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India’s TB elimination goal needs stronger diagnostic infrastructure at the point of care: peer-reviewed study

India’s TB elimination goal needs stronger diagnostic infrastructure at the point of care: peer-reviewed study

New Delhi [India], August 14: India’s fight against tuberculosis needs to go beyond treatment and case notification and urgently focus on strengthening diagnostic infrastructure at the point of care, according to a new peer-reviewed study published in Microbiology Spectrum, a journal of the American Society for Microbiology. The study, titled “Evaluating the nationwide availability of essential diagnostics for tuberculosis towards achieving a TB-free India,” provides a multi-state assessment of essential tuberculosis diagnostic services across public-sector healthcare facilities and a nationwide analysis of TB Treatment Units and Culture and Drug Susceptibility Testing (CDST) laboratories. The research team assessed 327 healthcare facilities across seven states and Delhi, while also analysing national-level data on TB Treatment Units and CDST laboratories.

The findings reveal a critical mismatch between the ambition of TB elimination and the diagnostic capacity available across India’s health system. A particularly important finding is the 61.56% gap in CDST laboratory capacity identified through the national analysis. The study found only 97 CDST laboratories against the number of TB Treatment Units required to provide adequate population coverage. The researchers say this has direct implications for India’s ability to identify drug-resistant tuberculosis and provide timely, appropriate treatment.

Diagnostic access remains uneven at the primary-care level

The study found that essential TB diagnostic services are particularly limited at the peripheral levels of the healthcare system.

Only 4.94% of surveyed Primary Health Centres (PHCs) had the complete set of essential TB diagnostics recommended for that level of care.

The assessment also found substantial variation in the availability of individual diagnostic modalities, including acid-fast bacilli microscopy, chest X-ray, cartridge-based nucleic acid amplification testing (CBNAAT), and fluorescence microscopy.

For a disease such as tuberculosis, where delayed diagnosis can prolong infectiousness and contribute to transmission, the researchers argue that access to appropriate diagnostics cannot remain concentrated in higher-level facilities.

“The question is not simply whether India has advanced TB diagnostic technologies. The more important question is whether a patient presenting at the first point of care can actually access the appropriate diagnostic test and, when necessary, testing for drug resistance.”

A study that underwent rigorous peer review

The study underwent multiple rounds of peer review in Microbiology Spectrum. Reviewers specifically examined the study’s sampling strategy, geographic representation, definition of diagnostic availability, private-sector coverage, human resources, utilization of diagnostic services, statistical methodology and relevance to laboratory equity.

The authors revised the manuscript substantially in response.

Importantly, the researchers clarified that “availability” in the study refers to the actual provision of diagnostic services at the facility at the time of assessment, verified through direct observation and structured questionnaires, including the presence of functional instruments and necessary reagents.

The authors also acknowledge that availability should not automatically be equated with utilization or full diagnostic capacity. The survey did not measure test volumes, patient footfall, referral delays or other barriers to access. The findings therefore primarily describe infrastructural readiness rather than actual utilization of diagnostic services.

The study does not claim that 327 facilities represent all of India

Responding to reviewer concerns, the authors deliberately revised the terminology from “nationwide assessment” to “multi-state assessment” for the facility-level survey.

At the same time, the national mapping of TB Treatment Units and CDST laboratories provides a broader picture of India’s TB diagnostic infrastructure.

The authors also acknowledge that the facility survey had operational and logistical constraints, with greater representation from Assam because of the research team’s established presence and collaborations in the region. The selected locations nevertheless included remote northeastern settings, high-population northern states and the metropolitan setting of Delhi, providing insight into different healthcare contexts.

Why this matters for India’s TB elimination strategy

The researchers emphasize that diagnostic infrastructure is more than the physical presence of a machine. A functioning TB diagnostic system requires equipment, reagents, trained personnel, maintenance, quality assurance, referral mechanisms, and access to drug-susceptibility testing.

The peer-review process prompted the authors to explicitly distinguish diagnostic service availability from fully functional diagnostic capacity. They note that facilities reporting diagnostic services may still experience operational constraints, including limitations related to personnel and maintenance.

The study also highlights the importance of strengthening laboratory networks rather than relying exclusively on individual technologies.

Rapid molecular tests have transformed TB diagnosis, but they need to be supported by a broader laboratory infrastructure capable of detecting and monitoring drug resistance. Culture and drug-susceptibility testing therefore remain an important component of a resilient national TB laboratory network.

Lessons beyond tuberculosis

According to the authors, the implications extend beyond TB.

“Tuberculosis provides a powerful example of why laboratory equity is a health-system issue. A diagnostic technology has limited public-health value if the populations most affected by disease cannot access it when and where they need it.”

The authors argue that India’s experience could inform the broader implementation of the National Essential Diagnostics List (NEDL) and efforts to strengthen diagnostic access for other major infectious and chronic diseases.

The study therefore calls for greater attention to equitable distribution of essential diagnostics, strengthening of peripheral laboratories, expansion of molecular testing, maintenance of culture and drug-susceptibility-testing capacity, and investment in the human resources required to operate these systems.

The research team is continuing its assessment of TB diagnostic infrastructure in other parts of India. The authors expect future analyses to provide more comprehensive state-level comparisons and examine diagnostic utilization and other dimensions of access that were beyond the scope of the present study.

The study was ultimately accepted for publication on June 27, 2026, following two rounds of revision and peer review. The authors describe the published work as an initial evidence base for understanding India’s TB diagnostic landscape and emphasize that the findings should be used to guide further systematic assessment rather than interpreted as a definitive census of every healthcare facility in the country.

Reference: Barbhuiya M, Chakraborty B, Laskar A, et al. Evaluating the nationwide availability of essential diagnostics for tuberculosis towards achieving a TB-free India. Microbiology Spectrum. 2026. DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00703-26

About the study: The research was undertaken by investigators associated with the Foundation for Advancement of Essential Diagnostics (FAED) and collaborating institutions in India and the United States.

