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Onsurity Partners with Snowflake to Revolutionize Data Infrastructure

/ Governance Community

Bangalore-based Onsurity, a leading employee healthcare platform, has partnered with AI-driven data cloud platform Snowflake to enhance its data infrastructure. The collaboration aims to improve scalability, real-time data availability, and AI-driven innovation across Onsurity’s business verticals. By leveraging Snowflake’s advanced features, Onsurity can now process large data volumes efficiently, optimize costs, and refine its healthcare insurance services for SMEs and startups. The company, which serves over 8,000 businesses, plans to integrate AI and machine learning within Snowflake’s environment to personalize healthcare offerings and predict user trends. “Our teams now have faster access to insights, allowing us to tailor services based on real-time user behavior,” said Sarvendu Singh, CTO of Onsurity. He emphasized that Snowflake’s rapid deployment, security, and compliance features make it the ideal choice for scaling operations while maintaining cost efficiency. Onsurity utilizes Snowflake’s Change Data Capture (CDC) to extract incremental data changes, ensuring real-time insights without duplication. The partnership also addresses key challenges like data governance and role-based access control, enhancing security and operational efficiency. As India’s insurance sector continues to grow, Onsurity’s AI-driven transformation positions it at the forefront of the industry, setting a new benchmark for data-driven healthcare solutions. Source: Economic Times

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Trump Advisers Consider Plan to Dismantle the Education Department

/ Education Community

The Trump administration is reportedly weighing executive actions to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education, a move aligned with broader efforts by billionaire Elon Musk and other allies to reduce the federal government’s size and influence. According to sources familiar with the matter, administration officials are exploring the possibility of shutting down functions of the agency that are not explicitly mandated by law or redistributing key responsibilities to other federal departments. Potential Executive Order and Legislative Proposal Officials have discussed an executive order that would eliminate certain operations within the department while simultaneously directing the administration to develop a legislative proposal to fully abolish the agency. While no final decision has been made, the debate within Trump’s inner circle revolves around the extent of the department’s dismantling and the ideal timing for such a move. This consideration aligns with long-standing Republican efforts to reduce federal oversight in education and return greater control to state and local governments. Conservatives have often criticized the Department of Education, arguing that it adds bureaucratic inefficiencies and interferes with decisions that should be handled at the state level. Impact on Education Policy and Federal Oversight If the executive order moves forward, it could fundamentally alter the federal government’s role in education, shifting responsibilities such as student loan management, federal education funding, and enforcement of civil rights protections to other agencies or state governments. Some experts warn that such a move could create disruptions in school funding, particularly for disadvantaged students who rely on federal programs. Critics argue that abolishing or significantly reducing the department’s role could weaken protections for marginalized student groups and diminish federal oversight in areas such as special education, Title IX compliance, and school safety regulations. However, supporters believe it would cut bureaucratic red tape and empower local communities to make education decisions tailored to their needs. A Political and Strategic Decision The debate over dismantling the Education Department is not new. Trump and other conservatives, including former President Ronald Reagan, have previously expressed support for eliminating the agency. However, such a drastic move would likely face significant legal and political challenges, particularly in Congress. The discussions are part of a larger strategy by some in Trump’s orbit to reduce the federal workforce and shift more responsibilities to the states. Musk, a vocal advocate for government downsizing, has publicly criticized the Education Department and similar federal agencies, arguing that they stifle innovation and economic growth. Source: wsj

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ArdorComm – Digital Bharat Education Conclave 2025 held at Holiday Inn Mumbai International Airport, an IHG Hotel, Mumbai on 31st January 2025

