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  • Amusement Parks Industry Seeks 5% GST Parity with Other Tourism Sectors in UP

    Amusement Parks Industry Seeks 5% GST Parity with Other Tourism Sectors in UP

    A delegation from the Indian Association of Amusement Parks and Industries (IAAPI), led by Uttar Pradesh State Chairman, Mr. Izzuddin Hashmi, along with IAAPI Secretary General, Mr. Anil Padwal, met Shri Rajesh Kumar, IAS, Director General, Uttar Pradesh Tourism and presented IAAPI’s representation for 5% GST for amusement & theme park sector.

    A 5% GST rate to amusement park industry which caters to children, youth alongwith their families will encourage the middle and lower-middle-class families to engage in more recreational activities, enhancing family well-being and social bonding. In line with the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s concern regarding rising obesity among children and youth, the amusement industry provides a healthy and active outlet for recreation — fostering fun, fitness, and togetherness.

    The amusement industry forms an integral part of India’s tourism and social infrastructure. While states tourism policies are actively promoting investments in theme and amusement parks, there remains a disparity in GST treatment compared to other tourism-linked sectors — for instance:

    • Hotel rooms up to ₹7,500 are taxed at 5%
    • Economy-class air travel is taxed at 5%

    In contrast, amusement and theme parks continue to face an 18% GST rate, despite serving as accessible and family-oriented recreation for citizens across all income groups.

    5% GST slab for the amusement industry will boost tourism growth, employment generation and economic development.

    IAAPI extends its gratitude to Uttar Pradesh Tourism for its proactive encouragement and looks forward to a strengthened partnership for the advancement of the amusement and attractions sector in India.

  • Nephrocare India Celebrates 4 Years with Walkathon to Promote Kidney Health

    Nephrocare India Celebrates 4 Years with Walkathon to Promote Kidney Health

    Kolkata, 14 December 2025: Nephrocare India marked its fourth anniversary by organizing a large-scale walkathon titled “Walk for Health, Walk for Your Kidneys”, reinforcing the message that simple lifestyle habits can prevent kidney disease. With over 1,000 participants, the event highlighted the importance of 30 minutes of brisk walking daily to maintain kidney health, control blood sugar, and support heart fitness.

    The walkathon began at Nephrocare and concluded at CD Park, followed by tea and an address by the Founder & Director, Dr. Pratim Sengupta. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from several eminent personalities, including: Mr. Leander Paes, International Tennis Icon; Ms. Priyanka Sarkar, Actress; Ms. Piyali Basak, Mountaineer; Mr. Aneesh Sarkar, DCP Bidhannagar; Mr. Ashish Mittal, Director, Golden Tulip Hotel & many other eminent personalities.

    Nephrocare India

    Speaking to the media, Dr. Pratim Sengupta, Nephrologist and Founder & Director of Nephrocare India Ltd, said, “Completing four years is not just a milestone but a reaffirmation of our commitment to preventive and holistic kidney care. Most kidney diseases are preventable. Simple measures like daily brisk walking can dramatically reduce risk. Through initiatives like this walkathon, we aim to inspire people to take charge of their health before disease sets in.”

    Nephrocare India follows a unique, patient-centric approach, integrating evidence-based diagnostics with logical clinical inference while addressing the physical, mental, spiritual, and energy dimensions of health. The organization believes that effective healing goes beyond laboratory values and textbook treatments, focusing instead on the individual as a whole.

    About Nephrocare India Ltd: Established in December 2021 by eminent nephrologist Dr. Pratim Sengupta, Nephrocare India Ltd is a comprehensive kidney care institute dedicated to delivering compassionate, affordable, and holistic renal care. With state-of-the-art facilities and a team of experienced nephrologists and healthcare professionals, Nephrocare provides personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs. The institution remains committed to improving quality of life while treating every patient with dignity, respect, and empathy.

  • UDAI Hosts Joyful Christmas Carnival 2025 Honouring World Disability Day in Janak Puri, Delhi

    UDAI Hosts Joyful Christmas Carnival 2025 Honouring World Disability Day in Janak Puri, Delhi

    UDAI — a leading spectrum support school in New Delhi founded by Tanu Rajput and supported by the Rotary Club of Delhi — successfully hosted a heart-warming Christmas Carnival on Thursday, 11th December 2025, at its Janak Puri centre.

    Welcoming parents, families, and members of the media, the event was designed to honour every child and create a warm, memorable celebration rooted in togetherness and inclusion.

