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16th August 2025 , Agra, India: The Hazelnut Factory, a rapidly expanding speciality coffee, artisanal sweets and café brand rooted in Lucknow, now proudly unveils its 15th outlet in the heart of Agra, inviting guests to experience a unique fusion of artisanal mithai, coffee and cultural heritage.

The launch of THF was made even more special by the presence of our esteemed Chief Guest, Smt. Hemlata Diwakar, Hon’ble Mayor of Agra Municipal Corporation, who inaugurated the outlet on August 12th, 2025, with a ceremonial ribbon cutting & she was welcomed by Mr. Ankit Sahni (Founder & CEO of The Hazelnut Factory) & Mr. Badal Sahni (Co-founder & COO of The Hazelnut Factory)

THF’s aesthetic inspiration lies in the charm of European cafés, brought to life with a distinctly Indian sensibility. The iconic blue interiors exude warmth, creating an inviting space that resonates with the brand’s ethos: The Joy of Crafting the Best. Every product at THF reflects this philosophy—whether it’s their single-estate coffee sourced from Chikmagalur, the signature artisanal mithai like the trademarked Labon™, or their indulgent pastries that marry global techniques with local flavours.

This edition focuses on Baklava, a reimagined dessert rooted with regional flavours, crafted to complement The Hazelnut Factory’s finest coffee blends. It’s a sensory celebration—where taste, texture, and tradition converge.

As part of its latest cultural campaign, THF playfully imagines Emperor Shahjahan stepping into the café. The message? Even Shahjahan would’ve loved our coffee. It’s royal drama meets contemporary charm—an invitation to experience Agra’s legacy through a modern lens.

“With every new outlet, we aim to deepen our connection with the city’s soul. Agra’s legacy deserves more than admiration—it deserves participation. Through Contemporary interiors and our cultural campaign, we’re inviting people to not just drink coffee, but to experience heritage.”— Ankit Sahni, Founder & CEO, The Hazelnut Factory

Currently serving over 150,000 customers monthly across 12+ locations in Delhi NCR and Uttar Pradesh, THF has seamlessly integrated itself into the lives of its patrons. From casual coffee dates to celebratory moments, THF offers a menu that bridges tradition and modernity. Innovative takes on mithai and a diverse selection of patisserie treats make it a preferred destination for both everyday indulgences and special gifting occasions.

Pune, August 13, 2025: Conrad Pune marked the re-launch of its signature literary series under a new name, Chapters by Conrad, with an intimate, thought-provoking evening featuring celebrated psychologist and bestselling author Damini Grover. Held at the hotel’s award-winning Asian dining venue MASU, the evening brought together over 50 attendees including Pune’s literary connoisseurs, wellness voices, and cultural tastemakers.

Known for her empathetic and accessible approach to mental well-being, Author Damini presented her latest book, Time to Come Home – Sowing the Seeds of Self-Love for Lasting Happiness, published by Hay House India. The session was moderated by well-known literary facilitator Mr. Abdul Nasir Shaikh, Founder of TCMC, who steered a heartfelt conversation around the emotional themes of self-love, healing, and the journey inward.

Through conversation, the author spoke of the personal experiences that shaped her writing, also encouraging attendees to explore their own inner narratives. A vibrant Q&A and book signing followed, adding an interactive note to the evening. Guests also enjoyed a beautifully curated culinary spread, crafted by Conrad Pune’s in-house team, a reminder that great conversations are best shared over memorable food and warm hospitality.

The evening opened with a warm address by Abhishek Sahai, General Manager, Conrad Pune, who shared the deeper intent behind the series. He said, “At Conrad Pune, we have always believed in curating experiences that go beyond indulgence. Chapters by Conrad is our invitation to the city to pause, reflect, and connect with stories that resonate. Damini’s book felt like the right place to begin – honest, heartfelt, and deeply relatable.”

“It’s been an honour to be part of Chapters by Conrad. The audience’s energy, the intimate setting, and the thoughtfulness with which the event was curated made this experience unforgettable. It felt less like a literary session, and more like a homecoming,” said Author Damini Grover.

Through the Chapters by Conrad, the hotel is creating a recurring space where stories unfold not just on the page, but through real conversations with authors whose work invites reflection and connection. This edition of Chapters by Conrad Pune set the tone for what the series hopes to become, a space where books spark conversations, and those conversations linger long after the last page is read. With a new chapter unfolding each month, Conrad Pune invites the city’s curious minds to come together for evenings that celebrate not just literature, but the deeper stories we all carry.

