Archives May 2025

Aparna Constructions Adds to the Gopanpally Skyline, Invests INR 2525 Cr in ‘Aparna Moonstone’, a Luxury High Rise Gated Community

Mumbai, 31st May 2025: Aparna Constructions and Estates Private Limited, one of South India’s leading real estate developers, has announced the launch of Aparna Moonstone, a premium residential enclave nestled within its landmark integrated township, Aparna Deccan Town, located in Gopanpally-Gachibowli, Hyderabad. With an estimated investment of INR 2525 Crores, the project underscores the company’s unwavering commitment to delivering ultra-modern, sustainable, and luxurious living experiences tailored for Hyderabad’s evolving urban population.

Aparna Moonstone is a thoughtfully designed gated community comprising eight elegantly crafted high-rise towers with G+44 floors, offering a total of 2088 luxurious apartments. Spread over 22.28 acres, the project features spacious 3 and 4 BHK residences ranging from 2166 to 3140 sq. ft., all designed to meet the aspirations of contemporary homeowners seeking both comfort and sophistication.

Sharing his views on the launch, Mr. S.S. Reddy, Managing Director, Aparna Constructions and Estates, said, Hyderabad continues to grow as a global economic and innovation hub, and this is inspiring a transition towards luxury living. Rooted in our legacy of quality and innovation, Aparna Constructions has been well positioned to curate projects aligned with the evolving expectations of modern consumers. The launch of Aparna Moonstone is another step in our vision to create future-ready living spaces that seamlessly blend comfort, connectivity, sustainability, and community.”

Spread across 2.62 acres of pristine Mother Earth, Aparna Moonstone is a Pre-certified IGBC Gold-rated Green Project that harmoniously blends sustainable living with contemporary luxury. Designed with intention, every apartment is a corner unit ensuring optimal natural light, ventilation, and privacy.

At Aparna Moonstone, residents can enjoy exclusive access to an expansive range of lifestyle and recreational amenities. Each tower features its own dedicated Amenities Lounge, thoughtfully curated with board games, a yoga zone, a tuition room, a co-working space, a cycle dock, and more. Beyond these, the community offers a clubhouse, sports facilities, wellness zones, libraries, and forest-themed adventure play areas which are all interwoven with reflexology paths, pet parks, meditation zones, and lush green spaces. With a future-ready design and a strong emphasis on smart planning, Aparna Moonstone offers a holistic, well-balanced environment that fosters well-being, sustainability, and a strong sense of community.

Aparna Deccan Town also comprises Aparna Sunstone, a premium residential gated community, and Aparna Amber Bungalows, an exclusive enclave of independent ultra-luxury bungalows. Together, they form one of Hyderabad’s most comprehensive mixed-format townships, offering a vibrant, inclusive community experience without compromising on privacy or luxury.

With its harmonious blend of ultra-luxury living, cutting-edge infrastructure, and green building practices, Aparna Moonstone stands as a testament to Aparna Constructions’ long-standing commitment to excellence. The company continues to build on its legacy by expanding across residential, commercial, retail, and entertainment verticals, further establishing its reputation as a future-facing real estate leader.

Kabir Bedi Opens Up About Parveen Babi, Marriage, Siddharth’s Loss, and Personal Turmoil on In The Ring With Filmfare

Few actors from India have navigated the global stage with the ease and elegance of Kabir Bedi. From Sandokan in Italy to the 1983 James Bond film, Octopussy, in the West and powerful performances in Bollywood classics like Khoon Bhari Maang and Taj Mahal: An Eternal Love Story, his screen presence has transcended borders and decades, making him one of Indian cinema’s most enduring icons. In the latest episode of In The Ring with Filmfare, now streaming on Filmfare’s YouTube channel, Kabir Bedi joins Jitesh Pillai, Editor-in-Chief, Filmfare, for what is perhaps his boldest and most introspective conversation yet. In this emotionally charged exchange, he reflects on the peaks of international success, the heartbreaks that shaped him, and the memories etched across his personal and professional journey.

