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Smartphones & Gadgets

Jumpstart your 2025 New Year’s resolutions by taking full advantage of your workplace wellness benefits

As we kick off the new year, many of us start to think about our personal goals for 2025. Whether making New Year’s resolutions or just taking stock of progress on a personal journey, efforts to improve physical and mental well-being are frequently a top priority. Common wellness resolutions include plans to work out or meditate in the mornings, walk 10,000 steps daily, create a new sleep routine or train for a 5K on the weekends.

Work-related challenges are barriers to personal well-being

However, if you struggle to balance your personal goals with your workplace responsibilities, you are not alone. According to Deloitte, most employees (83%) and executives (74%) say they’re facing work-related obstacles when it comes to achieving their well-being goals. They cite a heavy workload or stressful job (30%) and limited time due to long work hours (27%) as the top two challenges. Considering that many of us spend nearly a quarter of our week at work, it is not surprising that our workday experience has a big impact on our personal wellness journey. For those working even longer hours like many banking and insurance employees, the time crunch can be even more significant.

Most of us are not taking full advantage of workplace wellness benefits

Companies are realizing this too. Investments in employee wellness programs have grown over the past decade. In industries like financial services, where some of the workforce challenges are well documented and employee retention is a key priority, there is likely support for your personal wellness journey included in your benefits package. However, research also shows that many of us are not fully taking advantage of these offerings. According to Gartner, Inc., although 80% of employees have access to fitness well-being offerings, only 32% use them.

Workplace wellness tips for the new year

This year can be different. As you think about your resolutions for 2025, review your workplace benefits and see if they can help you reach your goals. Maximizing wellness support through work and extending healthy habits into the workday are great ways to enhance your health journey.

Here are some quick workplace wellness tips to consider as we head into a new year:

  • Set personal wellness goals: Think about personal health and wellness goals and identify habits that can support them both at home and at work. For example, if getting more physical movement into your day is important but your position requires long hours in front of a computer or on the road driving to client sites, perhaps there is a way to spend part of your day at a standing desk or to take a short walk break during lunch.
  • Leverage available resources: Review workplace benefits and see where they might align with wellness goals and associated habits. Many banking and insurance companies are creating more holistic wellness programs that include everything from fitness stipends to free counseling services and flexible work options. As organizations work to expand their portfolio or wellness benefits to help employees manage the stress that can accompany the often demanding financial services environment, there will likely be something for everyone.
  • Track your progress: For many of us, it can be highly motivating to see our progress against goals and celebrate big and small achievements throughout our journey. Wearables can help you track and identify trends in the habits you identify as important. In fact, according to Deloitte’s Connected Consumer Survey, 69% percent of those who own smartwatches and fitness trackers say the devices improve their fitness, and 64% say they improve their health. Check to see if your company provides a fitness reimbursement to purchase  new technology, such as a smart watch or fitness ring, or replace an outdated one.
  • Participate actively: Consistency is essential. Regular participation maximizes benefits, whether attending workshops, participating in team fitness challenges or taking advantage of counseling services. Connecting with those who face the same workplace rigors is a great way to uncover new ways to balance your personal wellness goals with the realities of the workday. For example, team step challenges can bring together remote claims adjuster teams through motivating group chats and a virtual monthly awards celebration.
  • Integrate wellness into daily work routine: Within company policies, build in short daily wellness breaks to walk, stretch or meditate throughout the day. For instance, use your wearable device or mobile phone to set reminders to take a short stroll around the office or practice a few minutes of mindfulness.

Whatever your goals are for 2025, don’t leave your workplace benefits on the table. By being proactive, consistent and engaged in the programs your company offers, you can maximize the value of your employee wellness program to make your New Year’s resolutions a reality and improve your well-being in the bank branch, on the road and at home.

To learn more about Samsung wellness solutions, start here.

Business

CCPA orders detailed probe into Ola Electric over consumer complaint resolution process

Ola Electric's stock tanks to its lowest as market analysts warn investors

CCPA orders detailed probe into Ola Electric over consumer complaint resolution processIANS

In mounting trouble for Bhavish Aggarwal-led Ola Electric, the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has now ordered a comprehensive probe into the EV company over its consumer complaint redressal practices.

As per sources, the consumer watchdog, led by Nidhi Khare, has asked the Director General (DG) of the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) to probe the matter. The BIS chief has been asked to submit the report within 15 days.

Last month, Ola Electric claimed that 99.1 per cent of the 10,644 complaints on the National Consumer Helpline (NCH) were resolved. The company was handed over a show-cause notice by the CCPA over alleged violations of consumer rights.