13th August 2025: The Rotary Club of Bombay Seacoast, in collaboration with Frido, has donated advanced electric wheelchairs to the Queen Mary’s Technical Institute (QMTI), Pune, an institution that has been rehabilitating and training disabled soldiers from the Indian Army, Air Force, and Navy since 1917. The initiative aims to honour the courage and sacrifice of India’s paraplegic veterans while restoring their independence and mobility.

The collaboration, made possible through the Rotary Club’s network and the generosity of its supporters, along with Frido’s expertise in mobility solutions, ensures that the beneficiaries receive equipment designed for maximum comfort, portability, and ease of use. By combining the Rotary Club’s legacy of community service with Frido’s innovation, the effort goes beyond a gesture of support, it’s a commitment to dignity and inclusion for those who have served the nation.

Speaking on the occasion, Sunil Devnani, President, Rotary Club of Bombay Seacoast, said, “These wheelchairs will help them lead a life of dignity, independence and comfort, while also reminding them that their sacrifices are never forgotten.”

Frido’s journey began under Arcatron Mobility with a mission to give dignity and independence to people with mobility challenges. The company’s first breakthrough came when it designed a wheelchair for a Paralympian, a project that not only sparked innovation but also revealed a deeper calling: to create world-class mobility solutions for individuals with disabilities, helping them live life on their own terms.

Speaking on the initiative, Ganesh Sonawane, Co-Founder & CEO, Frido, said, “This collaboration with the Rotary Club of Bombay Seacoast has given us the opportunity to contribute towards the wellbeing of the brave soldiers who have served our nation without ever seeking anything in return. It is our privilege to play a role in restoring independence and comfort in their lives, and we are grateful for the chance to make a meaningful difference.”

Part of Frido’s CSR efforts and the ‘Find Your Frido-m’ campaign, and in honour of Independence Day, this collaboration reflects the brand’s vision of giving veterans the freedom to live with dignity and on their own terms. With its expertise in mobility solutions, Frido, alongside the Rotary Club of Bombay Seacoast, is championing mobility and inclusion, showing how such partnerships can transform lives.

Skål India National Congress 2025 to Convene Global Tourism Leaders in Mumbai, 12–14 September

Mumbai, India , 12th August 2025 : Skål International India proudly announces the Skål India National Congress 2025, to be hosted by Skål International Mumbai South, scheduled to be held from 12th to 14th September 2025 at Hotel Sahara Star, Mumbai.

Themed around “Connecting Tourism Leaders, Inspiring Growth”, this premier gathering will bring together distinguished leaders from travel, tourism, entertainment and hospitality sectors for 3 power-packed days of keynote addresses, panel discussions, fireside chats, and exclusive networking opportunities.

Delegates will have the opportunity to engage with CEOs, tourism board representatives, hospitality innovators, and policy leaders, shaping the future of the industry. Beyond business sessions, attendees can enjoy curated social evenings, a glamorous black-tie dinner, and cultural entertainment, making it a well-rounded industry experience.

Below is the speaker line-up of the conference:

Main Keynote Session – 13th September
• Omar Abdullah – Former Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir, sharing perspectives on national integration and tourism development.
• Smt. Maneka Gandhi – Eight-time Parliamentarian, environmentalist, and Chairperson of People for Animals, she will focus on how sustainable, ethical tourism can drive environmental conservation, animal welfare, and community development.
• Kandula Durgesh – Tourism Minister of Andhra Pradesh, discussing state-led initiatives shaping tourism growth in India

Fireside Chat – Skål Special Session
• Subhash Ghai – Renowned filmmaker and educationist, on the interplay between cinema and tourism
• Pooja Bedi – Actress, life coach, and wellness advocate, on holistic well-being in tourism experiences
Final Session
• Ambassador Deepak Vohra – Special Advisor to the Prime Minister (Lesotho, Guinea-Bissau) and to the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Councils, bringing global insights on diplomacy-driven tourism

“The Skål India National Congress is not just a meeting of minds – it is a launchpad for the next chapter of Indian tourism. With a powerful line-up of leaders from politics, policy, cinema, wellness, and global diplomacy, this platform will spark bold ideas and practical solutions. Overall, we are not here to discuss change; we are here to lead it.”, said Sanjeev Mehra, President, Skål International India.

