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Category: Health

  • Compliance Alone Will Not Build a Capable Hospital Workforce

    Insights from Mr. Deepak Sharma, Co-Founder and CEO, MedLern, on rethinking healthcare training

    The way hospitals train their staff has long been shaped by regulatory requirements. Training calendars are often designed around inspections, audits, and accreditation cycles. While compliance is necessary, relying on it as the primary driver of workforce training is increasingly proving insufficient. Rapid technological change, persistent staffing shortages, and rising patient expectations demand a more thoughtful and sustained approach to learning.
    When training is treated mainly as a regulatory obligation, it often sends the wrong signal to employees. It suggests that learning is something to be completed rather than something to be valued. Over time, this can create disengagement and a culture where development feels transactional instead of purposeful. In contrast, hospitals that view training as an ongoing investment in competence are better positioned to adapt to changing clinical, operational, and technological realities.

    Market consolidation and operational pressure
    Across India, healthcare delivery models are changing. Private equity–led consolidation has increased pressure on large multispecialty chains to improve operating performance, while other providers are building focused models around specific demographics, specialties, or cost efficiency. Regardless of the segment, there is a growing recognition that operational gains eventually depend on the quality and preparedness of the workforce. Systems and processes can only go so far if teams are not adequately trained to avoid errors, adapt to change, and deliver consistent care.

    Upskilling and continuous learning
    India continues to face a significant shortage of skilled healthcare workers. With only around 11 skilled health workers per 10,000 people actively practising, the gap compared to global benchmarks is evident. As a result, hospitals are increasingly focusing on developing existing staff rather than relying solely on new hiring. Structured upskilling and reskilling programs are becoming more common, particularly those that help staff transition into new roles, specialties, or leadership positions. These efforts reflect a shift away from one-time training sessions toward learning pathways that support long-term growth.

    Engagement and retention
    Training quality has a direct link to how employees feel about their work. Studies consistently show that well-designed training programs improve engagement and commitment. In healthcare, where attrition among skilled professionals can reach 25 to 30 percent, this connection becomes critical. Hospitals that create an environment where learning is continuous and relevant are more likely to retain experienced staff and reduce turnover-related disruption. This is especially important for groups that are more likely to exit the workforce, including women and older professionals.

    Responding to regulatory and technological change
    Regulatory requirements continue to evolve alongside advances in medical technology. Meeting compliance standards is no longer limited to documentation and protocols. Staff must be capable of using new devices, digital platforms, and data-driven tools effectively. Training in areas such as telemedicine, cybersecurity, and AI-supported clinical decision-making is now part of maintaining safe operations and patient trust. Competence in these areas supports both accreditation and quality of care.

    Encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration
    Healthcare delivery increasingly relies on coordinated, team-based models. When doctors, nurses, allied health professionals, and administrative teams train in isolation, communication gaps are more likely to emerge. Interdisciplinary training helps reduce these silos by improving shared understanding and collaboration. Hospitals that invest in joint learning experiences often see better coordination and smoother care transitions.

    Building competence as a culture
    Moving beyond mandatory training sessions requires a broader cultural shift. Many hospitals are now exploring clinically led training models, mentorship, and peer learning to make development more relevant and practical. Leadership development is also gaining attention, as strong leaders play a central role in sustaining learning cultures. These approaches place responsibility for learning closer to clinical practice rather than treating it as a purely administrative function.

    Impact on efficiency and patient outcomes
    Competence-focused training has implications beyond individual performance. Hospitals are adopting digital tools to streamline credentialing, personalise learning paths, and assess performance more effectively. The healthcare sector’s recent growth has been closely tied to technology adoption and increased service demand. Better training supports faster onboarding, reduces administrative burden, and helps ensure that staff are prepared to deliver safe, evidence-based care.

    Looking ahead
    For hospitals, shifting from a compliance-driven mindset to one centred on competence is no longer optional. As care delivery becomes more digital and complex, workforce capability will increasingly determine operational resilience and patient outcomes. National policy directions and workforce studies have consistently highlighted the need to improve not just the number of training institutions, but the relevance and quality of training, particularly for nurses and mid-level care providers. Treating training as a strategic investment in people is essential for building healthcare systems that are prepared for the future.
    At Prittle Prattle News, we honor your dedication and inventiveness led by showcasing you in a positive light. Under the direction of Editor-in-Chief Smruti Bhalerao, our platform is committed to disseminating powerful narratives that raise awareness and motivate change. For more important stories, follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTub

  • A New Conversation on Menopause Begins as Earthful Launches Paid Internship for Women Over 40

    The nutrition brand introduces a two month Menopause Cheerleaders Internship, aiming to hire five women above 40 and offering a stipend of Rs 1 lakh

     Plant based nutrition brand Earthful has announced the launch of a national initiative titled the Menopause Cheerleaders Internship, a two month paid community building programme designed for women above 40 years of age who have experienced menopause. The initiative seeks to bring attention to a phase of life that continues to remain under discussed in India, while creating space for lived experiences and shared learning.
    According to the company, the internship is aimed at women, particularly mothers, who want to take an active role in leading conversations around menopause. The programme offers a stipend of Rs 1 lakh and is structured as a flexible engagement focused on awareness, dialogue and community participation. Earthful has stated that it aims to hire five women above the age of 40 as part of this initiative.

    Founded in 2021, Earthful is a plant based nutrition brand that focuses on supporting women through the menopausal phase using natural products. The company offers a range of supplements derived entirely from plant ingredients such as amla, moringa and sunflower. Earthful positions its products around the use of plant sources and avoids artificial ingredients, including the use of plant based capsule shells made from pine bark.
    Explaining the motivation behind the initiative, Earthful Co founder Veda Gogineni said that the lack of visible support for women undergoing menopause stood out early in the company’s journey. She noted that while information exists, the absence of open voices has contributed to silence around the subject. Reflecting on personal experiences, she said menopause is often misunderstood or dismissed, even within families, and that the internship is intended to bring forward the perspectives of women who have lived through this phase.

