Almost half of India's adults over 45 years take Joint pain, chronic back pain very lightly

This chronic pain is no longer just a symptom but a standalone public health crisis. It is linked to cardiovascular disease, obesity, depression, and functional decline, especially in older adults. The piece also emphasizes the urgent need to integrate pain care into national health policy and expand access to multidisciplinary recovery models.

Nearly 1 in 2 Indians Over 45 Lives with Joint Pain, But Most Don’t Seek Timely Care – Experts Highlight a Growing Public Health Emergency

A national study reveals widespread chronic pain among India’s ageing population, with experts from cardiology and pain management calling for structured, early intervention before irreversible damage occurs.

Chronic pain is no longer just a personal struggle it’s a silent epidemic. According to a landmark study published in BMC Geriatrics, nearly 47% of Indians aged 45 and above report joint pain, and over 31% live with persistent back pain. Despite these alarming figures, the majority of patients delay seeking medical attention relying on over-the-counter painkillers, home remedies, or simply “learning to live with it.” Experts warn that this neglect can lead to irreversible damage, disability, and serious health complications.[i]

The study, which analyzed responses from over 58,000 individuals across 36 states and union territories, points to a deep and dangerous gap between the prevalence of pain and the systems available to treat it. Chronic pain is strongly linked to cardiovascular, psychological, and functional decline—prompting calls to treat it as a standalone non-communicable disease rather than just a symptom.

Dr. Rohit Gulati, Pain Specialist and Associate Clinical Director at Nivaan Care, noted,
“By the time most patients walk into Nivaan Care, they’ve been in pain for months sometimes years. Many have cycled through painkillers, orthopaedic referrals, and even emotional burnout. What they truly need—and what we provide is a comprehensive pain management approach. At Nivaan, we combine clinical diagnosis with movement therapy, regenerative medicine, and psychological support. Our mission is not just to relieve pain, but to restore daily function and prevent recurrence.”

Echoing the systemic implications of untreated pain, Dr. Sameer Gupta, Senior Interventional Cardiologist, Vascular Intervention Specialist, Group Head – Cardiac Cath Lab, and Director – Metro Group of Hospitals, stated,
“Pain is often treated like an inconvenience, when in reality, it’s a gateway to disease. We regularly see patients whose mobility declines due to untreated back or knee pain, and what follows is a spike in cardiovascular risk—elevated blood pressure, stress-related arrhythmias, even cardiac events. Pain indirectly accelerates heart disease by robbing people of physical activity, emotional stability, and sleep. Early pain management is not just musculo-skeletal care, it’s preventive cardiology.”

Dr. Jyotsna Agarwal, Head Clinical Development at Nivaan Care, added, “Chronic pain deserves the same strategic focus as diabetes or heart disease. That’s why we built an integrated care model—bringing together pain specialists, physiotherapists, rehabilitation professionals, and behavioral experts under one roof. Because pain isn’t just physical—it affects sleep, mood, relationships, and one’s ability to live independently. Early, consistent care makes all the difference.”

Study Highlights -

• 47% of adults aged 45+ report joint pain
• 31.7% report chronic back pain; 20% report ankle/foot pain
• Women and older adults face significantly higher risk
• Pain is strongly linked to inactivity, obesity, depression, and cardiac risk
• Highest prevalence reported in Uttarakhand, Manipur, and Madhya Pradesh

Chronic pain is not a temporary issue it’s a growing public health emergency. Experts urge India to integrate pain management into its national health strategy, expand access to multidisciplinary care, and invest in awareness initiatives that empower early intervention. Centres like Nivaan Care are leading the way with structured, science-backed recovery models but national-scale adoption will be key to reversing India’s chronic pain burden.

We create affordable jewelry that every Indian can afford - Anupam Tibrewal, MD of Pushpa Jewellers

Addressing media persons on the announcement of their upcoming IPO, Anupam Tibrewel highlighted their USP of coming out with beautifully carved affordable gold jewelry that even the middle class could afford to have.  

The net proceeds from the IPO will be utilized to finance the establishment of the proposed new showroom, including the capital expenditure cost and inventory cost for the showroom, funding working capital requirements and general corporate purpose. The anchor portion will open on June 27, 2025 and issue will close on July 02, 2025.      