Padmashree Dr. Mukesh Batra, Host President, Skål International Mumbai South added, “We are excited and honoured to host this year’s Skål India National Congress in Mumbai – a city that embodies the very spirit of innovation, diversity, and hospitality. This year’s Congress will bring together visionaries who can reimagine tourism for the next decade. By fostering cross-sector partnerships and showcasing Mumbai’s unique blend of heritage and modernity, we aim to inspire solutions that make Indian tourism more inclusive, competitive, and future-ready.”

Combining high-level discussions, global networking opportunities, and immersive cultural experiences, the Skål India National Congress 2025 is set to be a landmark event for tourism professionals from India and beyond.

Mumbai/Delhi – 12th August, 2025: EMERGE 2025, hosted by AdTech Today at Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Delhi (Gurugram), brought together an eclectic mix of marketing leaders, independent agencies, and creators for a power-packed day of bold ideas, sharp insights, and industry recognition. The event shone a spotlight on the independent and emerging voices reshaping the future of media, marketing, and advertising.

AdTech Today extended its gratitude to the partners whose support made EMERGE 2025 possible — KARGOas Premium Ad Tech Partner, TRACKIER as Managing Partner, Animmoov ADSUITE as Creative Partner, Treize Communications as PR Partner, and WINGREENWorld.com as Gifting Partner.

The day kicked off with an inspiring keynote by Srikanth Rayaprolu, CEO of AdTech Today, urging the industry to embrace experimentation, agility, and collaboration to thrive in today’s fast-evolving digital landscape.

From there, the momentum only grew with four engaging panel discussions. Srikanth Rayaprolu led Short-Form, Big Impact: Maximizing Engagement Through Bite-Sized Content, unpacking the craft of capturing attention in just seconds. Next is Now: How Independent Agencies Are Building the Future, moderated by Mimi Deb, COO of Madison Media Plus, spotlighted the entrepreneurial spirit and agility driving independent agencies forward. In Brands, Bots & Balance Sheets: Cracking Performance Marketing in 2025, Kumar Awanish, Chief Growth Officer at Cheil India, explored the winning formula where AI, automation, and human insight work in harmony. The day’s final panel, Unfiltered: What It Really Takes to Run an Independent Agency Today, with Dr. Kushal Sanghvi, Chief Revenue Officer at iCubesWire, offered a candid look at the realities, challenges, and victories of running a modern agency.

A shift in pace came with the Founders’ Spotlight, giving the stage to two entrepreneurs with distinct journeys and bold visions. Tom Stany, Group Brand & Marketing Lead at True One Ventures, shared insights on building standout brands in competitive markets, while Sayak Mukherjee, Co-founder of Creators Cult, spoke about creating creator-led ecosystems and driving community-first growth. Both offered candid reflections on the ideas, milestones, and challenges that continue to shape their ventures.

The day culminated with the EMERGE Awards, honouring excellence in creativity, strategy, and innovation.Best Independent Agency of the Year saw a Silver tie between Trivayu Media Works, lauded for its impactful storytelling and nimble execution, and Efficacy Worldwide, celebrated for data-driven creative strategies that deliver measurable results. LS Digital took home Gold for its pioneering digital-first approach, while Animmoov Digital Media earned the title of Rising Star Agency.

EMERGE 2025 turned out to be more than an industry gathering – it was a testament to the originality, courage, and vision shaping the next era of marketing and media.

By – Preeti Sharma, Partner, Global Employer Services, Tax & Regulatory Services, BDO India

“THE INCOME-TAX (No.2) BILL, 2025 is approved in the Lok Sabha today. The biggest advantage of the new law is that a common man may easily understand it with lesser efforts as compared to the old law. The revised bill has incorporated most of the changes recommended by the Select Committee. The new regime announced in Budget 2025 will remain in the new Bill and the tax-payers still have to undergo the process of assessing the right regime to follow while filing tax return. Similarly, no changes are proposed in tax rates as introduced in Budget 2025.“

As the global trade landscape becomes increasingly protectionist, Indian exporters are finding themselves caught in a tightening tariff regime, especially when targeting the United States. In July 2025, the U.S. imposed a uniform 25% tariff on all Indian-origin imports, dealing a blow to industries ranging from textiles and auto components to processed foods and chemicals.

But amid these challenges, Dubai is emerging as a compelling strategic alternative, a legitimate infrastructure-ready transit and transformation hub that Indian businesses can leverage to maintain competitiveness and access U.S. markets.

