Category: Awards & Recognition

  • The Poetic Journey of Grief and Healing in ‘Fishbowl’

    PUNE: ‘Fishbowl’ is a story written by Varsha Seshan, which showcases grief and finding a way to heal. What’s different is that it’s a story in verse form! Pune’s Varsha Seshan is a popular children’s books author, and this is her fourteenth book – her fifth for middle-grade readers and her second book in verse!

    “For a long time, Fishbowl was an idea in my head. Back then (2019 or thereabouts), I didn’t even think of writing in verse. As with ‘Uncontrollable’, I first wrote the whole book in prose. But Mahee’s parents are dead. She’s trying to cope with grief, guilt, a new family, a new school … more than any child should have to cope with. Would she have beautifully formed thoughts in structured prose? Of course not. And that’s how ‘Fishbowl’ in its verse form was born”, smiles Varsha.

    Told in three distinct narrative voices, it is the story of a twelve-year-old girl, struggling to make sense of a world that seems to be crumbling around her. It is the story of grief and healing, loss and love.

    “I am beyond grateful that it found a home with Sayoni Basu at Duckbill Books. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, the brilliant cover by Isha Nagar is what draws people to it. The book, as of today, is out in the world, and I can’t wait for you to read it”, says Varsha.

    The 288-page book published by Duckbill Books, which is an imprint of Penguin Random House India, is priced at Rs.299, and available at bookstores and on Amazon.

  • LG Electronics Launches Revolutionary Braille AC Remote Cover

    Enhancing Accessibility for the Visually Impaired with Braille AC Remote Cover

    NEW DELHI: LG Electronics, a leading consumer durable brand in India is proud to announce the launch of its first-ever Braille AC Remote Cover, a groundbreaking initiative designed to support the visually impaired community. This innovation will empower visually impaired individuals to independently operate LG air conditioners, enhancing their user experience and promoting inclusivity.

    The launch event was attended by esteemed guests, including representatives from the National Association for the Blind (NAB) and LG leadership. The highlight of the event was a live demonstration of the Braille AC Remote Cover, showcasing how the product will revolutionize the way visually impaired individuals operate LG’s air conditioners.

    For 27 years, LG Electronics has been creating cutting-edge home appliances and entertainment solutions that are designed to meet the evolving needs of customers. This latest initiative further solidifies LG’s commitment to making technology accessible to all segments of society.

    On the occasion, Youngmin Hwang, Director, of Home Appliances & Air Conditioner- LG Electronics India said, “At LG, we aim to make a Better Life for all through our innovative products and technologies. This AC remote is designed for the visually impaired ensuring that all individuals can enjoy their comfort with ease. By integrating Braille, we are taking one step towards our journey of inclusivity and accessibility for our customers.“

    Speaking about the launch, Sanjay Chitkara, Sr. VP – Home Appliances and Air Conditioner, LG Electronics India, said, “At LG, we believe that innovation should be accessible to everyone. The launch of the Braille AC Remote Cover is a step towards empowering the visually impaired community, ensuring they can enjoy the comfort and convenience of LG products just like anyone else. Our dedication to breaking down barriers is deeply rooted in our mission to enhance lives through inclusive technology.”

    Commenting on the initiative, Meenakshi Chandwani, Director- Programs and Partnerships, National Association for the Blind, added: “The Braille AC Remote Cover is an innovative step towards inclusion. It allows visually impaired individuals to independently operate devices that are otherwise challenging to use. We applaud LG for its commitment to accessibility, and we hope to see more innovations that empower people with disabilities and promote a more inclusive society.”

    The Braille AC Remote Cover is part of LG’s broader efforts to design solutions that cater to diverse consumer needs, while reinforcing the company’s belief that technology should improve lives across the board. LG will continue to invest in such innovative products that reflect its vision of a more inclusive, accessible world.

    This Braille remote is available in selected brand shops in multiple cities. For any requirement, write to [email protected].

  • Discover the All-New Maruti Suzuki Swift S-CNG


    Maruti Suzuki Swift S-CNG

    Maruti Suzuki Swift S-CNG offers unmatched fuel efficiency of 32.85 km/kg.

    New Swift S-CNG is available with an expanded range of three variants: V, V(O), and Z, up from two in the previous generation.