/ Blogs

The Digital Bharat Education Conclave 2025, hosted by ArdorComm Media Group, successfully concluded on 31st January 2025 at the Holiday Inn Mumbai International Airport. This grand event brought together a dynamic mix of academicians, educators, industry leaders, policymakers, edtech startups, and corporate visionaries from across India. Focused on the theme “Reimagining Education in Digital Bharat: Advancing Skills & Digital Pathways,” the conclave explored the transformative power of digital education, AI-driven learning, immersive technologies, and skill development for the 21st-century workforce. A Day of Insightful Discussions and Collaborations The conclave featured a power-packed agenda, including panel discussions, industry presentations, roundtable discussions, and over 50 expert speakers sharing their perspectives on the future of education in India. The participation of over 150+ higher education leaders, 100+ school education representatives, and various EdTech corporates highlighted the event’s significance in shaping the future of digital learning. Some of the key discussion topics included: The NEP and Digitalization: Driving India’s Education Revolution The Future of Lifelong Learning: Upskilling and Reskilling in the Digital Age Empowering Students for the Global Stage: Skills for the 21st-Century Workforce The Rise of AI, Metaverse & Immersive Technologies in Education Digital Infrastructure & Smart Campus: Building a Future-Ready EdTech Ecosystem Maharashtra Leadership Extends Best Wishes to ArdorComm Media The ArdorComm – Digital Bharat Education Conclave 2025 received esteemed best wishes and appreciation from Shri Devendra Fadnavis, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Ajit Pawar, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, and Shri Chandrakant Patil, Hon’ble Minister of Higher & Technical Education & Parliamentary Affairs of Maharashtra. Their support underscored the significance of digital transformation in education and the state’s commitment to fostering innovation, skilling, and technology-driven learning. Their encouragement further reinforced the event’s mission to advance digital pathways in education and empower future generations. Industry Leaders and Keynote Speakers The Digital Bharat Education Conclave 2025 began with a Welcome Address by Kumar Chandan Anand, Founder, CEO & Group Editor, ArdorComm Media Group. The event featured esteemed guest speakers, including Prof. (Mrs.) Rajita Kulkarni, President, Sri Sri University, Cuttack; Dr. Seema Negi, Director Principal, Sanjeevani World School, Mumbai; and Avijit Nair, CEO, Akemi Group of Institutes, Pune. Their thought-provoking addresses set the stage for a day of impactful discussions, fostering collaborative growth and knowledge-sharing in the education ecosystem. The first panel discussion of the Digital Bharat Education Conclave 2025 focused on the impact of the National Education Policy (NEP) and digitalization in transforming India’s education landscape. The session was moderated by Deepa Bhushan, Director, C P Goenka International Schools, Mumbai and featured an esteemed panel of speakers, including Sudhir Kukreja, Co-Founder, Kidzonia International School & Credence International Schools, Navi Mumbai; Prof. (Dr.) Ambuj Jagdish Gupta, Dean – School of Management, Ajeenkya DY Patil University, Pune; Dr. Parag Amin, Registrar, ATLAS SkillTech University, Mumbai; Niti Desai, Director, S E International School, Mumbai; and Shim Mathew, Director – Academic Operations, VIBGYOR Group of Schools, Mumbai. The second panel discussion at the Digital Bharat Education Conclave 2025 explored the evolving landscape of lifelong learning, upskilling, and reskilling in the digital era. The session was moderated by Dr. Seema Negi, Director Principal, Sanjeevani World School, Mumbai, and featured an esteemed panel of speakers, including Dr. Kavita Aggarwal, Director/Head of School- D.G., Khetan International School & Chairperson of MISA, Mumbai; Sharonee Mullick, Director, Singapore International School, Mumbai; Dr. Yasmin Pirzada, Founder & Trustee, Belvedere Spring School International, Mumbai; Debika Chatterji, Director – Principal, JBCN International School, Mumbai; and Dr. Gretta Sequeira, Founder – Principal, Aquinas International School Mumbai, Mumbai. The third panel discussion at the Digital Bharat Education Conclave 2025 focused on the essential skills needed for students to succeed in the 21st-century workforce. The session was moderated by Avijit Nair, CEO, Akemi Group of Institutes, Pune, and featured a distinguished panel of speakers, including Prof. (Mrs.) Rajita Kulkarni, President, Sri Sri University, Cuttack; Dr. Jaywant V. Shelar, Vice Chancellor, ITM Skills University, Navi Mumbai; Dr. Mohammed Aslam Khan, Executive Chairman, AI’s Board of Vocational and Technical Education, Mumbai; and Prof. Swati More, Director – Central Corporate Relations & Placements Cell, MIT-ADT University, Pune. The fourth panel discussion at the Digital Bharat Education Conclave 2025 delved into the impact of AI, the Metaverse, and immersive technologies on education. The session was moderated by Prof. (Dr.) Sanjeev Sharma, Founding Director, R.D. Engineering College, Ghaziabad, and featured an esteemed panel of speakers, including Dr. Pravin H. Shingare, Pro Chancellor, Krishna Vishwa Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Karad; Prof. Prabhat Ranjan, Vice Chancellor, D Y Patil International University, Akurdi; Prof. (Dr.) Milind Pande, Pro Vice Chancellor, Dr. Vishwanath Karad MIT World Peace University, Pune; and Prof. (Dr.) Satish Kumar Modh, Pro Vice Chancellor, Somaiya Vidyavihar University, Mumbai. The fifth panel discussion at the Digital Bharat Education Conclave 2025 focused on the role of digital infrastructure and smart campuses in shaping a future-ready EdTech ecosystem. The session was moderated by Dr. C. M. Sedani, Principal & Director, P K Technical Campus, Pune, and featured a distinguished panel of speakers, including Prof. Prasad Joshi, Vice Chancellor (A.), Deccan College Post Graduate & Research Institute (Deemed to be University), Pune; Ashok Kumar Reka, Chairman, Rishi Gurukul International Engineering School, Telangana; Dr. Devendra Puntambekar, Director, Skill Development & E-learning, School of Online Education, BVP Deemed-to-be-University; and Dr. Pranav Charkha, Dean, SOET, D.Y. Patil University, Pune, Ambi. The Digital Bharat Education Conclave 2025 featured an insightful Roundtable Discussion on the topic “From Chalkboards to Digital Boards – The Evolution of Classroom Interaction”. The session brought together key leaders and experts from the education and technology sectors to discuss the impact of digital tools on teaching methodologies, student engagement, and the overall learning experience. The discussion was enriched by the participation of distinguished professionals, including: Avinash Sharma, BDM WEST, Samsung Electronics India Pvt Ltd Saurabh Karemore, Deputy General Manager, Samsung Electronics India Pvt Ltd Anne Dias, Director, VIBGYOR Group of Schools Seema Sheikh, Principal Director, Pragyna Bodhini High School Swarupa Chakraborti, Principal, MIT Vishwajyoti International School Dr. Vidyaa Patiil, Principal, Dr. Shivajirao S Jondhle