Full article: Microbiology Spectrum – published article

Entrepreneur Acharya Shubham Barwala Redefining Holistic Healthcare with Multi-Branch Expansion and AI-Powered AyurTech Solutions at Vedamrita

Entrepreneur Acharya Shubham Barwala Redefining Holistic Healthcare with Multi-Branch Expansion and AI-Powered AyurTech Solutions at Vedamrita

Blending deep Vedic wisdom, master-level Yoga expertise, and high-precision AI technology to deliver standardized, diagnostic-driven Ayurvedic care.

BARWALA, HARYANA, INDIA — HealthTech Entrepreneur Acharya Shubham Barwala, Founder and Director at Vedamrita, is transforming the landscape of modern holistic medicine by bridging centuries-old Ayurvedic traditions with advanced Information Technology and Artificial Intelligence. Driven by his core operational philosophy, “Precision in every prescription,” Acharya Shubham Barwala is scaling Vedamrita into a premier multi-branch wellness ecosystem equipped with proprietary AI diagnostic tools and modern clinical standards.

As an expert Yoga Master and seasoned Ayurvedic scholar, Acharya Shubham Barwala brings a unique dual perspective to healthcare—combining authentic mind-body alignment with high-precision technological innovations. Under his leadership, Vedamrita has engineered a groundbreaking suite of HealthTech solutions designed to digitize and standardize traditional care:

  • Nadi Amrita: A state-of-the-art, wrist-based pulse diagnostic sensor that digitizes classical Nadi Pariksha, rendering real-time physiological data with clinical accuracy.
  • Vaidya Saarthi: An advanced AI clinical copilot that assists doctors and practitioners with diagnostic insights, case analysis, and personalized treatment workflows.
  • Swasthyarath: A proprietary digital Hospital Management System (HMS) ensuring seamless hospital administration, sandbox registration compliance, and patient data privacy.

OFFICIAL STATEMENT / QUOTE

“Healthcare should neither be trapped in outdated manual processes nor detached from authentic natural healing. At Vedamrita, our mission is to empower practitioners with scientific precision. By fusing yogic mastery, deep Ayurvedic diagnostics, and clinical AI, we are establishing a new benchmark for accessible, high-precision healthcare across all our branches.”

— Acharya Shubham Barwala, Entrepreneur & Founder of Vedamrita

With a strong emphasis on regulatory compliance, data security, and multi-branch expansion, Acharya Shubham Barwala continues to position Vedamrita as a pioneer in the global AyurTech sector, setting new standards for tech-enabled holistic wellness.

ABOUT VEDAMRITA

Vedamrita is a leading multi-branch healthcare and wellness ecosystem dedicated to delivering authentic Ayurvedic care, advanced Panchakarma, and Yogic science integrated with modern technology. Founded by Acharya Shubham Barwala, Vedamrita leverages proprietary AI diagnostic tools and digital management systems to provide structured, root-cause healing.

ABOUT ACHARYA SHUBHAM BARWALA

Acharya Shubham Barwala is an Indian HealthTech entrepreneur, expert Yoga Master, Ayurvedic practitioner, and software innovator. He is the Founder and Director of Vedamrita and co-director at Vedamrita Healthcare Private Limited, specializing in AI-driven diagnostic devices, smart clinical copilots, and digital health infrastructure.

MEDIA CONTACT & OFFICIAL PROFILES

Full Name: Acharya Shubham Barwala
Designation: Founder & Director
Organization: Vedamrita / Vedamrita Healthcare Private Limited
Location: Barwala, Hisar, Haryana, India
Official Website: https://shubhambarwala.com
Official Email: ceo@vedamrita.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/acharya-shubham-barwala-439044233
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shubhambarwala/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acharya_shubham_barwala/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AcharyaShubhambarwala

Beyond Borders: A Life Dedicated to Humanity

Beyond Borders: A Life Dedicated to Humanity

There are public servants who administer governments, and then there are those who quietly transform lives.

Harjot Kaur belongs to the second category.

For over three decades, her work has taken her from the villages of India to Afghanistan and, today, to the World Bank, where she leads social development initiatives across Central Asia. Throughout this journey, one principle has remained constant: development must always put people first.

An outstanding student, Harjot graduated as topper of Punjab University in Geography Honours before completing her Master’s degree in Economics. She qualified simultaneously for both the Indian Civil Services and the Indian Economic Service, choosing the Civil Services because it offered the opportunity to work closely with people across India. Later while working, she also completed a Master’s in Environmental Management from Harvard University, US strengthening her expertise in sustainable development.

A gifted painter and avid reader, she credits her parents for instilling in her the values of education, compassion and public service. Those values became the foundation of a career devoted to improving the lives of vulnerable communities.

Her work has ranged from eliminating child labour in India and supporting women economic empowerment and environmental & social development projects to leading wide range of social development initiatives in Afghanistan and ensuring that World Bank-funded infrastructure projects across Central Asia safeguard the rights and livelihoods of affected communities.

Today, she has embraced another medium to share stories of hope. As the producer of PREET, an international feature film inspired by human resilience, she hopes to bring stories of courage and compassion to audiences around the world.

In this exclusive conversation, Harjot Kaur reflects on the experiences that have shaped her life and her enduring belief that public service begins with humanity.

In Conversation

Question: Looking back at a career that has taken you from India’s villages to international development across Central Asia, what has transformed you the most?

Harjot Kaur: More than the places I have travelled, it is the people I have met who have shaped me. Every assignment has reminded me that behind every policy is a human story. Development should not be measured only in statistics but in lives improved. That belief has guided me throughout my career.

Question: You qualified for both the Indian Civil Services and the Indian Economic Service. Why did you choose the Civil Services?

Harjot Kaur: I wanted to understand India through its people. The Civil Services gave me the opportunity to work directly with communities across the country. Every posting reinforced that while challenges differ, people’s aspirations remain the same, to live with dignity, security and opportunity.

Question: Was there a defining moment that changed the direction of your work?