    Earthful has highlighted that women spend a significant portion of their lives navigating menopause, yet many continue to do so without adequate resources, community or open discussion. In India, menopause is frequently surrounded by stigma and misinformation, leading many women to manage physical and emotional changes in isolation. Through this initiative, the company aims to place real experiences at the centre of the conversation and enable participants to act as community connectors.
    The role of a Menopause Cheerleader has been intentionally designed to allow flexibility. According to Earthful, interns can choose how they want to create awareness, whether through conversations in personal networks, social media content, neighbourhood gatherings or other community based interactions. The initiative does not restrict participation to a specific skill set, with the stated objective of encouraging diverse forms of engagement that resonate within local contexts.

    The company has announced the internship across its social media platforms including Instagram and LinkedIn, as well as through offline retail stores. Interested women are directed to apply through a form made available by the company.
    In 2022, Earthful introduced what it describes as India’s first herbal multivitamin formulated for menopausal women. The product is designed for women over the age of 40 and includes a combination of vitamins, minerals and herbs intended to support hormonal balance. The company states that the formulation avoids artificial ingredients and is aligned with its plant based approach.

    Through the Menopause Cheerleaders Internship, Earthful has positioned the programme as part of its broader effort to address gaps in conversations around women’s health. By inviting women who have experienced menopause to take the lead, the company aims to encourage more open dialogue and reduce the silence that often surrounds this stage of life.
    The initiative also touches on the broader theme of enabling women, including those who may have taken career breaks, to re engage with work in a flexible format. Earthful has framed the internship as an opportunity for women to share their experiences while contributing to a wider awareness effort focused on women’s health.

    The Menopause Cheerleaders Internship marks Earthful’s latest step in addressing taboos around menopause and reinforcing attention on a phase of life that has long remained overlooked in public discourse.
    At Prittle PrattleNews, featuring you virtuously, we celebrate the commitment and innovation. Led by Editor-in-Chief Smruti Bhalerao, our platform is dedicated to sharing impactful stories that inspire change and create awareness. Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube for more stories that matter.

  • Women’s Fitness Gains a Larger Platform as Milind Soman and Zydus Unveil Pinkathon Hyderabad with New Mascots and Invincible Women

    The event highlights women who have overcome personal challenges including cancer survivors, visually impaired runners and endurance athletes chosen as category mascots.

    Pinkathon will return to Hyderabad for its sixth edition in February with a renewed focus on breast cancer awareness, preventive health and inclusive participation. Led by Milind Soman and supported by Zydus Lifesciences, the event has evolved into one of India’s most visible platforms for women’s fitness and community driven health education. The upcoming edition on fifteen February at People’s Plaza continues this trajectory by introducing new mascots, new voices and a greater emphasis on resilience and representation within the running community.
    The Hyderabad announcement marks a significant chapter for the Pinkathon movement, which began in 2012 under the leadership of Milind Soman. The initiative was built with a belief that women deserve safe, welcoming and supportive spaces to pursue fitness, regardless of age, background or experience. Over the past thirteen years, Pinkathon has encouraged more than half a million women to take part in organised running events across India. It has also funded breast screenings for thousands of participants and raised more than one crore rupees to support underprivileged cancer patients. With Zydus joining the initiative this season through a preventive health partnership, Pinkathon aims to deepen awareness about early detection and self examination.

    The 2025 to 2026 season will run across Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Chennai and Delhi. In Hyderabad, the announcement event hosted by Park Hyatt served as a preview to the themes and stories that will shape the upcoming edition. Joining the platform this year is Invincible Women, founded by Ankita Konwar. The initiative champions endurance running for women and advocates for a mindset where physical activity is framed as a pathway to independence, self belief and holistic wellbeing. Her association with Pinkathon builds upon the shared goal of helping women prioritise their health by breaking down social, psychological and cultural barriers.
    A defining part of this year’s Hyderabad narrative is its set of category mascots. These individuals represent the spirit of Pinkathon through lived experience rather than athletic achievement alone. Poonam Metta will serve as the mascot for the one hundred kilometre category, symbolising endurance at the highest level. Devyani Haldar will represent the seventy five kilometre category, while Leena Roy will stand for fifty kilometres. Their presence highlights a growing interest among women in long distance and ultra distance formats in India.

    The event also honours stories grounded in everyday courage. For the ten kilometre category, Mardaku Anitha will serve as mascot, representing visually impaired runners who continue to redefine what participation can look like. For the Lifelong five kilometre category, Sarita Sarkar, a cancer survivor, will stand as a reminder that movement and recovery can coexist. For the three kilometre category, Preety Khanna will represent babywearing mothers, affirming that fitness can adapt to different stages of life. This diverse lineup underlines the idea that there is no single profile of a Pinkathon participant. Instead, it celebrates women who bring their own motivations and challenges to the start line.
    Addressing the media at the announcement, Milind Soman described Pinkathon as a celebration of women choosing themselves. He emphasised that Hyderabad has consistently shown enthusiasm for the event and that this edition offers a meaningful opportunity to strengthen conversations around breast cancer. He noted that the partnership with Zydus will extend Pinkathon’s ability to reach women with timely information about early detection and self care.

    Ankita Konwar added that Invincible Women aims to provide a supportive space for women who want to test their physical capabilities and expand their confidence. Speaking at the event, she encouraged women in Hyderabad to join the run and engage with the resources and conversations around preventive health. The shared goal across both platforms is to encourage regular self checks, open discussions and proactive health behaviours.
    The focus on preventive health is reinforced by Zydus through its Easiest Exam campaign. The initiative aims to popularise a simple three minute monthly breast self exam that can help identify changes at an early stage. In India, where breast cancer continues to affect lakhs of women every year, early detection remains one of the most effective ways to improve outcomes. Dr Mohana Vamsy, a surgical oncologist, underscored this during the announcement by noting that many cases are still detected late and that awareness can significantly alter the course of treatment and survival. She spoke about the importance of addressing cultural discomfort and building familiarity with self examination so that women feel confident about seeking clinical support.

