Category news

New Delhi, June 13, 2025:  To mark World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (June 15), HelpAge India launched the ‘Understanding Intergenerational Dynamics & Perceptions on Ageing’ report (India Intergenerational Bonds – INBO Report), a first-of-its-kind national study. Following the release, a panel discussion was held at the India International Centre with government, community, academic, and media stakeholders.

The national study was conducted across 10 metro & non-metro cities (Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Kanpur, Nagpur, and Madurai) covering both the youth & the elderly, belonging to SEC B and C urban households. It combined both the quantitative element along with qualitative Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) to explore perceptions, interactions, and emotional dynamics between youth and elders in urban India.

The study surveyed 5798 respondents, with the proportion of youth (18-30 years) – 70% and elders (60 years & above) – 30%. This study addresses the urgent need to understand emotional, relational, and psychological aspects of intergenerational ties in urban India.

“This report offers both a heartening affirmation and a timely wake-up call. While respect for elders and family ties remain deeply cherished in India—with 86% of elders feeling valued—beneath the surface lies a quieter, more concerning disconnect. Many elders still feel emotionally distant, unheard, or excluded from meaningful engagement. Expressions like ‘We are told the plan, not asked’ reflect a perception-practice gap that must be addressed. Are we truly listening to our elders—or simply assuming we are? As India moves forward with its unique demographic advantage—home to the world’s largest youth population and a rapidly growing elder segment—we must build an age-inclusive society that goes beyond the youth or longevity dividend. The real opportunity lies in unlocking the power of ‘intergenerational value.’ Through intentional collaboration across generations—in caregiving, digital literacy, lifelong learning, and volunteering—we can transform ageing from a phase of isolation into one of shared purpose, where generations are bridged not just in proximity, but in vision and co-creation”, says Rohit Prasad, CEO, HelpAge India.

As of 2025, approximately 12% of the Indian population is aged 60 and above, a figure projected to rise to 19% by 2050. At the same time, India also holds the distinction of being home to the world’s largest youth population, with over 365 million individuals aged 15–29 years.

The report revealed that youth primarily associate elders as being “lonely” (56%), “dependent” (48%), but also “wise” (51%) and “respected” (43%), indicating a mix of empathy and admiration, along with the existence of stereotypical views.

“Young adults, especially those aged 18–24, share strong emotional bonds with their grandparents—particularly in multigenerational households. Interestingly, youth living apart often hold more positive perceptions of ageing, showing that distance doesn’t always mean disconnect. Despite lifestyle differences and digital immersion, youth and elders largely agree on the family’s central role in elder care. Youth acknowledge the generation gap but are willing to bridge it—volunteering to talk to lonely elders, assist with errands, and support digital inclusion. They want educational institutions to help them understand ageing and organize intergenerational activities. And while elders may sometimes feel undervalued, they still want to spend more time with youth, feel uplifted after meeting them, and prefer living in family. That’s the complexity to collectively address —by strengthening the positives and consciously addressing the gaps.” says Ms. Anupama Datta, Policy Research & Advocacy, HelpAge India.

Media greatly influences youth perceptions of the elderly, with 80% saying portrayals affect their views—often showing elders as wise and caring, but also dependent or comic.

 “HelpAge is advancing an intergenerational approach through its #GenerationsTogether initiative—connecting youth and seniors via digital empowerment, volunteering, and shared learning. Recognizing media’s influence on youth perceptions of ageing, we will collaborate with media, industry, and stakeholders to promote age-positive narratives.” says Prateep Chakraborty, COO, HelpAge India.

