The picture is a little older but the philosophy is deep-rooted in the political culture of Sweden | A model for Indian Politicians | Global TV
Selected by PM Job
Power is often equated with privilege. But a simple image can sometimes convey a powerful message. A photograph of Ylva Johansson, Sweden’s former Minister of Employment and current European Commissioner for Home Affairs, casually waiting for a train while holding a modest burger, has captivated millions. It serves as a reminder of leadership rooted in humility and responsibility.
This unassuming moment, stripped of any grandeur, reflects Johansson’s character and the broader values of Swedish society. Without the pomp of motorcades, security entourages, or lavish lifestyles, Johansson’s choice to use public transportation and dine simply encapsulates a commitment to equality, transparency, and moderation. This are in the foundations of Sweden’s culture and governance.
Leadership in Simplicity
Ylva Johansson embodies the Swedish philosophy of lagom (knowing when enough is enough), a way of life that values balance, moderation, and sufficiency. This principle extends far beyond personal behaviour, shaping Sweden’s political landscape and economic policies. Leaders like Johansson exemplify this ethos, treating their roles not as privileges but as responsibilities to serve the public.
Sweden’s approach to governance stresses fiscal discipline and accountability. Public resources are managed with care, ensuring they are allocated to essential sectors like healthcare, education, social welfare, and infrastructure. By avoiding the trappings of power, Johansson and other Swedish leaders set an example of how leadership can remain grounded in service rather than self-indulgence.
A Model for Global Governance
Ylva Johansson’s image has spread far beyond Sweden, sparking conversations in countries where political corruption, wasteful spending, and cronyism often hinder societal progress. Her actions serve as a blueprint for leaders worldwide, particularly in developing nations, where effective governance and fiscal responsibility are critical to addressing poverty and inequality.
By prioritizing the efficient use of resources and demonstrating integrity in their leadership, governments can rebuild public trust. Johansson’s unpretentious behaviour reminds citizens that leaders are not above them but among them. All of them share the same experiences, using the same public services, and valuing the resources entrusted to them.
A Timeless Reminder for Leadership
At a time when the world faces challenges like inequality, climate change, and economic instability, Johansson’s example offers a hopeful perspective on leadership. It challenges conventional ideas of authority and power, emphasizing humility, simplicity, and service as the hallmarks of true leadership.
Her choice to forgo extravagance is not just an act of personal humility but a powerful statement of collective responsibility. It signals that addressing global challenges requires a shared commitment to fairness and resourcefulness, starting with those in positions of influence.
Building a Better Future
The world is striving for equity and sustainability. Conflicts are common across the world where one upper hand is practiced. Ylva Johansson’s leadership model is all about respecting values like moderation, transparency, and accountability that are prioritized in the Scandinavian countries. Her actions inspire a vision of governance that transcends personal ambition for serving the greater good.
Multiple Roles in Banking Sector | Think ahead of the Time | Transform the way we are banking in the new millennium | Global TV
NV Paulose, Chairman, Global TV +91 98441 82044
The concept of a Culinary Chef originated in the Hospitality Industry, specifically in the culinary world of restaurants, hotels, and fine dining establishments.
The term “chef” comes from the French word “chef de cuisine,” meaning “head of the kitchen.” Over time, the role of a chef evolved from simply cooking meals to becoming a creative artist, innovator, and leader in the culinary world. These are the people who had transformed the entire hospitality Industry in the world.
Can we imagine hospitality without the established Role of Culinary Chefs? Then imagine the Magic that the Career Chefs can make to the Banking Industry!
Career Chefs to Transform Banking in India by finding thousand ways to Create right kind of opportunities for people. Service them with regular loans and to resolve the Pressing Issue of Unemployment and Underdevelopment in India.
Empowering Bank Managers as Career Chefs. Creating Opportunity is the Best Opportunity in the World. Role Creation, Team formation are the ways to create plenty of career opportunities in a developing economy.
The banking industry can revolutionize its customer service by introducing the concept of Career Chefs. By empowering bank managers to become Career Chefs, banks can enhance customer relationships, provide holistic financial solutions, drive business growth, and differentiate themselves in a competitive market. Every loan option in banking sector can be enhanced to multiple levels with creation of newer opportunities in various emerging segment.