    Dr Sharvil Patel, Managing Director of Zydus Lifesciences, reaffirmed the company’s belief that timely awareness can save lives. He explained that the organisation’s purpose is to help people live healthier and more fulfilled lives and that breast health is a central part of that commitment. By joining hands with Pinkathon, Zydus aims to extend its message to a broader community of women and encourage them to make preventive care a personal priority.
    Over the years, Pinkathon has also experimented with formats that encourage participation from women who may not identify as athletes. Initiatives such as the Saree Run, Grandmothers ten kilometre run, Babywearing Mothers Walk and Midnight Fearless Run have demonstrated that fitness events can be inclusive without compromising their structure. These community driven activities will continue across Hyderabad in the months leading up to the main run. Each activation is designed to break stereotypes, expand comfort zones and bring more women into a shared space of movement and support.

    The Hyderabad edition is supported by an extensive network of partners. Zydus Lifesciences joins as the Title Partner, Healthy Master as the Healthy Snacking Partner, Lotus Herbal as the Sunscreen Partner, and Lifelong as the Fitness Partner. Sirona contributes as the Hygiene Partner, and Park Hyatt supports as the Hospitality Partner. Fujifilm strengthens the event as the Breast Health Partner. Support from SAI and Fit India adds institutional legitimacy, while Inc 5 contributes as the Gifting Partner. Execution is led by Smiling Tiger Experiences, known for its experience in large scale participatory sporting events across India.
    Through these partnerships and narratives, the sixth edition of Pinkathon Hyderabad reinforces its purpose as more than a run. It is a reminder that fitness can be a unifying space for empowerment. It is a call for early detection. It is a platform where stories of resilience are given room to be seen and heard. And when the event begins on fifteen February, it will reflect a community that continues to grow through solidarity and shared intent.
    Prittle Prattle News continues to spotlight such movements that reshape public conversations on health and empowerment, featuring you virtuously under the leadership of Smruti Bhalerao.
    At Prittle Prattle News, we honor your dedication and inventiveness led by showcasing you in a positive light. Under the direction of Editor-in-Chief Smruti Bhalerao, our platform is committed to disseminating powerful narratives that raise awareness and motivate change. For more important stories, follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTub

  • Older Adults Gain a National Platform as WalkAbout with Deval Delivala Introduces the Senior Games for Active Living

    With interest in movement rising across India, the Senior Games represent WalkAbout’s commitment to creating experiences that unite purpose, participation and the joy of shared activity for older communities.

    India’s understanding of ageing is undergoing a visible shift. Across cities and neighbourhoods, adults above the age of fifty five are embracing new forms of recreation, community engagement and fitness. This social momentum has created fertile ground for initiatives that move beyond the traditional view of retirement and instead recognise older adults as active contributors to cultural and community life. WalkAbout, a platform dedicated to active agers, has stepped into this moment with the announcement of the WalkAbout Senior Games, scheduled to be held on 20 December 2025 at Juhu in Mumbai.

    The Senior Games introduce a format rarely seen in India. The event recreates the spirit of the school sports day and adapts it for an older audience that seeks structure, challenge and shared enjoyment. More than two hundred participants are expected to gather for a morning of relays, throw based challenges, box cricket, skill stations and interactive warm up sessions. The format includes eight houses to encourage teamwork and friendly competition. Each activity has been adjusted to suit different levels of mobility so that adults across the fitness spectrum can participate with confidence and safety.

    This announcement arrives at a time when conversations around ageing in India are shifting from dependence to dignity. Research, lifestyle trends and community engagement point toward older adults who are healthier, more independent and eager for purposeful activity. WalkAbout has built its platform precisely around this cultural movement. The Senior Games serve as a public signal that movement, learning and social participation can continue throughout life rather than ending at a particular age.
    National programmes such as Khelo India, available at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Khelo_India
    , have helped popularise sport among younger generations. WalkAbout extends this idea by creating a legitimate sporting culture for older communities. The intention is not competition alone but connection. Participants come together to form relationships that grow beyond the event. They rediscover teamwork and group identity, factors known to support emotional wellbeing and resilience in later life.

    Deval Delivala, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of WalkAbout, notes that India is ready for a new lens on ageing. In her view, the Senior Games reflect what she sees across the community. She observes older adults who seek movement, curiosity and independence. She believes that if opportunities are created with thought and sensitivity, older Indians will engage with enthusiasm. She explains that these events are not simply recreational moments but markers of what ageing in India can become. Her emphasis is on giving people the tools and confidence to remain active for as long as possible. She encourages a culture where adults can age in place with dignity, supported by their communities.
    As an extension of the Senior Games, WalkAbout has also introduced the WalkAbout Senior Athlete Program. It is positioned as the first structured initiative in India that recognises adults above fifty five who pursue regular movement. The programme acknowledges everyday champions such as runners, cyclists, trekkers and yoga practitioners who demonstrate that physical activity after midlife is not unusual. These athletes will receive monetary support, branded merchandise, leadership opportunities at WalkAbout events and a national platform to share their journeys. Through this programme, WalkAbout hopes to inspire others to build active habits and a consistent approach to fitness.

    WalkAbout refers to itself as a third space for active agers. The term third space, described at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Third_place, refers to environments that are different from the home and the workplace and serve as centres for community life. WalkAbout uses this concept to offer curated activity based gatherings across Indian cities. These experiences vary from group walks and cultural outings to wellness sessions and workshops. The Senior Games expand this ecosystem by adding a large scale sports event to the platform.
    he rise of such spaces reflects demographic trends. India hosts a growing older population, explained through census studies and demographic reports available at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Demographics_of_India. As life expectancy increases, adults seek sustained engagement to maintain physical and mental health. Community based initiatives reduce isolation, encourage routine and offer social circles that reinforce independence. WalkAbout positions itself within this landscape by creating an environment where older adults can form friendships and rediscover interests that may have taken a secondary place earlier in life.