    Celebrating World Disability Day with Purpose

    Organised in the spirit of World Disability Day (observed globally on December 3), the winter-themed carnival beautifully reflected UDAI’s core belief that “Working Together Works.” The event brought alive a vibrant atmosphere of acceptance, community connection, and shared happiness.

    A Day Filled with Joy, Creativity, and Festive Magic

    The celebration included a variety of interactive activities for children, highlighting empowerment, confidence-building, and the unique strengths each child brings to the world.

    Adding festive delight, students set up special stalls offering handmade Christmas goodies crafted by them. These items were put up for sale, adding an authentic and cheerful carnival feel to the occasion.

    A Message from Founder Tanu Rajput

    Founder Tanu Rajput expressed heartfelt pride and happiness:
    “Celebrating this day with our children was truly heart-warming. Their happiness, enthusiasm, and incredible energy filled the entire space. I feel grateful to have each one present and to share such a meaningful and festive moment with them. It makes me so proud of my kids, who are special but no less than anyone—they are talented, smart, and extremely kind and loving.”

    Deepening Its Mission of Support and Inclusion

    UDAI continues to uphold its mission of fostering joy, acceptance, and equal opportunity. Every day, the school supports:

    • 125 children on the autism spectrum, and

    • More than 90 students from lower-income groups,

    ensuring accessible, high-quality education and care.

    Since its inception in 2009, UDAI has supported over 5,000 families, and the organisation is steadily developing income-generation opportunities for students trained in various skill-development programs.

  • Border 2 Teaser Announced for 16 December: Meet the Four Heroes Leading This Patriotic Epic

    Border 2 Teaser Announced for 16 December: Meet the Four Heroes Leading This Patriotic Epic

    Teaser to Drop on 16th December, Marking the Significance of Vijay Diwas

    The anticipation around Border 2 has reached new heights as T-Series and JP Films unveiled a striking ensemble visual featuring the film’s four leading heroes — Sunny Deol, Varun Dhawan, Diljit Dosanjh, and Ahan Shetty — together in one commanding frame. After generating buzz through individual character posters, this unified reveal amplifies the film’s intensity, patriotism, and emotional core.

    Each actor embodies a distinct facet of courage:

    • Sunny Deol returns in his iconic, battle-hardened persona,

    • Varun Dhawan brings steely determination to the line of duty,

    • Diljit Dosanjh reflects raw resilience amid conflict, and

    • Ahan Shetty showcases bold, youthful bravery.

    Together, they form a powerful quartet symbolizing brotherhood, sacrifice, and the unbreakable spirit of soldiers.

    Further igniting excitement, the makers have confirmed that the much-awaited teaser will be launched on 16th December at 1:30 PM, commemorating Vijay Diwas — the day India celebrates its historic victory in the 1971 war and honours the bravery of its soldiers. This meaningful date lends even greater weight to the teaser reveal and the film’s patriotic narrative.

    Border 2 is presented by Gulshan Kumar & T-Series in association with J.P. Dutta’s J.P. Films. Produced by Bhushan Kumar, Krishan Kumar, J.P. Dutta, and Nidhi Dutta, and directed by Anurag Singh, the film carries forward the legacy of valour and pride rooted in India’s military history.

    Mark your calendars — Border 2 storms into cinemas on January 23rd, 2026, promising a monumental cinematic journey of patriotism, courage, and sacrifice.

     

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  • Simple Yet Soulful: Rukmini Vasanth’s Birthday Photos Capture Warmth & Everyday Joys

    Simple Yet Soulful: Rukmini Vasanth’s Birthday Photos Capture Warmth & Everyday Joys

    Actress Rukmini Vasanth celebrated her birthday with a beautiful blend of simplicity and sincerity, sharing glimpses of a day filled with quiet, meaningful moments. In a series of serene photos, she is seen holding fresh flowers, visiting Mount Mary, and sitting with a stack of books—each image radiating calm, warmth, and unfiltered joy.

    Her caption, heartfelt and reflective, summed up the spirit of her special day:
    “Yesterday was a day filled with some of the warmest, kindest moments of this year. I had the privilege of enriching work with inspiring people, the joy of bookstores and flowers and tiny animals and travel and finally, those small but necessary pockets of solitude. Thank you all. I am all gratitude and cake.”