Career Chefs in banking can help customers identify career goals and aspirations, develop personalized career plans, access tailored financial solutions, and achieve financial stability and success. This innovative approach can transform the banking industry’s customer service model. This can make banking empathetic, supportive, and customer-centric. Group loans can be given on new avenues like Resident Editors, Voice Artists, Mentors, Trainers, Content writers etc.
Generate Ten Career Opportunities with One Home Loan!
Banks are constantly searching for innovative ways to stand out and strengthen their relationships with customers. While traditional banking services remain essential, modern customers seek more than just financial advice; they want solutions that address their life aspirations holistically. These are not like any rocket sciences or anything not existing. Banking is evolving on a daily basis.
AMUL to GLOBAL TV
Today’s banking sector is increasingly competitive. Banks and Bank Managers should search for safe avenues to park their funds and to fetch ripple effects in the growth of massive banking. We salute the first bank manager who thought about giving a loan for buying a cow or a buffalo. Millions of such loans were given in India in the past since Amul was founded in 1946 in Anand, Gujarat, India. Under the guidance of Tribhuvandas Patel, a revolutionary model was nurtured by Dr. Verghese Kurien, transforming India’s dairy industry.
Dr. Verghese Kurien, the Father of the White Revolution, revolutionized rural India by envisioning loans to help families buy cows or buffaloes, fostering self-reliance and economic well-being. This simple yet transformative idea empowered farmers, especially women, by providing a sustainable livelihood while boosting milk production to make India self-sufficient.
His leadership of Operation Flood and the cooperative model of organizations like Amul demonstrated how timely, innovative thinking could turn small acts into monumental change, uplifting millions and reshaping a nation’s future.
Similar opportunities now abound in the media sector with the rapid penetration of social media and the widespread accessibility of the internet and mobile devices. Just as Dr. Verghese Kurien revolutionized rural livelihoods through small, impactful initiatives, today’s digital age presents countless possibilities to create, share, and monetize media opportunities for human connectivity.
Social media platforms have turned every smartphone user into a potential storyteller, entrepreneur, or influencer. Every village can become a global village by making people to take media initiatives to connect people to their native places. With the right vision and tools, this era of connectivity allows people to harness the power of media for economic empowerment, creative expression, and community building. The digital revolution akin to the White Revolution. Can you think about One Million Resident Editors across India doing a small act of connecting people to their native places? This seemingly small act can create seamless opportunities in media and also in many other development sectors.
Role of Bankers in Role Creation!
What if bank managers could provide not just financial guidance but also career mentorship? Can Career Banking be taken as an innovative approach where bank managers are trained as “Career Chefs,” helping clients design and build their career paths while addressing their financial needs? Give skill training in the areas of Appreciative Inquiry, Neuro Linguistic Practicing and Enneagram.
These are areas pertaining to human behaviour, organisation development and youth empowerment. Mental health is understood today as one of the most important areas of attention. There are increasing need for counsellors across India. We need to think about family counsellors in similar line with the earlier family doctors. There is a growing demand for career guidance. Every student is a possible client for a bank. Media should seamlessly merge with financial sector and the services offered by public sector banks. Similarly Media can enhance and ease the efforts of bankers in attracting HNIs to their fold.
Banking Beyond Finance
Bank managers have traditionally focused on providing services like loans, savings, and investments. However, financial success is deeply tied to an individual’s career potential and income generation. By reimagining their roles, bank managers can become “Career Chefs” and skilled professionals who guide clients in designing sustainable career paths that align with their financial aspirations. This innovative approach blends career counselling with financial strategies, creating personalized solutions that address both professional and personal needs. It transforms banking from a transactional service to a deeply holistic partnership.
The concept of a Career Chef is simple yet revolutionary. Unlike traditional bankers who provide fixed recipes for financial growth, Career Chefs offer modified solutions. By understanding a client’s goals, interests, and challenges, they empower individuals to craft meaningful career avenues while ensuring financial stability. This approach creates unparalleled value for clients and establishes banks as trusted allies in their life journeys.