Harjot Kaur: Yes. While working in the Ministry of Labour, I visited many cities where I saw children working instead of attending school. That experience stayed with me. It reinforced my belief that lasting change requires more than legislation; it also needs empathy, education and opportunities for families to build better futures.

Question: You also worked on environmental and social development projects during your years in India.

Harjot Kaur: Studying projects on Ganga Rejuvenation made me understand that environmental sustainability and social development cannot be separated. Communities struggling for basic necessities cannot be expected to prioritise environmental protection unless their livelihoods and well-being are also addressed. That lesson has influenced my approach ever since.

Question: Afghanistan was one of the most demanding assignments of your career. What do you remember most from those years?

Harjot Kaur: Afghanistan changed me forever. Despite years of conflict, I witnessed extraordinary resilience among its people. Women wanted education for their children, young girls dreamed of returning to school and communities wanted peace and dignity.

I had the privilege of working closely with the Government of Afghanistan on development initiatives in mining, education, women empowerment, institutional strengthening and social development. The trust shown by the Afghan people remains one of the greatest honours of my career.

The Government of Afghanistan appreciated my contribution and requested the Government of India to extend my tenure, which was deeply humbling. I also had the opportunity to contribute to strengthening development cooperation between India and Afghanistan. It remains one of the most meaningful chapters of my professional life.

Among the people and communities Harjot Kaur has worked with, she found lessons in resilience, dignity and hope.

Question: Today you work with the World Bank across Central Asia. How different is this role from your earlier responsibilities?

Harjot Kaur: The World Bank gave me the opportunity to work across countries with diverse cultures and development challenges. My work covers social development aspects across irrigation systems, dams, transport corridors, agriculture, water, urban development, housing and infrastructure. Whenever development affects people’s homes or livelihoods, my responsibility is to ensure fair rehabilitation, protection of their rights and inclusive outcomes.

Equally important is ensuring that development policies are implemented effectively and that public resources achieve their intended purpose. Accountability and compassion must always go together.

Harjot Kaur during a World Bank meeting in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, June 26, 2024.

Question: Your career has often focused on women, children and vulnerable communities. Why has that remained such an important priority?

Harjot Kaur: The success of any society is reflected in the lives of its most vulnerable people. My experience has taught me that lasting development begins by investing in people.

Children deserve classrooms instead of workplaces. Women deserve opportunities instead of limitations. Communities deserve participation instead of displacement. When these values shape public policy, development becomes meaningful.

For Harjot Kaur, every field visit is a reminder that behind every development project is a human story.

Question: After such a distinguished international career, what inspired you to enter the world of cinema?

Harjot Kaur: Cinema has the power to reach hearts in ways policy documents cannot. Over the years, I encountered many stories of courage and resilience that deserved to be shared.
PREET grew from that belief.

The story was conceived by my son, who studied filmmaking at Boston University and was deeply influenced by the social realities he witnessed while growing up. When he shared the script with me, I immediately recognised the struggles I had seen throughout my own career.

As a first-time filmmaker, securing financial support for a socially relevant film was difficult for him. I believed in his vision and invested my personal savings, besides taking financial loans, to help bring the film to life. Producing PREET is, for me, another way of serving society by encouraging empathy, understanding and hope.

Question: What message would you like to leave for young professionals who aspire to make a difference?

Harjot Kaur: Never forget that behind every policy, statistic and development project is a human being. Professional success matters, but compassion gives it meaning.
Leadership is not about authority or recognition. It is about responsibility. If your work leaves even one life better than you found it, your journey has been worthwhile.

As our conversation came to an end, Harjot Kaur gathered her papers with the same quiet simplicity that had marked every answer she gave. There was no attempt to celebrate her own achievements, no desire to speak about titles or recognition. Instead, she returned once again to the people who had shaped her journey, children who deserved classrooms instead of factories, women rebuilding their lives after conflict, families uprooted in the name of development and communities determined to build a better tomorrow. It became clear that public service, for Harjot Kaur, was never about holding office. It was about holding on to humanity. Whether in the villages of India, the mountains of Afghanistan, the policy rooms of the World Bank or now through the storytelling of PREET, her purpose has remained remarkably unchanged: effort to leave every place and every life she touches a little better than she found it.

Kiya World School Partners with NIBOG Vizag 2026 to Celebrate Movement, Play and Early Childhood Development

Kiya World School Partners with NIBOG Vizag 2026 to Celebrate Movement, Play and Early Childhood Development

Visakhapatnam, August 2026: Kiya World School has come on board as the Official Sponsor of the New India Baby Olympic Games (NIBOG) – Vizag 2026, a special sporting experience designed for young children between 5 to 84 months of age.

The day-long event will be held on Sunday, 16 August 2026, from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM at S3 Sports Arena, Visakhapatnam, bringing together young children and their families for a day centred around movement, play, participation and joyful experiences.

Why Kiya World School is supporting NIBOG

For Kiya World School, the association with NIBOG reflects an important belief about early childhood: young children learn through movement, exploration, interaction and experience.

In the early years, physical activity is not simply about keeping children active. Crawling, walking, running, balancing, throwing and participating in playful challenges provide children with opportunities to develop coordination, body awareness, confidence and independence.

NIBOG provides a meaningful platform to bring this understanding of early childhood development into a real-world experience.

Kiya World School’s association with the event is therefore rooted in four key ideas:

  1. Movement is an important part of early development
    Children need opportunities to move, explore and use their bodies as they develop an understanding of themselves and the world around them.
  2. Participation matters more than competition
    For young children, the experience of taking part, trying something new and reaching the finish line can be more meaningful than winning. NIBOG creates an environment where children can participate at their own developmental level.
  3. Confidence begins with small achievements
    Completing a race, crossing a small hurdle or successfully throwing a ball can give a young child a sense of accomplishment and encourage them to try again.
  4. Families need opportunities to be active together
    Events such as NIBOG create opportunities for parents and children to share experiences, celebrate effort and encourage healthy habits from the early years.