    The Senior Games also recognise the psychological effect of participation. Many adults have memories of school sports days where competition was linked with excitement, pride and collective identity. By recreating this environment for older participants, the event invites them to reconnect with these emotions in a setting suited to their abilities. The structure of houses and teams ensures that the day is not only about individual performance but also about cheering, encouraging and celebrating together.
    The venue at Juhu adds significance to the event. Mumbai has long been viewed as a city of movement where daily life involves walking, commuting and engaging with diverse communities. It is a fitting setting for an event that encourages physical and social activity. WalkAbout aims to expand this model to additional cities, gradually creating a nationwide calendar of events for older adults.

    WalkAbout’s identity rests on a blend of physical movement, community interaction and cultural experience. The platform, accessible at https://mywalkabout.in, presents older adults with structured opportunities to learn, travel, socialise and engage in wellness practices. The Senior Games therefore serve as both a flagship experience and a public statement of purpose. They highlight the value of active ageing and demonstrate the type of environment WalkAbout hopes to build across the country.
    The initiative also acknowledges the cultural moment in which it is emerging. Regional and national conversations on health, mental wellbeing and social connection are now shaping policy and private sector movements. WalkAbout’s approach aligns with this shift by recognising the emotional and physical needs of older adults and by creating practical ways for them to participate fully in community life.
    In bringing the Senior Games to Mumbai, WalkAbout with Deval Delivala has introduced a platform that is likely to spark additional interest across India. With more than two hundred participants preparing to take part, the event represents an important step in redefining what ageing can look like. It highlights the possibility of movement, the comfort of community and the value of purpose as enduring elements in life.
    This editorial has been prepared exclusively for Prittle Prattle News, featuring you virtuously under the leadership of Smruti Bhalerao, with a commitment to documenting the ideas and movements shaping India’s present and future.
    At Prittle Prattle News, we honor your dedication and inventiveness led by showcasing you in a positive light. Under the direction of Editor-in-Chief Smruti Bhalerao, our platform is committed to disseminating powerful narratives that raise awareness and motivate change. For more important stories, follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTub

  • As birth asphyxia persists, Johnson’s Baby scales neonatal resuscitation with training across India

    With over 2 lakh nurses, midwives and paediatricians trained through a leading paediatrician association, Johnson’s Baby’s initiative focuses on the first minute of life and the importance of neonatal resuscitation

    In a country where 1.25 lakh newborns die within 24 hours of birth every year, largely due to preventable complications like birth asphyxia, timely intervention has never been more critical. Responding to this challenge, Johnson’s® Baby has quietly supported a transformative public health initiative over the last 16 years: the training of more than 2 lakh healthcare professionals in Neonatal Resuscitation Protocols (NRP).
    Partnering with a leading paediatrician association, the brand has helped strengthen neonatal emergency response across India. Nurses, midwives and paediatricians trained through this initiative are now equipped with life-saving skills to manage asphyxiated newborns in the first moments of life. The program aims to reinforce one powerful message that every breath matters.

    Neonatal resuscitation is a globally recognised, evidence-based practice that provides healthcare professionals with standardised training in assessing, supporting and reviving newborns facing difficulty breathing at birth. Despite its proven efficacy, the lack of formalised training at scale had previously limited access to such interventions in India, especially in remote and underserved regions.
    “The survival of a newborn depends on correct interventions provided at the first minute of a baby’s birth. Unfortunately, these critical interventions are often compromised due to insufficient knowledge, training, and resources available to healthcare professionals,” said Manoj Gadgil, Business Unit Head – Essential Health & Skin Health and VP Marketing, Kenvue, India.

    He continued, “At Johnson’s® Baby, we promise to protect babies not only from their first day but from the first moment. From providing high-quality products to partnering with social impact organisations, we are passionate about helping improve the lives of babies.”
    The scale of this training initiative makes it one of the largest neonatal-focused skill-building efforts in the country. Over 2 lakh healthcare workers have participated in hands-on, expert-led sessions on neonatal emergency care, intervention techniques, and structured response systems under the NRP framework.

    One of the standout aspects of the 2025 campaign is its culturally sensitive public engagement strategy. The latest awareness push includes a digital short film titled Pahila Saans, conceptualised by creative agency DDB Mudra. Set in a small-town hospital, the film illustrates the dramatic moment when a newborn, unable to breathe, is revived by a healthcare worker following resuscitation protocols. The emotional core of the film is the traditional Indian cradle song Sohar, reinterpreted to celebrate the power of timely medical action.
    All streaming revenues generated by this musical tribute will be donated to scale the neonatal resuscitation initiative further, extending training to new regions and healthcare institutions.

    Malini Awasthi, the renowned folk singer who lent her voice to the project, remarked, “As a folk singer, I have always believed that music has the power to connect hearts and inspire action. The first cry of a baby is a song of hope, and through this initiative we celebrate the birth of life. It is my humble effort to ensure that no parent has to endure the heartbreak of losing a child due to a lack of timely intervention.”
    The campaign’s core theme Project Golden Minute highlights the first 60 seconds after a baby’s birth as the window during which immediate care can determine life or death. In India, where healthcare disparities persist across states and regions, strengthening medical response in that one minute could significantly reduce neonatal mortality rates.

    Siddhesh Khatavkar and Harshada Menon, Executive Creative Directors at DDB Mudra, described the creative process as an exercise in honouring both maternal courage and the healthcare workforce. “Through this project, that precious first minute is being safeguarded by thousands of trained doctors, midwives, and healthcare workers. Saving a newborn isn’t just a medical intervention; it is an act of love,” they noted.
    Johnson’s® Baby also plans to scale public outreach through multi-platform engagement including social media influencer collaborations, cinema advertisements with PVR Cinemas, and on-ground activations in maternity hospitals and community health centres. The campaign will tap into both emotional storytelling and health literacy to amplify awareness about the preventability of birth asphyxia.