ArdorComm – Digital Bharat Education Conclave 2025 held at Holiday Inn Mumbai International Airport, an IHG Hotel, Mumbai on 31st January 2025 Read More »

Sophos Completes $859M Acquisition of Secureworks, Expanding Cybersecurity Dominance

/ Human Resource Community

Thoma Bravo-backed cybersecurity firm Sophos has finalized its $859 million all-cash acquisition of Secureworks, further consolidating its position as the largest pure-play managed detection and response (MDR) provider globally. With this acquisition, Sophos now serves 28,000 organizations worldwide and strengthens its threat intelligence division, Sophos X-Ops, integrating Secureworks’ Counter Threat Unit and security advisory services. Key Takeaways: Industry Impact: The deal reinforces Sophos’ leadership in the growing cyber threat detection market. Strategic Expansion: Secureworks’ intelligence assets enhance Sophos X-Ops’ cybersecurity capabilities. Future Operations: Both brands will continue operating independently for now. Cybersecurity M&A Surge: The move follows a series of security acquisitions, including Tenable’s $150M buyout of Vulcan Cyber. Sophos CEO Joe Levy highlighted that the merger will deliver an advanced security operations platform, enabling businesses to enhance threat detection, streamline cybersecurity operations, and maximize ROI on security investments. As cyber threats escalate—particularly ransomware and state-backed cyber espionage—this acquisition signals a broader trend of cybersecurity firms consolidating resources to combat evolving digital threats. Source: cybersecuritydive