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Rukmini Vasanth (@rukmini_vasanth)

    The post struck a chord with fans, not for any lavish celebration, but for its gentle honesty. No grand parties, no theatrics—just a quietly joyful birthday grounded in gratitude and the simple things she loves. This understated charm is part of what continues to make Rukmini such a beloved figure.

    As wishes pour in from across the country, admirers are praising her grace, authenticity, and ability to find beauty in everyday moments. Stepping into a new year, Rukmini carries forward the warmth and genuineness that set her apart as one of the most refreshing personalities in the industry today.

  • Hundreds Attend Kailash Hospital’s Fertility Awareness Drive to Break IVF Stigma

    Hundreds Attend Kailash Hospital’s Fertility Awareness Drive to Break IVF Stigma

    Noida, December 12, 2025: Kailash Hospital & Neuro Institute, Sector 71, Noida, hosted a Free IVF Mega Camp on Sunday, as part of its initiative to reduce stigma around infertility and ensure that couples receive timely, evidence-based reproductive health evaluation. The camp, led by Dr. Monika Gupta, Head – Kailash IVF, registered strong participation from couples seeking clarity on fertility concerns they had long postponed addressing.

    The initiative provided free consultations with infertility specialists, along with male and female fertility evaluations and complimentary sonography for cases requiring further diagnostic insight. The camp drew individuals seeking help for a wide spectrum of conditions including PCOS, ovulation disorders, endometriosis, male infertility, hormonal imbalances, and lifestyle-related reproductive issues.

    Dr. Monika Gupta said the turnout confirmed that infertility remains a major but often unspoken health challenge. “What we saw at the camp reinforces a crucial point, many couples are struggling with reproductive issues but delay seeking help because of stigma, hesitation, or misinformation. That delay can narrow their treatment options,” she said.

    She emphasised that the camp was designed to give couples factual clarity rather than assumptions. “People often come in unsure of what they actually need. Many believe IVF is the default solution, when in reality several cases can be managed with simpler interventions such as IUI or ovulation induction. Providing accurate assessments helps couples make informed decisions instead of navigating the process in confusion,” she added.

    Attendees welcomed the rare opportunity to discuss deeply personal concerns in a judgement-free setting, with many choosing to continue with follow-up evaluations for structured fertility planning.

    Kailash Hospital stated that the motivation behind the camp was not only to provide free access but also to normalise timely reproductive health checks and address the emotional burden couples often carry silently. In light of the response, the hospital announced that similar initiatives will continue to be organised to ensure that more families have access to reliable, ethical, and science-backed fertility guidance without financial or social barriers.

  • Prime Video Adds Aarata to Its Rental Library | Plot, Cast & Viewing Details

    Prime Video Adds Aarata to Its Rental Library | Plot, Cast & Viewing Details

    The 2024 Kannada film Aarata—directed by Pushparaj Rai Malarabeedu—has officially become available for audiences to rent and watch on Prime Video. A powerful blend of culture, tradition, interpersonal conflict, and raw human emotion, the film transports viewers into the heart of a coastal community where rituals and beliefs run deep, yet are continuously challenged by the complexities of everyday life.

    At its core, Aarata is not merely a drama about a village but a layered exploration of how deeply intertwined faith, social pride, and personal decisions can shape the collective spirit of a community. The story unfolds in the aftermath of a grand celebration of the Durga Parameshwari festival—an event that typically unites the people in devotion and festivity. However, the harmony is short-lived. A controversy erupts around the sacred katte—a traditional platform that symbolizes both cultural identity and spiritual respect. Its broken, neglected state ignites a dispute that slowly grows from a seemingly minor issue into a matter weighing heavily on the village’s unity and moral standing.

    A Story Rooted in Community, Pride, and Consequences

    What begins as an argument over a damaged structure soon evolves into a reflection of deeper social fissures. In Aarata, director Pushparaj Rai uses the katte incident as a metaphorical anchor—showing how unresolved tensions, generational values, and long-standing hierarchies come to the surface when a community faces a moral dilemma. Among the many threads woven into the film, one particularly striking theme is how a single father’s carelessness becomes a catalyst for a much larger crisis. His failure to fulfill responsibilities not only threatens his own household but also risks disturbing the sacred equilibrium upon which village life is built.

    When and Where to Watch Aarata

    Aarata is currently available for rent on Prime Video, making it easily accessible to a wide audience. The rental option can be used by both Prime members and non-members, allowing anyone interested in regional cinema, cultural narratives, or meaningful drama to experience the film.