The India–UAE Advantage
The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), in effect since May 2022, has dramatically improved trade efficiency between India and the UAE. It eliminates duties on nearly 99% of India’s exports to the UAE, allowing Indian goods to land in Dubai either duty-free or at substantially reduced rates.

Combined with the UAE’s world-class logistics ecosystem, this makes it one of the most cost-effective re-export and processing zones for Indian businesses. With over 40 free zones, seamless customs facilitation and a mature re-export infrastructure, the UAE is well-positioned to act as a global distribution hub.

“Dubai offers not just lower trade barriers but a plug-and-play infrastructure for Indian manufacturers. It’s the ideal bridge between Indian production and Western demand.” says Mr. Ashish Mishra, Founder of Fairway Biz, a trade advisory firm helping Indian businesses expand internationally.

Understanding the Legal Framework: Substantial Transformation
U.S. customs laws do not permit superficial rerouting or relabeling of goods to avoid tariffs. For goods exported from Dubai to be recognized as UAE origin (and not Indian), they must undergo what U.S. Customs & Border Protection defines as “substantial transformation.”

This means the product must emerge from the UAE as a distinctly new article of commerce, often reflected by a change in its Harmonized System (HS) classification code. Without this, the U.S. would still treat the item as Indian in origin, subject to the full 25% tariff.

Examples of Qualifying Transformation Include:

· Converting Indian fabric into finished garments through stitching and tailoring in Dubai.

· Assembling Indian components into a complete device or product in the UAE.

· Chemical or mechanical processing that alters the function and identity of the original input.

Non-Qualifying Activities Include:

· Repackaging or re-labelling products

· Issuing new invoices or changing documentation alone

· Simple blending or sorting with minimal input

Dubai as a Transformation Hub
For Indian exporters, the answer lies in setting up value-addition units or light manufacturing partnerships within UAE’s industrial or free zones. Locations like Jebel Ali Free Zone, Dubai Industrial City, and Abu Dhabi’s KIZAD offer purpose-built infrastructure, tax incentives and global connectivity.

This Route Provides Multiple Benefits:

· Legally claim UAE origin and reduce exposure to U.S. tariffs

· Strengthen documentation and supply chain compliance

· Tap into the growing GCC, EU, and African demand via re-export agreements

· Position the business within a robust, diversified international trading ecosystem

“As long as the processing is genuine and compliant, Indian businesses can gain a strategic advantage through Dubai. We’re already seeing interest from SMEs in apparel, nutraceuticals and electronics.” Mr. Mishra adds.

Strategic, Not Opportunistic
This is not a workaround, it is strategic supply chain realignment that adheres to global trade norms. Many Indian exporters, particularly in garments, engineering goods, electronics, and processed food, are already leveraging this route. In a world increasingly shaped by bilateralism, such transnational value chains are essential.

Recommended Actions for Indian Exporters

· Evaluate whether your product qualifies for substantial transformation

· Explore contract manufacturing or joint ventures in UAE free zones

· Understand changes in HS codes and their origin implications

· Maintain rigorous documentation including production records and certificates of origin

· Consult trade compliance professionals and customs experts

Conclusion
In an era of rising tariffs and shifting geopolitical alliances, agility is the new currency of international trade. For Indian businesses aiming to stay competitive in the U.S. market, Dubai is more than a stopover, it’s a strategic production and export gateway.

Those who adapt quickly will find not just a path around tariffs, but a long-term opportunity to build a globally integrated business model.

New Delhi, 11th August 2025 : In a significant move towards creating industry-ready skilled manpower, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has signed strategic Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with four global technology leaders: Ericsson India Pvt. Ltd., Qualcomm Technologies Inc., Cisco Systems, and Nokia Solutions and Networks India Pvt. Ltd.

Aimed at accelerating India’s digital transformation and strengthening the skilling ecosystem, these partnerships will roll out advance training initiatives in 5G, AI/ML, networking, and digital technologies at BSNL’s apex training institute, Bharat Ratna Bhim Rao Ambedkar Institute of Telecom Training (BRBRAITT) in Jabalpur.

This development is a step towards a broader plan by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Ministry of Communications, to establish a Telecom Innovation, Research and Training Centre (TIRTC) at BRBRAITT. Envisioned as an industry-led national hub, TIRTC will focus on developing telecom-specific R&D talent and a future-ready workforce — aligning with the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of Skill India and Atmanirbhar Bharat. TIRTC will also support product innovation, prototyping, and telecom entrepreneurship in the long term.