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IIT Madras Releases ‘Bharat Cancer Genome Atlas’ to Advance Cancer Research

/ Health & Wellness Community

IIT Madras has announced the release of the Bharat Cancer Genome Atlas (BCGA), a comprehensive database aimed at bridging the genomic gap in cancer studies. The initiative focuses on improving early detection, treatment strategies, and drug development for Indian breast cancer patients. The project, undertaken in collaboration with Karkinos Healthcare, Chennai Breast Clinic, and Cancer Research and Relief Trust, has successfully sequenced 960 whole exomes from 480 breast cancer patient tissue samples collected from across the country. The resulting database is now publicly accessible to researchers and clinicians at bcga.iitm.ac.in. Key Highlights of the Initiative Rising Cancer Burden: According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), one in nine Indians is likely to develop cancer in their lifetime, with a 12.8 percent annual increase in cases since 2022. Lack of Representation in Global Research: India has historically been underrepresented in global cancer genome studies, making it difficult for diagnostic tools and treatments to be tailored to Indian patients. First-of-its-Kind Indian Breast Cancer Genome Database: The BCGA provides a crucial repository of genetic variants specific to Indian breast cancer cases, addressing a long-standing gap in cancer genomics. Prof. V. Kamakoti, Director of IIT Madras, stated that the initiative aligns with the institution’s commitment to societal impact. “By releasing this data, we hope to provide critical insights into the genetic factors contributing to cancer, enabling early intervention and more effective treatments. This dataset fills a major gap in India’s genomic research and offers new possibilities for precision medicine.” How BCGA Will Contribute to Cancer Research and Treatment Early Detection: Identification of cancer-specific biomarkers to improve early diagnosis. Personalized Medicine: Facilitating treatments tailored to genetic and molecular profiles. Improved Treatment Strategies: Enabling the development of novel drug targets. Collaborative Research: Providing an open-access platform for researchers to contribute and analyze data. The project was led by the Centre of Excellence on Cancer Genomics and Molecular Therapeutics at IIT Madras, under the Government of India’s ‘Institutions of Eminence’ initiative. The research was also supported by the Department of Science and Technology, Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India. Prof. S. Mahalingam, Project Coordinator, emphasized the significance of BCGA, stating: “This database will be an invaluable resource for identifying high-risk groups, monitoring cancer progression, and advancing precision oncology in India. It will also serve as a foundation for developing better treatment strategies specific to the Indian population.” The BCGA is part of a broader effort under the National Center for Precision Medicine in Cancer, a joint initiative between IIT Madras and Karkinos Healthcare aimed at fostering interdisciplinary research for affordable cancer care solutions. With World Cancer Day being observed on February 4, 2025, the release of the BCGA marks a major milestone in India’s cancer research landscape, reinforcing the country’s commitment to advancing precision medicine and improving patient outcomes. Source: iitm. ac

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Union Budget 2025: Major Tax Relief, Economic Growth Focus, and Policy Shifts

/ Human Resource Community

New Delhi, Feb 1 – Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2025-26, outlining significant tax relief and economic measures aimed at boosting growth. The budget proposes an expenditure of ₹50.65 lakh crore, marking a 7.4% increase over the previous fiscal year. A key highlight was the tax relief benefiting India’s middle class. Individuals earning up to ₹12 lakh annually will pay no income tax, saving ₹80,000, while those earning ₹24 lakh or more could save ₹1.10 lakh. Additionally, a new Income Tax Bill will be introduced next week to replace the 1961 Income Tax Act. Key Announcements Tax Reforms: No tax on income up to ₹12 lakh under the new regime. TDS Simplification: Measures to ease compliance burdens. Tariff Reduction: Customs duty on Harley-Davidson motorcycles cut ahead of PM Modi’s US visit. Intelligence Budget Cuts: Reduced allocations for NSCS and Intelligence Bureau. Manufacturing Incentives: Tax exemptions on EV and mobile phone battery components. Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the budget a “people’s budget,” emphasizing its role in increasing investments and citizen participation in development. However, opposition leaders, including Congress MP Shashi Tharoor and former Finance Minister P. Chidambaram, criticized it for being election-focused and lacking job creation measures. Meanwhile, social media users reacted with humor, flooding the internet with memes on Sitharaman’s speech. Source: NDTV