A sporting experience designed for little participants

The NIBOG format allows children to participate in activities according to their age and stage of development. The event includes a range of playful challenges such as:

  • Baby crawling
  • Baby walker races
  • Running races
  • Hurdle and toddle challenges
  • Ball throwing activities
  • Cycling
  • Other age-appropriate physical games

The emphasis is on creating the excitement of a sporting arena while keeping the experience enjoyable and developmentally appropriate for young children.

For a toddler, crossing a finish line may be a small moment to an adult—but for the child, it can represent a significant achievement.

Beyond the race: what children gain from participation

Early childhood is a period of rapid development, and opportunities for active play can support several aspects of a child’s development.

Through activities such as running, crawling, balancing and throwing, children get opportunities to practise movement and coordination. Playful challenges can also encourage children to attempt something independently, persist when something feels difficult and experience the satisfaction of completing a task.

The experience can also strengthen parent-child connection. Parents become active participants in their child’s experience—encouraging, celebrating and creating memories together.

NIBOG also provides children with an opportunity to experience a larger social environment, while giving families the chance to connect with other young families in the community.

Kiya World School’s approach to the early years

At Kiya World School, the early years are viewed as a crucial stage in a child’s overall development. Learning for young children extends beyond classroom activities. Children need opportunities to move, explore, communicate, create, participate and discover.

The school’s association with NIBOG reflects this broader approach to early childhood programme – one where physical development, confidence, participation and joyful learning have an important place alongside academic foundations.

By supporting a community event that brings young children onto a sporting track, Kiya World School hopes to encourage families to see physical activity as a natural and enjoyable part of childhood.

A day of movement, participation and celebration

NIBOG Vizag 2026 promises to be more than a sporting event. It is an opportunity for children to experience the excitement of participation, for parents to celebrate their children’s small victories, and for families to come together around the importance of active childhoods.

With Kiya World School as the Official Sponsor, the event brings together two shared ideas: children learn by doing, and every child deserves an opportunity to participate.

Families interested in participating in the New India Baby Olympic Games – Vizag 2026 can register their children ahead of the event on 16 August 2026 at S3 Sports Arena, Visakhapatnam.

KCR Academy’s USA students credit Deepali Rokade for changing their cricketing lives

KCR Academy’s USA students credit Deepali Rokade for changing their cricketing lives

USA-based cricketers, including national and state-level players, hail Rokade’s technical expertise, mentorship and ability to build confidence

Mumbai, 12 August 2026: Behind every young cricketer’s development is often a coach who sees potential before the player fully recognises it themselves. For several students associated with KCR Academy in the USA, that mentor has been Deepali Rokade.

Students training with KCR Academy have spoken highly of Rokade’s contribution to their cricketing journeys, crediting her with not only improving their technical abilities but also changing the way they approach the game and themselves as cricketers.

Among those who have benefited from her guidance are Aparna Gurumurthy, who has gone on to represent the USA Women’s Cricket Team; Laasya Bandaru, selected for the USA U19 National Team; and U15 state-level player Reyaansh Dhar, whose association with Rokade began when he was just 11 years old.

Their journeys underline a coaching philosophy centred not merely on producing performances, but on developing confident, disciplined and self-aware cricketers.

Every player is different

What makes Deepali Rokade’s coaching approach stand out is her belief that every young player is different. Instead of forcing every cricketer into the same training mould, she focuses on understanding the player’s strengths, identifying areas for improvement and creating a learning environment where the player can develop with confidence.

For the USA-based students, this philosophy has proved particularly valuable. Coming from different cricketing backgrounds and levels of experience, the players have found in Rokade a coach who combines technical knowledge with a strong understanding of the mental side of cricket. The objective is not simply to tell a player what to do, but to help them understand their own game and why particular technical or tactical changes are necessary.

More than just cricket coaching

According to the students, Rokade’s influence goes beyond batting, bowling or fielding drills.

Her coaching encourages players to become more disciplined, focused and confident while dealing with the challenges that come with competitive cricket.

From correcting batting fundamentals and improving footwork to developing game awareness and learning how to handle pressure, her sessions are designed to make players think about why they are doing something rather than simply following instructions. This approach has helped many young cricketers develop a stronger understanding of their own game.

For them, Deepali Rokade is not simply the person standing behind the nets giving instructions. She is a mentor who constantly pushes them to believe that they can become better versions of themselves.

Building confidence, one player at a time

One of the biggest impacts of Rokade’s coaching has been the confidence she has instilled in her students. Young cricketers often go through phases of self-doubt, inconsistent performances and uncertainty about their abilities. Rokade’s emphasis on patience, process and consistent improvement allows players to understand that success does not happen overnight.

Her philosophy is simple, identify the potential, work on the basics, give the player time and allow confidence to grow naturally. That belief has resonated strongly with KCR Academy’s USA students, many of whom see her guidance as an important part of their development as cricketers. The progression of some of those players to state and national-level cricket offers an indication of the impact that sustained coaching and mentoring can have.

From first steps to state-level cricket

For Reyaansh Dhar, now an U15 state-level cricketer, Rokade was there right at the beginning of his cricketing journey. His association with her began four years ago when he was just 11 and taking his first steps in the sport.

Reflecting on that journey, his family said: “Four years ago, when Reyansh Dhar was just 11 years old and taking his very first steps in cricket, Coach Deepali became his first coach. Looking back today, I can confidently say that she didn’t just teach him the game—she helped shape the beginning of a journey that continues to inspire him every single day.”

Helping turn a dream into a USA cap

The impact of Rokade’s mentoring is also reflected in the journey of Aparna Gurumurthy, who progressed from being a young player with a dream to representing the USA Women’s Cricket Team.

For Aparna, the journey required not only technical development but patience, discipline, resilience and the confidence to pursue cricket at the highest possible level.

Her family said: “When Aparna first walked onto the cricket field, she had a dream. Like every dream, it needed someone who could nurture it with patience, discipline, and encouragement. Coach Deepali took on that role with incredible dedication. She saw potential, inspired confidence, and taught Aparna that success is earned through commitment, resilience, and humility. Today, as Aparna has the privilege of representing the USA Women’s Cricket Team, we know that this achievement is the result of years of hard work, supported by the guidance of an exceptional mentor.”