 Key highlights of the report:

• In non-metro cities, youth and elders report stronger traditional values and intergenerational bonds, but also greater fears about aging and wider perceived generation gaps.
• In terms of proximity to elders, a notable difference in score, is seen between metro city youth (62.52) and those in non-metro cities (65.18), with the latter showing stronger expressions of respect, possibly due to more traditional or community-oriented value systems.
• The overall ‘Value and Respect’ score among youth is 63.59 (out of 100), reflecting a broadly positive outlook on older adults and their societal role. Youth in non-metros score higher (65.18) than metro counterparts (62.52), indicating deeper respect, likely linked to community-oriented values.
• Youth mostly interact with grandparents (49%) and parents (45%), while elders connect primarily with sons (50%) and grandsons (40%), underscoring the family’s central role.
• Although 88% of intergenerational communication is face-to-face, the digital divide persists. While 71% of elders use basic phones, only 41% have smartphones. Just 13% use the internet or social media, and only 5% access services like online banking or health apps. Notably, 14% of elders use no digital tools.
• Barriers to digital adoption include 66% of elders finding technology confusing and 51% fearing errors. Youth serve as key enablers, with 54% of children and 52% of grandchildren acting as digital guides. Yet, youth perceive elders as disinterested (78%) or forgetful (66%), while elders cite youth’s lack of patience (71%) and fast explanations (49%).
• Both groups agree that youths’ busy schedules hinder interaction (elders: 76%, youth: 74%). Youth (25%) feel more judged & scrutinized during interactions than elders (22%). A “generation gap” is acknowledged by both (youth: 51%, elders: 45%).
• Disparities exist in perceived support: elders report high youth assistance with ATM withdrawals (55%) and health insurance (40%), while youth underreport their contributions (23% and 18%, respectively). While 29% of youth claim they offer no financial support, only 6% of elders say they receive none.
• On health, there’s strong mutual support: 81% of elders and 82% of youth believe youth should accompany elders to doctors, and 65% from both sides support help with medication and home care.
• Both generations share similar fears for old age: loneliness (youth: 69%, elders: 68%), poor health (67% vs. 61%), and financial insecurity (62% vs. 58%). They agree that financial security (elders: 70%, youth: 72%) and good physical and mental health are key to a fulfilling old age.
• The desire to live with family remains strong: 88% of youth expect to live with family when old, and 83% of elders currently do or plan to — reinforcing the enduring importance of family-based living.

Recommendations by HelpAge India:

• Schools based intervention – Include ‘Age Sensitization’ programmes or curriculum in schools, so the foundation for an age friendly & age inclusive society is set early in life, fostering empathy and age-respect. Government should consider creating a National Intergenerational Engagement Mission for the purpose.
• Intergenerational care – encourage youth-based community care programmes, and the immensely critical role in enabling and facilitating care system and networks for elders. Elder Care Centres in urban and rural areas with youth volunteers. Under its CSR program, corporate to encourage and incentivise young employees to participate in such activities as volunteers and support informal caregivers via HR policies.
• Sensitization awareness drives & campaigns using popular media, to transform mindsets towards being more age sensitive, caring towards elderly and as importantly valuing potential seniors have in productively contributing and co-creating. A public Awareness Campaigns Against Ageism would be very useful
• Digital inclusion through Youth-Led programmes, creating opportunities for connection, bonding & learning between generations, where tech-savvy youth are paired with elders for digital literacy support. Corporates to play a role in organizing training intergenerational workshops, giving digital devices and encouraging their teams to develop elder friendly features in digital devices and apps.

From 11 to 15 June, Moscow will host the historical festival ‘Times and epochs’.This is not just a festival, but an unforgettable journey through time, which will be a unique experience to get to know the past of Moscow and Russia a little bit better.

In the most beautiful mansions, ancient and modern parks, as well as on many city boulevards and venues of the capital, guests will be able to plunge into the past and feel the atmosphere of Russia’s historical epochs. Thanks to the festival’s numerous reenactments and immersive performances, guests will be taken back tens and hundreds of years, as if in a time machine, and learn more about the people and events of those times.