In the course of the interview, Kabir Bedi speaks candidly about his complex relationship with Parveen Babi, her mental health struggles, and the moment jealousy sparked between her and Italian actress Gina Lollobrigida. He also opens up about the grief of losing his son Siddharth, the turbulence of an open marriage with Protima Bedi, and his evolving bond with daughter Pooja Bedi. Bedi further shares fascinating stories from his memoir, Stories I Must Tell, including working with legends like Rekha, Vinod Khanna, and Zeenat Aman, and his spiritual alignment with Osho’s philosophy. With refreshing honesty, the veteran actor revisits the many chapters of a life lived without filters during this no-holds-barred conversation.

Talking about Parveen Babi’s struggles, he revealed, “Parveen never accepted her mental illness. She was far away from India. Her career was at its peak at that time, and that is the reason she never accepted her problem. She was scared of what it might do to her stardom. During Amar Akbar Anthony, when Mahesh Bhatt was with her, he got to see it up close.”

Reflecting on his past relationships, he admitted, “There were times when I was indiscriminate in my choice of women. But if I am being equally honest, if I look at my significant relationships, none of them were one-night stands. I won’t pretend to have empowered anyone, but I’ve always believed in taking responsibility for the choices I made.”

On his spiritual outlook, he shared, “Vinod Khanna introduced me to Osho, and his philosophy really resonated with me. I’ve always disliked the idea that you have to wear white robes to follow his ideology. But it is not like that. I have immense respect for Osho.”

Recalling his experience working with legendary actresses, he said, “Each collaboration was unique. Rekha, Dimple Kapadia, Zeenat Aman, Parveen Babi – all powerful women in their own right. Khoon Bhari Maang with Rekha was especially memorable. I agreed to the film over a phone call with Rakesh Roshan when I was shooting for Magnum PI in Hawaii.”

Speaking of his family, he expressed, “Protima and I were blessed with two kids, Pooja Bedi and Siddharth Bedi. With Pooja, we’ve had our share of ups and downs, some painful misunderstandings and miscommunications. But I believe she’s found her voice, her place, and I respect that.”

Genesys International FY25 profit soars 160% to 56.10 Crore

Mumbai, 31st May 2025: Genesys International Corporation Limited, company providing advanced mapping, survey and geospatial services announced its financial results for the quarter and year ended March 31, 2025

Key Consolidated Financials
Particulars
(in Crs)
FY’25 FY’24 Y-o-Y % Q4

FY25

Q4

FY24

Q3

FY25

(Y-o-Y)   (Q-o-Q) Y-o-Y

%

Q-o-Q %
Total Revenue* 315.39 203.27 55.16% 94.27 71.63 90.93 22.64 3.34 31.60% 3.68%
EBITDA 146.48 85.57 71.20% 49.88 36.72 44.40 13.17 5.48 35.86% 12.35%
PAT * 56.10 21.61 159.59% 18.95 14.85 20.66 4.10 -1.72 27.59% -8.31%

*Total Revenue includes Revenue from Operations and Other Income

*PAT – PAT attributable to Equity Share Holder’s of the Company

Key Highlights:

✓ Consolidated Revenue for Q4FY25 at Rs.94.27 Cr up by 3.68%

✓ Consolidated EBITDA increased to Rs.49.88 crs from Rs.36.72 crs in the same quarter previous year constituting 35.86% growth on a y-o-y basis.