Pushpa Jewellers Limited IPO Opens on June 30, 2025

●        Total Issue Size - Up To 67,11,000 Equity Shares of ₹ 10 each

●        Fresh Issue - Up To 53,70,000 Equity Shares

●        Offer For Sale - Up To 13,41,000 Equity Shares

●        IPO Size - ₹ 98.65 Crore (At Upper Band)

●        Price Band - ₹ 143 - ₹ 147 Per Share

●        Lot Size - 1,000 Equity Shares

 Pushpa Jewellers Limited (Pushpa, The Company) is a wholesale B2B jewellery maker, proposes to open its Initial Public Offering on Monday, June 30, 2025 aiming to raise ₹ 98.65 Crore (At Upper Price Band), with shares to be listed on the NSE Emerge platform.

The issue size is 67,11,000 equity shares at a face value of ₹ 10 each with a price band of ₹ 143 - ₹ 147 Per Share.

Equity Share Allocation

• QIB Anchor Portion - Up To 9,56,000 Equity Shares
• Qualified Institutional Buyer - Up To 22,31,000 Equity Shares
• Non-Institutional Investors - Not less than 9,57,000 Equity Shares
• Retail Individual Investors - Not less than 22,31,000 Equity Shares
• Market Maker - Not less than 3,36,000 Equity Shares

The net proceeds from the IPO will be utilized to finance the establishment of the proposed new showroom, including the capital expenditure cost and inventory cost for the showroom, funding working capital requirements and general corporate purpose. The anchor portion will open on June 27, 2025 and issue will close on July 02, 2025.                                                                                      

The Book Running Lead Manager to the Issue is Affinity Global Capital Market Private Limited, The Registrar to the Issue is Cameo Corporate Services Limited.

Mr. Anupam Tibrewal, Managing Director of Pushpa Jewellers Limited expressed, "Our journey began with a clear vision to craft timeless jewellery that blends tradition with elegance. Over the years, we have not only built a strong presence across India but have also taken our designs to international markets through our growing export business. Today, we are proud to be recognised for our design excellence, quality craftsmanship, and customer trust.

 

The announcement of our Initial Public Offering marks a major milestone in our journey. The proceeds will support the establishment of a new showroom, enabling us to strengthen our retail footprint and offer an enriched customer experience. This expansion is part of our broader plan to scale operations, explore untapped markets both domestic and overseas, and further solidify our position in the jewellery industry."

 

Mr. Sanjay Bhalotia, Founder and Chairman of Affinity Global Capital Market Private Limited said, "The Indian jewellery industry continues to show resilient growth, driven by evolving consumer preferences, rising disposable income, and increasing demand for branded, high-quality designs. With exports gaining momentum and organised players expanding their footprint, the sector is undergoing a significant transformation.

This company stands at a promising juncture, backed by a strong product portfolio, established manufacturing capabilities, and a growing presence in both domestic and international markets. The proposed Initial Public Offering will support its retail expansion and operational scale-up, positioning it well to capture emerging opportunities and strengthen its role in the evolving jewellery landscape."

About Pushpa Jewellers Limited:

Pushpa Jewellers Limited (Pushpa, The Company) is a Wholesaler jewellery maker in the B2B segment with a presence across India. The Company is one of the leading jewellery manufacturers specializing in both traditional and modern gold jewellery. It offers a wide range of gold jewellery, incorporating fine stones like Emerald, Jade, Pearl, and Meena. The Company has a strong presence in multiple regions across India and exports its products to international markets such as Dubai, the United States, and Australia, with plans for further expansion.

The Company combines in-house design and outsourced manufacturing operations to ensure high-quality production. It provides a diverse range of jewellery, including necklaces, rings, earrings, bangles, bracelets, pendants, Mangal sutras, and kadas, catering to various consumer needs. Pushpa sells its products to a wide array of customers, including wholesalers, retailers, and state-owned entities.

In FY24, The Company Achieved a Revenue of ₹ 25,534.28 Lakhs, Operating EBITDA of 1,987.50 Lakhs, & PAT of ₹ 1,357.70 Lakhs.

In FY25, The Company achieved a Revenue of ₹ 28,106.07 Lakhs, Operating EBITDA of ₹ 3,175.59 Lakhs & PAT of ₹ 2,228.63 Lakhs.

Companies that are Revolutionizing Wealth Management in Rural India.

In rural India, money once meant cash hidden in trunks and loans from the local moneylender. But that’s changing. With smartphones in hand and growing digital awareness, people in villages and small towns are exploring smarter ways to save, invest, and secure their future.

Apps and digital platforms are introducing first-time users to mutual funds, insurance, digital gold, and microloans services that once felt distant. Financial planning, once seen as a metro-only affair, is gaining ground in Tier 2 and Tier 3 towns. For many, it’s no longer just about surviving, but building a future.

Behind this quiet revolution are emerging FinTechs helping Bharat take charge of its money offering not just products, but guidance, trust, and access.