Historical venues will be located throughout Moscow, where thousands of reenactors not only from Russia, but also from abroad, will recreate the events of different eras – from ancient times to the 20th century. For example, in Moskino Cinema Park, images of key events in world history will come to life in front of the audience’s eyes. And in Pokrovskoye-Streshnevo Park there will be a performance of street theatre of the early 20th century, where each visitor will become not just an invited guest, but a member of a full-fledged participant of the performance.

A rich and informative programme has been prepared for children. For example, everyone can take part in creative and craft master-classes, try their skills at ancient folk games and even take part in historical quests. And if you want to get to know Russia even closer, spectacular horse shows and open-air museums will be perfect locations for it.

The ‘Times and epochs’ festival is a great opportunity to get a little closer to the cultural and historical past of Moscow and Russia. The festival is one of many events within the framework of the Summer in Moscow project, including at the district venues Moscow Seasons. Mesmerizing seasonal festivals of the project will be the perfect destination for a family trip or solo travel and will provide an unforgettable experience for all visitors from India.

Bengaluru, June 13, 2025 — In a remarkable demonstration of kindness, cooperation, and dedication, the Annapoorna Morning Nutrition Program, under the aegis of SMSGHM’s Annapoorna Trust, has attained a notable milestone in Telangana. At the close of the academic year 2024–25, the program was serving healthy morning meals to over 21 lakh children in the state—16 lakh school-going children and 5 lakh Anganwadi children covering all 32 districts.

What was initially a small initiative to feed merely 50 children is today a national movement reaching more than 10 million children across India, taking up the cause of morning hunger. Numerous children in rural and semi-urban areas tend to go without food for nearly 18 hours, enormously affecting their physical development as well as cognitive growth. Annapoorna Morning Nutrition Program is transforming this reality into one of providing access to healthy food that reinforces body and mind.

A milestone in this process was the state-level inauguration of the SaiSure Ragi Multi-Nutrient Health Mix for Anganwadi children on September 30, 2024. The program was launched at the Poshan Arogya Jathara at Manakondur Girls’ High School, conducted as a part of the Village Health, Sanitation, and Nutrition Day. The occasion was graced with the attendance of various important dignitaries and stakeholders such as Smt. Dansari Anasuya (Seethakka), Hon’ble Minister for Women and Child Welfare; Sri Ponnam Prabhakar, Hon’ble Transport Minister of Telangana; Dr. Kavvampally Satyanarayana, MLA, Manakondur Assembly Constituency; Smt. Vakati Karuna, IAS, Secretary, Department of Women, Children, Disabled, and Senior Citizens; Smt. A. Nirmala Kanthi Wesley, Director, Juvenile Welfare & Street Children; Shobha Rani Bandru, Chairperson, Telangana Women’s Co-operative Development Corporation; and UNICEF representatives, along with senior IAS officials.

Corporate partners have played a vital role in extending the program to government schools, reinforcing the message of shared responsibility. Amazon Web Services provided SaiSure Ragi Mix, Chikki and Multigrain Cookies to 8,866 children across the district of Rangareddy, making way for more than 16.78 lakh servings. HDFC Bank facilitated the distribution of SaiSure to 2,38,090 students at 3,401 schools in various districts including Adilabad, Hanumakonda, Jayashankar Bhupalpally, Medchal Malkajgiri, and other districts during the months of January and February 2025. In parallel, Rise Against Hunger collaborated with Annapoorna Trust and corporate volunteers for packaging and distribution of thousands of pre-packaged food kits—of rice, pulses and fortified powders—to government schools and Sai Swasthya Wellness Centres in districts.

Additionally, the SaiSure Ragi Multi-Nutrient Health Mix with Jaggery, a morning drink that comprises vital vitamins and minerals, is one of the most important factors behind healthier physical and mental growth in children. Such a healthy blend of Ragi (finger millet) and jaggery has proved to tackle both visible and hidden hunger. The daily consumption of this blend has been linked to impressive improvement in school attendance, activity, and child health.