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Budget 2025: No Income Tax Up to ₹12 Lakh, Major Relief for Middle Class

/ Governance Community

In a landmark announcement, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman declared in her Budget 2025 speech that individuals earning up to ₹12 lakh annually will pay no income tax under the new tax regime. The move has been welcomed as a major relief for India’s middle class. The Budget also introduced key financial reforms, including raising the Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) limit in the insurance sector and modifying cess and surcharge structures. Additionally, the government plans to simplify the Tax Deduction at Source (TDS) regime to ease compliance burdens. Sitharaman announced that a new, streamlined Income Tax Bill will be introduced next week, designed to be more concise and user-friendly. Other tax reforms include raising the Tax Collected at Source (TCS) limit on remittances under the RBI’s Liberalised Remittance Scheme from ₹7 lakh to ₹10 lakh. Further, in a push towards domestic manufacturing, the Budget provides tax exemptions on 35 goods used in EV battery production and 28 goods for mobile phone battery manufacturing. New Income Tax Slabs (New Regime) ₹4 – 8 lakh: 5% ₹8 – 12 lakh: 10% ₹12 – 16 lakh: 15% ₹16 – 20 lakh: 20% ₹20 – 24 lakh: 25% Above ₹24 lakh: 30% The Budget 2025-26 focuses on tax reforms, investment liberalization, and industry-friendly policies, signaling the government’s intent to support economic growth and ease financial burdens on taxpayers. Source: Financial Express

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Union Budget 2025: Reactions from Education Leaders on Key Announcements