    Over the last decade and a half, the brand has supported a paediatrician-led training framework that includes curriculum development, clinical mentoring, assessment, and ongoing feedback. These efforts have created a growing network of trained professionals who now serve as regional champions for neonatal safety.
    This long-term approach distinguishes the program from short-term CSR interventions. By embedding the training within a credible institutional partnership and funding its continuity, Johnson’s® Baby has contributed to systemic change in newborn care.

    The program also aligns with broader national goals under initiatives such as the India Newborn Action Plan (INAP), which seeks to reduce preventable newborn deaths and stillbirths through high-impact interventions at scale. By focusing on the first minute of life—a critical, often overlooked interval the initiative addresses a gap in implementation within the healthcare delivery system
    Importantly, the impact of such a program also goes beyond neonatal units. It influences policy conversations around birth preparedness, maternal training, emergency response standardisation and equitable access to skilled care. These ripple effects can help create a more resilient, inclusive public health ecosystem.
    As Johnson’s® Baby continues to honour its promise of supporting babies from their very first breath, the success of its 16-year partnership with India’s paediatric leadership offers a compelling example of what private-public collaboration can achieve.
    In the words of a midwife in rural Maharashtra who participated in the program: “When I heard the baby cry after using what I learned in training, I felt like I had been given a superpower. That cry will stay with me forever.”
    For Johnson’s® Baby, that sound is not just a milestone, it is a mission fulfilled.
    At Prittle Prattle News, we honor your dedication and inventiveness led by showcasing you in a positive light. Under the direction of Editor-in-Chief Smruti Bhalerao, our platform is committed to disseminating powerful narratives that raise awareness and motivate change. For more important stories, follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTub

  • Beyond the Pill: How a Pharmacologist Turned Author Confronts the Limits of Medicine

    Author Devanssh Mehta’s latest work peels back the layers of identity, dependency and memory through the character of Ariv, offering readers an honest exploration of trauma, introspection and the limits of pharmaceutical science.

    In the long journey from scientific rigor to emotional clarity, Beyond the Pill emerges as a turning point in the career of Devanssh Mehta. Known for his extensive academic contributions in pharmacology and biomedical sciences, Mehta has written over a hundred books across disciplines. Yet, none have challenged his own identity the way this one has. Beyond the Pill is not just a book. It is a confrontation with the inner fractures, buried memories and unanswered questions that often remain untouched by medicine.
    At its core, Beyond the Pill is an inquiry into the human mind. It begins with a question that underpins Mehta’s transition from academic writing to introspective literature: what remains of the self when science stops working? Through the fictional character of Ariv, the book explores psychological struggle without clinical distance. Ariv’s emotional volatility, his blurred sense of reality and his craving for coherence are not stylised for dramatic effect. They are drawn from the lived observations of the author, as a son, a caregiver, a researcher and a man who has walked the edges of emotional breakdown himself.

    Devanssh Mehta does not place science and suffering at odds. Instead, he recognises their boundaries. He knows what a pill can stabilise and what it cannot mend. He has seen pharmacology work, but he has also witnessed the deeper conflicts it cannot resolve. Beyond the Pill asks the reader to step into that space. It is a book about memory loss, dependency, suppressed identity and the silence that follows inner collapse.
    This shift in Mehta’s writing is deliberate. Having long been recognised for academic precision and scientific clarity, he lets go of that structure here. Beyond the Pill moves through emotion, recollection, instability and reassembly. It reflects the author’s own resistance to rigid formats as he begins to write from a space of emotional honesty rather than professional detachment. There are no chapters that flow with linear certainty. Instead, the progression bends with Ariv’s mind, at times fragmented, at times lucid, always human.

    The choice to explore these themes did not come without personal cost. Mehta’s life, shaped by discipline under the guidance of his father Late Colonel Vinoy Kumar Mehta and marked by the emotional weight of his mother’s cancer journey, informs the emotional weight of the novel. While Beyond the Pill is not autobiographical, it is deeply personal. The emotional tone of the book mirrors real moments of loss, caregiving and internal transformation.
    Each central theme in Beyond the Pill extends from Mehta’s own life experiences. The exploration of identity reveals how memory and self-image often disconnect. The portrayal of dependency questions not just chemical reliance but emotional escape. Mental health is shown not as a topic for awareness campaigns but as a lived battlefield. Healing in this book is not a soft recovery but a painful reconstruction. And above all, the story asks what it means to be a human being when scientific labels fall short.

    In India’s evolving literary space, Mehta is one of the few authors successfully bridging science and human emotion. He has consistently refused to use his pharmaceutical knowledge as a shield against vulnerability. Instead, he opens up that world to show where it intersects with real psychological struggle. For readers familiar with his academic work, Beyond the Pill offers something unfamiliar but essential, a view of the author without his professional armour.
    The early reactions to the book have confirmed its impact. Readers describe feeling understood, shaken, relieved and provoked. Many have written to say it gave them a way to process emotions they could not name. Some say it helped them face grief they had long hidden. Others say it captured the unease they live with every day. Beyond the Pill resonates because it does not seek to teach. It seeks to accompany.
    For Mehta, this book marks a division in his writing life. Everything he has written before led to it. Everything he writes after will carry its influence. Beyond the Pill is not an escape from science. It is a return to humanity. It is not about abandoning knowledge. It is about recognising its limits.
    As Devanssh Mehta continues to shape India’s cross-disciplinary literary voice, Beyond the Pill stands as one of his most revealing and grounded works. Published at a time when mental health, identity and healing are pressing global issues, the book invites readers to reflect on their own interior lives. It is not a prescription. It is a pause. A space for reckoning. A place to begin again.
    At Prittle Prattle News, we honor your dedication and inventiveness led by showcasing you in a positive light. Under the direction of Editor-in-Chief Smruti Bhalerao, our platform is committed to disseminating powerful narratives that raise awareness and motivate change. For more important stories, follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTub

  • Japan’s Teijin and India’s BioVaram enter strategic alliance to advance regenerative medicine and medical device access

    The agreement covers joint work on commercializing Teijin’s SYNFOLIUMⓇ heart repair patch in India and introducing BioVaram’s exosome-based therapeutics and collagen biomaterials in Japan

    In a significant move to bridge medical innovation across Asia, Teijin Limited, a technology-led global group based in Japan, has entered into a strategic partnership with BioVaram, the biotechnology arm of Hyderabad-based UR Advanced Therapeutics Pvt Ltd (URAT). The two companies have signed a formal business alliance agreement to advance the availability and development of regenerative medicine products and implantable medical devices in India and Japan.
    The agreement is a dual-track collaboration that allows Teijin to evaluate and introduce BioVaram’s novel regenerative medicine innovations into Japan, while enabling BioVaram to bring select products from Teijin’s healthcare portfolio into the Indian clinical and regulatory ecosystem.