With this continued emphasis on nation-building through nutrition, the Annapoorna Morning Nutrition Program is not only serving children—it is fostering potential, diminishing inequality, and building a foundation for a healthier, more empowered generation. As the program continues to grow its reach, it stands as a beacon of what can be achieved through concerted action by government, corporate sponsors, and dedicated individuals to create lasting social change.

Royal College of Art Graduate Sonakshi Presents “Zaat” – A Sculptural Installation Exploring Women’s Hidden Histories Through Metal and Memory

Chennai,13/06/25– The Gallery at British Council, Kasturba Gandhi Marg, will present “Zaat” by Sonakshi, a powerful sculptural installation that unravels matrilineal memory through the language of heirloom, metal, and meaning. The exhibition runs from 11 June through 31 July 2025 as part of Study UK: Creative Connections II.

Born in Agra and now based in London, Sonakshi Chaturvedi brings together her expertise in painting, enamelling, and gemology to question how women’s histories are remembered—or systematically erased. The exhibition confronts the inherited roles of bride, mother, and grandmother, foregrounding untold longings encoded within craft traditions of the Indian subcontinent.

A Fresh Voice in Contemporary Art

Fresh from completing her MA in Jewellery & Metal at the prestigious Royal College of Art (2024), Sonakshi represents a new generation of artists bridging traditional craft with contemporary artistic practice. Her unique background as both a Graduate Gemologist and researcher with Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (Ministry of Culture) positions her with the requisite capabilities to question the cultural significance of adornment and inheritance in South Asian societies.

“Zaat began as a way to fortify my own nostalgia, but it evolved into an act of reclamation—tracing heirloom objects that held the silent resistance of women remembered only as mothers, brides, grandmothers. Through sculpture, I archive their matrilineal inheritance as material memory—for future female ancestors to know them not just by the roles they played, but as individuals with dreams, agency, and voice” explains Chaturvedi.

Exploring Material Memory

The title “Zaat” refers to identity or the core sense of being. Visitors to Zaat will encounter a series of sculptural forms crafted in brass, white metal, cold enamel, resin-based enamel, and gemstones—each inspired by objects from the artist’s grandmother’s wedding trousseau. At first glance, these forms appear worn, metallic, and subdued—echoing the weight of tradition and domestic expectation. But within, they burst into candy-like, psychedelic interiors—revealing a hidden world of colour, desire, and youth. These contrasting surfaces act as metaphors for how generations of women, often remembered only as wives, mothers, or grandmothers, concealed vivid inner lives beneath uniform roles. Zaat transforms these heirloom-inspired forms into vessels of material memory—preserving not just what was passed down, but what was never said.

Sonakshi Chaturvedi’s professional experience spans prestigious institutions including The Gem Palace Jaipur, Zoya by TATA, recent internships at Olympia Auctions and the recently commissioned Riverside Studios by Vedanta in London, giving her deep insight into both traditional Indian jewellery-making and contemporary artistic practice.

Part of Prestigious Cultural Initiative

“Zaat” forms part of the British Council’s Best of British series, celebrating UK alumni who are shaping global cultural discourse. The Study UK: Creative Connections II programme highlights the international impact of UK education in fostering artistic innovation and cross-cultural dialogue.

Looking Forward

Currently pursuing advanced studies in gemology with Gem-A (FGA) while developing her enamelling practice with UK-based artists, Sonakshi plans to pursue doctoral studies to further her artistic  practice around cultural and gender identity on a communal level, to contribute to the larger craft based cultural dialogue.

Exhibition Details:

• What: Zaat by Sonakshi
• Where: The Gallery, British Council, Kasturba Gandhi Marg, New Delhi
• When: 11 June – 31 July 2025
• Opening Reception: [DATE AND TIME NEEDED]
• Admission: Free
• Gallery Hours: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

New Delhi, June 10, 2025— Renowned multi-genre Indian author has been recently honoured with the University of Nottingham Alumni Laureate Award. Rajesh Talwar a legal scholar, and a former senior United Nations[A1]  official has received this an award from his Alma Mater that celebrates graduates who have made an outstanding contribution to their profession, to social causes and to society .