✓ Consolidated EBITDA increased to Rs.49.88 crs from Rs.44.40 crs in the previous quarter constituting 12.35% growth on a q-o-q basis. EBITDA Margin stood at 52.92 % compared to 51.26% on q-o-q basis

✓ Consolidated PAT increased to Rs. 18.95 Cr from Rs.14.85 Cr constituting 27.60% on y-o-y basis

 Commenting on the Results, Mr. Sajid Malik – Chairman & Managing Director said, “Our results clearly reflect the accelerating adoption of high-definition map data, underscoring its critical role as an enabler across multiple pillars of the Indian economy. From infrastructure development and urban planning to transportation, logistics, telecommunications, and utilities, the demand for precise and reliable geospatial intelligence is no longer optional — it’s a necessity. The successful rollout and execution of our India Map Stack mark a pivotal milestone, laying the foundation for scalable, next-generation solutions. As the need for high-definition 3D data becomes increasingly ubiquitous, we foresee our platform driving innovation and efficiencies across a wide array of industries, helping businesses, governments, and technology partners make smarter, faster, and more informed decisions. This adoption is not just a technological shift; it represents a transformational leap for India’s data economy.”

Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India (EDII) Hosts 24th Convocation; 74 Students Graduate Across Entrepreneurship Programmes

New Delhi, 31 May 2025: Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India (EDII), Ahmedabad, a ‘Centre of Excellence’ recognised by the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Government of India, celebrated its 24th convocation of academic programmes on 30 May 2025, at its Ahmedabad campus. The event was graced by chief guest Dr. Vijay Kumar Saraswat, Member, NITI Aayog, Former Secretary, DRDO and Distinguished Scientist. Also present on the occasion were Shri Rakesh Sharma, President – EDII and Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, IDBI Bank Limited; Dr. Sunil Shukla, Director General, EDII; and esteemed members of the EDII Governing Board including Mr. Rajesh R. Gandhi, Managing Director, Vadilal Industries Limited, Ahmedabad; Mr. Rahul Bhave, Managing Director and CEO, IFCI Limited, New Delhi and Ms. Purnima Bhargava, CGM & Head, Learning & Employee Engagement, IDBI Bank Ltd.

74 graduates were conferred with diplomas and graduating certificates, at the 24th convocation, across academic programmes including the Post Graduate Diploma in Management – Entrepreneurship (PGDM – E); Post Graduate Diploma in Management-Innovation Entrepreneurship & Venture Development (PGDM-IEV)and Fellow Programme in Management (FPM). The ceremony marks a notable milestone, celebrating the academic journey and success of graduates as they step into entrepreneurial roles across industries/ institutions.

This year’s graduating batch represents 74 (Post Graduate Diploma in Management – Entrepreneurship-64 students; Post Graduate Diploma in Management – Innovation Entrepreneurship & Venture Development – 8 students; Fellow Programme in Management – 2 students) students from 12 states. While 21 students of PGDM-E have finalised their 5 year Perspective Growth Plan, 43 students of this programme have prepared Detailed Project Report (DPR). Students have also secured Grant sanctions from the student start-up innovation policy. Some of the business identified domains include: Providing small-scale wind turbines for commercial and residential applications; software designed to tackle the everyday challenges of time management in a professional setting; Fast, Safe, and Reliable Blood Delivery; installing digital lockers in residential buildings, allowing couriers to drop off packages securely, Residents receive mobile alerts and can collect parcels anytime; beneficiation of iron ore in dry and viable methods to obtain a desirable ore grade and without using precious water resources; innovative products for electrical efficiency & user comfort and many other contemporary opportunities.

Dr. V. K. Saraswat inspired the graduating students with an invigorating speech with insights into India’s evolving and growing entrepreneurial landscape and how each of their contributions will add to the nation-building. He said, “Your ability to navigate ambiguity, make decisions with incomplete information, and adapt strategies based on new realities will determine your sustained impact. Cross-cultural communication proves critical in our interconnected world. India’s diversity, be it linguistic, cultural, or economic, demands entrepreneurs who can design solutions that resonate across communities and contexts. Global collaboration demands understanding how to work effectively with partners from different cultures while maintaining authentic Indian perspectives. He added, every solution you develop, every enterprise you build, every innovation you pursue must be measured not just by its commercial success but by its contribution to India’s comprehensive development. We stand at an unprecedented moment in India’s journey, where the vision of Viksit Bharat, a developed India by 2047, is not merely a government policy but a collective aspiration that requires entrepreneurs like you to be its primary architects”

Shri Rakesh Sharma, President – EDII & Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, IDBI Bank Limited, said, “This year, in April EDII celebrated its 43rd Foundation Day. In over four decades of its journey, the Institute has played a crucial role in establishing entrepreneurship as a familiar discipline.  Today when the nation talks about employing entrepreneurship as a tool to enhance productivity, competitiveness and overall efficiency, EDII continues to remain centre stage in leading and reinforcing this development. The Institute’s nationwide presence is instilling entrepreneurial behaviour across a diverse cross-section of people.”