    One of the key components of this alliance is the proposed regulatory approval and commercialization of SYNFOLIUMⓇ, a bioabsorbable cardiovascular patch developed by Teijin Medical Technologies Co., Ltd., a group company of Teijin Limited. Designed for tissue repair in cardiovascular surgeries, this device is now being evaluated for market entry in India. The partnership aims to expedite this process through local clinical validation and regulatory compliance.
    Equally important to the alliance is the potential expansion of Japan Tissue Engineering Co., Ltd. (J-TEC) products into India. J-TEC, a subsidiary of the Teijin Group, is one of Japan’s leading names in regenerative medicine. Their offerings in skin, cartilage, and tissue-engineered cellular products are currently available only in the Japanese market but are now being explored for introduction to India through this collaboration.

    From the Indian side, BioVaram will evaluate the development and potential approval pathways for some of its flagship innovations in Japan. This includes exosome-based diagnostics and therapeutics, extracellular matrix mimics, and bio-derived materials such as Type I atelocollagen, which are key ingredients in tissue engineering. These products will be positioned for potential development in collaboration with Japanese manufacturing and distribution channels, and technical integration will be a core area of joint planning.
    Commenting on the partnership, Dr. Takayuki Nakano, Mission Executive and General Manager of the Regenerative Medicine & Implantable Medical Device Division at Teijin Limited, said the agreement represents a significant step in the group’s international expansion. “By combining the exceptional technological capabilities and expertise of both companies across the distinct healthcare markets of Japan and India, we are confident in our ability to deliver meaningful therapies that address long-standing gaps in care. This partnership builds on Teijin’s commitment to globalizing its regenerative medicine business.”

    Echoing the sentiment, Jaganmohan Reddy, Founder and CEO of UR Advanced Therapeutics, described the partnership as a milestone in BioVaram’s global journey. “This agreement reinforces our vision to transform India into a centre of excellence for regenerative medicine. Through collaboration with Teijin, we expand our R&D capabilities, scale our manufacturing, and gain access to a healthcare market that is both deeply advanced and open to innovation.”
    Founded in 2018 and headquartered in Hyderabad, BioVaram has rapidly earned recognition as one of India’s most promising biotechnology companies in the space of regenerative medicine and cellular therapeutics. It was named a “Top 5 Startup” at BioAsia 2024 and is known for its in-house development of AI-designed peptides, therapeutic exosomes, and a proprietary portfolio of collagen-based scaffolds and ECM substitutes.

    On the Japanese side, Teijin brings a long-standing legacy in medical and material sciences. Established in 1918 and listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange (TSE: 3401), Teijin Limited operates across high-performance materials and healthcare, with over 170 group companies globally. Its healthcare division includes Teijin Medical Technologies, Teijin Regenet, and J-TEC, all working across regenerative therapies, CDMO services, and implantable devices.
    In 2022, Teijin consolidated these businesses into a dedicated division focused on regenerative medicine, setting a fiscal 2030 target of JPY 20 billion in global revenue from this vertical. The alliance with BioVaram is expected to play a crucial role in fulfilling this vision by adding scalable, export-ready technologies from India into Teijin’s innovation and commercialization pipeline.

    As part of the roadmap, the companies will jointly assess the regulatory pathways, product compatibility, technical integration, and manufacturing feasibility for several co-developed initiatives. These include cell and gene therapy, bioengineered skin and tissue products, and advanced biomaterials for surgical applications.
    The collaboration also reflects a broader shift toward cross-border innovation in the healthcare sector. With Japan’s super-ageing population and India’s fast-growing biotech capabilities, the alliance between Teijin and BioVaram brings together two ecosystems that are distinct yet complementary.
    As regulatory consultations begin and feasibility studies move forward, both companies will continue to co-develop products that meet shared standards of efficacy, patient safety, and ethical manufacturing.
    This partnership signals not only a new era of product development and global expansion but also a mutual commitment to innovation that is sustainable, accessible, and deeply rooted in science.
    At Prittle Prattle News, we honor your dedication and inventiveness led by showcasing you in a positive light. Under the direction of Editor-in-Chief Smruti Bhalerao, our platform is committed to disseminating powerful narratives that raise awareness and motivate change. For more important stories, follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTub

  • Founded by Dr Vritika Agrawal, DermaCute Opens Mumbai Flagship at New Link Road

    With global dermatology market at USD 1.50 billion and India’s aesthetic segment set to reach USD 383.79 million by 2032, DermaCute opens in Mumbai offering advanced, personalised treatments in dermatology and aesthetics.

    DermaCute, a dermatology and aesthetic clinic founded by Dr Vritika Agrawal, has launched its flagship centre in Mumbai, located on New Link Road, Andheri West. The clinic aims to provide advanced, evidence-based skincare and aesthetic solutions tailored to individual needs, marking its entry at a time of significant growth in the dermatology sector both globally and in India.
    Globally, the dermatology market is valued at USD 1.50 billion in 2025 and projected to reach USD 2.75 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 6.94%. In India, the aesthetic dermatology segment is expanding rapidly from USD 169.48 million in 2024 to an expected USD 383.79 million by 2032 driven by rising consumer demand for medically supervised, technology-driven skincare.