Author Rajesh Talwar

Mr Talwar, a British Chevening Scholarship recipient pursued his LL.M in International Human Rights Law at the University of Nottingham from 1996 to  1997. Over the past two decades, he has built a distinguished career with the United Nations across three continents, serving in key roles in post-conflict and humanitarian missions in Kosovo, Somalia, Afghanistan, Kenya, East Timor and Liberia. At the UN Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK), he held the position of Executive Officer and chaired the Secretariat to the Human Rights Advisory Panel, helping shape human rights oversight in the region. He has also worked as a Legal Advisor to the Police Commissioner in the United Nations Mission in Timor-Leste (UNMIT) and has been the Deputy Legal Adviser to the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA).

Alongside his international career, Mr Talwar is also a prolific writer, having authored 42 books across a range of genres — from legal scholarship and social commentary to plays and children’s literature. His work demonstrates a consistent focus on justice, inclusion, and rights-based discourse. His widely acclaimed publications include The Third Sex and Human Rights; Courting Injustice: The Nirbhaya Case and its Aftermath, a critique of India’s legal system; and The Mahatma’s Manifesto: A Critique of Hind Swaraj, offering a contemporary and unorthodox interpretation of Gandhian philosophy.

Rajesh Talwar is also an alumnus of La Martiniere College, Lucknow and Hindu College, University of Delhi, He has also attended courses at Harvard, Oxford and Cambridge[A2] . Prior to joining the United Nations, he practised law at the courts in Delhi for many years, and also taught law at Delhi University and Jamia Millia Islamia.

In their citation, the award jury noted: “This nominee has had a global impact, contributing to human rights and sustainability through policy change and education, such as writing a play on toxic terror and a book on caste discrimination. The judges selected Rajesh for embodying the value of respect through his dedication to the cause of human rights.”

The jury’s reference to ‘toxic terror’ is about a play he has written titled ‘The Killings in November’ that is available in paperback and was staged by Delhi University students. The reference to caste discrimination refers to Mr Rajesh Talwar’s popular play for children ‘The Boy Who Wrote a Constitution’ on the childhood of Dr B.R. Ambedkar, which chronicles episodes in the great leader’s childhood where he faced severe discrimination.

Responding to the honour, Mr Talwar said, “It is deeply meaningful to be recognised by my alma mater, the University of Nottingham, which played a transformative role in shaping my values, perspectives, and career. Studying human rights law in the UK as a Chevening Scholar gave me access to world-class academic training, but more importantly, it opened up a global outlook and provided me with a perspective that continues to inform my work to this day. Whether serving with the United Nations or writing on justice and human rights, or even writing inspirational books for children, the foundation laid during my time at Nottingham has remained a constant guiding light. This award is not just a personal honour — it is a reflection of the powerful and enduring educational bridge between India and the UK, which continues to empower individuals to make a difference globally.”

He is currently working on an AI-generated animation film titled, ‘Smoky Sky Songs’ based on the issue of air pollution that continues to affect the lives of Indians.

He will receive the Alumni Laureate Award at a ceremony that will be held in July 2025 in the United Kingdom, as part of the university’s global celebrations of alumni excellence.

Father’s Day is just around the corner, and what better gift than a refreshing escape from Delhi’s relentless summer heat? With most of North India reeling under scorching temperatures, this is the perfect time to whisk your dad away for a well-deserved break.

India’s diverse landscapes offer a range of options—from cool hill stations to serene beaches and misty forests—that are ideal for spending quality time with your father. Whether he’s into adventure, history, spirituality, or simply unwinding with a cup of tea in the hills, there’s a place for every kind of dad.