 Dr. Sunil Shukla, Director General, EDII, shared, “Since the inception of EDII, we have worked consistently to nurture entrepreneurial talent capable of leading with innovation, integrity, and impact. EDII’s meticulously designed curriculum integrates academic rigour with practical exposure, equipping students with a deep understanding of entrepreneurial ecosystems, strategic thinking, and ethical leadership. With the wings that we have provided, I am sure our students are going to fly to newer heights. To add to this flight is the inspiring presence of Dr. Saraswat. It is a pleasure to have him grace this convocation and guide our students.”

WOC India Congress Marked a New Beginning as Experts Shared Advances to Improve Orthopaedic Care and Community Impact

Kolkata, May 31 2025: The First Annual Conference of the newly restructured World Orthopaedic Concern (WOC) India was successfully conducted, marking a major milestone in the revival of the organization under a fresh identity, Empathetic Orthopaedic Concern Kolkata. Recognized officially by WOC International, the new society operates as a distinct legal entity from the former WOC India, with a renewed mission to strengthen orthopaedic care and education in developing regions.

World Orthopaedic Concern, a global volunteer-driven organization, has long been committed to advancing reconstructive and orthopaedic surgical services across underserved regions. In line with this mission, the congress drew wide participation from orthopaedic surgeons, trainees, medical students, and allied health professionals, offering knowledge-sharing sessions, practical workshops, and academic discussions on emerging issues in the field.

Themed as “Recent Advances and Controversies,” the scientific program included hands-on workshops and case-based panels on a wide array of topics. These ranged from unresolved fracture cases and surgical innovations in arthroplasty to complex trauma care and hand surgery techniques. Notable workshops included management of non-union fractures, cubitus valgus with neuropathy, and innovative approaches to elbow injuries. Demonstrations also covered procedures with expert faculty guiding participants through critical steps.

Sessions on sarcopenia, legal aspects of surgical consent, and complications in major orthopaedic procedures broadened the scope of discussions beyond the operating table. Several interactive modules explored new frontiers in knee and hip arthroplasty, reverse shoulder procedures, orthobiologics, and the management of neglected trauma cases.

 Dr. Arindam Banerjee, President of World Orthopaedic Concern (WOC) International and a renowned Orthopaedic Surgeon, remarked, “The Indian Chapter of World Orthopaedic Concern hosted its inaugural national meeting in Kolkata, in partnership with leading global orthopaedic organizations. This marks a significant milestone for our 50-year-old institution. Experts from across the globe came together to discuss real-life patient cases and exchange valuable perspectives. Having spent over four decades in orthopaedics, I’ve seen the field transform remarkably in recent years. Kolkata has made commendable progress, and India’s contribution to global orthopaedic care continues to grow. Inspired by the success of this event, we’re now planning similar meetings in Chennai and Mumbai. However, despite the advancements, there’s still much to be done to ensure quality orthopaedic care reaches every corner of the country for the benefit of all patients.”

The conference brought together some of the most respected names in orthopaedics, whose expertise and clinical insights significantly enriched the academic depth of the event. Their active involvement in delivering lectures, leading workshops, and participating in case-based discussions ensured that the program maintained a high standard of professional excellence. Through practical demonstrations and sessions on legal and ethical issues, the conference addressed real-world challenges faced by practitioners. It equipped attending doctors, trainees, and healthcare professionals with updated knowledge and hands-on skills. The event not only served as a successful platform for professional collaboration and learning but also laid the foundation for improving orthopaedic care and surgical outcomes in underserved communities.