Here are five companies redefining money management in rural India:

Roinet

Roinet is empowering rural entrepreneurs by turning local kirana stores into digital financial services hubs.  Through its platform, Roinet enables access to full-suite financial services  banking, insurance, investments, and credit services - in areas traditionally underserved by mainstream institutions. By offering assisted digital financial services, Roinet is enabling last-mile delivery of wealth management tools tailored to specific needs and improving the financial confidence of rural households.

Finhaat

Finhaat is making financial inclusion a reality for rural and semi-urban populations by offering need-based wealth and insurance solutions. Focused on Rural India and Tier 3 and Tier 4 cities, the company has created an assisted digital platform that in partnership with institutions offers curated designs personalized financial products (insurance and wealth) and end to end servicing that empowers its customers - women, safeguard- farmers, and enable low-income households to safeguard themselves against financial shocks and plan for health emergencies and future aspirations. Through partnerships with grassroots organizations and digital platforms, Finhaat is bridging the trust gap and bringing curated financial literacy and access right to the doorstep of rural India.

AssetPlus

AssetPlus is transforming the way mutual fund distributors (MFDs) operate in India by offering a zero-cost, mobile-first platform that simplifies client onboarding, portfolio management, and product access. Focused on empowering MFDs in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, the platform combines seamless tech, in-house research, and vernacular training modules to help advisors grow their business and expand financial inclusion. With over 13,000 partners and ₹80 crore in monthly SIPs, AssetPlus is not just digitizing distribution it’s enabling grassroots wealth creation across Bharat.

Wealthy

Wealthy is simplifying personal finance by empowering independent wealth managers with a free, tech-driven platform. Frustrated by limited advice and one-size-fits-all solutions, the founders built a system that offers product comparisons, research tools, and end-to-end support, helping advisors deliver tailored, transparent, and goal-based financial planning to clients across India.

ZFunds

ZFunds is a financial management platform that specializes in mutual funds, providing clients with research-backed insights to make informed decisions. By offering a comprehensive, user-friendly investment process, ZFunds helps rural investors choose the right funds and allocate assets strategically. With the guidance of expert analysts and a dedicated investment committee, ZFunds ensures that every investor, regardless of location, can make investments that are aligned with their financial goals and risk tolerance.

These companies are reshaping the financial landscape in rural India by offering personalized wealth management services that cater to the needs of underserved populations. With technology, research, and localized solutions, they are paving the way for greater financial inclusion in some of India's most remote areas.

Empowering Villages: Rural self-governance holds the key to national growth

- By Mohit Kamboj

India's heart beats strongest in its villages. Nowhere is this more evident than in Maharashtra, where nearly 55% of the population resides in rural areas. While urban India dazzles with skylines and superhighways, true inclusive progress will be measured not by cityscapes but by how empowered our villages become. At the centre of this transformation lies a tool with immense but underutilised potential: rural self-governance.

Reimagining Panchayati Raj: From Framework to Force

The constitutional amendment of 1992 laid the groundwork for decentralised governance in India, bringing village councils, Gram Panchayats, to the forefront of rural decision-making. In Maharashtra, home to over 28,000 Gram Panchayats, this system has brought governance closer to the people. But Panchayat Raj must move beyond being an administrative layer, it should evolve into a dynamic force for change, equity and local ownership.

Self-governance, when rooted in trust and capability, enables rural communities to take control of their development priorities. Active Gram Sabhas -- transparent, inclusive and participatory -- can tackle a wide array of local challenges: water supply, school upkeep, sanitation, roads and primary healthcare. These issues are not footnotes in development, they are its foundation.

Why Rural Self-Governance is Central to India’s Growth Story

India cannot aspire to sustainable economic growth while its villages remain dependent, disconnected, or disenfranchised. Maharashtra’s rural economy is rich with potential, be it in agriculture, agri-tech, small-scale industries or tourism. But top-down schemes alone can’t unlock this promise. Local vision, driven by local leadership is the key.

Self-governance enables villages to craft tailored solutions. What works for a drought-hit village in Marathwada may not suit a flood-prone settlement in Konkan. When communities identify their priorities, be it constructing rainwater harvesting systems or digitising land records, they take ownership of implementation. The result? Better efficiency, reduced corruption and a stronger sense of collective responsibility.

A New Wave of Leadership: Women and Youth at the Helm

One of the most powerful outcomes of rural decentralisation has been the emergence of new leadership, especially women and youth. Thanks to progressive policies like reservation for women in Panchayats, Maharashtra now boasts a growing number of female sarpanchs who are transforming governance through a lens long ignored: maternal health, sanitation, child welfare and domestic safety.