Belief that led to National selection

For Laasya Bandaru, Rokade’s influence extended across the technical, physical and mental aspects of the sport. Bandaru, who has been selected for the USA U19 National Team, credits her coach with believing in her potential and continually challenging her to improve.

She said: “Coach Deepali is a dedicated and inspiring coach who always brings out the best in her players. Her knowledge of the game, patience, and constant support helped me improve both mentally and physically.

“She believed in my potential and pushed me to work harder, stay disciplined, and trust myself. Her guidance played an important role in helping me reach my goal of making the USA team.”

A coach who believes in the process

Deepali Rokade’s coaching philosophy is rooted firmly in the fundamentals of the game.

Head balance, footwork, shot execution, hand-eye coordination, stamina, fielding skills and decision-making form an important part of the training process. But equally important is the mental preparation that accompanies these skills.

Rokade believes that young players should not be overwhelmed by excessive training. Instead, their physical and cricketing development should happen through a structured and progressive process that keeps learning enjoyable while preparing them for the demands of competitive cricket.

The focus is on establishing strong fundamentals first and then progressively increasing the intensity and complexity of training as players develop. This balance between performance and development has become an important part of the KCR Academy training environment.

It also means that development is not judged solely by immediate results.

A young player may experience failures, technical difficulties or periods of inconsistent performance, but the emphasis remains on understanding the process, making the necessary corrections and continuing to improve.

Creating cricketers for the Future

The success of a coach is ultimately reflected in the growth of the players they mentor.

For Deepali Rokade, that growth is not measured only through runs, wickets or selections, but also through the confidence, discipline and character developed by her students.

The appreciation coming from KCR Academy’s USA students reflects the impact of a coaching relationship that extends beyond the cricket field.

From an 11-year-old taking his first steps in the sport to young women progressing to USA national teams, their journeys demonstrate how the right combination of technical coaching, patience, encouragement and belief can influence a young cricketer’s development.

For Rokade, every player’s journey remains individual. Some may progress rapidly, others may require more time, but the principle remains the same: strengthen the fundamentals, understand the player, develop confidence and trust the process. Their journeys are also a reminder that the right coach can change more than a player’s technique,  they can change the player’s belief in what is possible.

For the young cricketers of KCR Academy, Deepali Rokade has become that guiding force: a coach, mentor and motivator who continues to shape their cricketing journeys, one player at a time.

Building With Purpose: Shoumyadeep Ghosh on Leadership, Trust and the Future of D S Motors

Building With Purpose: Shoumyadeep Ghosh on Leadership, Trust and the Future of D S Motors

For Shoumyadeep Ghosh, Managing Director and Chairman of D S Motors in Teliamura, Tripura, business leadership is not simply about authority, revenue or expansion. It is about building trust, developing people, improving systems and creating an organisation that can continue to grow over time.

D S Motors began its journey in 2007, and Ghosh believes the future of the organisation will depend on a combination of professional management, technology, customer experience and strong human relationships.

His philosophy can be summed up in three words: Build with purpose.

Leadership Is About Influence, Not Position

Ghosh sees a clear difference between positional authority and earned influence.

A designation may give a person the authority to make decisions, but genuine leadership comes when employees trust a leader’s judgement. For him, competence, character and consistency create stronger influence than simply holding a senior position.

This approach also shapes how he identifies future leaders within an organisation. Rather than looking only at job titles, he focuses on behaviour.

Employees who take initiative, accept responsibility, solve problems, help colleagues and remain calm under pressure often show leadership potential before receiving any formal designation.

According to Ghosh, one of the most important qualities in a future leader is ownership, the willingness to treat a responsibility as one’s own instead of waiting for someone else to act.

Customer Trust Is a Long-Term Business Asset

Customer experience is another major part of Ghosh’s business philosophy.

He believes customers do not judge a dealership only by the product. They look at the entire experience, including pricing, communication, convenience, financing, service, reputation and after-sales support.

Trust develops through repeated interactions.

How customers are welcomed, how clearly information is explained, how a vehicle is delivered and how complaints are handled can all influence the relationship.

A positive experience also makes repeat business easier because customers already know what to expect.

For Ghosh, visibility may attract attention, but reputation earns trust.

That is why he believes companies should make sure their public image reflects what actually happens inside the organisation.

Building Systems for Sustainable Growth

As businesses expand, Ghosh believes one of the biggest challenges is moving from founder-dependent operations to professional systems.

In a small business, the founder may personally manage customers, suppliers, employees and everyday problems. But that model becomes difficult to maintain as the company grows.

Processes, documentation, employee training, data, technology and performance measurement become increasingly important.

“Growth without structure” can create new problems if revenue and staff numbers increase faster than the organisation’s ability to manage them.

For this reason, Ghosh believes growth should increase organisational capability, not simply business volume.

Looking back at his own entrepreneurial journey, one lesson stands out: build systems earlier.

Technology and AI in the Future of Dealerships

Ghosh expects technology to play an increasingly important role in the automotive dealership business.

Rather than depending on a single technology, he sees value in combining artificial intelligence, data analytics, CRM systems, automation and digital customer communication.

These technologies can help businesses identify customer follow-ups, service requirements, sales opportunities, operational bottlenecks and marketing performance.

However, he does not believe AI will replace leadership.

AI can analyse information and identify patterns, but human leaders still need to understand consequences, make decisions and determine how technology should be used.

Entrepreneurs who learn to combine technology with strong human judgement may gain an important competitive advantage.

Creating Opportunities in Tripura

Ghosh also sees entrepreneurship as an important part of regional development.

His vision is to see more businesses from Tripura become professionally managed, digitally capable and competitive at a national level.

Strong local companies can create employment, improve professional skills, encourage technology adoption and give young people more opportunities within their own region.