Alstom’s metro trainsets and signalling system transform mobility in Kanpur as revenue service extends for Corridor I

31 May 2025 – Alstom, global leader in smart and sustainable mobility, today celebrates the commencement of revenue service of the extended section of Corridor I of the Kanpur Metro with an addition of five stations. Kanpur’s fully India-made metros are equipped with an advanced communication-based train control (CBTC) system to ensure safe, reliable, and sustainable mobility to the commuters. This extended corridor of Kanpur’s metro, with the addition of five underground stations, will provide wider reach and convenience to the city’s commuters.

Alstom is building and delivering at total of 201 metro cars (67 three-car trainsets) and an advanced signalling solution for the Agra-Kanpur metro project. These trains have been designed at Alstom’s engineering centre in Hyderabad while the signalling solution has been developed in Gurugram, India and Bangkok, Thailand. The metro trains have been manufactured at Alstom’s state-of-the-art facility in Savli, Gujarat, under the ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiatives. The first trainset was delivered to Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation (UPMRC) by Alstom in September 2021 in Kanpur. So far, 40 trains are operating successfully in the city and are accommodating approximately 960 passengers in the three-car configuration.

Olivier Loison, Managing Director, Alstom India said, “We have a strong partnership with UPMRC and are proud to have contributed to almost all metro projects in the state. Together, we are committed towards reshaping the transportation landscape of the state. The extended metro service will transform mass mobility in Kanpur and provide a safe, efficient, and sustainable mode of transportation.”

State-of-the art rolling stock and signalling solution for Kanpur

The new metro trains offer a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to other modes of transportation. They will benefit around 4.5 million residents of the city of Kanpur. Additionally, the overall project will significantly contribute towards the socio-economic development of the region.

Inspiration from Uttar Pradesh’s rich cultural heritage combined with best-in-class design has resulted in an attractive metro trainset look. Kanpur’s metro provides an accessible and welcoming experience for passengers. The air-conditioned cars have automated sliding doors, comfortable seating and standing spaces, dedicated areas for passengers with reduced mobility, and modern passenger information systems. 

Operating at up to 80 kph, Alstom’s metro trains for Kanpur are built with strong stainless-steel car bodies and a modular and aerodynamic design meeting highest safety, security and environmental standards. They are equipped with Flexx bogies and Mitrac propulsion system increasing energy efficiency through regenerative braking and reducing operating costs. They feature a Communication Based Train Control System (CBTC) for Automatic Train Operations. As an undisputed leader in CBTC technology with over 30 years of expertise in communications-based train control and more than 190 metro lines equipped in over 32 countries, Alstom’s CBTC technology answers the worldwide mobility challenges of today and provides fluid, connected mobility to passengers in times of increasing transportation needs.

Alstom is the only multinational sustainable mobility provider in India, to have a comprehensive portfolio of offerings to meet customer specific needs, from cost-efficient mass-market platforms to high-end technological innovations. Synonymous with the country’s ‘Rail Revolution’, Alstom continues to be a strategic partner in supporting India’s freight revolution and passenger movement. With six industrial sites and four major engineering centres, the company not only caters to domestic project needs, but also delivers for many international projects. Supporting the government’s modernisation initiatives, Alstom has been at the forefront of introducing several breakthrough technologies in India with world class rolling stock, rail equipment & infrastructure, signalling and services. Fully aligned with the country’s vision of Make-in-India and Atmanirbhar Bharat, Alstom remains deeply committed to strengthening its local sourcing and supply chain ecosystem.

iMpower Academy for Skills’ Kaushal Convocation, 463 youth got employment

Noida, 31 May 2025: The grand event of “Kaushal Dikshant” organized by  iMpower  Academy for Skills, the Skill Center of M3M Foundation was held today at Noida Entrepreneurs Association, Sector 6, Noida. On this occasion, certificates were distributed to the youth who completed the training and they were motivated to move towards self-reliance. This program was organized in collaboration with National Institute for Empowerment and Development (NIED), and M3M Foundation. Patparganj MLA Shri Ravindra Singh Negi and a large number of trainees, social workers and local citizens were prominently present in the program.