The benefits of this model are profound. First, it enables banks to build stronger, more meaningful relationships with their clients. For instance, a young professional seeking a home loan might also need advice on negotiating a salary raise or pursuing professional development. By offering career guidance alongside financial services, banks foster trust and loyalty, leading to long-term relationships. Additionally, understanding a client’s career aspirations unlocks new business opportunities. A client planning to shift careers could be guided on savings strategies for times of uncertainty, while an entrepreneur could be supported with customized loan products for their start up. This alignment between career goals and financial solutions not only drives client satisfaction but also enhances banks’ revenue streams.
In today’s competitive financial landscape, differentiation is crucial. Career Combo Banking provides a unique value proposition that sets banks apart by addressing the interconnectedness of careers and finances. Clients are more likely to choose a bank that offers holistic services, making this approach a competitive advantage for forward-thinking institutions.
The future of India and the future of banking in India are intertwined. One must follow the other, and the more adaptable one will guide the other. Do you wish to shape the nation’s direction, or be overthrown and caught in chaos?
Train Your Branch Managers with Tools that can transform themselves!
Transforming Bank Managers into Career Chefs: A Comprehensive Training Approach
Bank managers are expected to think and act simultaneously today and go beyond traditional financial services. They play a critical role in helping clients achieve their career goals and financial journeys simultaneously. To achieve this, bank managers must be equipped with a diverse set of tools and strategies that not only enhance their financial expertise but also empower them to guide clients in their professional development.
Train bank managers with transformative tools like Appreciative Inquiry, Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), Enneagram, Emotional Intelligence (EQ), StrengthsFinder, Mindfulness Training, Solution-Focused Coaching, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Techniques, Design Thinking, Transactional Analysis (TA), 360-Degree Feedback, and the GROW Model etc. Banks are training their top executives yes, but are they training them to know the ground realities? Can these training create a new breed of “Career Chefs?” These trained professionals should possess the knowledge and skills to craft personalized, holistic solutions that align both clients’ careers and financial goals in a group scenario.
By equipping bank managers with these transformative tools, financial institutions can foster a more holistic approach to client service. The “Career Chef” model empowers bank managers to guide clients toward long-term success by combining career guidance with financial planning. This training not only enhances the bank’s relationship with its clients but also positions the institution as a trusted partner in clients’ personal and professional journeys. Let us know briefly about the training possibilities listed on priority basis with Appreciative Inquiry on top in the order. This single training can make a huge difference.
Appreciative Inquiry
Appreciative Inquiry focuses on identifying and amplifying what works well within an organization or individual, encouraging a positive and strengths-based approach. Bank managers trained in this tool would excel at building on clients’ existing strengths and helping them envision a positive future. This approach can be used to foster career growth by focusing on past successes and using those insights to guide future decisions.
Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP)
NLP enables individuals to understand how people perceive and respond to the world around them. With techniques like reframing, anchoring, and pattern interruption, NLP empowers bank managers to communicate more effectively with clients and guide them through challenges. By using NLP, managers can help clients overcome limiting beliefs about their careers, find motivation, and adopt strategies for success.
Enneagram
The Enneagram is a personality typing system that categorizes nine distinct types of individuals based on their core motivations and behaviors. This tool can help bank managers understand the different personality types of clients, allowing them to tailor their advice and career strategies accordingly. Recognizing clients’ personalities can improve communication, trust-building, and career counseling, as bank managers can speak to their clients’ innate strengths and growth areas.
Emotional Intelligence (EQ)
EQ training is crucial for bank managers to better understand their own emotions and those of their clients. By honing their emotional intelligence, managers can build stronger relationships, manage stress, and approach career challenges with empathy and clarity. Emotional intelligence helps bank managers navigate difficult conversations, understand the emotional impact of career transitions, and offer more compassionate guidance.
StrengthsFinder
StrengthsFinder is an assessment tool that helps individuals discover their unique strengths. Bank managers can use this tool to identify the innate talents and abilities of clients, helping them design career paths that play to these strengths. By focusing on what clients do best, bank managers can offer tailored career and financial advice that leads to greater satisfaction and success.
Mindfulness Training
Mindfulness involves paying attention to the present moment with an open and non-judgmental attitude. For bank managers, mindfulness training can improve decision-making, focus, and client interactions. Mindful practices can help managers stay calm under pressure and create a more empathetic environment for clients, especially when they are navigating stressful career changes or financial decisions.
Solution-Focused Coaching
Solution-Focused Coaching focuses on finding practical solutions rather than dwelling on problems. By training bank managers in this method, they can help clients take a proactive approach to their career and financial challenges. This tool encourages a forward-thinking mindset, where clients focus on their future aspirations and the actions needed to achieve them.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Techniques
CBT techniques, such as cognitive reframing and thought-stopping, can help bank managers identify negative thought patterns that may be holding clients back from achieving their career and financial goals. Training bank managers in CBT can empower them to guide clients through mindset shifts, helping them move from limiting beliefs to empowered, solution-focused thinking.
Design Thinking
Design Thinking is a problem-solving approach that focuses on human-centered design and creative solutions. Bank managers trained in Design Thinking can collaborate with clients to develop innovative career strategies, ensuring that financial services are tailored to clients’ specific needs and desires. By approaching challenges from a user-centric perspective, this tool encourages managers to empathize deeply with clients and generate fresh, actionable ideas.
Transactional Analysis (TA)
Transactional Analysis is a psychological theory that examines the interactions between people and categorizes communication into three ego-states: Parent, Adult, and Child. Bank managers trained in TA can better understand their own responses and those of their clients, leading to more effective communication. This tool helps manage the dynamics of client relationships, especially in situations that may involve stress or high emotions.
360-Degree Feedback
A comprehensive feedback system, 360-degree feedback collects evaluations from a variety of sources (supervisors, peers, subordinates, and clients). By using this tool, bank managers can gain insight into their leadership style and interpersonal effectiveness. This feedback can help them adjust their approach, improve client interactions, and strengthen their ability to act as Career Chefs for clients.
GROW Model (Goal, Reality, Options, Way Forward)
The GROW model is a coaching framework that helps individuals clarify their goals, assess their current situation, identify possible solutions, and commit to action. Bank managers can use this model to guide clients through their career planning process. By breaking down complex career transitions into actionable steps, this tool empowers clients to achieve their professional goals with clear financial strategies in place.
Components in the Profile of a Career Chef
There is a chance for some of the Branch Managers to underestimate the new profile attributed to them. Hence we need to elaborate the role and set standards of the new portfolio of a Career Chef. The Role of a Celebrated Career Chef is the union of financial expertise, career guidance, and empathetic leadership.
It requires a diverse skill set and a forward-thinking approach to transform the traditional banking experience into a holistic partnership for clients. The following components define the profile of a Career Chef:
1. Visionary Leadership
A Career Chef must possess the ability to see beyond immediate challenges and envision long-term growth for clients. They act as leaders who inspire confidence, foster innovation, and encourage clients to explore uncharted career opportunities while ensuring financial stability.
2. Personalized Career Strategist
Understanding that every client is unique, a Career Chef tailors their approach to meet individual needs. This involves assessing a client’s aspirations, strengths, and financial resources, and creating a tailored career plan that integrates both professional and personal goals. He should be a team builder and act as a coach.
3. Empathy and Emotional Intelligence
Empathy is at the core of a Career Chef’s profile. They must connect with clients on a personal level, understanding their emotions, challenges, and aspirations. High emotional intelligence enables them to understand sensitive situations and provide compassionate guidance to each of their clientele.
4. Holistic Financial Expertise
A Career Chef combines traditional banking knowledge with a deeper understanding of how financial decisions impact career growth. From crafting loan packages to providing investment advice, they become custodian of finance and offer comprehensive solutions that align with clients’ career paths.
5. Innovative Opportunity Creator
The ability to identify and create opportunities is a hallmark of a Career Chef. They act as catalysts for change, helping clients tap into emerging industries, leverage new technologies, and explore unconventional career paths. For eg: introducing group loans for niche career clusters such as Resident Editors, Content Writers, or Voice Artists demonstrates their innovative thinking.
6. Proficiency in Transformational Tools
A Career Chef is well-versed in modern transformational methodologies and tools, such as Appreciative Inquiry, Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), Emotional Intelligence (EQ), and Design Thinking. These tools enable them to understand clients’ mindset, motivate them, and co-create actionable plans for their success. Success of the clients become the success of the bank as well.
7. Collaborative Team Builder
Building and nurturing teams is a crucial skill for a Career Chef. By forming groups for collaborative ventures, such as Co Working or entrepreneurial clusters, they facilitate collective growth and shared success. This approach not only benefits individuals but also contributes to broader community development.
8. Adaptability and Continuous Learning
A Career Chef thrives on adaptability and a commitment to lifelong learning. In a rapidly evolving economy, staying updated with market trends, emerging industries, and innovative financial products is essential. This allows them to provide clients with cutting-edge solutions and maintain a competitive edge.
9. Commitment to Societal Development
Beyond individual clients, a Career Chef recognizes their role in contributing to societal well-being. By supporting career pathways that address unemployment and underdevelopment, they help create sustainable livelihoods, foster entrepreneurship, and empower communities.
10. Master Communicator
Effective communication is very important for a Career Chef. They must design, formulate and articulate complex financial concepts in a simple and relatable manner, inspire trust through transparent interactions, and motivate clients to take confident steps toward their career aspirations.
By integrating these components into their profile, a Career Chef transforms the banking experience, creating a meaningful impact not just on individuals but on the broader economic and social landscape. This reimagined role represents the future of banking, where financial services go hand-in-hand with career and personal growth.
The Power of Surrender: Unlocking Higher Consciousness
BN Girish, Vice President, The Ocean Pearl Hotels
Success is often equated with relentless drive, meticulous planning, and control over every aspect of life. All of them are important yet the secret to true success, achievement and fulfilment is in an unconventional approach of surrender to the higher consciousness. By releasing the need to control outcomes and allowing the universe to guide us, we can effortlessly unlock the door to higher consciousness.
This will help us to discover a deeper sense of purpose and to stay away from all kinds of claims, credits and crave for delights and appreciations. We attain certain level of non-attachment once we are not into the race for credits and away from craze for recognitions. This will keep us connected with the supreme power and the bliss that we attain on and off becomes the highest among all the rewards that we can achieve with all our might in the world of authorities.
The Shift Within: Letting Go of Control
The first step in this transformation is a simple but profound realization: We are not the doers. This understanding, though subtle, is transformative. By getting in and into the surrendering mode, the need to control and micromanage our lives disappear. We free ourselves from the grip of ego and self-importance.
We let go the idea that our individual will is the source of all outcomes. Instead, we get into the freedom of the universe’s flow. This shift in perspective brings about a profound sense of inner peace and a natural expansion of consciousness. We stop focusing on personal gain or isolated achievements. Our wisdom and awareness expands to include the interconnectedness of all things. We find entire world as moving with us and ourselves driven with passion to the greater good.
Trusting the Universe’s Guidance
Once we surrender, a deep trust in the universe’s guidance emerges. No longer do we need to resist or fight life’s undercurrents. By aligning ourselves with the natural flow of the universe, we allow its wisdom to guide our decisions, actions, and goals. This approach doesn’t lead to passivity but rather a kind of inspired action, where decisions and opportunities arise with an effortless clarity. As this trust deepens, life feels less like an uphill battle and more like a seamless journey. Instead of constantly analysing and controlling every outcome, we tune ourselves into an inner wisdom that transcends what is called the logic and reasoning.
Unveiling Higher Consciousness
With inner guidance, challenges no longer feel impossible, and every experience becomes an opportunity for growth. Through the act of surrender, we are brought into the secrets of higher consciousness. These are not abstract concepts but lived truths that reveal themselves naturally as our awareness expands.
Some of the key realizations include:
Interconnectedness: Every action, thought, and intention reverberates across the fabric of the universe. Understanding this shifts our focus totally from otherwise self-centred pursuits to how we are able to contribute to the larger whole.
Non-duality: The perceived separation between ourselves and the universe is an illusion. By surrendering the ego’s need for control, we dissolve the boundaries between “me” and “the world,” recognizing the unity of all life.
Timelessness: The present moment holds infinite potential. By surrendering attachments to past regrets or future anxieties, we can fully inhabit the now, where the universe’s power is most accessible. No Yesterday and tomorrow there.
The Power of Letting Go
Surrendering doesn’t mean giving up or avoiding responsibility. It simply means releasing attachment to outcomes. In doing so, we free ourselves from fear, doubt, and anxiety. This will empower us to take bold, inspired action. This shift not only brings inner peace but also enables us to pursue our passions with greater enthusiasm and clarity. We are multiplied within into countless times.