/ Article/Stories

The Union Budget 2025-26, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, has unveiled a range of initiatives aimed at transforming India’s education sector. With a strong focus on skill development, digital infrastructure, and higher education expansion, the budget sets the stage for a future-ready education system. Education leaders across the country have shared their insights on the impact and implications of these measures. Key Announcements in Education: Atal Tinkering Labs: 50,000 labs to be set up in government schools over five years to foster innovation and scientific temper among students. Broadband Connectivity: Extension of broadband under BharatNet to all government secondary schools, ensuring digital access for students in rural areas. Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak Scheme: Digital-format books in Indian languages to support multilingual education. Expansion of Medical Education: Addition of 10,000 medical seats next year, with a long-term goal of 75,000 new seats over five years. National Centres of Excellence for Skilling: Five centres to be set up with global partnerships for skill development in manufacturing and emerging technologies. Expansion of IIT Infrastructure: Capacity expansion in five IITs and hostel expansion at IIT Patna to accommodate growing student demand. Centre of Excellence in AI for Education: Establishment of a specialized AI centre with a budget allocation of Rs 500 crore to integrate AI into educational methodologies and research. Industry Leaders React to Budget Announcements: “The Union Budget 2025-26 demonstrates a strong commitment towards fostering inclusive and quality education in India. The government’s initiatives such as setting up 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs in government schools, providing broadband connectivity to rural schools, and launching Centres of Excellence in AI for education with a ₹500 crore outlay reflect a forward-looking approach. The expansion of IIT capacity and the establishment of five National Centres of Excellence for skilling are crucial steps in equipping the youth with industry-relevant skills. Moreover, the PM Research Fellowship, offering 10,000 fellowships for technological research, will strengthen India’s innovation ecosystem. India, a nation of young entrepreneurs, is making its mark on the global stage by prioritizing skill development and future-ready education, a recognition further validated by the QS World Future Skills Index. These efforts collectively pave the way for a skilled and empowered workforce, driving the nation towards ‘Viksit Bharat’.” – Dr. Madhu Chitkara, Pro-Chancellor, Chitkara University. “The Union Budget 2025-26 demonstrates a strong commitment to India’s education sector, allocating ₹1.28 lakh crore—₹78,572 crore for school education and ₹50,078 crore for higher education. Key initiatives include adding 6,500 IIT seats, establishing a ₹500 crore Centre of Excellence in AI for education, and setting up 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs to enhance STEM learning. Additionally, 10,000 medical college seats will be added next year, contributing to 75,000 new seats over five years. Despite these advancements, the allocation remains below the 6% GDP target recommended by NEP 2020, potentially impacting India’s Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) goal of 50% by 2035. India’s education spending (4.1%-4.6% of GDP) aligns with global benchmarks, but a stronger focus on PreK-12 education, regulatory support for private schools, and equitable investment in digital infrastructure is necessary to ensure holistic growth across all levels.” – Reekrit Serai, Managing Director, Satluj Group of Schools. “Budget 2025 takes a bold step toward a knowledge-driven India, emphasizing AI, skilling, and digital access. With 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs, broadband in government schools, and a ₹500 crore Centre of Excellence for AI in Education, technology is becoming a great equalizer. The Deeptech Fund and PM Research Fellowship Scheme further strengthen India’s innovation ecosystem. Expanding IIT infrastructure, setting up skilling centers, and increasing teacher recruitment will boost education quality. The focus on STEM, sustainability, and socio-emotional learning aligns with 21st-century needs. While the budget is ambitious, achieving the long-promised 6% GDP allocation for education remains a challenge. More collaboration between private and public schools, alongside better governance, is essential. With its emphasis on AI, upskilling, and cultural preservation, this budget is a significant leap forward—an 8/10 effort, with brownie points for integrating Indian sanskaar with futuristic growth.” – Kanak Gupta, Group Director, Seth M.R. Jaipuria Schools. “The 2025 budget takes commendable steps in expanding IIT infrastructure, AI-driven education, and skill development, but a truly transformative vision must go beyond elite institutions. With 90% of higher education provided by private and deemed universities, targeted support for these institutions is essential for inclusive growth. Additionally, ₹500 crore for AI in education is just a starting point—India needs bolder investments to lead globally in AI-driven learning. A more holistic approach will ensure that quality education reaches every student, not just those in premier institutions.” – ⁠Dr. Ramakrishnan Raman, Vice Chancellor, Symbiosis international University, Pune. “The Union Budget 2025-26 reinforces India’s commitment to education and skill development with a ₹1.28 lakh crore allocation. Key initiatives include broadband connectivity for all government secondary schools under BharatNet, the establishment of 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs, and five National Institutes of Excellence for Skilling. The focus on AI, STEM education, and industry-driven skill programs will equip youth for a tech-driven future. Strengthening academia-industry collaboration and digital learning will accelerate India’s journey towards self-reliance and global leadership in education and innovation.” – Kunwar Shekhar Vijendra, Co-founder and Chancellor of Shobhit Deemed University, Meerut. “The Budget 2025-26 reaffirms India’s commitment to becoming a global knowledge superpower. With an allocation of ₹128,650 crore for education, this budget strengthens accessibility, equity, and quality. Key Highlights: School Education (₹78,572 crore, +16%) – Expansion of Samagra Shiksha (₹41,250 crore), PM POSHAN (₹12,500 crore), and PM SHRI (₹7,500 crore) will enhance infrastructure and learning. 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs will foster innovation in government schools. Higher Education (₹50,078 crore, +7.74%) – Expansion of IITs, 10,000 new medical seats, and the PM Research Fellowship Scheme will boost research and innovation. AI & Digital Education (₹500 crore) – Establishment of the Centre of Excellence in AI will revolutionize education. The Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak Scheme will enhance inclusivity through digital Indian language books. Skilling & Employability – Five National Centres of Excellence for Skilling with global partnerships will align education with industry needs. Education Accessibility –

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Parliamentary Committee to Review Media Issues: Fake News, Sensationalism, and Declining Newspaper Readership