Chief guest of the program and Gautam Buddha Nagar MP Dr. Mahesh Sharma congratulated the trainees through a message and wished them success for the program.

While appreciating the efforts of M3M Foundation, Shri Ravindra Negi specially praised the work being done not only towards skill development of youth but also towards character building of youth.

On this occasion of the convocation, Chairperson and Trustee of M3M Foundation, Dr. Payal Kanodia said, “Our aim is not only to provide skill training but also to make every youth self-reliant and capable of living with dignity in the society. Through iMpower Academy for Skills, we are continuously providing opportunities to such deprived youth who can realize their dreams. This effort of ours will contribute in building a strong and prosperous India.”

Established in Noida a year ago under the ‘Kaushal Sambal’ program of M3M Foundation, iMpower Academy for Skills has successfully trained 609 youth so far. This year, 463 youth also got placement in various fields. There was no specific educational or economic criteria for placements, rather its primary objective was to provide employment opportunities to the underprivileged sections of society such as orphans, children of construction workers, labourers, migrants and children raised by single mothers.

The trainees received training in various job roles such as Retail Sales Associate, Customer Service Associate, Sewing Machine Operator etc. In this convocation, the trainees shared their experiences and expressed their gratitude to the organization.

The event was attended by Dr. Aishwarya Mahajan, Managing Trustee of M3M Foundation. He thanked all the guests and the partner organization NIED for giving time to the youth and encouraging them.

Marriott Bonvoy launches Members Get Even More, offering the best rates to members planning their monsoon getaway across India

Planning a monsoon getaway? Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s award-winning travel program is giving members an exclusive 10% off on stays across 127 hotels in India. Book anytime from now until  July 30th 2025, and unlock special rates that bring your dream holiday one step closer. Members can also apply the new offer on all existing offers on the app & website too. It is a steal deal truly! 

Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, craving a hilltop retreat, planning a family break, or mixing business with a bit of leisure – this limited-time offer lets you do it all for less. Plus, you’ll continue to earn Marriott Bonvoy points for future escapes. Think luxury for less at stunning destinations like JW Marriott Goa, The St. Regis Goa, Le Meridien Mahabaleshwar, Westin Himalayas Resort & Spa, Jim Corbett Marriott Resort & Spa, Coorg Marriott Resort & Spa, Udaipur Marriott Hotel, and many more.

Marriott Bonvoy members continue to get benefits such as free breakfast and hi-speed Wi-Fi and also earn additional point as per member tier. Own the Marriott Bonvoy HDFC bank credit card? Earn additional 08 points on every INR 150 spent. 

NxtQuantum’s AI+ Smartphone To Launch on Flipkart with a Bold Made-in-India Vision

Bengaluru, India – 31 May, 2025: NxtQuantum Shift Technologies, the consumer tech venture led by industry veteran Madhav Sheth, announced the launch of the AI+ smartphone brand which will be available on Flipkart at the end of June, 2025. Representing a bold leap forward in India’s tech innovation journey, the AI+ smartphone combines local design, engineering, and manufacturing to deliver a next-generation mobile experience. This launch blends global standards with an Indian sensibility to create a mobile experience that feels both familiar and futuristic.

Developed entirely in India, the AI+ smartphone integrates a homegrown user interface, localized software, and indigenously built hardware. This holistic “designed and made in India” approach is intended to offer users a seamless, intuitive, and secure mobile experience that resonates with India’s digital-first generation. With rising consumer consciousness around digital safety, the AI+ smartphone is guided by a strong commitment to user privacy. Designed with a focus on secure experiences and responsible technology, it reflects the brand’s intent to earn and uphold user trust.