    Maruti Suzuki offers the industry’s most comprehensive line-up of S-CNG vehicles with 14 models (Including Swift S-CNG).

    The Epic New Swift has clocked sales of over 67,000 units within 4 months of its launch (May 2024).

    NEW DELHI: Maruti Suzuki India Limited (MSIL) launched the S-CNG variant of the Epic New Swift. This exciting addition to the iconic Swift lineup seamlessly blends its style, performance, and cutting-edge features with an unmatched fuel-efficiency of 32.85 km/kg#. With this, the new Swift S-CNG cements its position as India’s most fuel-efficient premium hatchback in its segment.

    The newly launched Swift is being appreciated for its distinct design, underscored by its bold wraparound character line, which lends it a sporty identity in the premium hatchback segment. The Swift S-CNG continues to uphold this distinct sporty character. Complemented by the Z-series Dual VVT engine it emits low CO2 and delivers an impressive maximum torque of 101.8 Nm @ 2900 rpm for better city driving.

    To better cater to diverse customer preferences, the Swift S-CNG is now offered in three variants: V, V(O), and Z, up from two in the previous generation. Each of these trims is equipped with a5-speed manual gearbox.

    Announcing the introduction of Epic New Swift S-CNG, Partho Banerjee, Senior Executive Officer, Marketing and Sales, Maruti Suzuki India Limited, said, “The Swift brand has always been synonymous with spirited performance and iconic style. With the launch of the Epic New Swift S-CNG, we are not just expanding its rich legacy but taking it to new heights. Powered by our all-new Z-series engine, it delivers remarkable fuel-efficiency of 32.85 km/kg#, more than a 6% improvement over its predecessor, without compromising the exhilarating drive that Swift enthusiasts love. This seamless blend of a greener powertrain and the unparalleled excitement of driving underscores our unwavering commitment to prioritizing the needs and aspirations of Indian customers.”

    He further added, “Maruti Suzuki pioneered the production of CNG vehicles in India back in 2010. Since then, we have sold over 2 million S-CNG vehicles to date, contributing to a significant reduction of 2 million tonnes of CO2 emissions. Our S-CNG technology has democratized green mobility solutions, and we are proud to offer the widest range of 14 S-CNG powered vehicles across all body styles. Last fiscal year, our CNG sales in the passenger vehicle category witnessed a 46.8% growth compared to Financial Year 2022-23 and registered a CAGR of around 28% since 2010.”

    S-CNG vehicles are conceptualized, designed, developed, and rigorously tested at Maruti Suzuki’s world-class research & development facility before they are made available to customers. The Swift S-CNG has historically been immensely popular, and with S-CNG technology in the Epic New Swift, it is now ready to capture the hearts of more discerning customers who seek a blend of engaging performance and segment-best fuel-efficiency.

    It offers an array of standard safety features such as six airbags, Electronic Stability Program+ (ESP®), and Hill Hold Assist. Further, the Swift S-CNG comes equipped with a range of modern features, such as automatic climate control, rear AC vent, wireless charger, 60 : 40 split rear seats, and a feature-loaded 17.78 cm (7-inch) Smart Play Pro infotainment system and Suzuki Connect, enhancing the overall driving experience.

     Technical Specifications – EPIC NEW SWIFT S-CNG:Length (mm)3 860Max TorqueCNG mode: 101.8 Nm @ 2900 rpmHeight (mm)1 520Max PowerCNG mode: 51.3 kW @ 5700 rpm/69.75 PS @ 5700 rpmWidth (mm)1 735Fuel-efficiency32.85 km/kg#

    The ex-showroom prices are as follows:

    EPIC NEW SWIFT S-CNG Prices (Ex-showroom in INR)VariantPrices (in ₹)VXi CNG8 19 500VXi (O) CNG8 46 500ZXi CNG9 19 500

    The Epic New Swift S-CNG can also be owned through Maruti Suzuki Subscribe at an all-inclusive monthly subscription fee starting from ₹ 21 628*.

    Maruti Suzuki Subscribe is a convenient way to bring home a new car. It allows a customer to use a new car without owning it, by paying an all-inclusive monthly subscription fee that comprehensively covers the cost of complete registration, service & maintenance, insurance, and roadside assistance.