    DermaCute offers a comprehensive suite of treatments, including personalised solutions for acne, scars, pigmentation, anti-ageing, hair removal, and skin rejuvenation. The clinic combines laser technologies, non-invasive contouring, and facial enhancement techniques with a strong clinical foundation, aiming to deliver safe and lasting outcomes.
    Founder and CEO Dr Vritika Agrawal, an MBBS and MD in Dermatology, brings together clinical expertise and a vision for a modern, patient-first approach. At DermaCute, our goal is to make advanced dermatological care more accessible, transparent, and effective,” she said. “We believe in treatment plans that are built on scientific precision and adapted to each person’s skin health journey.

    The clinic’s design reflects a blend of clinical functionality and wellness-oriented aesthetics, with a focus on comfort, hygiene, and patient privacy. It also provides detailed consultations and diagnostic skin assessments before recommending any procedures.
    DermaCute enters the market as Indian consumers increasingly seek holistic and personalised skincare options. With rising awareness around preventive care, regenerative skin therapies, and minimally invasive aesthetic procedures, the clinic aims to meet the expectations of a discerning, health-conscious audience.

    The launch of DermaCute adds to Mumbai’s growing landscape of specialised skin clinics, reinforcing the shift toward technology-enabled, doctor-led skincare in India’s urban centres.
    At Prittle Prattle News, we honor your dedication and inventiveness led by showcasing you in a positive light. Under the direction of Editor-in-Chief Smruti Bhalerao, our platform is committed to disseminating powerful narratives that raise awareness and motivate change. For more important stories, follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTub

  • Cancer Screening Takes Center Stage as Vidya Balan Leads Sanjeevani’s National Call to Act Early

    Over 70 percent of cancer cases in India are detected at late stages, and Sanjeevani’s new campaign with Vidya Balan warns that even the healthiest are at risk, urging every Indian to make routine cancer screening a priority before symptoms appear.

    The third edition of Sanjeevani: United Against Cancer, a collaborative initiative by Federal Bank Hormis Memorial Foundation, News18 Network, and knowledge partner Tata Trusts, was launched today with a powerful message: early detection saves lives, and cancer screening must become a priority for every individual, regardless of their perceived health or fitness.
    At the center of this movement stands actor Vidya Balan, lending her voice to two impactful new films that challenge the widely held belief that a healthy lifestyle can prevent all illness. The films underscore that cancer is often silent and does not discriminate based on age, diet, or physical activity. Vidya’s performances highlight that the only true protection is regular screening, done before symptoms appear.

    The first film portrays seemingly healthy individuals people who are physically active, follow strict diets, and live disciplined lives yet still face the risk of undetected illness. Vidya emphasizes that fitness is no substitute for screening and delivers a poignant reminder that taking action early is the real key to survival. Her message is clear: screening is not about fear, but about proactive care and hope.
    In the second film, Vidya draws a comparison between filmmaking and life. She reflects on how actors rehearse scenes to perfection, yet there is no second take in life when it comes to missed screenings. The film drives home the point that early detection provides time to respond, seek treatment, and preserve life. Waiting for symptoms to appear may be too late.

    Sanjeevani aims to shift national perceptions about cancer. The campaign reinforces four key principles:
    Early detection saves lives: Many cancers develop without noticeable symptoms. Detecting them early allows for simpler, more effective treatment options, and significantly improves survival rates.
    Fitness is not immunity: While physical fitness contributes to general wellbeing, it does not eliminate the need for cancer screenings. Cancer can affect anyone, regardless of how healthy they appear.
    Facing fear with action: People often delay screenings due to fear of diagnosis. Sanjeevani reframes the narrative, encouraging screenings as empowering and life-affirming, rather than frightening.

    Open conversation breaks stigma: Families and communities must speak openly about screening and testing. The more these conversations happen, the more screening becomes a normalized part of self-care.
    Speaking on the campaign, M V S Murthy, Chief Marketing Officer of Federal Bank, said, “At Federal Bank Hormis Memorial Foundation, we treat health as an investment in the nation’s future. Sanjeevani has already reached thousands across India, and this year we are expanding our reach. Screening should be a right, not a privilege. Vidya Balan’s voice brings urgency and empathy to this cause.”
    Siddharth Saini, COO of News18 Studios, added, “Sanjeevani is not just about awareness. It is about action. These films, backed by data and supported by real partnerships, move people from knowledge to behavior change. With Vidya Balan onboard, we have cultural credibility and emotional reach.”

    Surojit Sen, Co-Founder and CEO of Huddlers Innovation Private Limited, explained the insight behind the campaign. “Through research and personal conversations, we identified that fitness enthusiasts often believe they are immune to cancer risk. The gym setting in our film was chosen to directly challenge this misconception. Our goal is to make screening a universally accepted part of fitness routines.”
    The urgency is real. In India, over 70 percent of cancers are detected in late stages, making treatment more difficult, expensive, and often ineffective. By placing the spotlight on early detection, Sanjeevani seeks to change outcomes and save lives.
    The films, conceptualized by Huddlers Innovation Private Limited, focus on action and empowerment rather than fear. They highlight dignity, self-respect, and the ability to choose timely care. Vidya Balan’s involvement reinforces a deeply human approach that respects viewers’ concerns while promoting responsibility.
    Audiences can watch these films on Sanjeevani’s digital platforms, News18’s broadcast channels, and on select streaming services starting today. Every share, every conversation, and every completed screening brings India closer to a healthier, more prepared future.

    About Federal Bank:
    Federal Bank is one of India’s leading private sector banks, with a network of 1,591 branches and over 2,000 ATMs across the country. As of June 30, 2025, the bank reported a business mix of ₹5.29 lakh crore and a Capital Adequacy Ratio of 16.03 percent under Basel III norms. With overseas offices in Dubai and Abu Dhabi and an IBU in Gujarat’s GIFT City, the bank serves Non-Resident Indian customers while continuing to expand its domestic and international footprint.