Ola Electric's share nosedives further, analysts warn investors to remain cautious IANS IANS

On social media platforms, complaints against Ola Electric continue to surgeIANS

However, despite Ola Electric claiming that it has resolved 99.1 per cent of the 10,644 complaints regarding its poor after-sales service, the Department of Consumer Affairs critically examined the responses filed by the EV firm, and correlated each consumer complaint with the company’s claims.

Out of the total 10,644 complaints, 3,364 pertained to slow service and repairs and 1,899 were related to delayed deliveries of Ola’s electric scooters.

If Ola Electric’s claims fail to satisfy the regulator, it may face legal action and reportedly lose the subsidies its electric vehicles are eligible for under the PM Electric DRIVE Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE) scheme.

On social media platforms, complaints against Ola Electric continue to surge.

Meanwhile, Ola Electric’s share closed at Rs 70.12 apiece, down 56 per cent from its all-time high of Rs 157.40. The company reported a huge 43 per cent surge in net loss at Rs 495 crore in the July-September period (Q2 FY25), from Rs 347 crore in the previous quarter (Q1 FY25). The electric two-wheeler company also saw its revenue slump 26.1 per cent to Rs 1,214 crore (on-quarter) from Rs 1,644 crore in the first quarter of this fiscal. The net loss, however, narrowed on a year-on-year basis.

The company also saw its market share plunge to 33 per cent in Q2, down from 49 per cent in the previous quarter.
(With inputs from IANS)

Finance

US Congressmen introduce resolution to commemorate 1984 Sikh Genocide

Four US Congressmen, including co-chairs of the Sikh American Congressional Caucus, on Friday, October 25, introduced a resolution to recognise and commemorate the Sikh Genocide of 1984 formally.

Capitol Building, the seat of the United States Congress. Photo courtesy: Wikipedia
Capitol Building, the seat of the United States Congress. Photo courtesy: Wikipedia

“Sadly, many Sikhs have been targeted for their religious beliefs throughout history, including during the 1984 genocide,” said Congressman David Valadao, co-chair of the Sikh American Congressional Caucus.

Observing that he is standing with the Sikh community in demanding recognition and accountability for this horrific event in history, Valado said this resolution is a small but important step to commemorate this tragedy and honour the innocent victims who lost their lives while practising their faith.

“As we mark the 40th anniversary of the Sikh genocide, we remember a dark chapter in history that inflicted pain on Sikh families and communities. This is not just a distant tragedy — it hits home for us here in the San Joaquin Valley, where so many of our Sikh neighbours have shared their stories of loss, survival, and resilience. This resolution is more than a symbol — it’s a time to recognise this horrific time that our Sikh community experienced,” said Congressman Jim Costa, co-chair of the Sikh Caucus.

Valadao and Costa introduced the resolution in the US House of Representatives, joined by Congressman Josh Harder, Vince Fong, and John Duarte.

The resolution is supported by the American Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee, American Sikh Caucus Committee, Ensaaf, Jakara Movement, Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund (SALDEF), Sikh Coalition, Sikh Coordination Committee East Coast (SCCEC), and the United Sikhs.

“This resolution marks a pivotal moment in our quest for justice and truth. The American Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee, representing Sikh religious institutions across the nation, has long advocated for the recognition of the atrocities committed during the 1984 Sikh Genocide,” said Gudev Singh, acting president of American Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (AGPC).

Pritpal Singh, founder of the American Sikh Caucus Committee, said this resolution is a turning point in their decades-long pursuit of justice and recognition. “For too long, the horrors of 1984 have been hidden from the global stage. Today, we honour the memory of those who suffered and ensure their voices will never be silenced,” he said.

Business

Electricity New Rule: OTP alert system for resolution of electricity related complaints. Details Here

Azamgarh : Now there will be a ban on the fake settlement of complaints made by consumers on the toll free number of the electricity department. Departmental engineers will no longer be able to settle electricity complaints fraudulently.

To stop complaints being closed without settlement or settlement of complaints fraudulently, the government is implementing the OTP system. Electricity companies will submit the plan to implement the OTP system to the Uttar Pradesh Electricity Regulatory Commission within 3 months.

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OTP will be received on the registered mobile number.

After this new system, if the complaints made by consumers are not resolved properly, then the complaints made by them online or on toll free number cannot be closed. After complete resolution of the complaints, if the consumer expresses satisfaction with the resolution process, only then the complaint registered through OTP will be considered resolved. The OTP of the complaints made by the consumer will be received on their registered mobile number, which will have to be shared after complete resolution of the problem.