  • FMCS Statement on Renewed Mediation for Boeing-IAM Contract Dispute

    WASHINGTON, D.C.: Following the notification of work stoppage by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) in their ongoing contract negotiations with The Boeing Company (Boeing), the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) is convening the parties to meet with a federal mediator.

    FMCS has been in contact with both IAM and Boeing to support their return to the negotiation table and commends the parties on their willingness to meet and work towards a mutually acceptable resolution.

    As part of the effort to resolve the current labor dispute and end the work stoppage, which began at 12:01 am PDT this morning, the parties will resume meetings early next week.

    FMCS is committed to supporting a fair and equitable outcome for all parties involved, with the ultimate goal of preventing economic disruption and fostering a positive working relationship.

    Previous articleDiscover the All-New Maruti Suzuki Swift S-CNG

  • Baba Kalyani Becomes the 2nd Indian to Receive the U.S.I.B.C Global Leadership Award

    PUNE:  The U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s U.S.-India Business Council (USIBC) recently held its India Ideas Summit and 49th Annual General Meeting, where Babasaheb “Baba” N. Kalyani, the Chairman and Managing Director of Bharat Forge, received the Global Leadership Awards. This annual recognition honors business leaders from both the U.S. and India who are passionate about enhancing the bilateral economic relationship and making impactful contributions to the development of the U.S.-India commercial corridor.

    USIBC President Ambassador (Retd.) Atul Keshap said, “Baba Kalyani is an exceptional global business leader with a long-term vision to create the building blocks of critical infrastructure. As a recipient of the Padma Bhushan, Baba exemplifies the power and dynamism of an Indian entrepreneur who has dedicated his life’s work to transform India into a globally-competitive center for advanced manufacturing. While Bharat Forge is an established name in the global automotive and industrial sectors, Baba’s astute leadership and passion for technology-driven innovation is rapidly positioning the company as one of India’s largest defense manufacturers and at the forefront of driving India’s aspiration to become a net defense exporter. USIBC is honored to confer its 2024 Global Leadership Award to Baba N. Kalyani.”

    In his acceptance speech, Baba Kalyani expressed his gratitude for the recognition and said, “I am humbled and greatly value this prestigious honor conferred upon me today. As the largest democracies, India and the United States share a strong global strategic relationship and we at Bharat Forge take pride in contributing to growing bilateral trade and enhanced business engagement between the two countries. As India lives up to the scale of its colossal economic potential, Bharat Forge will continue pushing the boundaries of innovation with AI, Industry 5.0 and advanced defense technologies and products. For decades, the USIBC has not only been Bharat Forge’s trusted partner in business, but also shares our commitment to free enterprise, fair trade, unlocking opportunity, and solving challenges in our countries’ economic relationship.”

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  • VI John India Launches Asia’s First 8-Foot Ganapati Crafted from Shaving Cream and Foam

    INDIA: In a unique blend of creativity, tradition, and innovation, VI John India, a leading name in men’s grooming, has unveiled a spectacular 8-foot Ganapati statue, crafted entirely from shaving cream and foam. Revealed at Grand Street Mall in Pune, this awe-inspiring sculpture, VI John Ganapati, was officially recognized by the Asia Book of Records as the Largest Ganapati made from Shaving Cream and Foam.

    This creative initiative is part of VI John India’s mission to highlight the significance of grooming in daily life. By choosing Lord Ganapati—who symbolizes wisdom, new beginnings, and success—the brand sought to communicate the importance of self-care and personal grooming creatively. To drive this message home, VI John Ganapati was constructed using VI John’s latest product launches: VI John Premium Shaving Cream and VI John Special Moisturizing Formula-based Shaving Foam.

    The construction of this one-of-a-kind Ganapati required over 3,500 units of shaving cream and foam and was brought to life after 15 days of meticulous work and countless hours of creative effort. The result is a visually stunning tribute that merges the artistry of sculpture with the brand’s core values of grooming and self-care.

    Speaking on the occasion, Ashutosh Chaudhary, General Manager Marketing, VI John India shared “Ganesh Chaturthi is a time of devotion, new beginnings, and celebration. We wanted to showcase that grooming is an important part of personal care, just as Ganapati Bappa holds an important place in our hearts. The VI John Ganapati is our way of honoring the tradition while creatively demonstrating the importance of grooming.”