Flipkart, through its wide reach, affordability programs, and value-driven services, is playing a pivotal role in making the AI+ smartphone accessible to millions of Indians. With no-cost EMIs, bank offers, and exchange schemes, Flipkart continues to democratize access to emerging technology.

Speaking about the launch, Smrithi Ravichandran, Vice President – Mobiles, Flipkart, said, “As India continues its digital transformation, Flipkart remains committed to enabling wider access to affordable technology. We’re proud to launch AI+ smartphone that reflects the spirit of Indian innovation and self-reliance. This collaboration underscores Flipkart’s role in expanding smartphone access across the country and empowering consumers through value-driven, secure, and modern devices.”

Speaking about the launch, Madhav Sheth, Founder & CEO, NxtQuantum Shift Technologies said, “The launch of AI+ marks a milestone in our journey to redefine what India can build for the world. We are excited to work with Flipkart to bring AI+ to users in a way that reflects what matters most-trust, simplicity, and access. Their scale and market understanding make them a strong partner as we introduce a smartphone designed to meet everyday needs with a focus on secure, user-first technology.”

Marking World MS Day, MSSI and Bombay Hospital Shine a Light on the Silent Struggle of Multiple Sclerosis

Mumbai, 31 May 2025:  On World MS Day, observed today, May 30, 2025, the Mumbai Chapter of the Multiple Sclerosis Society of India (MSSI), in collaboration with Bombay Hospital, organized an event to raise awareness and support for those affected by Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Held at the esteemed Bombay Hospital, the session aimed to shed light on the conditions and challenges faced by individuals living with MS in India. It also advocated for improved care and support systems, bringing together leading medical professionals, patient advocates, and the MS community.
Speaking ahead of the event, Mr. Sandeep Chitnis, National Secretary, Multiple Sclerosis Society of India (MSSI) said,At MSSI, we are consistently advocating for government-supported reimbursement frameworks and the inclusion of MS under national insurance schemes. In the meantime, we continue our efforts to bridge these gaps by offering emotional, psychological, and financial support. Empathy, peer networks, and greater social awareness about disease-modifying treatments are crucial to enhancing the quality of life for those living with MS.”
More than 1,50,000 individuals have Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in India, but the number could be more because the condition is underreported, sometimes misdiagnosed, and not well known. The condition has more reported cases in urban India, especially in northern and southern regions of India, possibly due to greater access to diagnostic facilities and heightened awareness.
After inauguration the programme saw a talk by eminent neurologist Prof. B.S. SinghalNeurologist, Bombay Hospital and Medical Research Center, Mumbai who spoke on “Living with MS.” He emphasized, “Multiple Sclerosis is a disease that most often strikes young adults, particularly women, with onset typically between the ages of 25 and 35. It can often remain undiagnosed until symptoms become disruptive, which makes early detection and timely intervention even more critical. We now have disease-modifying therapies, that, when introduced early, can significantly slow or even halt disease progression. The focus should be on making these treatments not only clinically effective but also accessible, well-tolerated, and sustainable for long-term use. With early, tailored intervention, we can change the trajectory of MS for many patients in India.”
Dr. Satish KhadilkarDean and Head of Department of Neurology, Bombay Hospital Institute of Medical Sciences, Mumbai, said “The treatment philosophy for MS has fundamentally shifted. Earlier, we reserved potent therapies for advanced cases, but now the evidence clearly supports early, aggressive intervention. Initiating high-efficacy treatment at the outset, before disability sets in, offers the best chance to control the disease. MRI has become so precise that we can diagnose earlier, even in asymptomatic stages. Today, we treat radiologically or clinically isolated syndromes proactively. The approach is simple: act early, act decisively, hit hard. It’s better to do treat it upfront than risk irreversible disability later.”
The conference concluded with a unified and urgent call for the establishment of national standard-of-care guidelines, improved insurance coverage frameworks, timely and uniform disability assessments, and enhanced collaborative research. These measures are essential to improving the quality of life for individuals living with Multiple Sclerosis across India.