Dispojekt single use syringes with safety needle propels India as a global powerhouse in medical devices

 

Dispojekt Safety Needle now made in India

Yet another efforts towards Atmanirbhar Bharat with the launch of first-of-its kind Dispojekt single use syringes with safety needle that is developed by Hindustan Syringes and Medical Devices (HMD) that is nearly half the cost of safety single use syringes used in the USA and Europe.  

 

The launch aligns with India's efforts to become a self-reliant hub for medical device manufacturing and exporting. Dispojekt is expected to bring about a positive financial impact on the healthcare sector by reducing healthcare worker injuries and associated costs.

With the revolutionary Dispojekt safety syringes, HMD aims to reduce prevalence of accidental Needle Stick Injuries (NSIs) among health workers, reduction of infection control cost and that of disposal and training, offering a long term positive financial impact on the healthcare sector. Domestic manufactured, technologically advanced products will provide India a global edge in the realm of R&D and leapfrog indigenous players to meet the highly demanding global market for sharp injury prevention syringes. 

The use of safety needles in healthcare settings offer numerous cost benefits. They reduce healthcare worker injuries, lowering costs from potential disease treatment and potential long-term health issues. By minimizing needle stick injuries, they also decrease expenses for post-exposure prophylaxis and associated healthcare costs. Moreover, safety needles mitigate compensation claims, absenteeism, and can lead to lower health insurance premiums, while also reducing product and packaging footprints for cost and environmental savings. They assist in creating a safer and more reliable workplace environment for healthcare workers. 

“Equipped with a safety shield (SIP Shield), Dispojekt syringe addresses critical concerns of needle stick injuries and reaffirms our commitment as market leader towards excellence in healthcare. It is a great outcome of our Make in India resolve as envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to realize the goal of Viksit Bharat,” said Rajiv Nath, Managing Director, HMD, adding that India is all poised to become a global powerhouse in manufacturing and exporting of medical devices in sync with the spirit of Atma Nirbhar Bharat.

There is significant headroom for innovation and growth in the medical devices industry and the future of healthcare technology rests on robust R&D. With the disposable syringe market size in India estimated to be over 5 billion units per year and 5-6 billion needles, 80 % of which are in the hands of private sector players. “We aim for 60-70 % market share in the next three years, thanks to our innovative Dispojekt,” informed the Executive Director, Sohail Nath.

“HMD believes in delivering the best at the most competitive costing. Dispojekt safety needle syringes are going to be the game changer in the Global fight against NSIs. We are aiming to initially produce 200 million syringes and needles per annum for which we have invested approximately Rs 70 cr in the first phase which is expected to increase to 300 million pieces annually in second phase,” revealed Mr Sohail.

As one of the most reputed medical device manufacturers with multiple state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities in Faridabad, Haryana, HMD produces over 4 billion injection needles per annum, catering to the needs of its primary markets comprising India, Europe, US, Middle East, and its secondary markets of South-East Asia and Africa.

Reflecting further, he said that Dispojekt safety needle syringes will not only further strengthen our position as market leader but will give a boost global collective efforts of WHO to check NSIs leading to transmission of blood borne disease, like Hepatitis B, C and HIV among healthcare personnel, betting on its quality, uniqueness and affordability.

“Dispojekt safety needle syringes have been designed to be affordable for the developing world including India and are nearly half the cost of safety single use syringes used in the USA and Europe where 100 percent usage is mandatory by legislation,” informed Sohail Nath.

According to research, the prevalence of NSIs among healthcare workers in India is between 57% and 73%. In fact, approximately 54% of NSIs are reported because of using hypodermic needles. Many instances of NSIs go unreported, making it a way more serious problem than it appears. To shield frontline healthcare workers from the dangers of NSIs, we at HMD have pioneered a single-use syringe with safety needle –Dispojekt.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention, US, has estimated that only 10 % of NSIs injuries are reported. In developing countries, which have the highest global prevalence of HIV, the prevalence of needle stick injuries is also at the highest level. Studies report an annual of 100,000 injuries caused by sharp objects among nurses in the UK as well.

Asked about clinical studies conducted to affirm safety and efficacy of Dispojekt safety needle syringes, Rajiv Nath said, “Dispojekt syringes are a part of Safety Engineered Devices (SED). Numerous clinical studies and evaluations have been conducted to assess the safety and efficacy of syringes with safety needles. There are clinical trials which have proved that the use of SED has reduced the incidence of needle stick injuries in healthcare workers” and its usage is encouraged as best practices for Injection Safety in EU & USA and by WHO in the developing world. This initial design was field trialed in India, UK and USA and based on feedback received the product was re-engineered to be more cost effective and affordable and user friendly, by being a major improvement over existing commonly available safety syringes in the global market.

The launch of Dispojekt safety needle syringes, an innovative and cost-effective product from the R&D lab of the world’s largest manufacturer of Auto-Disable (AD) syringes, assumes significance in view of the monstrous magnitude of NSIs among the health workers.

International Baccalaureate (IB) high school track from Les Roches, Haut-Lac provides international immersive experience in Hospitality Management

Les Roches in Switzerland

Les Roches and Haut-Lac International Bilingual School Pioneer the Launch of a Hospitality Specialization Track in High School that equips students with an early introduction to the field of hotel management and networking opportunities with key industry players. 

 

Specializing in this field was previously only possible after high school, through a university degree. However, for the first time, the partnership between Haut-Lac School and Les Rochesenables young people aged 16 to 18 to complete an international immersive experience in the world of hospitality management in their last two years of high school.

 

The partnership between Les Roches and Haut-Lac International Bilingual School, two leading international academic institutions, marks a turning point in global youth high school education, offering students a wide range of opportunities that address their vocational aspirations and meet the needs of hospitality businesses.

 

With a 98% employability rate and a network of over 16,000 Alumni, Les Roches has established a unique and exclusive education model defined as a benchmark for quality and excellence in hospitality education.

Typically, high school students specialize in one of four areas, namely social sciences and humanities, technology and science, art, or general education. This new hospitality track, driven by two leading educational entities such as Haut-Lac School and Les Roches, represents a milestone in the hospitality & tourism and academic worlds. Training in hospitality has experienced steady growth in recent years, leading to an improvement in the quality of tourism and employment in a sector that previously lacked specialized professionals. Through this new IB high school program, future hospitality leaders can begin to immerse themselves in this industry at an earlier stage and learn about the social value of professions linked to the industry.

This International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme combines academic experience with practical training, a hallmark of Les Roches. It provides an early introduction to the field of hotel management, as well as access to networking opportunities with key industry players, including travel agencies, hotels, restaurants, and other hospitality and tourism organizations globally. In addition, students will acquire personal and communication skills and international analytical capabilities that are essential for pursuing university careers in tourism and hospitality management worldwide.

"It is crucial for the secondary education sector that students graduate well-prepared for pursuing their university careers. Therefore, we believe it is very beneficial for this high school news specialization track to exist so that, in a vocationally driven profession like hospitality, students can start immersing themselves in it as soon as possible. Forming this alliance with Haut-Lac will mark a turning point in global youth education, offering a wide range of opportunities that address their concerns and meet the needs of the industry. At Les Roches, we have been pioneers in hospitality and luxury tourism education for seven decades, but the last ten years, during which enrollments have increased by 65%, have brought about a paradigm shift. Specialized training in hospitality is gaining the recognition it truly deserves, and it has been noticeable in the classrooms. It is time to continue advancing and creating benchmarks; therefore, creating similar models to this new international high school program in the Spanish and international educational framework could mean the assured generation of talent in one of our most important industries," said Carlos Díez de la Lastra, CEO of Les Roches.

During the two-year IBCP program at Haut-Lac School, graduates will expand their knowledge and experience in hospitality by completing a research project during a 20-week online study period with Les Roches. They may then also choose to follow a two-week hotel immersion period on the Summer Program at the Les Roches campus in Crans-Montana, Switzerland.

"Embark on a transformative journey with Haut-Lac International Bilingual School and Les Roches Hotel Management School, where the two-year IB Career-Related Programme unfolds a world of opportunities for 16-year-old high school students. Beyond academics, we cultivate holistic development, preparing students for global success by seamlessly blending rigorous education with real-world skills in partnership with a renowned institution. Elevate your learning experience, foster bilingual proficiency, and embrace a pathway to excellence in both education and the thriving world of hotel management", said Rossella Cosso, Head of Secondary at Haut-Lac International Bilingual School.

Upon completion of the course, students wishing to continue studying in this field at university level, will have sufficient credits for direct access to the second year of the Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Global Hospitality Management at Les Roches.

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Meenakshi Rathore's one-woman venture 'Saree Falls' now empowers 5 other women

Grassroots impact of Atmanirbhar Bharat 

Meenakshi Rathore's inspiring story of Saree Falls, Ahmedabad

An inspirational story, from a one-woman operation, Meenakshi Rathore is scripting a new story of Atmanirbhar Bharat in suburbs of Ahmedabad empowered by a microloan, bringing smiles to five other women. Meenakshi's story is a testament to the grassroots impact of Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-reliant India). While her venture may not qualify as a startup, Meenakshi's contribution is as crucial as any.  Her story reflects the journeys of over 415 million Indians who lifted themselves out of poverty between 2005-06 and 2019-21.

Meenakshi's journey with financial empowerment began in June 2021.  A small loan of Rs 60,000 from Light, a microfinance organization, allowed her to launch her saree fall stitching business. From a one-woman operation, Meenakshi's venture, aptly named "Saree Falls," has blossomed into a local employer. Today, she empowers five other women, enabling them to contribute to their households.

Meenakshi's story embodies the growing trend of women entering India's workforce.  "Life wasn't easy," she reflects. "I learned everything through trial and error. That initial loan from Light was a game-changer. I bought a used sewing machine and though the work was limited, the income, however small, brought a sense of financial independence."  Fueled by this newfound self-sufficiency, Meenakshi renewed her loan in July 2022 for Rs 85,000. This investment allowed her to purchase six more machines, creating additional employment opportunities.

Balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship, Meenakshi showcases remarkable determination.  Confidently, she explains, "My family, particularly my husband, has been a pillar of support. From his early backing of the loans to his current contributions of stitching alongside me during his free time, his help has been invaluable." Meenakshi emphasizes the unique fulfilment that comes from being an employer, stating, "There's a different kind of satisfaction and responsibility when you provide for others' livelihoods."

Meenakshi praises microloans as a lifeline for those, like herself, facing barriers to traditional credit. "The Joint Liability Group (JLG) system behind these loans is brilliant," she explains. "It provides not just financial support, but also a network of encouragement. The JLG guides us towards self-employment opportunities that can be managed from home, making it easier to balance family care and household duties." Meenakshi concludes by highlighting how microloans have significantly improved her income, allowing her to envision a brighter future.

Across India, countless stories echo Meenakshi's, empowered by the burgeoning microfinance sector. In Financial Year 2022-23, this industry provided a staggering Rs 3.48 trillion (around $43.5 billion) in loans, impacting an estimated 660 million individuals. Notably, women entrepreneurs saw a significant surge, with 8 million joining the ranks in FY23, bringing the total number of female microfinance clients to a remarkable 66.4 million across the nation.

Light Microfinance: It is a Non-Banking Finance Company registered with the Reserve Bank Of India. Headquartered in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, Light Microfinance provides micro and meso finance products and services with gender and poverty-focused programs, targeting rural and peri-urban areas, with a specific focus on poor women. The company operates in Gujarat, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh and is one of the fastest-growing microfinance companies in India today.

MFIN (Microfinance Industry Network): MFIN is a premier industry association comprising 56 NBFC-MFIs and 44 Associates including Banks, Small Finance Banks (SFBs) and NBFCs. By virtue of bringing all microfinance entities under one common umbrella, MFIN acts as a bridge between them and the regulators to build a dialogue for greater transparency, better policy frameworks and stronger client protection standards for responsible lending, thus enabling the microfinance industry to partake in meeting the larger financial inclusion goals.

Media cannot present another side equally strongly if it doesn't exist: Kalli Purie

Kalli Purie at the India Today Conclave in New Delhi

Speaking at the recently concluded India Today Conclave in New Delhi, Kallie Purie, India Today Group Vice-Chairperson and Executive Editor-in-Chieof India Today said that the media cannot play the role of the opposition. These comments came in the backdrop of the election commission announcing the schedule for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections which is set to further raise the political temperature in the coming months when media will be subject to larger scrutiny and attack.

“If the opposition is in disarray the media cannot be blamed for it. We cannot present another side equally strongly if it doesn't exist,” Purie said.

“We are observers in this boxing match. We are not the players. If one side is weak or doesn't show up, we cannot jump into the ring. This is not fear. This is a matter of rules, roles, and competence. We are the medium. We are not the message,” said Purie adding that their role as media is to take people as close to the primary source of information as they can.

Delivering another “thank you” note after the keynote speech by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Purie said, “Recently, I had the good fortune of walking from the old parliament to the new parliament. They are just 30 steps apart. But it's like walking between two Indias. The one I was born in and the one I will pass on to the next generation. I love them both.”

“But they are a world apart. The new parliament is pristine, organised, efficient, full of light, and holds a lot of promise and hope for the future. The old is musty, dusty, full of our rich history, the corridors whisper of our triumphs, great debates, and remembrances, embodying the soul of our ancient nation and young democracy. Walking between the two is a surreal experience. You enter in one century, and you come out in another. It is the story of your leadership, Prime Minister, in 30 steps,” she said.

“Both of them have their own charm, and I believe both are essential if we are going to be a great nation. I hope that you will be able to bridge the two as only you can. The great Indian spirit in an enriched, enlightened new avatar,” Purie concluded.

Baryl Vanneihsangi speaks out on challenges of being first time MLA in Indian politics

Baryl Vanneihsangi, the youngest first-time woman legislator in Mizoram is a journalist who rose to become Mizoram's youngest MLA, sheds light on the challenges and pressure of being a first-time legislator and a woman in Indian politics on Day 2 of India Today Conclave 2024 held in Dalhi. 

Mizoram's Baryl Vanneihsangi, who has etched history as the youngest MLA in the northeastern state, shed light on her inclination to serve the community and her motivation to stay relevant in the political arena. She admitted to having been born and brought up in a patriarchal society and the challenges she faces as a woman legislator.

Speaking at the India Today Conclave 2024, Baryl Vanneihsangi spoke about her decision to plunge into Mizoram politics and her life before that.

"Prior to plunging into state politics, I had the privilege to serve the community as a media person for seven to eight years. It was a fulfilling experience. The reason I say fulfilling is that many of the viewers might think that entertainment is something that just amuses you, or you have fun with and, later on, waste your time. But to me, entertainment imparts education, knowledge and information," she said.

On her inclination to serve people through politics, Baryl Vanneihsangi said, "Life of the people that I was serving through television, so I became interested in pursuing politics as it allows you to truly work for people and with people. The mission perfectly matched my passion."

Baryl Vanneihsangi, 32, not only became the youngest MLA in Mizoram but also stands as the first woman to take charge of an Assembly session in the state's history. Her journey to the historic milestone began with her victory in the December 2023 election, where she triumphed in the Aizawl South-III constituency under the banner of the Zoram People's Movement (ZPM), securing victory by a margin of 1,414 votes.

Beyond her political milestones, Baryl Vanneihsangi's influence extends to the digital realm, boasting a considerable following of over 252k on Instagram.

On having been inducted as the youngest MLA in Mizoram and the two months since she assumed the office and her expectations, she said, "I have pressure on my shoulders, the seniors, veterans sometimes tell me what to do and what not to about the approach, and I'm always in dilemma. But later, I follow my heart and hear the voices inside my head, and look back at the reasons why I entered politics. Let's see now for the next five years (as an MLA)."

ON WOMEN EMPOWERMENT AND GENDER INCLUSIVITY

Speaking about the Women's Reservation Bill and politics in India, she said, "Born and brought up in a patriarchal society, I did have a lot of obstacles even during the campaign, not only as an MLA but even as a corporator (in the civic body), which was my previous profession. But those disadvantages can always turn into advantages of mine. But why do I bother? Why not utilise it as a stepping stone to climb the higher ladder?

"When you're optimistic, you can overcome anything. Everyone asked me about women's reservations, but you should not seek a reservation just because you are a woman," she opined. 

Jayalakshmi, an electrical engineer from Thrissur is the 1st Runner up in Mrs Keralam Gold Category

Jayalakshmi crowned at the 1st Runner up in the Mrs Keralam Gold Category

Among several married women from diverse backgrounds showcased their talents and shared their stories at the The Crown of Glory beauty pageant held at Kochi.

Jayalakshmi, an electrical engineer, working in the IT sector at Bangalore for the past 25 years, won the first runner-up in the Gold Category at the GNG Mrs Keralam – The Crown of Glory beauty pageant held at Kochi.

The beauty pageant was organised to celebrate the spirit and essence of married women across Kerala. It is a platform which provides a unique and empowering opportunity for married women to embark on a journey of self-discovery, self-confidence, and self-expression.

Jayalakshi, was born in an ordinary family in Kollam district, is the daughter of late Madhusudan and mother Ratnamma. Jayalakshmi, born in a family with no artistic tradition, always excelled in studies.

Jayalakshmi said that her desire to do things outside her comfort zone, while juggling with family and work, prompted her to participate in this race at the age of 48. The constant encouragement of her husband Divakaran (Ullampuzha Mana), working in the IT sector, children Ashwin (engineering student) and Aparna (ninth standard student), had always inspired to start trying new fields. Through this success, Jayalakshmi intends to give a message to married women to believe in their own abilities and follow their dreams.

The beauty pageant is being organised to create a National and Global platform for all the aspiring women in Kerala. This is a space where married women from diverse backgrounds can unite to showcase their multifaceted talents, share their stories, and inspire others. Mrs. Keralam Pageant is a stepping stone for married women to break barriers, redefine beauty standards, and embrace individuality.

ends

Inspiring stories of embracing adversities, brave conversations, navigating difficulties at TEDx FIIB conference

Dr. Gunwant Singh Mongia of Mongia Steel Limited shared his vision for disrupting the not-for-profit business space, Chitra Zutshi - "The Girl on Wheels," shared her inspiring story of overcoming challenges in a paraplegic condition at the TEDx conference that was organized by Fortune Institute of International Business (FIIB), New Delhi, 

Themed "Brave Conversations: Navigating Difficult Dialogues," the day-long conference featured engaging talks from diverse speakers, including eminent personalities, faculty, and students, captivating the audience with their insights and experiences in the 5th edition of TEDxFIIB in the Ishwar Dayal Auditorium.

 

The latest installment of TEDx FIIB, 'Brave Conversations: Navigating Difficulties,' decoded the secrets to confronting challenges, embracing the unknown, and finding the courage to move forward, even when the path seems daunting.

The panel of distinguished speakers at the TEDxFIIB event included Dr. Gunwant Singh Mongia, Chairman and MD of Mongia Steel Limited, who captivated the audience with his vision for disrupting the not-for-profit business space. He emphasized the importance of community development alongside business growth, showcasing a well-researched plan that could revolutionize nonprofit practices in India and beyond.

 

Biswajeet Jha, a Social Worker, Social Entrepreneur, and Author, then took the audience on a journey of self-discovery and service. Leaving behind a corporate career, Jha's initiatives, including free schools and football academies for underprivileged children in West Bengal, showcased the power of dedication and compassion in creating meaningful change. The stage was then graced by Pukhraj Joneja, CEO of Udaan India, who embodied servant leadership and commitment to excellence. With credentials from prestigious institutions, Joneja emphasized the importance of holistic growth and personal development in achieving success.

Chitra Zutshi, known as "The Girl on Wheels," shared her inspiring story of overcoming challenges in a paraplegic condition. Her resilience and determination, evident in accomplishments such as completing a 10K Marathon and being a finalist for Harley Davidson's World's Best Job contest, inspired the audience to embrace adversity and strive for greatness.

Dr. Ehteshaam Waquarib, an IPS Officer from the Jharkhand Cadre, then shed light on his impactful work in combating naxalism and human trafficking. His dedication to public service and tireless efforts in upholding justice left a lasting impression on the audience. Niraj Gera, a Social Activist and Founder Chairman of Humanify Foundation, brought attention to menstruation stigma through his powerful photo series, "Sacred Stains." His advocacy for women's rights and empowerment sparked intellectual conversations on gender equality and social justice.

The event also featured collaborative efforts by Nirupama Subramanian and S. Venkatesh, who discussed strategies for empowering marginalized communities. Through their insightful dialogue, they highlighted the importance of unity and solidarity in creating positive change. Pritiman Sarkar, Senior Vice President at SBICard, an alumnus of FIIB, shared his challenging journey during the COVID era, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing connections over conventional necessities.

Among others who took the center stage were Iytha Mallikarjuna, a Social Entrepreneur and Founder & CEO of IDEA, who highlighted the importance of inclusivity and empowerment in entrepreneurship, Dr. Sakshi Kathuria, Assistant Professor at FIIB, who advocated for breaking the silence on issues like dowry and empowering women. Her brave conversations inspired the audience to stand up for themselves and pave the way for positive change. Anoushika Verma, a PGDM student at FIIB, shared her transformative experiences from an introverted individual to a confident scholar and emphasized the importance of honest communication through journal writing. Her insights resonated with many, sparking conversations on self-acceptance and understanding.

As the event concluded, the auditorium was brimming with energy and excitement, and attendees were left inspired and motivated to embark on their own journeys of change and empowerment. The insightful talks, coupled with the captivating aura of the event and the active engagement of the audience, created a powerful platform for futuristic thinking and the exchange of ideas.