    The VI John Ganapati unveiling was met with overwhelming enthusiasm from mall visitors and devotees alike. As a highlight of the event, the statue has also garnered widespread media coverage, strengthening the brand’s connection with customers during the festive season.

    With this initiative, VI John India has successfully blended its brand philosophy with the spirit of Ganesh Chaturthi, creating a memorable marketing campaign that resonates with tradition and modern values.

  • Itel Launches Rhythm Pro with 100 Hours of Non-Stop Music

    Features an impressive 360* Deep Bass technology with Ultrafast Charging

    NEW DELHI:  Strengthening its TWS category, itel has launched the innovative Rhythm Pro Earbuds to elevate the audio experience for Gen Z users on the go. Designed to meet the demand for uninterrupted audio, these earbuds offer 100 hours of playtime and ultra-fast charging capabilities. The device also features a 360* deep bass technology, for a theatre-like experience on the go. These sleek dual-tone earbuds with a fusion of style and innovation, are poised to emerge as an iconic everyday companion for the modern youth of India.

    Commenting on the latest launch, Arijeet Talapatra, CEO of Itel India, said “At itel, our strategy has always been to innovate based on deep consumer insights, aligning our products with the evolving needs of our users. The launch of the Rhythm Pro Earbuds underscores this commitment by addressing a key demand for extended, uninterrupted usage with 100 hours of playtime. By integrating AI Environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC) and ultra-fast charging, we’ve created a product that enhances both convenience and performance, ensuring our consumers experience cutting-edge technology that fits seamlessly into their fast-paced, connected lifestyles—all at an accessible price point.”

    A quick 10-minute charge provides up to 3 hours of playback, allowing users to stay connected to their favorite audio content without delays. In addition, the Rhythm Pro is equipped with advanced AI Environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC) technology, delivering an immersive listening experience by minimizing background noise and allowing users to fully focus on their content without distractions. The itel Rhythm Pro, with touch support, long battery life, and stylish design, is a complete package offered at an attractive price of INR 1299. 

    These earbuds are powered by Bluetooth V5.3, allowing consumers to enjoy uninterrupted connectivity up to 10 meters (30 feet). Each earbud is equipped with an ample 40mAh battery, while the charging case boasts an impressive 650 mAh battery capacity. The earbuds are available in two elegant dual-tone colours including Phantom Black and Midnight Blue along with two single-tone colours; Ivory White and Daylight Green making them a stylish fashion accessory as well.

    Itel Rhythm ProStyle (Full/Half)FullTotal Play Time100 HourBattery Size (mAh)40mAh/650mAhCharging Type10min=180minBT versionV5.3Driver Size10mmANCN/AENC SupportedYesNo. of Mic2Water RatingIPX5Touch ControlsYes

  • Thermo King Unveils Upgraded High-Roof Truck Solutions in the Asia Pacific Region

    BENGALURU: Thermo King, a strategic brand of Trane Technologies (NYSE: TT), a global climate innovator, has announced a significant upgrade to its high-roof truck solutions for RV1200/1100/1000S ultra-slim, vehicle-powered truck refrigeration units.

    Specifically designed for heavy-duty refrigeration trucks, this high-roof series has achieved remarkable success in the market with its excellent performance and high reliability since its launch in 2022. With this new upgrade, Thermo King has introduced comprehensive innovations spanning from product design to production efficiency. The upgrade not only expands the driver’s cab of the refrigeration truck by up to 20% but also significantly enhances the energy efficiency by 20%. This series offers the cold chain transportation industry an innovative experience that combines superior performance with lower costs. Looking ahead, the series is set to enter more markets, such as Singapore and Malaysia.

    “With over 80 years of experience in global cold chain transportation, Thermo King always adheres to the principles of customer focus, innovation, and excellence,” said Michael Shi, Thermo King Product Management and Engineering Leader, Asia Pacific. “We have optimized our high-roof RV-series vehicle-powered truck refrigeration solutions to exceed customer expectations for efficiency, reliability, and economy. The newly upgraded products quickly became popular choices in the heavy-duty truck market, reinforcing our commitment to advancing the cold chain transportation industry with our customers.“

    Greater refrigeration capacity and reliability

    Since its launch in 2022, the high-roof RV-series vehicle-powered truck refrigeration units have led the heavy-duty truck market in the Asia Pacific region, driven by strong growth in annual orders and sales. Featuring a series of innovative technologies, the newly upgraded solutions have significantly improved energy efficiency by 20%, offering exceptional performance for heavy-duty refrigeration trucks.