1. Manali, Himachal Pradesh – For the Adventure-Loving Dad

Escape to the mountains of Himachal Pradesh and experience Manali’s refreshing 15°C–20°C climate. Whether it’s rafting in the icy Beas River, hiking up to Hadimba Temple, or shopping at Mall Road, Manali has something for every dad—be it thrill or tranquility.

How to Reach:

• Nearest Airport: Bhuntar (50 km)
• Railhead: Joginder Nagar (165 km)
• From Delhi: Buses and taxis run regularly

2. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh – For the Spiritual & Culture-Enthusiast Dad

If your father loves peace, Buddhist monasteries, and unexplored beauty, Tawang is a hidden gem. Surrounded by snow-clad mountains and high-altitude lakes, this 15°C–22°C Himalayan paradise is a soul-soothing getaway.

How to Reach:

• Nearest Airport & Railhead: Tezpur, Assam (320 km)
• From Tezpur: Shared taxis available

3. Shillong, Meghalaya – For the Nature-Loving Dad

Often called the Scotland of the East, Shillong’s rolling hills, waterfalls, and 23°C weather offer a picture-perfect Father’s Day trip. Explore living root bridges, boat on Umiam Lake, or stroll through lush parks and museums.

How to Reach:

• Airport: Umroi (40 km)
• Railhead: Guwahati (104 km)

4. Munnar, Kerala – For the Tea & Wildlife Loving Dad

A south Indian escape with misty tea estates and lush forests, Munnar’s pleasant 15°C–25°C climate makes it a rejuvenating destination. Walk through tea gardens, visit Echo Point, and spot wildlife at Eravikulam National Park.

How to Reach:

• Nearest Airport: Cochin (110 km)
• Railhead: Aluva (100 km)

5. Coorg, Karnataka – For the Dad Who Loves Coffee & Calm

Surrounded by coffee plantations, Coorg is the perfect place to sip freshly brewed coffee while enjoying a cool 15°C–20°C breeze. Go hiking, visit waterfalls, or explore temples with dad in this Western Ghats paradise.

How to Reach:

• Nearest Airport: Mangalore (135 km)
• Railhead: Mysuru (120 km)

6. Mount Abu, Rajasthan – For the Dad Who Loves History

Even in the middle of Rajasthan’s desert, Mount Abu offers a pleasant 23°C–32°C escape. Visit Dilwara Temples, cruise on Nakki Lake, or hike up to sunset viewpoints for a culturally rich Father’s Day experience.

How to Reach:

• Nearest Airport: Udaipur (185 km)
• Railhead: Abu Road (27 km)

7. Darjeeling, West Bengal – For the Scenic & Tea-Loving Dad

Take your father on the Toy Train, visit tea estates, or marvel at the Kanchenjunga from Tiger Hill. With temperatures between 10°C–15°C, Darjeeling is a refreshing and nostalgic getaway in the eastern Himalayas.

How to Reach:

• Nearest Airport: Bagdogra (70 km)
• Railhead: New Jalpaiguri (70 km)

Stay with The Hosteller – Gift Your Dad Comfort & Community

No matter which destination you pick, The Hosteller is here to make your Father’s Day escape even more special. India’s largest backpacker hostel chain offers clean, secure, and budget-friendly stays across all these locations.

Let dad enjoy:

• Scenic views from hilltop hostels
• Comfortable beds and clean rooms
• WiFi, 24×7 reception, travel assistance
• Interaction with fellow travelers (perfect if he’s up for a chat over chai!)

Book a peaceful forest lodge in Coorg, a tea garden view stay in Munnar, or a cozy room in Manali with The Hosteller — and give your father the memorable summer break he truly deserves.

Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh – June 2025: Orb Energy (“Orb”) announced that it has successfully installed and commissioned a 700-kilowatt rooftop solar system (350kWp as phase 1 in the year 2023 and now added another 350kWp as Phase 2) at Bergen Pipe Supports India Pvt Ltd in Sricity, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh. This installation will help ‘Bergen Pipe Supports’ to generate over 10 lakh units of electricity per year by harnessing solar energy to meet the factory’s electricity needs.