/ Media Entertainment & Art Community

A parliamentary committee meeting on Friday is set to address various pressing media concerns, including “rampant” paid news, fake news, and the rise of sensationalism in TV channels. The Standing Committee on Communications and Information Technology, led by BJP MP Nishikant Dubey, will review the implementation of media laws and discuss factors impacting the media landscape. Key issues likely to be raised include the disproportionate focus on crime and celebrity news, which often comes at the expense of serious, impactful reporting. Sources say that media trials, which shape public opinion and influence legal outcomes, will also be discussed. Additionally, the committee may highlight the decline of traditional newspapers, particularly in the face of digital disruption and declining readership. The meeting will address concerns over TV debates, which often devolve into shouting matches, as well as conflicts of interest within media ownership, journalists, and political entities. Such conflicts, the sources noted, undermine the credibility of news reporting and compromise ethical standards due to a lack of strong regulatory mechanisms. The committee may also bring up the long-drawn legal battles that journalists and media houses face, which discourage investigative reporting. Financial struggles of regional and vernacular media outlets, as well as the havoc caused by fake news during elections, are expected to be major points of discussion. Additionally, the committee is likely to examine the impact of foreign-owned social media giants and the need for regulation to prevent harm to society, political leaders, and even the country. Key figures, including the Information and Broadcasting Secretary, Prasar Bharti CEO, Press Registrar General, and Press Council of India Chairperson, are expected to appear before the panel. Source: Telegraph India

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WHO Recommends Potassium-Enriched Salt Substitutes for Better Heart Health

/ Health & Wellness Community

The World Health Organization (WHO) has recommended replacing regular table salt with potassium-enriched, lower-sodium salt substitutes to combat hypertension and cardiovascular diseases. The George Institute for Global Health India has strongly endorsed this initiative, emphasizing its potential to save lives, particularly in countries like India, where high sodium intake and low potassium consumption contribute to widespread health issues. A study conducted by The George Institute for Global Health India, in collaboration with PGIMER Chandigarh, highlights the urgent need for dietary changes in India. It found that salt consumption is significantly above recommended levels, while potassium intake remains insufficient, fueling hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and chronic kidney disease. This research is part of a larger effort to understand how India’s dietary habits are linked to non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Prof. Vivekanand Jha, Executive Director of The George Institute for Global Health India, stated, “To tackle hypertension and heart and kidney disease, especially in rural areas, we must make low-sodium, potassium-enriched salts affordable and accessible. By working with policymakers and the food industry, and educating the public with clear labeling and subsidies, we can save lives and promote a healthier future.” He also emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety and efficacy of salt substitutes, particularly for people with kidney disease. The Salt Substitute in India Study (SSiIS) examined the impact of reduced-sodium, potassium-enriched salt substitutes on blood pressure in rural hypertensive patients. Initial data from the study showed excessive sodium intake, with urinary salt excretion levels at 10.4 g/day—more than double the WHO’s recommended intake. The study found that using salt substitutes was an effective and cost-efficient method to manage hypertension, particularly in high-risk populations. The study, led by Sudhir Raj Thout, Research Fellow at The George Institute for Global Health India, involved 502 hypertensive participants from rural India. Results showed that participants using the reduced-sodium, potassium-enriched salt substitutes for three months experienced notable reductions in both systolic (4.6 mmHg) and diastolic (1.1 mmHg) blood pressure. Additionally, urinary potassium levels and the sodium-to-potassium ratio improved. Participants also found the taste of the substitutes acceptable. Sudhir Raj Thout added, “The WHO’s guidance on lower-sodium salt substitutes is crucial for India, as it offers a simple and affordable solution to lower blood pressure and reduce cardiovascular risks amid the current high levels of sodium intake.” Global and Indian research supports the benefits of potassium-enriched salt substitutes in reducing blood pressure without compromising taste. These substitutes offer a cost-effective and accessible intervention, though individuals with advanced kidney disease should avoid them. The George Institute for Global Health India continues to advocate for potassium-enriched salts, collaborating with policymakers, healthcare providers, and the food industry to promote healthier dietary habits. Source: Express healthcare Photo Credit: Express healthcare

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