    Trailer and Plot: A Glimpse into the Conflict

    The trailer sets the tone with imagery rich in tradition and community spirit. It hints at the dramatic core of the story—how pride, cultural duty, and a father’s failures intertwine to divide the village. Scattered loyalties and rising tensions over the revered katte leave the community questioning notions of honor, accountability, and the long-lasting impact of personal actions on collective harmony.

    Cast and Crew of Aarata

    The film features a compelling ensemble cast, headlined by:

    • Utsav Vamanjoor

    • Saliyan Nayana

    • Shashi Gujaran

    The supporting cast, including Ranjan Kasargodu, Venya Rai, Yothish Shetty, Anil Raj Uppala, Chethan Rai Mani, and Sunil Nelligudde, adds strong depth and authenticity to the narrative. Their performances bring credibility to the film’s portrayal of coastal village life and its intricate social fabric.

    Aarata is written by T. Raghavendra Holla in collaboration with director Pushparaj Rai Malarabeedu, who ensures that the film maintains a balance between emotional storytelling and cultural realism.

    Reception and Audience Response

    While Aarata currently holds a 5.0/10 rating on IMDb, it is important to note that the score reflects a relatively small number of viewer reviews. As the film reaches more audiences through its digital release, the rating may evolve. Early viewers have praised its rooted storytelling, cultural authenticity, and strong performances, especially in depicting the nuances of coastal Karnataka’s traditions.

  • Rail Coach Factory Apprentice 2025 Notification Released for 550 Posts—Check Eligibility & Apply

    Rail Coach Factory Apprentice 2025 Notification Released for 550 Posts—Check Eligibility & Apply

    New Delhi: The Rail Coach Factory (RCF), Kapurthala has issued the official notification for 550 Apprentice positions under the Railway Apprentice 2025 recruitment. Candidates aspiring to receive technical training at RCF can soon apply for these posts.

    The online application process will begin on 1 January 2025 and will remain open until 7 January 2026. Interested and eligible candidates must submit their forms through the official website of RCF: www.rcf.indianrailways.gov.in.

    Age Limit

    The age of applicants will be calculated as on 7 January 2026.

    • Minimum Age: 15 years

    • Maximum Age: 24 years

    Relaxations as per category:

    • SC/ST: 5 years

    • OBC: 3 years

    • PwD: 10 years

    Educational Qualification

    Candidates applying for the apprenticeship must have passed Class 10, Class 12, or an equivalent examination with at least 50% marks from a recognized board or institution.

    Application Fee

    • General/OBC & Other Unreserved Categories: ₹100

    • SC/ST, PwD, and All Women Candidates: No fee (exempted)

    How to Apply for RCF Kapurthala Apprentice 2025

    The application process is completely online. Candidates can follow these steps:

    1. Visit the official website: www.rcf.indianrailways.gov.in

    2. Click on the Apprentice Recruitment 2025 link available on the homepage.

    3. Complete the registration by filling in personal and academic details.

    4. Pay the application fee online.

    5. Submit the form and download the confirmation page.

    6. Take a printout for future reference.

  • Ibis India Expands Commercial Team: Gauri Lonke and Rupesh Malik Join as Key Sales Leaders

    Ibis India Expands Commercial Team: Gauri Lonke and Rupesh Malik Join as Key Sales Leaders

    National, 10 December 2025: ibis India has enhanced its commercial strength in two of the key markets, Mumbai and Gurgaon, with the onboarding of two senior sales leaders. This expansion of the sales leadership team reflects the brand’s continued focus on deepening corporate partnerships, accelerating revenue growth and driving stronger commercial outcomes across India.

    The brand has appointed Gauri Lonke as Cluster Director of Sales for the Mumbai Cluster comprising ibis Mumbai Airport and ibis Mumbai BKC and has brought on board Rupesh Malik as Director of Sales for ibis Gurgaon Golf Course Road.

    Animesh Kumar, Commercial Head at ibis and ibis Styles India, said “We are delighted to welcome Gauri and Rupesh to the ibis family. Their collective market expertise, strong industry relationships and demonstrated leadership will further strengthen our commercial engine in two of our most important cities. With their experience and direction, we look forward to unlocking new opportunities and enhancing our engagement with key corporate and travel partners across regions.”

