, but professional courses and certifications can be expensive. LinkedIn Premium offers a monthly subscription with access to learning modules, exclusive tools for better job visibility, and insights to improve networking opportunities. Instead of paying large sums for individual courses, professionals can upgrade their career prospects at a predictable monthly cost. It turns continuous learning into an affordable investment rather than a financial burden.

Why These Subscriptions Matter

India’s young professionals are dealing with some of the highest cost pressures the country has ever seen: rising rent in metros, aspirational lifestyle spending, work-driven mobility, and the need to stay technologically updated. Subscriptions help create cost stability by breaking down large expenses into manageable monthly payments and eliminating one-time financial shocks. They also allow users to upgrade, switch, or cancel without being trapped by sunk costs.

Financial stress among young professionals does not stem from overspending but from uneven expenses that disrupt monthly budgets. By embracing smarter subscription models across technology, fitness, food, travel, and career development, they are not just saving money, they are gaining control. BytePe’s tech subscription leads this shift by removing the biggest upfront cost barrier: owning premium devices. With predictable costs and built-in flexibility, these monthly subscriptions are helping India’s young workforce live better, progress faster, and stay financially steady.