Meanwhile, digital penetration has opened doors for rural youth to lead the next generation of governance. From e-Gram portals to smartphone-enabled grievance redressal systems, young, tech-savvy leaders are modernising how governance works at the grassroots.

The Roadblocks Ahead—and How to Overcome Them

Of course, the journey toward empowered self-governance is not without its challenges. Capacity gaps persist, many Gram Panchayat members lack training in planning, budgeting, and monitoring. In some regions, political interference and elite dominance undermine democratic participation.

However, these challenges are not insurmountable. What is needed is consistent investment in training, digital tools and institutional safeguards. Strengthening local bodies requires more than funding; it requires belief in their ability to govern.

Maharashtra’s Moment: Turning Intent into Institutional Strength

The state government has taken promising steps through initiatives like the Mahatma Gandhi Tanta Mukti Abhiyan, Mission Antyodaya and the Smart Village Program. But the next leap must be structural: embedding self-governance at the core of rural development strategy.

Imagine every Panchayat with a real-time digital dashboard. Annual social audits conducted by villagers themselves. Participatory budgeting sessions where every voice counts. These aren’t utopian ideas, they are achievable practices that can become the grammar of governance in rural Maharashtra.

The Bigger Picture: From Decentralisation to Dignity

If India is serious about becoming a USD 5 trillion economy, it must begin not with megacities but with its villages. Empowered Gram Panchayats are not just tools of decentralisation, they are instruments of dignity, democracy and development. They allow citizens to not just receive governance, but to shape it.

As someone deeply invested in India’s growth journey, I believe that rural Maharashtra has the power to lead by example. When villages become active agents of their own development, the entire nation rises with them.

Mohit Kamboj is a visionary leader, entrepreneur, and philanthropist dedicated to progress, unity, and transformative change across India

From Mumbai’s Chawls to Hollywood’s Spotlight: The Grit and Grace of Harnish Ambaliya

Harnish Ambaliya didn’t dream of cinema—he survived through it

Raised in the crowded chawls of Mumbai, Harnish became his family’s primary earner by the age of 15. While balancing school, he worked at cyber cafés, electronics shops, and PR agencies—far removed from the glitter of global cinema. Studying abroad, let alone making films in America, seemed like an impossible fantasy.

But fate had its own script.

Harnish Ambaliya's rise from Mumbai Chawl to Hollywood

One spontaneous opportunity changed everything: he was asked last-minute to shoot a celebrity interview. With no experience and a borrowed DSLR, he Googled the camera settings in a bathroom stall and shot his first frame—with none other than music icon Kailash Kher.

Instead of dismissing the rookie, Kher offered him a job. That singular leap of faith launched Harnish’s creative journey. Over the next four years, he co-built Kailasa Entertainment, filming over 50 concerts across India and abroad, and discovering his authentic voice through the lens.

By 24, Harnish had risen to become Executive Producer at one of India’s top advertising agencies, spearheading national campaigns for brands like Hafele, UTI Mutual Funds, Fullerton India, and Hindustan Times. Yet a question lingered quietly: Am I truly a filmmaker—or just playing the part?

To answer it, he took the boldest risk of his life—leaving behind stability to study filmmaking at the prestigious USC School of Cinematic Arts, the world’s top-ranked film school. There, instinct met discipline. Harnish sharpened his visual storytelling and learned to craft emotionally resonant narratives that reflect both raw truth and lyrical beauty.

His work quickly began attracting critical attention:

🎬 In Nomine Patris – Producer Award-winning short that screened at the Oscar-qualifying LA Shorts International Film Festival

🎞️ Dead Pet Shark – Cinematographer Shot on 35mm and backed by the Panavision New Filmmaker Grant, it premiered at Dances With Films – New York and is headed to LA Shorts

📺 Failure to Launch – Producer & DP A multi-cam sitcom that earned a Student Emmy nomination at the College Television Awards

Now, Harnish is stepping into his first feature film as cinematographer and co-producer for Open House—a dark romantic comedy directed by Jonah Gleeman, alongside collaborators Don John and Oliver Kiisa. The film underscores his signature style: emotionally rich, viscerally human, and visually poetic.

From the narrow alleys of Mumbai to the cinematic avenues of Los Angeles, Harnish’s story is one of grit, grace, and a deep-rooted belief that stories—when told honestly—can cross any border.

A cinematographer with a producer’s instinct and a survivor’s soul, Harnish Ambaliya represents a new generation of global filmmakers: bold, personal, and rewriting the rules of storytelling one honest frame at a time.

– Harish Sharma