He believes local roots do not have to limit ambition.

Businesses from smaller cities and regions can maintain local understanding while adopting professional standards that allow them to compete more widely.

From Business Operator to Institution Builder

For Ghosh, the next stage of entrepreneurship is not simply about operating a larger company.

His goal is to evolve from a business operator to a strategic leader and ultimately an institution builder.

That means developing people, creating stronger systems, maintaining integrity, adapting to technology and ensuring that customers continue to feel respected even as the organisation grows.

His idea of legacy is equally practical.

If employees continue learning, leaders continue developing, systems continue functioning and customers continue trusting the organisation even after the founder is no longer involved in everyday operations, then something meaningful has been created.

That is the long-term vision behind Shoumyadeep Ghosh’s philosophy at D S Motors: build with purpose, lead through influence and create something worth carrying forward.

Moving Walls India and Wellversed Media Partner to Accelerate Outcome-Based OOH Advertising and Empower Media Owners

Moving Walls India and Wellversed Media Partner to Accelerate Outcome-Based OOH Advertising and Empower Media Owners

Strategic collaboration brings agency-grade Post-Campaign Reporting, Brand Lift Surveys, and AI transformation training to Out-of-Home publishers across India.

August 13, 2026, India: Moving Walls, the world’s leading connected media platform and Wellversed Media, a specialised business research, marketing communications and media services firm, today announced a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to co-develop, launch, and operate joint research products and training offerings for Out-of-Home (OOH) media owners in India.

Shifting from Impressions to Measurable Outcomes

While traditional Out-of-Home advertising has historically relied on location-based decisions supported by audience impression metrics, today’s advertisers are increasingly demanding proof of tangible business outcomes. As media owners take on campaign-lead roles directly with brand advertisers, the need for robust, agency-grade research becomes vital.

This partnership addresses this immediate market gap by equipping OOH publishers with the data tools required to showcase concrete ROI and brand impact to direct clients. Furthermore, it creates a repository of campaign performance data, allowing media owners to understand what works best and optimise future media strategies.

Key Initiatives of the Partnership

The strategic collaboration focuses on two core offerings designed to modernise the OOH ecosystem:

  • Joint Research Product for OOH Publishers: Integrates Moving Walls’ core Post-Campaign Reporting, Brand Lift Surveys (BLS), and Panel Research capabilities with Wellversed Media’s business research and impact assessment expertise. This offers media owners comprehensive post-campaign reports tailored for direct brand clients.
  • Media Owner Training Programs: Hands-on training modules designed to educate publishers on utilising AI, automation, and data technology to transform their operations and capture growing digital advertising budgets.

Srikanth Ramachandran, Founder and CEO of Moving Walls India: “The OOH landscape in India is undergoing a massive shift. Advertisers want to move beyond plain visibility to understanding real brand lift and audience impact. By pairing our measurement technology and panel research with Wellversed Media’s deep research capabilities, we are giving Indian media owners agency-level capabilities to service direct advertisers effectively.”

Rajiv Raghunath, Founder and CEO of Wellversed Media: “Media owners are taking on bigger leadership roles in executing brand campaigns. To sustain this, they need actionable research and proof of outcomes. This alliance equips media owners with both the impact reports necessary to win budget commitments today and the AI and data training required to future-proof their media assets.”

Under the agreement, Moving Walls will provide the underlying measurement technology, panel capabilities, and standard research structures, while Wellversed Media will manage end-to-end service delivery, client relationship management, business analysis, and final client presentations. The joint offering will be rolled out nationally across India.

About Moving Walls

Moving Walls is the world’s leading connected media platform, powering over a million screens worldwide from the streets of New York to the skylines of Tokyo, enabling brands to engage audiences with precision across the physical world.

About Wellversed Media

Wellversed Media is a business research, marketing and media services firm specialising in industry research, business impact assessments, market communications, and end-to-end campaign analysis.

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The Foundation of Modern Real Estate Development

The Foundation of Modern Real Estate Development

In the dynamic and often complex world of real estate development, every monumental project, skyline-defining commercial hub, and thriving retail destination shares a singular, foundational origin: the strategic acquisition of land. Without a precise understanding of how to identify, evaluate, and secure the right parcel of land, even the most ambitious architectural concepts remain unfulfilled potential. Recognizing this critical industry need, Dr. Zafar Iqbal, a distinguished leader, retail strategist, and industry veteran, has released his definitive new book, Real Estate Acquisition 101: The Complete Guide to Land Acquisition, Due Diligence, Valuation and Development Strategy.

Drawing upon more than two decades of rigorous professional experience and hands-on industry mastery, Dr. Iqbal’s newly published work serves as an indispensable manual for professionals navigating the intricate landscape of modern real estate. Whether addressing seasoned investors, land acquisition specialists, or aspiring developers, the book bridges the gap between theoretical finance and practical, ground-level execution.

Meet the Author: Dr. Zafar Iqbal

Dr. Zafar Iqbal stands as a prominent figure in the Indian commercial real estate and retail sectors. Serving in high-impact leadership roles—most notably as the Co-Founder and President of the All India Retail Group (AIRG) and as the Head of Leasing at AIPL—Dr. Iqbal has spent his career at the vanguard of commercial leasing, retail real estate dynamics, and large-scale commercial developments.

His extensive professional journey encompasses a deep-seated engagement with strategic planning, commercial negotiations, and retail asset management. Beyond his corporate responsibilities, Dr. Iqbal is deeply committed to elevating industry standards through education, mentorship, and thought leadership. His multifaceted background—ranging from moderating high-profile retail industry panels to spearheading major commercial ventures—positions him uniquely to distill complex acquisition frameworks into clear, actionable strategies for the wider business community.

About the Book: Real Estate Acquisition 101

Subtitled The Complete Guide to Land Acquisition, Due Diligence, Valuation and Development Strategy, this publication is structured to demystify the entire lifecycle of a real estate transaction. Built upon more than twenty years of real-world insights, the book provides a comprehensive roadmap covering every vital phase of the acquisition process:

  • Land Identification & Market Analysis: Understanding how to spot high-potential locations, evaluate demographic shifts, and align land parcels with future urban growth corridors.
  • Comprehensive Due Diligence: Unpacking legal titles, zoning laws, environmental clearances, and regulatory compliance to safeguard investments against unforeseen liabilities.
  • Valuation & Financial Modelling: Mastering the quantitative tools required to assess land value accurately, project cash flows, structure financial models, and ensure long-term project viability.
  • Deal Structuring & Risk Management: Navigating negotiations, mitigating commercial risks, and crafting watertight agreements that protect stakeholder interests.
  • Post-Acquisition Strategy: Transitioning seamlessly from acquisition to development, ensuring that the strategic vision conceptualized on paper translates into profitable, sustainable commercial reality.

Who Is This Book For?

Real Estate Acquisition 101 is tailored for a diverse audience of professionals who shape the built environment. It is an essential addition to the professional library of:

  • Real Estate Developers & Investors seeking to sharpen their land-banking and financial evaluation techniques.
  • Land Acquisition Specialists & Legal Consultants looking for a structured reference on due diligence and title verification.
  • Retail and Commercial Leasing Professionals aiming to understand the foundational real estate assets that underpin successful retail ecosystems.
  • Students, Academics, and Industry Entrants desiring a reliable, authoritative textbook written by a seasoned practitioner rather than a pure theorist.

Continuing the Journey

The launch of Real Estate Acquisition 101 marks a significant milestone not only for Dr. Iqbal but for the broader real estate community seeking structured, experience-backed knowledge. By codifying decades of practical wisdom into a single volume, Dr. Iqbal empowers the next generation of real estate leaders to make informed, strategic, and resilient decisions.

For those eager to enhance their professional library and master the intricacies of land development, copies of the book can be acquired through official publishing channels:

As Dr. Iqbal notes, every great real estate story begins with the right land—and Real Estate Acquisition 101 provides the definitive guide to finding, securing, and transforming it.

Freedom of Religion and Expression in South Korea: International Concerns and Perspectives

Freedom of Religion and Expression in South Korea: International Concerns and Perspectives

Representatives from European human rights organizations and academic institutions display a jointly signed letter calling on the South Korean government to release Chairman Lee Man-hee from pre-trial detention, following a press conference on freedom of religion and expression at the Seoul Foreign Correspondents’ Club on 7 August. The signatories argued that humanitarian considerations and international human rights principles support allowing the 95-year-old to await trial outside custody.

The concerns were raised concerns over what they described as growing challenges to freedom of religion or belief and freedom of expression in South Korea, calling on the authorities to ensure that legal and administrative measures are applied in a neutral, proportionate and non-discriminatory manner.

The concerns were raised during a press conference held Friday at the Seoul Foreign Correspondents’ Club (SFCC) and organized by Human Rights Without Frontiers (HRWF), in cooperation with CAP Freedom of Conscience (CAP LC), accredited to the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), as well as FOREF, CESNUR and Bitter Winter.

Concerns over the detention of religious leaders

A central issue discussed at the conference was the detention of senior religious figures pending trial, particularly Lee Man-hee, the 95-year-old leader of Shincheonji, and Hak Ja Han Moon, 83, of the Family Federation.

The participating organizations called on South Korean authorities to review the detention measures, particularly in light of concerns related to proportionality, humanitarian considerations and due process. They stressed that legal and administrative responses to religious minorities should remain consistent with South Korea’s international human rights obligations.

Opening the conference, Hans Noot, Deputy Director of Director of Human Rights Without Frontiers, said the issues under discussion lie at the heart of a democratic society. He emphasized that fundamental rights should apply equally to everyone, regardless of religious affiliation or membership in a particular organization.

Detention and the right to freedom of belief

Terry Leleu, President of CAP Freedom of Conscience, addressed the legal aspects of Lee Man-hee’s detention, referring to South Korea’s obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the Convention Against Torture.

He questioned whether keeping a 95-year-old person in pretrial detention is compatible with principles of necessity and proportionality, emphasizing the importance of the presumption of innocence and human dignity. He also pointed to alternative measures that could be considered instead of pretrial detention where legally appropriate.

Shincheonji case raises broader questions

Michael Langans, Executive Director of FOREF Germany, questioned whether continued pretrial detention of Shincheonji leader Lee Man-hee is necessary, particularly where sufficient evidence may already exist to bring a case forward.

He also raised concerns about whether evidence had been collected impartially, rather than being influenced by the characterization of the religious group as a “cult” or “extremist group.”

According to Langans, the case raises a broader question for lawmakers: how can measures designed to protect electoral integrity be implemented without undermining constitutional and international protections for freedom of religion, belief and peaceful assembly?

Concerns extend beyond Shincheonji

The conference also addressed issues beyond Shincheonji. The organizations highlighted concerns regarding the Sigureo Church in Busan, which they said continues to face harassment and official scrutiny even following the release of Pastor Son Hyun-bo from detention.

Other issues discussed included conscientious objection, public opposition to the construction of a mosque in Daegu, and religious accommodations within educational institutions.

The participants also referred to the longstanding issue of conscientious objectors in South Korea, particularly members of Jehovah’s Witnesses who have historically faced imprisonment for refusing military service on religious grounds. Although an alternative civilian service system was introduced, critics argue that its length and conditions remain punitive, with the alternative service reportedly lasting 36 months compared with a shorter period of regular military service.

Warning over stigma and hostility

Massimo Introvigne, Deputy Director of CESNUR, discussed the potential consequences of continued stigma and hostility toward religious minorities. He referred to recent academic studies examining Shincheonji communities in Europe, Argentina and Australia.

According to his presentation, the studies identified concerning signs of increased hostility toward the group, raising questions about the wider impact that sustained negative narratives and discriminatory practices can have on religious minorities.

A call to protect rights for everyone

The conference concluded with a broader call for the protection of fundamental rights regardless of religious affiliation.