    To meet the core demand for refrigeration efficiency in cold chain transportation, these products feature a new evaporator design, an optimized flow channel structure, and a high-fin, low-pressure resistance regenerator. These enhancements significantly improve heat exchange efficiency, ensuring that the high-roof RV-series vehicle-powered truck refrigeration units can consistently deliver powerful refrigeration performance ranging from 8.5kW to 10.3kW in fresh conditions.

    The high-roof RV-series vehicle-powered truck refrigeration units are equipped with high-quality Thermo King compressors and an optimized shaft seal design to ensure stable operation at high speeds. Additionally, the built-in ultra-long life fan with a durability of up to 10,000 hours provides a guarantee for long-term uninterrupted operation. To address varying environmental challenges, the units feature three condensing fans, maintaining excellent performance even in extremely high-temperature conditions. By developing a series of intelligent climate control schemes tailored to different application scenarios, Thermo King has further enhanced temperature control accuracy and reliability for various transported goods in cold chain transportation.

    Enhanced driver comfort with lower modification costs

    In addition to delivering exceptional performance, the upgrade to these products prioritizes an optimized customer experience. The innovative ultra-slim condenser design expands the driver’s cab by up to 20%, making it more spacious and comfortable. This high-roof solution is perfectly suited for a variety of heavy-duty refrigeration trucks. Furthermore, the modular structural design simplifies installation and maintenance, significantly reducing modification costs and achieving optimization in both volume and cost.

    Moreover, the upgrade has enabled 80% of the standard parts to be interchangeable, optimizing costs across various areas such as compressors, system components, structural elements, electrical controls, and automated manufacturing. This not only boosts production efficiency but also significantly reduces spare parts costs. As a result, customers can enjoy more economical and efficient product options, making these units an ideal choice for long-distance transportation.

  • Kalavardhini’s Tribute to Swaryogini Dr. Prabha Atre with ‘Swar Nritya Prabha’

    A special music and dance performance by legendary dancer Dr. Sucheta-Bhide Chapekar, disciple and daughter Arundhati Patwardhan along with dancers of Kalavardhini Dance Company

    PUNE: ‘Kalavardhini’ is honored to announce a special performance to pay tribute to the Hindustani Music Maestro Swaryogini Padma Vibhushan Dr. Prabha Atre with ‘Swar Nritya Prabha’. Dr. Sucheta Bhide-Chapekar along with her daughter and disciple Arundhati Patwardhan will present the program on 13th September at Tilak Smarak Mandir, Pune, from 5:30 pm onwards. Shrinivas Joshi,  renowned vocalist and son of Bharat Ratna Pt. Bhimsen Joshi will grace the event as the Chief Guest. Entry to the program is free for all on a first come first served basis with a few seats reserved for invitees.

    This date marks the first birth anniversary of Dr. Atre, and the performance will be a rejuvenation of “Swar Nritya Prabha,” a poignant choreography by Dr. Sucheta Bhide Chapekar that celebrates Dr. Atre’s remarkable compositions.

    ‘Swar Nritya Prabha’ is not only a tribute to Dr. Atre’s extraordinary contributions to music but also a celebration of the enduring artistic bond she shared with Dr. Sucheta. The program will feature an ensemble by Dr. Sucheta Bhide-Chapekar, Arundhati Patwardhan, dancers of Kalavardhini Dance Company along with support by Aashay Kulkarni on Tabla, Yashwant Thite on Harmonium, Hrishikesh Badve on vocal, Krishna Salunkhe on Pakhawaj, and Sunil Awachat on Flute.

    The evening will commence with a solo Hindustani vocal performance by Viraj Joshi, grandson of the revered Bharat Ratna Pt Bhimsen Joshi. Viraj will honor Dr. Prabha Atre through his art, setting the stage for a memorable celebration.

    Dr. Sucheta Bhide Chapekar is a pioneering artist renowned for her creation of ‘NrityaGanga’, a unique synthesis of Bharatanatyam and Hindustani music. Throughout her career, Dr. Sucheta has collaborated with many legendary artists, including Dr. Prabha Atre, whose influence has been instrumental in the development of ‘NrityaGanga’. The artistic bond between Dr. Sucheta and Dr. Atre was deep-rooted, with Dr. Sucheta having choreographed performances based on Dr. Atre’s compositions and presenting them alongside her daughter at the invitation of Dr. Atre.

