MUMBAI: Aditya Birla Sun Life Insurance Company Limited (“ABSLI”), the life insurance subsidiary of Aditya Birla Capital, India’s leading diversified financial services company, today announced the launch of ABSLI Anmol Akshaya, a savings-oriented participating life insurance plan designed to help customers achieve future goals while safeguarding their families against life’s uncertainties.

 Exclusive offerings of the Plan:

1. My Child: Policyholders can choose milestone-based income pay-outs aligned to key stages of a child’s educational journey, from undergraduate studies and professional courses to post-graduation and career beginnings.

2. My Savings: Designed for customers looking to create a medium to long-term corpus for future goals such as daughter’s marriage, buying a house, retirement planning, etc., while also ensuring life insurance protection for their families.

3. HER Benefits: For women, the plan offers attractive savings for future goals and exclusive HER Benefits built into the plan. The proposition includes complimentary Health Management Services, providing access to medical consultations, health coaching, second medical opinions, and personal medical care management to support proactive health management.

ABSLI Anmol Akshaya offers customers added flexibility through optional protection enhancements such as the Extended Life Cover (ELC) option that enables customers to continue their life insurance cover beyond Maturity up to the age of 75 or 85. Additionally, the Policy Continuance Benefit (PCB) helps safeguard long-term financial goals of the family by offering an immediate death benefit, under specified conditions, on the death of the Life assured. Besides, this benefit also provides a waiver of future premiums upon the death of the Life Insured, while policy benefits continue till maturity.

Kamlesh Rao, MD & CEO, Aditya Birla Sun Life Insurance Company Limited, said, “Financial planning today is increasingly centered around life goals rather than standalone products. From securing a child’s future, family’s future goal, and a savings corpus to address the evolving financial and wellness needs of women, customers seek solutions that support them through different stages of life. With ABSLI Anmol Akshaya, we have created a proposition that combines savings and protection, along with meaningful benefits, helping customers pursue their aspirations with greater confidence and financial resilience.”

As a part of the HER benefits offering of ABSLI Anmol Akshaya plan, it also features a Motherhood Benefit, under which eligible women can receive an accelerated payout equivalent to one annualized premium upon childbirth after a certain policy duration. Further, the Cancer Care Benefit provides an accelerated payout of 25% of the Guaranteed Maturity Benefit upon diagnosis of a covered woman-specific cancer.

The post Aditya Birla Sun Life Insurance Introduces Anmol Akshaya appeared first on NRI News.

PUNE: Cardiovascular disease is affecting Indians at increasingly younger ages. Studies indicate that over 50 percent of coronary artery disease-related deaths in India occur in individuals under the age of 50, while nearly one in four heart attacks is reported in people younger than 40. Maharashtra has also witnessed a growing burden of heart disease among younger populations, with rising cases among men in their 30s and women between 40 and 60 years of age. Pune, too, has seen an increase in heart attack cases among teenagers and young adults under 30, a trend experts attribute to sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy dietary habits, rising stress levels, and other lifestyle-related risk factors.

As more patients undergo angioplasty and live longer after their initial treatment, cardiologists are increasingly seeing patients return years later with recurrent blockages, narrowed stents, and complex coronary artery disease. For many, treatment often means another stent, repeat interventions, or even bypass surgery. At Sahyadri Super Speciality Hospital, Deccan Gymkhana, advanced cardiac laser therapy is helping expand treatment options for such patients, offering a minimally invasive approach that can help restore blood flow, support faster recovery, and, in selected cases, avoid additional stents or bypass surgery.

The impact of the therapy is reflected in the lives of patients across age groups and life stages. A 76-year-old man was able to avoid bypass surgery after developing a severe blockage inside a previously implanted stent, allowing him to return to the comfort of everyday life. For a 21-year-old man with a complex coronary blockage, the treatment restored blood flow while avoiding additional permanent implants, helping safeguard a future filled with ambitions and milestones yet to come. Similarly, a 56-year-old man who had already survived two heart attacks underwent laser-assisted angioplasty for recurrent blockages, enabling him to move forward without the burden of another major cardiac procedure. While their journeys were different, the outcome was the same—a renewed chance at life, health, and hope.

Advanced cardiac laser therapy is very helpful for treating stents that didn’t work, complicated blockages, and arteries with a lot of calcium, using a method that doesn’t require big cuts, and most patients go home within 24 hours.

Speaking about the growing role of technology, Dr. Abhijeet Palshikar, Director – Cardiology, Sahyadri Super Speciality Hospital, said, “As more patients undergo angioplasty and live longer after their initial treatment, we are witnessing a rise in complex coronary artery disease requiring repeat intervention. Advanced cardiac laser technology has significantly strengthened our ability to manage these challenging cases with greater precision. We are increasingly utilising this technique for specialised redo angioplasties where previously implanted stents have failed, enabling effective treatment while helping many patients avoid bypass surgery.”

Dr. Nilesh Singh, Hospital Director, Sahyadri Super Speciality Hospital, Deccan Gymkhana, “The introduction and use of advanced cardiac laser technology reflect our focus on expanding access to contemporary cardiovascular care for patients. This approach has supported the management of complex coronary conditions through a minimally invasive method. Such innovations contribute to improved clinical outcomes and patient experience, while helping reduce the need for repeat interventions in suitable cases. Over time, this has also supported the care of many patients across different clinical profiles.”

For patients living with failed stents, recurrent blockages, and complex coronary artery disease, advanced cardiac laser therapy is offering more than an alternative treatment option—it is helping many return to their families, careers, and everyday lives with renewed confidence and hope.

The post Laser Interventions in Cardiac Care: Offering New Hope When Stents Are No Longer Effective appeared first on NRI News.

Modern joint replacement is now changing this experience. At Inamdar Multispeciality Hospital, Pune, robotic joint replacement, advanced pain-control methods, and early rehabilitation protocols are helping many patients stand and walk within 24 to 48 hours after surgery.

Dr. Qaedjohar Dhariwal, Joint Replacement Surgeon at Inamdar Multispeciality Hospital, said the aim is not merely to replace a damaged joint, but to restore safe movement with minimum pain and faster confidence.

Robotic surgery does not mean that a robot operates alone. The surgeon remains fully in control. The robotic system acts as a precision-assistance platform. Before and during surgery, it helps map the patient’s joint anatomy, plan the implant position, calculate alignment, and guide accurate bone preparation. This is especially important in knee replacement because even small errors in alignment or soft-tissue balance can affect comfort, walking pattern, and implant life.

In conventional surgery, the surgeon depends heavily on visual judgment, manual instruments, and experience. In robotic-assisted surgery, the surgeon’s experience is supported by computer-guided planning and real-time feedback. This helps in achieving more accurate implant placement, better ligament balance, and a more natural-feeling joint movement.

For geriatric patients, this accuracy matters even more. Elderly patients may have weak bones, long-standing deformity, reduced muscle strength, diabetes, heart disease, or other age-related conditions. A technically precise surgery can reduce unnecessary tissue handling, help control bleeding, and support faster rehabilitation.

The second major change is pain management. Earlier, many patients feared joint replacement because the first few days after surgery were painful. Today, anaesthesia and pain-control science have improved significantly. Motor-sparing nerve blocks, local anaesthetic infiltration around the joint, and multimodal medicines can reduce pain without completely weakening the leg muscles. This allows patients to begin standing and walking under supervision much earlier.

This is why the phrase “painless surgery” must be understood correctly. Major joint replacement is still major surgery. But with robotic precision, careful anaesthesia and structured physiotherapy, the pain can be controlled far better than before. The patient is not simply lying in bed after surgery; the patient is encouraged to move safely.

Early mobilisation is one of the most important parts of recovery. Walking within 24 to 48 hours can reduce stiffness, improve circulation, lower the risk of clots, protect lung function, and rebuild confidence. For elderly patients, avoiding prolonged bed rest is critical because immobility can quickly lead to weakness, confusion, dependency, and fear of movement.

“At Inamdar Hospital, our focus is on making major joint replacement safer, more accurate, and more recoverable for the patient,” said Dr. Dhariwal. “When robotic planning, pain-control protocols, and physiotherapy work together, many senior patients are surprised to see how soon they can stand and walk again.”

For families, this progress is deeply emotional. It may mean seeing a parent walk to the dining table, climb a few steps, attend a family function or return to daily routines without constant fear.

Robotics has not made surgery casual. It has made precision measurable. For senior citizens living with advanced arthritis, that precision can mean reduced pain, faster mobility, and a smoother return to dignity, independence, and normal life.

The post The Role of Robotics in Helping Seniors Walk Again After Joint Surgery appeared first on NRI News.

Digestive health issues are frequently ignored despite presenting early warning signs such as recurring acidity, persistent bloating, unexplained stomach pain, bowel changes, fatigue, and fluctuations in weight or appetite. Recognising these symptoms and seeking timely consultation can play a crucial role in preventing more serious health complications.

Dr. Khurshed Vazifdar adds, “Digestive symptoms are often dismissed as minor or temporary, but they can sometimes indicate underlying conditions that require timely attention. Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve outcomes and prevent complications. We encourage individuals to listen to their bodies and seek medical advice if symptoms persist.”

Holy Family Hospital offers specialized gastroenterology, liver, and pancreas clinics, all under one roof, ensuring seamless and integrated care for patients. From everyday digestive concerns to complex liver and pancreatic disorders, the hospital’s team of experienced doctors delivers advanced, patient-focused treatment tailored to individual needs.

Their advanced care procedures include: UGI Endoscopy, Colonoscopy, ERCP, FibroScan, Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS), and Therapeutic Endoscopy. These minimally invasive procedures enable accurate diagnosis and effective treatment of conditions such as ulcers, reflux disorders, liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, biliary tract diseases, and pancreatic disorders.

Holy Family Hospital’s Endoscopy Department is accredited by CAHO (Consortium of Accredited Healthcare Organizations), reflecting its commitment to maintaining high standards of safety, quality, and clinical excellence.

With a team of highly experienced specialists and a strong focus on patient well-being, Holy Family Hospital continues to be a trusted destination for advanced digestive care in Mumbai. 

Services Offered:

• Outpatient and diagnostic services, including FibroScan
• 24×7 Emergency Gastroenterology services
• Endoscopy services, including upper GI endoscopy and colonoscopy
• Hepatology services for liver-related conditions
• Treatment for Pancreatico-Biliary disorders
• Day-care endoscopic procedures and minor GI procedures
• Multidisciplinary care involving coordination with surgery, radiology, pathology, oncology, and dietetics. 

The post Dr. Khurshed Vazifdar Emphasizes the Significance of Digestive Health Awareness on World Digestive Health Day appeared first on NRI News.

The core leadership team includes Dr. Ketan Deshpande (Secretary General), Dr. Amol Rege (Vice President), and Kolkatta-based spine surgeon Dr. Anindya Basu as Treasurer. A comprehensive organizational structure has been established, comprising executive, scientific, and academic committees with around 30 executive members representing institutions across the country.

Unilateral bi-portal endoscopic (UBE) spine surgery is an advanced minimally invasive procedure that uses two small portals—one for a high-definition endoscopic camera and the other for surgical instruments—to access the spine with precision. This endoscopic approach allows surgeons to operate through tiny incisions while continuously visualizing the surgical field on a screen, thereby minimizing damage to surrounding muscles, ligaments, and tissues. Unlike traditional open surgery, it avoids large cuts and extensive dissection, resulting in less blood loss, reduced post-operative pain, and faster recovery, said Dr Amol Rege. UBE can be effectively used across the entire spine, including cervical (neck), thoracic (mid-back), and lumbar (lower back) regions. It is commonly indicated for conditions such as slipped discs, spinal stenosis, nerve compression, infections, and even certain fusion procedures, added Dr Ketan Deshpande. Dr Anindya Basu said that the technique combines the advantages of endoscopy with the flexibility of conventional instruments, making it a versatile and increasingly preferred option in modern spine care. The procedure has been developed in Korea over the past decade and widely adopted globally. Its cost-effectiveness and adaptability make it suitable even for smaller hospitals.

Dr. Shailesh Hadgaonkar said that this is an important milestone in the field of spine surgeries in India. The India Chapter aims to create structured academic programs, standardized training modules, and fellowship opportunities to ensure safe and effective adoption of this technique. With approximately 9-10 thousand spine surgeons in India, the initiative targets both young and experienced neurosurgeons and orthopaedic spine specialists who are increasingly transitioning toward endoscopic approaches.

The official installation ceremony of the India Chapter will be held on June 20–21, 2026, bringing together leading spine surgeons from across the country for the first in-person gathering following initial virtual meetings conducted in recent weeks.
Dr.Hadgaonkar said that the India Chapter will be aligned with global UBE chapters in the United States, Australia, China, and Korea and will facilitate international collaboration, workshops, and knowledge exchange—advancing the future of minimally invasive spine surgery in the region.

The post Historic Launch of Indian Subcontinent Chapter by World UBE Spine Society appeared first on NRI News.

HYDERABAD: For nearly five months, a 14-year-old boy from Hayathnagar lived through a nightmare that neither he nor his family could understand. What began as repeated vomiting slowly turned into constant suffering, severe weakness, inability to eat properly, and, later, even constipation. Hospital after hospital, test after test, and multiple medications brought no answers and no relief.

As the young boy’s health continued to deteriorate, frustration and fear gripped the family. Despite several consultations and investigations at different hospitals, doctors were unable to identify the exact cause behind his worsening condition.

Hope finally emerged when the family reached out to Dr. Bhupathi Rajendra Prasad, Sr. Consultant & Head, Department of Surgical Gastroenterology & Robotic Surgery at CARE Hospitals, Malakpet, through contacts in their local colony.

During the very first consultation, after carefully listening to the patient’s history and symptoms, Dr. Bhupathi suspected a rare and often-missed condition called Superior Mesenteric Artery (SMA) Syndrome— a disorder in which part of the small intestine gets compressed between major blood vessels, leading to persistent vomiting, abdominal pain, nutritional deficiency, and severe digestive problems.

To confirm the diagnosis, the patient underwent a Contrast-Enhanced CT (CECT) Abdomen scan at a reputed diagnostic centre in Hyderabad. Surprisingly, the initial report described the scan as normal, despite the suspected diagnosis being specifically mentioned in the clinical notes.

But Dr. Bhupathi was not convinced.

After personally reviewing the CT films and discussing the case in detail with radiologists using the scan CD, his suspicion remained strong. He advised a repeat evaluation, which finally confirmed the rare SMA Syndrome diagnosis, solving the mystery that had troubled the family for months.

Soon after, the teenager underwent a successful Laparoscopic Duodenojejunostomy, an advanced minimally invasive surgery performed to bypass the compressed portion of the intestine. The surgery was successful, and the boy was discharged within just three days.

Today, the teenager is completely symptom-free, eating normally, and has returned to his routine life.

Speaking about the case, Dr. Bhupathi Rajendra Prasad said, “This was not just about treating a disease, but about identifying a condition that many may overlook because the symptoms resemble common gastric problems. In patients with persistent unresolved symptoms, doctors must think beyond routine diagnoses. Careful clinical judgement and correlation with imaging are extremely important in arriving at the correct diagnosis.”

Dr. Praveen Kumar Edla, Chief Operating Officer, CARE Hospitals, Malakpet, said, “This case highlights the importance of expertise, persistence, and multidisciplinary teamwork in solving complex medical conditions. At CARE Hospitals, we are committed to delivering advanced and patient-centric care, especially in rare and challenging cases where timely diagnosis can completely change a patient’s life.”

Doctors say SMA Syndrome is considered a rare gastrointestinal disorder and is often difficult to diagnose because its symptoms mimic common digestive illnesses. Specialists caution that persistent vomiting, unexplained abdominal discomfort, sudden weight loss, and prolonged digestive complaints should never be ignored, especially when symptoms continue despite repeated treatment.

For this Hyderabad family, what once felt like an endless medical struggle has now become a story of recovery, hope, and a second chance at normal life.

The post Hyderabad Teen’s Battle with a Mysterious Illness appeared first on NRI News.

When we think about geriatric care, we often focus first on disease. We think of blood pressure, diabetes, arthritis, or heart problems. But in everyday practice, two of the biggest issues that affect the quality of life of senior citizens are much simpler and more fundamental: sight and mobility.

When older adults lose clear vision, daily life begins to shrink. They may stop reading comfortably. They may hesitate while walking. They may avoid going outdoors alone. They may struggle with medicines, cooking, stairs, social interaction, and simple confidence. Vision loss does not affect only the eyes. It affects independence.

That is why cataract care must be seen as an essential part of geriatric care.

Cataract is one of the most common and treatable causes of poor vision in older adults. Yet for many families, the decision around cataract surgery becomes financially stressful very early. The discussion often shifts from what is best for the patient to what seems affordable in the moment. The lens choice becomes a source of confusion and anxiety, and elderly patients may feel they are choosing between better vision and financial caution.

I believe that this is the wrong way to approach such an important aspect of ageing.

At Vencer, we have been thinking deeply about how geriatric care should evolve. As we engaged more closely with senior citizens and their families, one lesson became clear: when it comes to ageing, sight and mobility are not secondary concerns. They are central concerns. If an elderly person cannot see clearly, mobility also suffers. And when mobility suffers, so do confidence, social connection, and safety.

That is why we are shaping a cataract care package around a very simple principle: the patient should pay one fee for the surgery, regardless of which lens is finally selected. The purpose of this approach is not promotional. It is philosophical and practical. We do not believe that the economics of cataract surgery should force elderly patients into a narrower medical conversation than they deserve.

The lens choice should be based on the patient’s lifestyle, visual needs, and clinical suitability. Some may need a solution that supports distance vision more strongly. Others may value reading, daily function, or specific routine needs. These discussions should happen in a calm and medically appropriate way, not under financial pressure that makes the patient feel that a better fit is automatically out of reach.

This is also part of a larger shift for us at Vencer. We are working on geriatric-focused care packages with community participation, because we believe senior care should be built around real lived problems, not only around hospital categories. We are listening carefully to what older adults and their families are struggling with most. Again and again, the same concerns come up: seeing clearly, moving safely, staying independent, and managing care without becoming a burden on the family.

Healthcare for the elderly must become simpler, kinder, and less intimidating. Essential care should not feel like a financial maze. Cataract treatment is too important to be reduced to a pricing dilemma. If we want geriatric care to truly serve the patient, then we must remove unnecessary stress from the decision-making process.

In the end, good geriatric care is not just about adding years to life. It is about protecting function, dignity, and confidence. And when it comes to sight, senior citizens deserve the freedom to choose what is best for their needs, not what fear of cost allows.

The post Why Cataract Care Should Not Be Limited by Lens Cost appeared first on NRI News.

MUMBAI: SBI General Insurance, one of India’s leading general insurance companies, has announced a new film featuring Pankaj Tripathi in continuation of its campaign ‘Chuniye Bharosa, Apno Sa’. The film highlights the growing need for health insurance in our daily lives and in these uncertain times.

India is witnessing a steady rise in lifestyle-related health concerns and medical inflation, increasing the financial burden on households during emergencies. Recent government data released through the National Statistical Office’s (NSO) 80th round health survey showed that an average hospitalisation in the country now leads to an out-of-pocket expenditure of over ₹34,000 for households, underscoring the significant financial burden medical emergencies can place on families despite growing health insurance penetration.

Featuring Pankaj Tripathi, the film is rooted in the realities of everyday life. It vividly reflects the daily hustle, long commutes, demanding workdays, and sacrifices people make to secure a better future for their families. Through an emotional and relatable narrative, the film reminds viewers that while they work tirelessly for their loved ones, they often overlook a key priority: protecting their family’s health and financial well-being and securing the future of those who matter most. The campaign reinforces the importance of choosing trusted and adequate health insurance support during uncertain times.