“We are extremely pleased that Bergen Pipe Supports selected Orb Energy to design, supply, and install their 700 kilowatt rooftop solar system. Orb Energy’s rooftop solar system will now help Bergen Pipe Supports to reduce roughly 60% of their daytime electricity needs, and will set an example to others on the power of switching to clean, green solar energy” said Bala Vigneshwaran M, Orb Energy’s Deputy General Manager for PV Projects in Tamil Nadu.

Rooftop solar generally provides commercial and industrial customers a 3 to 4-year payback, after which power from solar is effectively free. To make rooftop solar more affordable for all commercial and industrial customers, Orb offers its own in-house, collateral-free solar finance for up to 5 years.

Orb is a vertically integrated provider of rooftop solar solutions, manufacturing its own range of solar panels and providing in-house finance for commercial and industrial customers – a unique offering in India’s rooftop solar industry.

Actress and environmental advocate Raveena Tandon was felicitated by Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on the occasion of World Environment Day for her ongoing efforts towards environmental conservation and animal welfare.

Taking to social media, Raveena shared her gratitude, saying, “Honoured for my work towards the Environment, from the hands of the honourable Chief Minister @devendra_fadnavis ji.”

The event also coincided with a birthday celebration for mMother in Law Reshma Thadani and daughter (adopted) Chaya Malaney, both born on June 5. Adding a heartwarming touch to the day, Raveena shared that a rescued kitten—fostered by PETA India—was adopted into a new home, making the day even more meaningful for the actress and long-time animal lover.

Raveena Tandon is more than just a celebrated film star—she is an environmentalist, wildlife photographer, and a tireless philanthropist. At the age of 21, she broke societal norms by adopting two daughters as a single mother, a groundbreaking decision in a country where both adoption and single parenthood were still taboo. She was the youngest chairperson of the Children’s Film Society of India (CFSI) and has served on the advisory panel of CINTAA. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has lauded her efforts in promoting organ donation, and her Rudra Foundation has been at the forefront of initiatives supporting children, women, and animal welfare.

During the COVID-19 crisis, when oxygen was scarce, her foundation coordinated with DCP South to deliver truckloads of oxygen cylinders to those in need, including Radha Soami Satsang Beas, the Army Hospital in Delhi, and members of the legal fraternity through the Hon’ble Supreme Court Bar Association. Raveena is also the Wildlife Goodwill Ambassador of Maharashtra and made history as the first participant from the entertainment industry to serve as a delegate at W20, a G20 engagement group.

From commercial blockbusters to arthouse gems, from women’s empowerment to wildlife conservation—Raveena Tandon has brought commitment and compassion to every cause she touches. Her journey from a model-turned-actress to a true role model continues to inspire generations, especially the women of India.

Histria Books is pleased to announce the release of the paperback edition of The American Doctor by Dr. Salvatore J. Forcina, M.D. This memoir is published by Histria Perspectives an imprint of Histria Books dedicated to outstanding works of non-fiction in a variety of fields.

Born in Italy during World War II, Salvatore Forcina was a young boy who survived all odds by living through his young childhood without any real or proper shelter. Like many Italians during this time, a month after turning eight years old his parents followed this migration to Argentina, a developing country at the time rich with natural resources and hope for a more stable life. Sent away to live with Redemptorist priests for seven long years as the only available option to study, this young boy struggled emotionally and psychologically with no social outlets and little emotional development. Salvatore’s dream to study medicine and help people propelled him to carry on and continue his education, eventually being educated and living on three different continents, each with a new language to learn and master. Despite his meager beginnings, which provided no social and little educational opportunity and despite the many years and setbacks it took him to accomplish this, his goal was ultimately accomplished because of his sheer determination.

This true-life story is motivating, uplifting and based on what genuine love of family can provide to someone.