In the order of Annual Revenue Requirement (ARR) of the electricity company, the Electricity Regulatory Commission has asked to implement the OTP system in resolving 1912 complaints. Consumer Complex President Awadhesh Kumar Verma expressed his gratitude to the Regulatory Commission for fulfilling this demand of the council. He said that in this system, consumers will also be able to get compensation easily.

Electricity bill will also be received through electronic medium

. Self generated OTP will be issued on the registered mobile number of the consumer immediately after the complaint. After the complaint is resolved, the consumer will be informed whether his complaint has been resolved or not, only after that it can be closed. With this new system, the resolution of complaints will also be correct and if the complaints are not resolved on time, the consumer will be able to claim compensation. Apart from this, all the electricity companies have also been directed by the commission to send the bill to the consumers through their registered email, WhatsApp or other electronic means.

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Technology

Resolution to Make an Impact: A Non-Math Major’s Journey to Becoming a Data Science Innovator

Sumit Makashir

“As a data scientist, the ability to develop innovative solutions is not just an advantage; it’s a necessity,” says Sumit Makashir, a senior data scientist dedicated to protecting e-commerce from abusive activities. His words resonate with digital marketplaces’ transformative and complex nature, where billions of transactions occur daily.

Sumit’s journey from a biotechnology undergraduate in India to an industry-leading data scientist is a proven result of his pursuit of education and determination to make impactful contributions to today’s world.

From Biotechnology to Data Science

Sumit Makashir’s professional trajectory is anything but conventional. With an undergraduate degree in Biotechnology, Sumit initially had minimal exposure to mathematics. Upon moving to the United States, he recognized the pervasive role of mathematics in solving real-world problems. This realization sparked his interest in the subject, leading him to pursue a master’s degree in Biostatistics and another in Business Analytics. His academic journey led him to bridge the gap in his mathematical education, meeting the challenge head-on by concurrently enrolling in undergraduate math courses.

Sumit’s desire to apply his skills to solve practical challenges drove his transition into data science. While completing his graduate studies, he worked as a research assistant at MD Anderson Cancer Center and Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, where he honed his hands-on data science skills in solving biology problems. The skills he learned from this research work laid the foundation for his subsequent industry roles.

In the course of his journey, Sumit had to face several challenges. During his early days, universities denied his application for graduate studies in biostatistics due to his lack of advanced math education. He kept pursuing and finally found a university program that recognized his passion. The University of Texas Health Science Center offered him admission and gave him a scholarship based on his exceptional credentials. Another substantial challenge he faced later on was breaking into the tech industry. Sumit wanted to join this industry because he saw it as a path to make meaningful contributions to billions of lives. His lack of relevant experience in this sector made it difficult for him to get through the doors. Again, with his “never give up” attitude, he prepared himself for the uphill battle and eventually won it.

Seven years later, Sumit’s perseverance and hard work have made him an established data scientist. He has successfully led several high-impact data science initiatives at multiple top-tier tech companies.

Leading Data Science Initiatives with Innovation

Sumit’s contributions throughout his career have been nothing short of innovative excellence. With only three years of academic study in data science, he developed a novel statistical meta-analysis framework for detecting differential gene co-expression. The framework was applied to Lupus disease patients’ data to detect dysfunctional networks of genes. This research was published in The Pacific Symposium on Biocomputing, an international, multidisciplinary conference.
As a senior data scientist, Sumit has led numerous initiatives across various organizations including fraud prevention, supply chain management, and voice assistant devices. He has delivered innovative solutions that have not only solved business problems consistently but also influenced the organizations’ strategies. One of his most noteworthy contributions is his patented research on reducing undesired activations in speech-processing systems, for which he is the primary inventor. The application of innovation has reached millions of customers across the globe.

Sumit’s work in previous tech companies further emphasizes his versatility and command. He has led data science initiatives focused on maintaining the integrity of product listings and reducing negative customer experiences. One of his roles also involved driving customer growth and lowering marketing costs. These roles highlight his ability to apply data science principles across different contexts, delivering impactful results.

Pioneering the Future of Data Science

Data science enables businesses to leverage big data analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning (ML) to enhance operational efficiencies and customer experiences. With significant advancements on the horizon, the future of data science is bright. By 2030, AI, ML, and big data analytics will revolutionize several industries.

However, these technological advancements will bring new challenges that require innovative solutions. In this fast-changing world of technology, individuals like Sumit Makashir, who think from first principles and deliver innovative solutions, will be invaluable assets. As data science becomes increasingly ingrained in sectors like e-commerce, figures like him will undoubtedly play a huge role in shaping the future of digital marketplaces.

Sumit offers a poignant observation: “The path to innovation is not to aim for innovation but to do whatever it takes to solve the problem at hand. Innovation will happen in the process.” His story is a powerful reminder of the potential of education, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence. In the end, Sumit’s journey from a non-mathematical background to becoming a data science innovator is a personal triumph and a reflection of the broader possibilities within the industry.

Business

What is the Income Tax e-Dispute Resolution Scheme, what is the process to avail its benefits?

Bank FD
Bank FD

The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) introduced the e-dispute resolution scheme on August 30. Earlier, the Income Tax Department had notified this scheme in 2022. Its aim is to resolve tax-related dispute issues quickly.

Mayank Mohanka, founder of TaxAaram.com, said the e-dispute resolution scheme was notified in 2022. Now the CBDT has started the facility of electronic filing of online applications. Now the application can be filed through the prescribed Form 34BC through the e-filing portal of Income Tax.

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Who can file the application?

Taxpayers whose income as per their income tax return ( ITR ) is up to Rs 50 lakh and the aggregate amount of variation is less than Rs 10 lakh can file an application under this scheme. Mohanka said, “Any person including salaried taxpayers who fulfils the prescribed criteria can file an application under this scheme. For example, salaried taxpayers whose income (as per ITR) is up to Rs 50 lakh and who have received an assessment order containing disallowances up to Rs 10 lakh in respect of HRA claim or section 80C claim can settle their tax matters under this scheme. This will save them from penalty under section 270A in case of under-reporting or mis-reporting of income.”

What are the conditions to avail this scheme?

There are some other conditions as well. For example, the taxpayer should not be facing any detention order under the Conservation of Foreign Exchange and Prevention of Smuggling Activities Act, 1974. However, this restriction will not apply if such order has been quashed by the court. Apart from this, if the taxpayer has been convicted under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, Narcotics Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985, Prohibition of Benami Transactions Act, 1988, Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 (49 of 1988) and Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002, then he cannot file an application under this scheme.

Also Read: You will be able to monitor your luggage at the airport, this airline has…

How will taxpayers benefit from this scheme?

Mohanka said that under this scheme, the principal of income tax and its interest has to be paid. However, the penalty imposed on the taxpayers can be reduced or waived off. The Dispute Resolution Committee will decide on this. This is a kind of amnesty scheme on the lines of ‘Vivaad se Vishwas’. However, there is no deadline for filing the application. This scheme is different in that the penalty can be reduced or waived off, but the interest demand sent to the taxpayers cannot be waived off.

What is the process for filing an application?

The Income Tax Department has issued an FAQ (Frequently Asked Question) in this regard. According to this, taxpayers will have to go to e-DRC (Dispute Resolution Committee). This committee has the right to reduce the penalty of waiving the punishment after the payment of tax. Its purpose is to resolve disputed issues quickly. The taxpayer can access the e-DRS module by logging in to the tax portal of the Income Tax Department. After logging in, he will have to select e-file on the dashboard. After that, he will have to go to Income Tax Forms. Then File Income Tax Forms will have to be selected.

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Finance

Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping: Security Council condemns, passes resolution

The UN Security Council on Wednesday handed a resolution condemning “within the strongest phrases” the a number of attacks by Houthi rebels off the coast of Yemen which have disrupted international commerce and raised fears of additional spillover from the conflict in Gaza.

Houthi
Members of the Security-Council collect for a gathering on the upkeep of worldwide peace and safety within the Red Sea (file picture). Photo Courtesy: UN Photo/Manuel Elías

Russia first proposed three amendments to the draft textual content however all had been defeated, paving the way in which for a vote on the draft resolution. There had been 11 votes in favour, none towards, and 4 nations abstained: China, Russia, Algeria and Mozambique.

The assembly follows an emergency briefing and consultations final week to handle the rising risk posed by militant attacks in one of many world’s key transport channels.

The United States reported earlier within the day that along with UK naval forces it had shot down 21 drones and missiles fired by Houthi rebels from Yemen on Tuesday within the southern Red Sea.  

There have been over two dozen separate attacks on worldwide transport carried out by the insurgent motion which controls a lot of Yemen, because the 7 October terror attacks by Hamas led to Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

Houthis management the capital Sana’a and huge swathes of the nation, together with the Red Sea coast. They started focusing on what they imagine to be Israel-bound vessels in mid-November after first launching missile and drone attacks towards Israel itself, in assist of the extremist group Hamas.

Now they’ve widened their goal to all worldwide transport corporations, till, they are saying, Israel permits full humanitarian provides to enter Gaza, inflicting many corporations to divert ships far to the south across the Cape of Good Hope, driving up prices and threatening to disrupt your complete international provide chain.

Council members beforehand condemned the Houthi attacks and demanded the discharge of the Japanese-registered Galaxy Leader and its crew in a 1 December 2023 press assertion.

Last week’s briefing and consultations had been held following an absence of consensus on a draft presidential assertion in late December.

Details of the resolution

The draft resolution condemns within the strongest phrases the Houthi attacks on service provider and industrial vessels since 19 November, demanding that the group instantly stop all such attacks, in addition to launch the Galaxy Leader and its crew.

The textual content requires respect for the train of navigational rights and freedoms by service provider and industrial vessels in step with worldwide legislation.

It additional “takes word of the precise of Member States”, in accordance with worldwide legislation, to defend their vessels from attacks, together with those who undermine navigational rights and freedoms.

The textual content commends efforts taken thus far to guard transport underneath hearth within the Red Sea and encourages Member States to “assist capability constructing efforts” of the Yemeni coastguard to guard the sovereignty and integrity of the nation.

It additionally emphasizes the must “deal with the foundation causes” of the assault which are contributing to regional tensions, to make sure a “immediate, environment friendly and efficient response”.

The resolution condemns the supply of any arms to the Houthis and “urges warning and restraint to keep away from additional escalation of the scenario within the Red Sea and the broader area”.

It urges continued assist for the UN-led peace course of to finish Yemen’s long-running civil battle.

Japan

Japan’s Permanent Representative, Yamazaki Kazuyiki, who drew up the resolution together with the US, denounced the Houthi attacks and demanded the discharge of the Galaxy Leader’s crew.

The delegate known as upon the Council to talk in a single voice on this concern and expressed hope that the resolution would assist create widespread floor to answer the safety disaster within the very important transport channel.

Russia

Russian Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia emphasised what he described because the “harmful aspect” of the resolution offered by the United States.

This textual content mustn’t create a precedent, mentioned the delegate, including that “worldwide legislation offers with freedom of navigation in peacetime, not in wartime”. He regretted the politicized nature of the textual content in addition to the allegations of politicization voiced by the US in the direction of his nation.

While condemning the attacks on civilian ships, the Russian delegation acknowledged that the target of the resolution was not guarantee the security of navigation within the Red Sea, however an try to legitimize the coalition’s actions “led by the United States and the United Kingdom” and to acquire, not directly, the Security Council’s “blessings”.  

In order to appropriate the scenario within the Red Sea, Nebenzia mentioned it was necessary to acknowledge the “direct penalties” of  Israel’s “very violent army operations which have lasted for greater than three months in Gaza.

China, Algeria, Sierra Leone

The omission of this “causal hyperlink” within the wording of the resolution was additionally invoked by Algeria, China and Sierra Leone to justify their abstentions.

“We couldn’t affiliate ourselves with a textual content that ignores the 23,000 lives which were taken since final October within the Gaza Strip, summed up Algeria’s prime consultant, Ambassador Amar Bendjama.

China’s Permanent Representative Zhang Jun noticed within the resolutions “ambiguities”, a purpose to worry an exacerbation of regional tensions.

United States

After having famous that few of the ships underneath had really been chartered by Israeli corporations, the United States thought of that what’s at stake shouldn’t be a battle particularly, however the truth that freedom of navigation is being taken hostage.

We mustn’t obscure the truth that Iran provides its assist for the Houthis to assault service provider and industrial ships passing by the Red Sea and the Bab El-Mandab strait in violation of resolution 2216 (2015) of the Security Council, insisted Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield.

The threats to navigation rights within the Red Sea are “a world downside that requires a world motion”, she mentioned.

Business

NCLT Extends Insolvency Resolution Process, For Srei Infra Till Jan 5

The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) has extended the time till January 5 next year for completion of insolvency resolution process for Srei Infrastructure Finance. Total three participants have shown interest in the buyout process. “National Company Law Tribunal, Kolkata benchThe National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) has extended the time till January 5 next year for completion of insolvency resolution process for Srei Infrastructure Finance. Total three participants have shown interest in the buyout process. “National Company Law Tribunal, Kolkata bench

Business

Suitors Raises Concerns Over Bidding Process, As Reliance Cap Resolution Enters Final Stage

Suitors have raised concerns over the bidding process, including the introduction of ‘challenge mechanism’, as the resolution process of debt-ridden Reliance Capital Ltd (RCL) enters the final stage. According to sources, the decision of the Committee of Creditors (CoC) to introduceSuitors have raised concerns over the bidding process, including the introduction of ‘challenge mechanism’, as the resolution process of debt-ridden Reliance Capital Ltd (RCL) enters the final stage. According to sources, the decision of the Committee of Creditors (CoC) to introduce