Speaking on this, Rathin Lahiri, Head – Marketing & CSR, SBI General Insurance, said, “Healthcare preparedness today is about more than just owning an insurance policy. For salaried individuals with family responsibilities, setting aside at least 2% of annual income towards insurance can be a prudent step to address changing health needs and rising medical costs. Through our Chuniye Bharosa, Apno Sa campaign, featuring Pankaj Tripathi as brand ambassador, we wanted to reflect the everyday efforts people make for their loved ones while encouraging a more proactive approach to protecting their family’s health and financial well-being. The campaign underscores the importance of choosing coverage that genuinely supports families during uncertain times.” 

Health insurance today is evolving beyond emergency financial support to become an important pillar of long-term healthcare and financial preparedness for families. Planning through adequate health coverage can often help families navigate medical uncertainties more confidently while reducing financial strain during emergencies.

SBI General Insurance continues to offer customer-centric health insurance solutions designed to support individuals and families with comprehensive coverage and flexible benefits. Its recently launched Health Alpha plan offers customisable coverage options, cashless hospitalisation across an extensive hospital network, preventive healthcare benefits, coverage for modern treatments, and seamless claims assistance, helping customers choose protection suited to their evolving healthcare needs.

The post SBI General Insurance Emphasizes Comprehensive Health Coverage as Medical Costs Continue to Climb appeared first on NRI News.

INDIA: Dr. Reddy’s and Nestlé Health Science Limited, a joint venture between Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd (BSE: 500124, NSE: DRREDDY, NYSE: RDY, NSEIFSC: DRREDDY; along with its subsidiaries together referred to as “Dr. Reddy’s”) and Nestlé India Limited (BSE: 500790, NSE: NESTLEIND) referred hereafter as “Nestlé India”, today announced the launch of Celevida^®GLP+, a specialised scientifically designed product to support optimum nutrition intake and muscle mass maintenance for sustaining metabolic and functional health for people undergoing GLP-1/GIP therapy* for management of type 2 diabetes and obesity in India.

As GLP-1/GIP–based therapies become more widely adopted in the management of type 2 diabetes and obesity, improving access to advanced treatment options for patients, it has become increasingly important to build an integrated ecosystem beyond medication. Encompassing nutrition, clinical monitoring, and long-term patient support, this ecosystem should be an enabler for sustained and holistic outcomes for patients managing type 2 diabetes and obesity. A critical component of this approach is addressing the nutritional gaps and muscle health challenges associated with these therapies to improve overall outcomes.

M.V. Ramana, CEO, Global Generics at Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Limited and Director, Dr. Reddy’s and Nestlé Health Science Limited, “GLP-1 therapies represent a significant advancement in diabetes and obesity management. However, a clear unmet need remains in supporting patients beyond pharmacological treatment, particularly in addressing nutrition gaps and preserving muscle health during therapy. As patients experience changes in body composition, ensuring adequate nutrient intake and maintaining lean body mass become critical to sustaining long-term outcomes. With Celevida^® GLP+, we aim to address this gap through a targeted, science-backed nutritional solution that complements pharmacological therapies and supports better overall patient outcomes in their everyday journey. As part of this commitment, we remain focused on advancing integrated, patient-centric solutions that enable more sustainable and holistic management of metabolic health.”

Insights from senior Indian clinicians highlighted a critical and often under-recognized risk: muscle loss during GLP-1/GIP therapy. Studies indicate that 25-40% of total weight loss associated with GLP-1 and dual GLP-1/GIP therapies may be attributed to lean body mass loss ^(1,2). Experts noted that this risk may be amplified in Indians due to inherently lower baseline skeletal muscle mass and higher body fat mass (3), which may be further compounded by chronically low protein intake of approximately 0.6g/kg/day⁽⁴⁾. This creates a dual vulnerability, making muscle preservation not just important, but essential for long-term metabolic health.

Clinical and expert consensus recommend increasing protein intake to 1.2–1.5 g/kg/day to help preserve muscle mass during weight loss, highlighting the need for customised nutritional support ⁽⁵⁾.

Addressing this need, Celevida^® GLP+ has been scientifically designed and co-created with leading endocrinologists and diabetologists to address protein gaps and preserve muscle mass and function in individuals undergoing GLP-1/GIP therapy. It is formulated using fast-absorbing whey protein isolate (WPI), known to be gentle on the gut and suitable during periods of gastrointestinal intolerance commonly associated with GLP-1/GIP therapy.  Celevida® GLP+ provides 48 g of protein per 100 g, along with 100% RDA (Recommended Dietary Allowance) of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs). It also provides 27 essential nutrients, including vitamins A, D, and calcium. Dr. Reddy’s and Nestlé Health Science have an established presence in specialised nutrition for people with diabetes through its Celevida^® Diabetes Nutrition, designed to support comprehensive diabetes management. The formulation is clinically proven to support sustained 24-hour blood glucose control and reduce HbA1c levels (6), and is characterised by a low glycaemic index⁽⁷⁾, making it suitable for long-term metabolic management.

Celevida^® GLP+ is available in a 350 g pack across pharmacies, retail outlets, and leading e-commerce platforms.

The post Dr. Reddy’s and Nestlé Health Science Collaborate to Launch Celevida® GLP+ appeared first on NRI News.

NEW DELHI: India’s maternity healthcare landscape is undergoing a significant shift, with more women accessing formal, institutional care than ever before. As per data from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, with over 88–90% of births now occurring in institutional settings, the share of institutional deliveries has reached 97.3% in 2023–24, signalling a sustained shift towards formal, hospital-based maternal care. Government data presented in 2025 further showed that C-section deliveries accounted for over 27% of all reported births in India during 2024–25, reinforcing the growing shift towards medically intensive maternity care.

Against this backdrop, Care Health Insurance highlights a clear expansion in women’s health claims, both in scale and intensity. Women’s health insurance claims rose 37% from FY25 to FY26, with the 20–40 age group continuing to drive this growth, increasing from 25% over the same period.

At the same time, maternity-related claims are becoming more cost-intensive, with Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities continuing to account for a larger share of overall claims, contributing to 60% of all maternity claims reported to the company.

A shift in the maternal age profile is also visible. In FY26, women aged above 35 years accounted for 12% of total maternity claim volumes, which was higher compared to previous years and increasing. The cost of this age group was 18% of the overall claim amount, indicating higher cost intensity associated with later-age pregnancies.

Overall maternity claim outgo has risen by 25% over the last two years, even as claim volumes have fluctuated, indicating a shift towards higher spend per case.

While deliveries are becoming increasingly institutionalized and more efficient, the proportion of women discharged within five days for maternal care has increased from 75% in FY24 to 82% in FY26. This duration of discharge is not resulting in cost reduction; instead, the company has seen an upward trend in cost intensity for maternal treatment.

Taken together, these trends reflect a structural shift in maternal healthcare, with rising cost intensity and evolving care patterns driving higher financial exposure. The findings are further reinforced by broader public health data, which indicates that a majority of women in India are accessing formal antenatal care services, while three out of four continue to have inadequate dietary iron intake, highlighting persistent nutritional gaps and long-term health vulnerabilities beyond maternity.

Commenting on the findings, Manish Dodeja, Executive Director & Chief Business Officer, Care Health Insurance, said, “Women’s health insurance claims are no longer following a linear growth pattern; they are expanding in both scale and intensity. We are seeing a clear shift in the maternity landscape, with costs rising steadily. While care pathways are becoming more efficient, the financial exposure associated with maternal healthcare is increasing. This is not just a utilisation trend; it reflects a broader shift in how women are accessing and experiencing healthcare today. It is therefore important for individuals to periodically reassess their coverage to ensure it remains aligned with evolving needs.”

As maternal healthcare continues to formalise and utilisation rises, ensuring adequate and timely health insurance coverage remains critical to managing financial exposure and ensuring continuity of care.

The post Rising Maternity Costs Drive Surge in Women’s Health Claims appeared first on NRI News.