    Gauri brings close to 15 years of experience across leading hospitality brands where she has developed strong expertise in strategic sales planning, key account management and business development. Her career includes impactful roles with IHCL, Ginger Hotels and Hyatt Hotels among others. Known for her sharp understanding of the Mumbai market and her ability to build high-value partnerships, Gauri will lead sales strategy and revenue acceleration for both Mumbai properties.

    Sharing her excitement, Gauri Lonke said “Joining ibis at such an important phase of growth is truly energising. The Mumbai market is dynamic and full of potential and I look forward to strengthening our corporate outreach, building new partnerships and enhancing the commercial performance of both hotels.”

    Rupesh comes with more than a decade of hospitality sales experience across notable brands including Radisson Hotel Group where he most recently served as Associate Director of Sales. He has a proven track record in driving revenue growth, securing key accounts and leading high-performing sales teams. With deep exposure to the NCR corporate ecosystem and strong expertise across B2B and MICE segments, Rupesh will play a pivotal role in strengthening the market position of ibis Gurgaon.

    Speaking about his new role, Rupesh Malik said “I am thrilled to join ibis and contribute to its expanding footprint in Gurgaon. This market has tremendous opportunity and I look forward to deepening corporate relationships, driving revenue-focused strategies and delivering strong commercial results for the hotel.”

    With these key appointments, ibis reaffirms its commitment to strengthening its sales leadership and building a robust commercial framework that supports long-term growth across India.

  • Human Rights Day 2025: Sheena Chohan’s New Podcast Inspires Youth to Understand Their Rights & Responsibilities

    Human Rights Day 2025: Sheena Chohan’s New Podcast Inspires Youth to Understand Their Rights & Responsibilities

    Sheena Chohan, whose human rights work spread awareness of basic rights and equality to over 150 million people in South Asia, by working with stars like Preety Zinta, Sonakshi Sinha, Guneet Monga, Sonu Sood, and others, is now working with a group of American artists and celebrities to bridge the human rights awareness of India with the world. These campaigns have highlighted critical issues such as the right to education, ending discrimination, eliminating slavery and human trafficking, stopping torture, and ensuring women’s safety and equality. Sheena has also won a Hero Award at the United Nations and, through her efforts, has broken down the 30 basic human rights into simple, relatable explanations, demonstrating how they apply in everyday life—at home, in schools, workplaces, and communities.

    Human rights form the backbone of a free and dignified life; yet, in our fast-paced world, we often forget what these rights truly are—and how easily they can be overlooked. This Human Rights Day, Ambassador Sheena Chohan brings the spotlight back to these fundamental freedoms, emphasizing their relevance in our daily lives. With a commitment to awareness and education, she not only speaks on their importance but also marks the day by launching her new podcast channel, dedicated to empowering people with knowledge about their rights.

    Human Rights hold a very special place in her journey, and on this day, she emphasized the importance , saying, “Human rights have shaped my life for more than a decade. They have given me purpose, direction, and a deep sense of responsibility. Today, on Human Rights Day, I want to remind people—especially our youth—that our rights are the foundation of our dignity. Yet, many of us forget what our basic rights and duties truly are. My mission is to simplify these rights so that every child, every parent, and every citizen understands them clearly.”

    A key focus of Chohan’s work has been educating children. She explained, “My entire goal is to spread awareness of basic rights and equality. In India, one of the most critical issues for women is safety. Real safety begins with respect—and respect begins with education. When boys and girls learn about human rights in school, they learn that women deserve equality. So on every Sunday, along with my team, I personally go to various schools and guide them on human rights and help them with the human rights book, and till now we have almost educated over 100-150 schools. Because I feel that when they understand equality, they learn respect. And respect is what ultimately brings safety for women in India.”

    Sheena also launched a podcast channel titled ‘East Meet West’, whose main focus would be to inspire people, especially young listeners, to understand their rights and responsibilities. “Human rights empower us, protect us, and guide us—but only when we understand them. I aim to influence people to remember their rights, demand them, respect them, and uphold them—for themselves and for others.”

    The first episodes of her new video-based podcast feature actress and author Elena Cardone, who discusses human rights for women and children, followed by Rudy Rodriguez, the Venezuelan actress who addressed the human right to responsibility. Other subjects, Sheena’s new podcast also takes up the right to education, equality, and against slavery and torture.

    Her Podcast Channel

     Indeed, Sheena is one such actress who not only amazes the audience but also, through her social work, continues her long-standing commitment to human rights, paving the way for a global conversation rooted in education, empathy, and equality.