    ‘Kalavardhini’ is a charitable trust founded by Dr. Sucheta Bhide-Chapekar dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Indian classical arts, with a focus on the innovative fusion of Bharatanatyam and Hindustani music. It is also committed to preserving and advancing the legacy of ‘NrityaGanga’.

  • The Remarkable Recovery of a 5-Year-Old Boy from Chikungunya at Sahyadri Hospitals

    Young Child Miraculously Defeats Life-Threatening Brain Infection and Organ Failure

    PUNE: A five-year-old boy who suffered severe complications from a chikungunya infection, including brain encephalitis and multi-organ failure, was discharged from Sahyadri Hospitals MomStory this week, marking a significant triumph in pediatric medical care.

    The child was initially seen by Dr Vinod Shelar, a Pediatrician at Chandan Nagar on August 18, due to a high fever but he started getting fits hence was urgently transferred to Sahyadri Hospitals MomStory Nagar Road – PICU, for specialized care. 

    “On arrival at MomStory, he had persistent convulsions and signs of severe brain infection including unequal pupils indicative of increased intracranial pressure. We noted the child’s condition required immediate intervention with ventilator support due to his unstable breathing and ongoing seizures, Continuous EEG monitoring also showed ongoing continuous convulsions that needed aggressive management to control it. This entity is called Non-Convulsive Status Epilepticus where convulsions are not seen but in the brain, there are ongoing convulsions.  Hence he was started on continuous infusion of medicine to control ongoing seizures and raised brain pressure. Slowly EEG started to normalize. This if not treated urgently can cause severe brain dysfunction,” said Dr. Sagar Lad, Senior Pediatric Intensivist at Sahyadri Hospitals MomStory.

    “The initial outlook was concerning as further tests showed acute liver failure which is seen in less than 3% of patients with chikungunya infection and needs urgent medication for liver regeneration and very low platelet and white blood cell counts, making treatment more complex. He received blood and platelet transfusions. He also had low blood pressure and refractory shock required medicines to normalize Blood pressure. A real-time PCR test soon confirmed a severe chikungunya infection. The situation worsened when he developed hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, a rare and dangerous condition where the body’s immune system starts to damage its organs. These complications require strong treatment plans, including Intravenous Immunoglobulin and steroids, to effectively control the immune system’s excessive response,” explained Dr. Sagar Lad.

    Dr. Pradeep Suryawanshi, Director of Neonatology & Paediatrics at Sahyadri Hospitals MomStory, stated, “During his stay, the child underwent continuous monitoring and multiple treatment adjustments to address the complex interplay of the infection and its broad impacts on his brain and other organs. The brain scans revealed widespread signs of encephalitis, a severe and uncommon condition in chikungunya cases.”

    “After a tough but successful 14-day stay in the hospital with 2 weeks of ventilation the child made incredible progress and no longer needed the ventilator. His thinking and movement skills are almost back to normal, despite the severity of his case. He is now interacting well with the world around him,” said Dr. Suryawanshi.

    On September 1, the child was discharged from the hospital. His condition had stabilized significantly, and he was able to return home with no ongoing neurological deficits.

    “The family thanked the doctors and hospital staff deeply for their dedication and care, which transformed a critical situation into a story of survival and hope,” said Dr Prateek Kataria, senior consultant at the hospital.

    The concerted efforts of a multidisciplinary team include Dr. Prateek Kataria, Dr. Preeti Lad, Dr. Sushmita Nimagadda, Dr Nikita Mankar, Dr Aaishwarya Dalal, Dr. Pranjali Fulari, Dr. Neha Kunturkar, and Dr. Dinesh Thakre, with critical support from pediatric liver specialist Dr. Snehvardhan Pandey and pediatric hematologist Dr. Kannan.

    “Chikungunya is considered to be not a very serious infection in children but in this current situation in Pune, we are seeing very complicated chikungunya infection, especially in children affecting the brain causing convulsion, decreasing level of consciousness, and even coma. If not detected early can be life-threatening. Probably this is due to a change in the Virulence factor of the virus,” said Dr Sagar Lad.