    About Tata Trusts:
    Tata Trusts, India’s oldest philanthropic organization established in 1892, has long led efforts to improve public health, education, and social welfare. Through the Tata Cancer Care Foundation, the Trusts have set up more than 20 cancer facilities across six states, offering comprehensive care built on the principles of access, affordability, quality and awareness. Their mission is to reverse the ratio of late-to-early cancer detection by normalizing screening and improving outcomes for families across India.
    At Prittle Prattle News, we honor your dedication and inventiveness led by showcasing you in a positive light. Under the direction of Editor-in-Chief Smruti Bhalerao, our platform is committed to disseminating powerful narratives that raise awareness and motivate change. For more important stories, follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube.

  • SOUKYA Acquires Six Acres in Bengaluru to Build 100-Bed AYUSH Hospital with ₹125 Crore Investment

    Led by Dr Isaac Mathai, SOUKYA will develop a 100-bed integrative healthcare centre in Bengaluru, backed by a ₹125 crore investment, expanding its reach beyond luxury wellness to affordable AYUSH medicine.

    SOUKYA International Holistic Health Centre, globally recognized for its holistic medical care and wellness therapies, has announced the acquisition of six acres of land in Hoskote, near its existing campus in Bengaluru. The project marks a new phase in the institution’s journey with the establishment of a 100-bed AYUSH hospital focused on making integrative healthcare accessible and affordable for a wider community.
    The total project investment stands at ₹125 crore, comprising ₹50 crore for land acquisition and ₹75 crore for construction and development. The upcoming facility will provide comprehensive integrative care that combines modern Allopathy with traditional Indian systems including Ayurveda, Homeopathy, Naturopathy, Siddha, Unani, and Yoga, creating a single platform for evidence-based, patient-centred healing.

    SOUKYA has earned global distinction for its commitment to combining modern diagnostics with time-tested natural therapies. Founded by Dr Isaac Mathai and Dr Suja Isaac, the centre has served patients from more than 100 countries and has been trusted by global leaders, industrialists, and celebrities. The Hoskote expansion builds on this legacy, extending SOUKYA’s reach beyond ultra-premium wellness experiences to accessible AYUSH medicine designed for long-term health management.
    The announcement comes at a time when India’s AYUSH ecosystem is seeing record growth. The Ministry of AYUSH’s budget for FY26 has risen by 14.2 percent to ₹3,992.9 crore (US$ 461.3 million). The Indian AYUSH market, valued at US$ 43.3 billion in 2024, is projected to reach US$ 200 billion by 2030. Parallelly, India’s wellness tourism sector is estimated to grow from ₹1.64 lakh crore to ₹2.57 lakh crore by 2031, reflecting both rising domestic demand and international interest in holistic and preventive medicine.

    Speaking about the development, Dr Isaac Mathai, Founder of SOUKYA, said that the institution’s philosophy has always been to combine the highest standards of medical science with India’s deep-rooted wellness traditions. “SOUKYA has always been envisioned as a sanctuary where global standards of holistic healthcare meet India’s finest traditions of natural medicine. As we move forward, our growth will take two parallel paths. One will focus on the expansion of SOUKYA’s global footprint for high-net-worth patients, beginning with our first international centre in Portugal. The second path begins with this new initiative in Hoskote, designed to make authentic integrative medicine affordable and accessible. With strong public trust, policy support, and India’s growing role in global wellness, this is the right time to extend holistic healthcare to more people,” he said.

    Construction of the new hospital is expected to begin within six to nine months. The project will be completed in two phases. Phase I will deliver 50 beds and essential specialisations, while Phase II will expand capacity to the full 100 beds and broaden the range of disciplines. The facility is expected to be fully operational by the end of FY27.
    The new hospital will provide integrated treatments for chronic, rare, and lifestyle-related conditions, including cancer rehabilitation, respiratory and metabolic disorders, reproductive health, neurological and musculoskeletal diseases, and addiction recovery. Each treatment plan will draw from both modern medicine and traditional systems, allowing multidisciplinary teams to tailor therapies to patient needs.

    In addition to medical services, the new hospital will reflect SOUKYA’s holistic philosophy in its design and daily operation. Plans include an organic food program, a one-kilometre walking track, an organic farm promoting farm-to-table nutrition, and advanced rainwater harvesting systems. Importantly, the hospital will also offer comprehensive insurance coverage across all treatments, an important step in integrating AYUSH with mainstream healthcare access.
    Dr Mathai added that the company sees significant expansion potential in Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Chennai, and Kerala, which are among India’s most active AYUSH markets. “Following the Bengaluru project, our next phase of growth will focus on developing similar hospitals through management and operational models in key cities. We are already in discussions with partners who share our vision of authentic, accessible, and evidence-based holistic care,” he said.

    The Hoskote facility also aligns with India’s broader healthcare policy direction, which encourages integrative medicine and patient-centred approaches. The initiative reinforces India’s position as a global hub for holistic medicine, where ancient systems of health are validated through scientific evidence and delivered through modern infrastructure.
    Founded more than two decades ago, SOUKYA operates on a 30-acre organic campus on the outskirts of Bengaluru. The institution is India’s first NABH-accredited AYUSH hospital for Ayurveda, Homeopathy, Yoga, and Naturopathy, combining over 30 complementary therapies such as Reflexology, Acupuncture, and Dietetics under one roof. Its name, derived from the Sanskrit word “Soukhyam,” means a harmonious state of mind, body, and spirit a principle that continues to guide every expansion.
    Having treated over 10,000 patients from across 100 countries, SOUKYA represents India’s holistic healthcare leadership at the global level. With the Hoskote hospital, it now begins a new chapter of making integrative medicine accessible to more families, reaffirming that healthcare built on balance, compassion, and scientific validation can serve every segment of society.
    At Prittle Prattle News, we honor your dedication and inventiveness led by showcasing you in a positive light. Under the direction of Editor-in-Chief Smruti Bhalerao, our platform is committed to disseminating powerful narratives that raise awareness and motivate change. For more important stories, follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube.