Category: LIFESTYLE

New Delhi, March 2 (IANS) Around 50 per cent of insurers in India provide customisation support for clients with more than 1,000 employees, which is lower than the 92 per cent reported in China, according to a report released on Monday.

Compared to regional peers, India’s health insurance landscape reflects rapid digitalisation and expanding coverage, yet faces challenges in awareness, standardisation and affordability.

The report by Aon said that even after facing challenges, domestic health insurance sector is witnessing rapid digital transformation and broader coverage expansion.

The report also highlighted both the expanding scope of health and wellbeing services offered by insurers and significant gaps in delivering measurable outcomes and employee satisfaction. However, it pointed out that challenges remain around awareness, service standardisation and affordability.

“India’s health insurance market is at a pivotal moment, with rising expectations from employers and employees alike,” said Susan Fanning, Head of APAC Wellbeing Solutions at Aon.

“The findings highlight the need for insurers to innovate, customise and build stronger partnerships to deliver measurable outcomes while managing costs,” Fanning added.

Additionally, telehealth adoption has grown steadily, with 83 per cent of surveyed insurers now offering services such as general practitioner consultations, chronic disease management, e-prescriptions and medication delivery.

However, the financial impact on outpatient healthcare claims remains modest.

Only one-third of insurers reported tangible cost savings, with reductions ranging between 1.1 per cent and 1.5 per cent, according to Aon. While overall utilisation remains moderate, 40 per cent of insurers achieved engagement rates exceeding 30 per cent, and 60 per cent reported usage growth of six to 10 per cent between 2022 and 2024.

The report also noted that stronger integration with other wellbeing programmes and improved client education could help unlock greater value from telehealth investments.

Meanwhile, employee assistance programme (EAP) availability has expanded, with 67 per cent of insurers offering services through phone, online platforms and mobile applications in multiple languages, including English and Hindi, and in some cases additional regional languages.

Despite this, utilisation rates are inconsistent, ranging from one per cent to 50 per cent. The report also added that growth in EAP usage between 2022 and 2024 ranged from six per cent to 40 per cent.

The findings highlighted that while mental health support is expanding, deeper localisation and integration with broader health programmes are needed to drive sustained engagement and measurable outcomes.

–IANS

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New Delhi, March 2 (IANS) NITI Aayog on Monday said that it has organised a two-day national workshop on natural farming under its State Support Mission (SSM), bringing together farmers, policymakers, scientists, start-ups and civil society groups from across India to discuss ways to promote sustainable agriculture.

A major highlight of the event was the launch of new training manuals on natural farming in both Hindi and English.

These manuals are designed to provide practical and region-specific guidance to farmers, extension officers and field-level workers to help them adopt natural farming methods more effectively.

The workshop featured a virtual address by Acharya Devvrat, the Governor of Gujarat and Maharashtra.

In his address, he stressed the need to shift towards sustainable and farmer-focused agricultural systems.

“Natural farming can improve soil health, reduce the cost of chemical inputs and increase farmers’ incomes over time,” he said.

Several leading agricultural and research institutions participated in the discussions, including Junagadh Agricultural University, Dr. Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry and Gujarat Natural Farming Science University.

Their involvement added scientific depth to the deliberations on natural farming practices and validation.

Farmers, agricultural officers and scientists from Krishi Vigyan Kendras across Punjab, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala and Odisha took part in the workshop, showing strong nationwide interest in transitioning towards natural farming methods.

Officials from key central bodies and ministries shared their views on certification, market linkages, financial support and coordination between institutions to support farmers adopting natural farming.

The workshop also saw participation from agri-startups, civil society organisations, farmer producer groups and experienced practitioners, highlighting the growing ecosystem around natural farming in India.

On the first day, around 770 participants attended the sessions. An open house discussion gave farmers and practitioners an opportunity to raise concerns and share field-level challenges related to adoption, certification and access to markets.

There was broad agreement on the need for stronger field demonstrations, scientific validation and farmer-led models to build confidence in natural farming.

The second day focused on field visits and live demonstrations. Participants observed natural farming practices on the ground, including packages of practices for various exotic crops and the preparation of bio-inputs both manually and through automated setups.

–IANS

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New Delhi, March 2 (IANS) India’s active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) market, currently valued at about $15–16 billion, is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 5–7 per cent in FY27 and FY28, a report said on Monday.

The report from CareEdge Ratings said the growth will be driven by favourable government policies, a structural shift toward high‑potency and complex APIs, rising domestic demand and deeper penetration into regulated and emerging markets.

Indian pharma firms are shifting from basic APIs to complex APIs to counter price erosion, strengthen margins and retain customers, the report said.

The report flagged persistent import reliance on China for key starting materials but cited optimism that government initiatives and Production‑Linked Incentive‑backed bulk drug parks begin to show progress.

“While the full impact of these measures will take time to materialise, progress is visible: more than 30 projects have been completed, many firms having inaugurated new capacities under the scheme,” the ratings agency mentioned.

Meanwhile, a pipeline of high-potent and complex APIs is being developed, with commercialisation expected in the coming years, pointing to India’s gradual move up the value chain, it noted.

Meaningful growth from this shift is expected to accrue after 2-4 years, as majority of the related projects are yet to achieve commercialisation and substantial production ramp-up, it forecasted.

“In the long run, growth is expected to stem from an ageing population, better access to healthcare, increased insurance penetration, higher chronic diseases, loss of exclusivity and expansion to other emerging markets,” said Pritesh Rathi, Assistant Director, CareEdge Ratings.

Government-backed bulk drug parks are set to shape the next phase of API investments, with nearly 80 per cent of ongoing projects linked to this initiative. Major developments include large scale facilities worth 20 billion to 40 billion in Andhra Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, and Gujarat to strengthen domestic API manufacturing, reduce import dependence, and drive cost efficiencies across the sect

–IANS

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New Delhi, March 1 (IANS) India is preparing for a bio-driven economy where biotechnology will shape the future of manufacturing, healthcare and sustainable growth, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh said on Sunday.

The Minister was speaking after inaugurating a new state-of-the-art “Central Facility for Recombinant Cells and Sensors” at BRIC-Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (BRIC-RGCB) in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, on the occasion of National Science Day.

“The new facility will strengthen India’s capabilities in drug discovery as well as medical and agricultural genomics,” he said.

Dr. Jitendra Singh, who holds Independent Charge of the Ministry of Science and Technology and Earth Sciences, along with other key portfolios, also laid the foundation stone for a dedicated GMP facility at the institute.

In addition, he released a book titled “Quantum Physics: One Hundred Magical Years” authored by Prof. V.P.N. Nampoori.

Addressing scientists, students and industry representatives at the Akkulam campus of BRIC-RGCB, the Minister said that over the last decade, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, biotechnology has received strong policy support.

“This has helped India emerge as a global biotechnology hub,” Singh explained. Referring to the recently launched BioE3 Policy, he said India is among the few countries to introduce a dedicated biotechnology policy focused on economy, environment and employment, anticipating the global shift towards biomanufacturing and bio-based industries.

Highlighting the growth of the sector, Dr. Jitendra Singh said India’s bioeconomy has expanded nearly sixteen times in the past decade.

It has grown from about $10 billion to nearly $166 billion and is expected to touch $300 billion in the coming years.

He added that the number of biotechnology start-ups has increased from around 50–70 in 2014 to more than 11,000 today — reflecting a strong innovation ecosystem backed by policy reforms and funding support, including initiatives for deep-tech start-ups.

Speaking about the newly inaugurated Central Facility for Recombinant Cells and Sensors, the Minister said it represents years of sustained research support.

The facility houses a large panel of engineered recombinant cells and advanced screening systems developed through long-term government-funded programmes.

–IANS

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New Delhi, March 1 (IANS) The developer of Covid-19 vaccine Covaxin, Bharat Biotech is considering an initial public offering that could raise over $500 million, according to sources cited by multiple reports.

Discussions are underway including key aspects of the proposed share sale, including size and timing, they said.

Bharat Biotech plans Rs 200–250 crore of capital expenditure in FY26 for a large vaccine manufacturing facility being developed under Sapigen Biologix Pvt Ltd in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, partly financed through debt raised from financial institutions.

The Hyderabad‑based vaccine maker, founded in 1996 and promoted by Dr Krishna Ella, has supplied over 9 billion vaccine doses globally and remains entirely promoter‑owned as of July 31, 2025.

The company’s top products such as TCV, RV, JE and OPV contributed a substantial share of revenues in FY25, as the revenues rose to Rs 1,462.9 crore in FY25 from Rs 1,323.2 crore in FY24 and operating profit margins improved to 28.2 per cent in FY25 from 8.8 per cent the prior year.

Government institutions, including the Union government and UNICEF, remain key revenue contributors. However, as these businesses are largely tender-driven, they expose the company to revenue volatility from potential tender losses and limit pricing flexibility, a report from ICRA said.

The pharma and healthcare sector in India witnessed robust deal momentum valued at $3.5 billion in Q3 2025, according to a recent report.

Grant Thornton said in the report that the sector recorded a total of 72 transactions, up 28 per cent in volumes and 166 per cent in value quarter on quarter.

This included three IPOs worth $428 million and one QIP worth $88 million, the report said.

Excluding public market activity, private deals accounted for $3 billion across 68 transactions, marking a sharp rebound in investor appetite.

The report noted that the surge was driven by seven high value deals worth $2.6 billion, reflecting renewed investor confidence in scale and consolidation plays across pharma, biotech, and hospital segments.

–IANS

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New Delhi, Feb 28 (IANS) Strong coordination between science and policymaking is essential to realise the vision of Viksit Bharat, Principal Scientific Adviser to the Indian Government Prof. Ajay K. Sood said on Saturday.

He was speaking at the National Science Day Celebration–2026 held at Vigyan Bhawan, where the theme for this year was “Women in Science Catalysing Viksit Bharat.”

Prof. Sood said sectors such as aerospace, defense, critical metals, advanced materials and digital communication require coordinated institutional efforts and sustained research funding.

“The science-policy interface plays a crucial role in turning scientific strength into national capability,” he stressed.

He highlighted the importance of integrated approaches in emerging and strategic areas, stating that research, innovation and policy frameworks must work in synergy.

“India’s future growth will depend on building indigenous technological capacity, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration and ensuring that research outcomes are effectively used for societal benefit,” Sood stated.

He also underlined the need to communicate science in Indian languages to improve public engagement and make science more inclusive.

Prof. Abhay Karandikar, Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), said India’s science policy must support both cutting-edge research and innovation that can be translated into practical applications.

He noted that DST is committed to strengthening interdisciplinary research and institutional collaborations, while building capacity in emerging technologies.

He added that science-led development must ensure that discoveries in laboratories reach the ground efficiently.

Prof. Karandikar also stressed the importance of empowering researchers, especially women scientists, and creating inclusive research ecosystems to ensure sustained national progress.

He said policy measures should speed up innovation while ensuring fair access to scientific advancements across regions and sectors.

During a panel discussion, Prof. Shekhar C. Mande, President of the Indian National Science Academy, emphasised the need for regular dialogue between scientists and policymakers.

He said evidence-based policymaking must be guided by strong scientific research and expertise, and closer cooperation between academia and government will be vital for achieving Viksit Bharat.

The event brought together policymakers, scientists, researchers and academicians to discuss how India’s scientific ecosystem can better support national development goals.

–IANS

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New Delhi, Feb 27 (IANS) Ayush is not only a system of medicine but also a movement for social transformation, rural empowerment and global leadership in holistic healthcare, Ayush Minister Prataprao Jadhav said on Friday.

Speaking at the ‘National Arogya Fair 2026’ at Shegaon in Buldhana district, Maharashtra, Jadhav emphasised the growing relevance of Ayush in addressing lifestyle disorders.

He urged citizens to adopt disciplined daily routines such as early sleep and early rising to combat conditions like diabetes and hypertension.

The Minister highlighted the importance of preventive healthcare and encouraged the adoption of simple Ayurvedic home remedies rooted in traditional wisdom, referring to the popular concept of “Aaji Bai ka Batua” as an affordable and practical model for village-level self-care.

Jadhav also highlighted the importance of structured market linkages, quality standards and institutional support to enable India to emerge as a reliable global supplier of medicinal plant raw material.

The Ministry’s pavilion features participation from its Research Councils, National Institutes and the National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB), showcasing research achievements, academic programmes, clinical services, public health initiatives and evidence-based advancements across Ayush systems.

According to an official statement, a wide range of physical and digital Information, Education and Communication (IEC) materials are being disseminated to create awareness about flagship schemes, research outcomes and public health outreach programmes.

Interactive digital displays and exhibitions on medicinal plants and herbal products are engaging visitors from different age groups and backgrounds.

The statement further stated that free medical consultations are being provided by qualified practitioners from Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, Sowa-Rigpa and Homoeopathy systems.

“An exclusive Ayush Aahaar segment is promoting region-specific and nutritionally balanced dietary practices based on Ayush principles, reinforcing the critical role of diet in preventive healthcare and overall well-being,” it added.

The fair has emerged as an important platform for direct engagement with citizens, healthcare providers, farmers and industry stakeholders.

—IANS

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New Delhi, Feb 27 (IANS) In a significant milestone in India’s commitment to inclusive and ethical artificial intelligence (AI) advancement, the government has launched a Casebook on AI and Gender Empowerment, IT Ministry said on Friday.

Officially launched at the ‘India AI Impact Summit 2026’, the casebook has been developed by the government through the IndiaAI Mission under MeitY, in partnership with UN Women and supported by the Ministry of Women and Child Development (MoWCD).

It brings together 23 real-world AI solutions from across the Global South that demonstrate measurable impact on gender equality and women’s empowerment.

According to the ministry, the casebook features 23 AI solutions selected from 233 submissions across more than 50 countries through a rigorous multi-stage evaluation process.

“An independent evaluation committee comprising senior officials from MeitY, MoWCD, and UN Women assessed submissions based on real-world deployment, measurable gender impact, and evidence-based outcomes,” said the statement.

The featured solutions span critical sectors including healthcare including menstrual health, economic empowerment and financial inclusion, digital safety and prevention of technology-facilitated gender-based violence, climate resilience and sustainable agriculture, access to justice and legal services, education and skills development, and Knowledge Resource for Policymakers and Practitioners.

The casebook received international recognition when United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres visited the UN Women stall at the JanAI Expo.

The Secretary-General engaged with young women from rural communities pursuing STEM careers under the WeSTEM project, implemented by UN Women in collaboration with the Governments of Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Maharashtra, the European Union, Micron, Nokia, and the Head Held High Foundation.

According to the statement, the young women shared how they are using AI to build new skills, expand access to learning, and explore emerging employment opportunities, reflecting practical pathways toward becoming future technology leaders.

It further stated that the casebook serves as a comprehensive knowledge resource for policymakers, technology developers, researchers, and practitioners, highlighting practical options to ensure AI systems are ethical, inclusive, and responsive to the diverse realities of women and girls in India and across the Global South.

—IANS

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Bengaluru, Feb 26 (IANS) Karnataka School Education and Literacy Minister Madhu Bangarappa said on Thursday that the state government is considering regulating or banning social media for children below the age of 16, with a final decision to be taken after consulting students, parents, and experts.

Speaking to reporters after attending the National Science Day programme at the Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium in Bengaluru, the minister said the move is being explored in the interest of children’s well-being and development.

He expressed concern over the increasing dependence of children on mobile phones and said parents share responsibility for the growing problem.

He noted that many parents hand over mobile phones to keep children quiet, which has contributed to excessive exposure to social media and digital distractions.

Bangarappa said the government is planning an awareness campaign titled ‘Put away mobile phones, pick up books’, following directions from Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.

He added that the Chief Minister has repeatedly stressed the need to address the issue and promote healthier habits among students.

The minister said any decision would be taken only after extensive consultations with stakeholders, including students, teachers, parents, and subject experts.

He emphasised that the objective is to ensure decisions are made in the best interest of children.

He added that the proposal is currently in the discussion stage and that the government will take an appropriate decision soon under the guidance of the Chief Minister.

–IANS

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Seoul, Feb 25 (IANS) The number of babies born in South Korea grew at the fastest pace in 15 years in 2025, with the country’s total fertility rate rising to 0.8 for the first time in four years, government data showed on Wednesday.

A total of 254,500 babies were born last year, up 6.8 per cent, or 16,100, from 2024, according to the provisional data from the Ministry of Data and Statistics. The ministry will announce the final statistics in August, reports Yonhap news agency.

The 2025 tally marks the steepest on-year increase since 2010, and the second consecutive year of growth.

The total fertility rate, the average number of children a woman is expected to have over her lifetime, came to 0.8, up 0.05 from a year earlier, recovering the threshold for the first time in four years.

The ministry attributed the rebound in the number of newborns to an increase in marriages and the continued growth in the population of women in their early 30s, the prime childbearing age group, since 2021.

“The number of marriages gained ground for 21 straight months from April 2024 to December last year as couples who had delayed their marriages due to the COVID-19 pandemic tied the knot,” Park Hyun-jeong, a ministry official, explained.

Park also said there was a notable change in social perception toward childbirth, with the ministry’s latest biennial survey in 2024 showing an increase in people with intention to have children after marriage from two years earlier.

The proportion of people who are willing to give birth outside of marriage also went up, she added.

In terms of the total fertility rate, Park projected the figure to stay above the 0.8 level this year and further rise to the 1 mark in 2031.

Data also showed that the number of deaths added 1.3 per cent on-year to 363,400 in 2025, resulting in a natural population decline of 110,000.

—IANS

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