health and general insurance

Customisation is the buzzword in health insurance as add-ons offer flexibility, but it may also lead to confusion

In a significant boost to emergency medical services, Bihar's Director General of Police has unveiled two state-of-the-art life support ambulances dedicated to assisting victims of serious road accidents on the fast-paced roads of Patna. These vehicles, capable of rapid transport during the critical 'golden hour', are now part of the 'Dial 112' emergency response system, thanks to generous private donations.

Private hospitals in Kolkata are refusing or restricting admissions for Swasthya Sathi beneficiaries as they await clarity on the scheme's future under the new government. Hospitals cite concerns over the scheme's profitability and are unofficially suspending admissions, impacting patients seeking treatment.

Jharkhand's health department has partnered with Tata AIG General Insurance to offer cashless healthcare services to state government employees and their families. This revamped scheme, covering around 800 empanelled hospitals nationwide, ensures unlimited cashless facilities and increased coverage up to Rs 15 lakh per year under the 'Abua Card' scheme.

Rajasthan’s health sector between 2008 and 2026 has expanded faster than at any time in its history, powered by emergency services, free medicines and diagnostics, a surge in medical colleges, and a rapid widening of insurance-backed cashless treatment. Yet the gains have landed unevenly. Jaipur and a handful of large cities—Jodhpur, Udaipur, Bikaner, Kota and Ajmer—continue to absorb the bulk of serious care, drawing patients from across districts that now host medical colleges but still lack dependable specialist services. The result is a system with wider access on paper, but persistent travel, overcrowding and delayed treatment in practice. The next phase hinges on staffing, referrals and sustainable financing

May begins with Pisces experiencing restlessness and delays, but the atmosphere improves mid-month with Jupiter's support, bringing luck and family unity. The latter part of the month offers productivity with responsibility, while relationships navigate calm and moody phases. Career and finances show potential for growth, though caution is advised with spending and health.

Nepal's Home Minister Sudan Gurung resigned amid scrutiny over his wealth disclosures and alleged business links with a businessman under money-laundering investigation. This marks the second ministerial setback for PM Balendra Shah's anti-corruption government within weeks, highlighting early challenges to its clean governance agenda.

In a day of dramatic developments, PM Balendra Shah took charge of the home ministry after Sudan Gurung’s exit, just 26 days after his anti-corruption govt took office.

The Indian general insurance sector saw a strong rebound in FY26. Premium growth surged to 9.3 percent, a significant jump from the previous year. This expansion was fueled by private insurers and a robust demand for health insurance policies. The stand-alone health insurance segment was a key driver, experiencing impressive growth.

The UAE has approved Foundayo (orforglipron), Eli Lilly's once-daily oral obesity pill, becoming one of the first countries globally to offer a needle-free alternative. This GLP-1 receptor agonist mimics natural hormones to regulate appetite and blood sugar, aiding weight loss and improving metabolic health. Available by prescription from May 2026, it's intended for long-term use alongside lifestyle changes.

In this interview, economist Ajit Ranade explains why the anger in Noida ran deeper than one wage hike. At the heart of it, he argues, are stagnant incomes, contract labour, rising prices, and a factory economy built on persistent insecurity

‘Those Creating Unrest Should Be Publicly Shamed’

P.K. Sekarbabu, seeking a third term in Harbour, campaigns with a blend of his anthem and intimate appeals to voters. He highlights DMK's welfare schemes while addressing concerns about port modernization and livelihoods. His opponents criticize the incumbent for unaddressed local issues, while new candidates face challenges in a small constituency.

France is moving away from Microsoft Windows to the open-source Linux operating system. This strategic shift aims to secure national data and digital infrastructure. The government is also replacing other foreign software with French alternatives. This initiative underscores France's commitment to digital sovereignty and reducing dependence on non-European technology. The transition is part of a larger plan for technological independence.

Insurance may cover some post-hospitalisation expenses, but long-term rehab and caregiving often require a separate healthcare corpus

In a troubling shift, numerous highly skilled oncologists in India are facing restrictions that prevent them from treating patients under the Ayushman Bharat scheme. This decision, rooted in the absence of officially recognized super-specialty qualifications from the NMC, fails to acknowledge the invaluable real-world expertise and dedication these doctors have brought to cancer treatment over the years.

Delhi's women face significant hurdles entering and staying in the workforce. Unpaid care work, limited childcare, and a lack of flexible work options are major issues. Many educated women never start working due to systemic barriers. Safety concerns and low pay in certain sectors also contribute. The study suggests solutions like expanding community childcare and formalizing flexible work.