The MoUs were signed at a ceremony in New Delhi, in the presence of Hon’ble Union Minister of Communications and DoNER, Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, Secretary (Telecom) Dr. Neeraj Mittal, senior officials from the DoT, BSNL leadership, and representatives from partner companies.

Hon’ble Minister Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia:
“This collaboration between BSNL and leading global technology companies is a landmark step in building a skilled and future-ready telecom workforce. It reflects the Government’s commitment to fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and digital empowerment through industry-academia partnerships aligned with the vision of Digital India and Atmanirbhar Bharat.”

The key initiatives under these MoUs are:

As part of this initiative, Ericsson India will help establish a dedicated Ericsson 5G Centre of Excellence at BRBRAITT to provide hands-on 5G training as well as online learning modules under the Ericsson Educate Program to 2000+ students annually. The students undergoing the 5G Onsite training will benefit from the classroom infrastructure being provided by BSNL. Students undergoing the online training part of the Ericsson Educate program, will benefit from Ericsson’s global curriculum, trainers, and lab facilities — creating a world-class learning environment aligned with national priorities.

Qualcomm Technologies Inc. will set up a Qualcomm Institute at BRBRAITT, focusing on advanced 5G and AI training for students, BSNL trainers, and government stakeholders. The programme will include premium online content, live sessions, and internships. Qualcomm will sponsor training for the first 100 participants in the inaugural year. This initiative aims to position BRBRAITT as a hub for advanced, scalable, and industry-relevant digital skill development.

Cisco Systems will leverage its Cisco Networking Academy Program to enhance skills in networking, cybersecurity, and IT infrastructure. Cisco will provide free access to online curriculum and digital tools, while BSNL will coordinate implementation across non-profit educational institutions nationwide — promoting equitable access to digital learning. The collaboration seeks to create a digitally enabled, job-ready youth workforce.

Nokia Solutions and Networks India Pvt. Ltd. will support the creation of a 5G Centre of Excellence and AI/ML Lab at BRBRAITT. The programme will train 300 students annually in 5G radio, core networks, and AI/ML applications. It includes a joint certification programme by Nokia and BRBRAITT, with support from the Telecom Sector Skill Council.

Nitin Bansal, Managing Director, Ericsson India: “This collaboration is an investment in building a future-ready workforce to lead innovation in 5G, IoT, and advanced telecom technologies”

These collaborations strongly support India’s flagship missions — Digital India, Skilling India, Make in India, Startup India, and Atmanirbhar Bharat — and underscore DoT’s commitment to building deep capabilities in next-generation telecom technologies.

By equipping India’s youth with critical future-tech skills, this initiative will help shape a self-reliant and globally competitive digital future. In the long term, the initiative aims to form a broad consortium of Indian and global tech stakeholders to collectively drive training, innovation, and research in advanced telecom domains

Mumbai, August 2025: Raksha Bandhan has always celebrated the sacred chaos of siblinghood, the fights, the food thefts, the unspoken loyalty. But in today’s world, that bond is becoming rarer. Many of us don’t live in the same city, or even the same country, as our siblings anymore. With changing family dynamics or preferences leaning towards single child, an increasing number of children are growing up without siblings at all. A 2023 YouGov-Mint-CPR Millennial Survey said that among urban millennials in India, 47% wanted only one child.

At the same time, our workplaces have become our second homes. We spend more hours with colleagues than we do with friends or family. In that proximity, real bonds form, ones that go beyond job roles and coffee chats. We’ve all heard of “work spouses”, but what about the “work sibling”? The one who teases you endlessly in meetings, finishes your half-written decks, steals your snacks, and always has your back.

This Raksha Bandhan, Godrej Industries Group (GIG), through its brand agnostic lifestyle platforms Godrej L’Affaire and Vikhroli Cucina, introduces a delightful campaign for the modern professional: ‘The Work Sibling – India’s New Badge of Workplace Bonding’

Through a tongue-in-cheek digital film and an interactive social media activity, the campaign invites working professionals to “adopt” their favorite colleagues as official work siblings. From stealing your snacks to roasting your ideas (with love, of course), this satirical campaign brings the chaotic joy of siblinghood right into the workplace.