Midwest Book Review calls it “An inherently fascinating and impressively well written memoir, The American Doctor is one of those exceptional life-story memoirs that are ultimately inspiring and truly memorable.”

Dr. Salvatore J. Forcina, M.D. was born in Scauri, Italy in 1941. This was the time of World War II and the war and its aftermath presented locals with few options other than to flee their homes and later, ultimately, their country. Salvatore’s dream to study medicine and help people propelled him to carry on and continue his education, eventually being educated and living on three different continents, each with a new language to learn and master.

“Sustainability is fast becoming the foundation of industrial decision-making, and the explosives sector is no exception. Traditionally associated with environmental disruption, the industry is now evolving with a clear focus on reducing its ecological impact through innovation and responsibility. Electronic detonators, designed for precision blasting, are reducing over-break, ground vibration, and dust generation, making operations safer and more environmentally conscious. Nitrate-free explosives, such as hydrogen peroxide emulsion formulations, are emerging as viable alternatives that help cut carbon emissions and eliminate nitrate contamination. At SBL Energy, we believe this is the direction the industry must move in. By investing in sustainable explosive technologies, cleaner manufacturing, and responsible supply chains, we are committed to enabling growth that respects both productivity and the planet.”

Mr. Shikhar Aggarwal, Joint Managing Director, BLS International

 

“World Environment Day on June 5 is a global call to action—urging us all to embrace sustainable choices in every part of life, including travel. Sustainability is no longer an afterthought in tourism; it’s becoming the core. Today’s travellers—especially millennials and Gen Z—are driven by purpose. They seek destinations untouched by industrialization, where nature and culture thrive in harmony.

Countries like Spain and Slovakia are leading by example, promoting responsible tourism through eco-certified stays, green trails, and low-impact travel initiatives that protect their stunning natural heritage. This shift is reshaping tourism into a powerful catalyst for environmental care, delivering meaningful experiences while preserving the planet. From reducing paper use to cutting carbon emissions, the travel industry is embracing its role in building a greener future.”

Dr. Vivek Tandon, Founder, revalyu Group

“Companies are increasingly recognising plastic as a valuable resource with immense untapped potential. India has emerged as a global leader, recycling over 95% of all PET bottles, driven by stringent EPR regulations and growing demand for sustainable materials. At the forefront is revalyu, pioneering a first-of-its-kind glycolysis-based chemical recycling technology that transforms post-consumer PET waste into high-quality rPET chips. Used across textiles, packaging, and bottling, this low-energy, low-water, zero-liquid-discharge process supports circular economy goals. It also helps industries significantly reduce their environmental impact while ensuring compliance and long-term sustainability. Such innovations are turning plastic waste from an environmental challenge into a valuable and scalable resource.”

Ms. Smitha Shetty, Regional Director, APAC, Achilles Information Limited

“On World Environment Day, we are reminded that the responsibility to protect our planet rests with all of us. At Achilles, we believe in harnessing the collective power of industry, data, and responsible procurement to drive the transition toward clean energy and low-impact supply chains. By enabling businesses to work with verified, ethical, and environmentally aligned suppliers, we not only reduce risk but actively contribute to the global push for a just energy transition. A sustainable future is not a distant goal. It is a shared commitment that begins with everyday decisions.”

Dr. Bijal Sanghvi, Managing Director, Axis Solutions Limited

“Sustainability is the foundation of Axis Solutions Limited’s engineering, manufacturing, and innovation processes. In every aspect of our business, we employ precision-led design, ethically sourced materials, and ecologically friendly manufacturing techniques. Our long-term objective is to reduce factory carbon emissions and eliminate environmentally harmful waste. We are dedicated to reducing the amount of plastic in our packaging, converting to recyclable materials, and promoting circular economy principles across our value chain. Axis is constantly striving for a more sustainable and clean industrial future where developing new technologies and protecting the environment go hand in hand.”