The participating organizations emphasized that the discussion should not be understood as an endorsement of any particular religious movement, but rather as part of a wider debate about the protection of freedom of religion or belief, freedom of expression and peaceful assembly in a democratic society.

They called on South Korean authorities to ensure that legal and administrative measures affecting religious groups are neutral, proportionate and consistent with international human rights standards, arguing that the protection of religious freedom and freedom of expression remains an important test of pluralism, equality and human rights in democratic societies.

At the conclusion of the press conference, the scholars signed an official letter calling on the Government of the Republic of Korea to immediately release Chairman Lee from custody and ease religious expression.

For more information on the HRWF or to view the video of the conference, visit:

https://www.hrwf.eu/

Or contact:

intern1@hrwf.org

Disclaimer: This article is based on statements, perspectives, and information presented by the organizations and individuals mentioned above. The publication does not independently verify or endorse the claims, allegations, opinions, or views expressed by the parties referenced in this article.

Can Eventzloop Become the Operating System for the Global Event Industry?

Can Eventzloop Become the Operating System for the Global Event Industry?

“One Platform, 20+ Tools, ₹999: How Eventzloop Is Challenging the Conventional Way of Managing Events”

By a Senior Industry Journalist with 15+ Years Covering Business, Technology and Emerging Startups

Having spent more than fifteen years reporting on business innovation and technology-led transformations across industries, I have seen numerous software platforms claim to revolutionize traditional sectors. Very few, however, try to address an industry’s fundamental operational problems from the ground up.

Recently, I came across Eventzloop, a unique technology platform from India that positions itself as the World’s First Operating System for Events. At first, the claim seemed ambitious. But after reviewing the platform, its architecture, and its intended use cases, it became apparent that Eventzloop is not trying to become just another event management tool—it is attempting to serve as the digital backbone of the entire event industry.

The event sector, despite being worth billions globally, continues to operate largely through fragmented systems. Event planners often manage spreadsheets, WhatsApp groups, phone calls, emails, accounting software, calendars, vendor databases, CRM tools, and manual reports simply to execute a single event successfully. This can lead to inefficiencies, communication gaps, missed deadlines, and avoidable operational costs.

Eventzloop appears to have been created specifically to tackle these challenges.

What makes the platform stand apart is its ability to bring multiple stakeholders together within a single ecosystem. Event planners, event management companies, vendors, customers, and in-house teams can all work together through one centralized platform. Instead of moving between multiple applications, users can manage their operations through a unified dashboard.

The platform provides dedicated modules for booking management, vendor management, lead tracking, customer relationship management, event scheduling, payment tracking, invoice management, image reporting, task assignment, communication management, analytics, announcements, business reporting, and much more.

According to the company, Eventzloop currently features more than 20 powerful business tools specifically designed for the event industry. From my assessment, subscribing to separate software platforms to access a similar combination of tools could easily cost an event company between ₹15,000 and ₹20,000 per month, depending on its team size and requirements.

What makes this proposition especially interesting is its pricing strategy. Eventzloop is making these capabilities available with subscription plans starting from only ₹999 per month. For small and medium-sized event businesses that frequently work with tight budgets, this pricing could significantly reduce the barrier to adopting professional technology infrastructure.

This is one of the reasons Eventzloop is increasingly being discussed as a strong contender for the title of the Best Event Management Application currently emerging from India.

The platform is also gaining recognition as a comprehensive Application for Event Planners in India, where the event industry continues to grow rapidly across weddings, corporate events, exhibitions, destination celebrations, festivals, and social gatherings.

One of the most compelling features of Eventzloop is its operating system approach. Most event software solutions concentrate on addressing a single problem—CRM, booking management, invoicing, or communication. Eventzloop attempts to bring all of these functions together within one ecosystem.

Think of the way an operating system connects different applications on a smartphone or computer. Eventzloop aims to introduce a similar model for the event industry by connecting customers, event planners, vendors, event companies, and internal teams through a single technology framework.

If implemented successfully, this model has the potential to reduce operational friction throughout the industry while improving accountability, transparency, communication, and execution efficiency.

Behind this ambitious platform is Dr. Venkat Narayana V, an entrepreneur from Bangalore with approximately two decades of industry experience. His vision appears to come from firsthand exposure to the operational complexities encountered by event businesses on a daily basis.

Adding further recognition to his professional journey, Dr. Venkat Narayana V was conferred with an Honorary Doctorate Award by California Public University, USA, in recognition of his 20 years of professional experience and contributions. The achievement reflects the depth of industry knowledge that has helped shape the development of Eventzloop.

What I found particularly noteworthy is that the platform does not focus only on large event companies. Its architecture appears equally useful for independent event planners, startup agencies, regional event businesses, vendors, and growing organizations looking for scalable systems without enterprise-level costs.

The mobile-first approach offers another advantage. With availability on both Android and iOS platforms, event professionals can manage operations, communicate with teams, monitor event progress, track payments, and receive updates from virtually anywhere.

The broader event industry is moving into a phase where technology adoption is no longer optional. Clients increasingly expect quicker responses, transparent communication, real-time updates, professional reporting, and seamless service delivery. Businesses that continue to depend entirely on manual systems may find it challenging to remain competitive in the coming years.

Platforms like Eventzloop represent an important step toward digital transformation within the sector.

While only time will determine the platform’s eventual market impact, the concept itself addresses a genuine gap in the industry. By combining more than twenty business-critical functions into one affordable solution, Eventzloop has positioned itself as much more than another event software application.

It is attempting to create what could genuinely become the World’s First Operating System for Events—a centralized platform where every stakeholder involved in event execution can work together efficiently.

For an industry that has long depended on disconnected tools and manual coordination, that vision may be exactly what is required.

If Eventzloop continues to execute its roadmap effectively, it has the potential to become not only the Best Event Management Application but also the most influential Application for Event Planners in India, helping thousands of event businesses become more organized, scalable, and profitable in the years ahead.

Contact Eventzloop: www.eventzloop.com | info@eventzloop.com