Set up like a parody infomercial, the film hits nostalgic notes from loud typers and pineapple-on-pizza debates to desk fights and lunch thefts, it turns everyday office chaos into classic sibling moments. This Raksha Bandhan, celebrate your ‘work sibling’ the colleague who roasts you in 4K but backs you in every pitch. Tag them with a message, and a personalised e-Rakhi card will quietly slide into their DMs because what’s Raksha Bandhan without a bit of emotional blackmail?

The campaign sparked a wave of hilarious confessions and shoutouts, as professionals shared their own work sibling moments on the campaign comments section.

Commenting on the Campaign Sujit Patil, Godrej Industries Group, Chief Communication Offer said “With ‘The Work Sibling’, we wanted to celebrate the everyday bonds that make workplaces feel more human. At Godrej, we have always believed that strong teams are built on beautiful bonds of friendship and understanding, not just roles. This campaign reflects our continued focus on employee wellbeing, and we hope it brings a little joy to offices across the country by encouraging people to appreciate the colleagues who feel like family.”

Mumbai, August 09, 2025: DKMS Foundation India, a non-profit organisation dedicated to the fight against blood cancer and other blood disorders such as thalassemia and aplastic anemia, celebrates siblinghood this marks Raksha Bandhan, with two unique brother-sister pair.

Two young children, Ayan Khan and Papali Gaan were battling with a blood disorder called thalassemia major, but their siblings saved them by donating their blood stem cells.

India faces a pressing healthcare challenge: with over 10,000 new children born annually with thalassemia – a hereditary blood disorder leading to severe anaemia. These children often require lifelong blood transfusions, and without proper treatment, many do not survive beyond the age of 20. Blood stem cell transplantation offers the only curative option, but access remains limited due to financial and logistical barriers.

Through the Access to Transplantation Program DKMS India is addressing this gap by supporting families in need. This program ensures access to life-saving stem cell transplants for patients who face medical, financial, and infrastructural impediments.  the DKMS Patient Funding Program India and the DKMS Thalassemia Program India.

Ayan Khan’s story

Ayan Khan, born on March 11, 2016, was diagnosed with a life-threatening blood disorder, Thalassemia Major. He required regular blood transfusions. His father, a construction labourer with limited finances, was running pillar to post in search of a permanent cure.

Ayan and his family found hope in an HLA-typing camp that took place in October 2022, organised by DKMS Foundation India along with Narayana Health City, Bengaluru. Ayan’s elder sister, Al Shifa, reported as a perfect HLA Match!!

On May 1, 2023, under the expert care of Dr. Sunil Bhat, Vice Chairman – Oncology Collegium, Narayana Health Group, and Director of Pediatric Haematology, Oncology, and Bone Marrow Transplantation, Ayan underwent a successful blood stem cell transplant. Two years after the transplant, Ayan is reported as completely disease-free, no longer dependent on blood transfusions. He is currently studying in second standard, and his sister Al Shifa is in seventh standard. Ayan and Al Shifa’s story becomes a testament to the courage and compassion of young siblings and stresses the importance of timely medical intervention.

Papali Gaan’s Story

Papali Gaan, born on March 15, 2015, suffered from Thalassemia Major. Her parents, despite their limited financial means, remained steadfast in their commitment to finding a cure. A breakthrough came in the form of an HLA typing camp jointly conducted by DKMS Foundation India and Narayana Health City in February 2022.

Om Prakash, Papali’s younger brother, emerged as a perfect match. At a young age, the lad donated his blood stem cells. On August 15, 2023, Papali received her life-saving transplant under the expert care of Dr. Sunil Bhat and his team.

Post her transplant, Papali is living her second chance at life without needing a blood transfusion. Both Papali and Om Prakash are living a healthy life, full of mischief and innocence. But the story doesn’t end with recovery. Deeply moved by his daughter’s transformation, Papali’s father has now taken it upon himself to support other families dealing with Thalassemia. He actively guides and motivates others by spreading awareness about blood stem cell donation and sharing his journey, giving them hope.

Speaking about the two case studies, Patrick Paul, Chairman, DKMS Foundation India, said, “Ayan, Papali, and their siblings remind us that Raksha Bandhan has become more than a ritual; it’s a celebration of siblinghood. Our role is to ensure that patients from economically disadvantaged backgrounds have access to the first step toward a potential cure—high-resolution HLA typing. While some patients may find a match within their family, the rest must rely on unrelated donors from global registries. However, due to India’s genetic diversity, finding a match is especially challenging. Only 0.09% of the Indian population of the relevant age is registered as a blood stem cell donor. This can leave many patients without viable options.