Letting go of the need for external validation, whether through material success, status, or recognition, frees us to explore our true potential. When we stop trying to control every outcome, we allow the universe to work through us, tapping into an infinite reservoir of creativity, energy, and potential.
An Advisory for Those Seeking Success
If you are someone striving for success, it’s time to shift your focus. Rather than chasing external achievements or validation, turn inward. Surrender to the flow of the universe, and allow yourself to become a vessel for its expression.
By adopting this approach, you will discover:
Inner Peace: Even amidst life’s challenges, you will experience a calmness and serenity that remain unshaken by external events.
Clarity of Purpose: Decisions become effortless as you tune into your inner wisdom, guided by the universe’s plan for you.
Effortless Flow: Instead of struggling against obstacles, you’ll find yourself steering life’s challenges with grace and ease.
The universe is a powerful force waiting to work through you. All it requires is your willingness to surrender. Let go of the need for control, and in doing so, you will unlock an infinite well of creativity, peace, and success.
The path to higher consciousness is not about doing more but about doing less as against the usual set of beliefs. Less controlling, less resisting, and less attaching to outcomes. By embracing surrender, we allow the universe’s wisdom and power to guide us toward a life of greater meaning and fulfilment.
The next time you wonder about the secret to success, remember this: True power lies not in mastering the world, but in surrendering to the greater wisdom of the universe. Let go, trust the process, and watch the possibilities unfold.
The vastness of the universe is truly mind-boggling. Billions of galaxies stretch far beyond what we can even imagine. Each one teeming with stars, planets, and celestial phenomena. Our solar system is but a speck in this infinite expanse, yet it operates in perfect harmony. The entire conduct is guided by cosmic forces beyond human comprehension. From the rotation of planets to the birth and death of stars, the entire universe dances to the rhythm of natural laws, governed by the same five elements that make up everything; earth, water, fire, air, and ether.
It is a staggering reminder of how insignificant our world is in comparison to the grandeur of the cosmos. Yet within us, a profound world exists. Though small in scale compared to the universe, our inner world; the mind, body, and spirit; is also composed of these five elements. This connection ties us to the very fabric of the universe. Our thoughts and egos hold no influence over its design.
The universe moves in its course. It doesn’t stop to hear our concerns. It reminds us that while we may feel central to our personal worlds, we are simply part of a larger, elemental whole; both vast and minute, but all made of the same cosmic substance; earth, water, fire, air, and ether. We have a role to play.
A Self-Empowered Woman | A Movement from the Court Room to the Centre of the Court | Facing Leadership Challenges with a Smile | Global TV
NV Paulsose, Chairman, Global TV +91 98441 82044
Making the choice to step out of one’s comfort zone is not common. Yet, every such decision holds the power to transform lives; starting with one’s own. Renu K. Nair, General Manager and Zonal Head of the Mangalore Zone at Union Bank of India, exemplifies this truth. Her decision to embrace challenges outside her comfort zone not only enriched her career but also became a source of inspiration for many. She took that decision when it was not very compelling to her.
People rarely choose unknown challenges when there is no compulsion towards any of them. Sky diving into an unknown territory is very common only for Air Warriors. She is a warrior in many ways like those who had faced challenges with a smile during the transition of banking in India. Mixed are the emotions when presenting Renu K. Nair, who is an unusual person but was unfamiliar with the dynamic world of banking which is ever changing and evolving.
Renu K. Nair embodies a warrior spirit. Transitioning from the legal field to the dynamic and ever-evolving world of banking, she faced each challenge with resilience and grace. Banking in India has undergone tremendous transformation over the past decades, marked by innovation, digitization, and regulatory shifts.
She stepped into the dynamic frontline banking at a time when adaptability and leadership were paramount. Today, she stands as a testimony to perseverance, competence, and a positive attitude. She is a leader who meets challenges with a smile and inspires others to do the same. She stands out and shine excellent.
From Courtrooms to Banking: A Bold Career Shift
Renu K. Nair’s illustrious career began in the legal profession as a lawyer in Bangalore. With a law degree in hand, she worked diligently under the guidance of a senior advocate. However, a new opportunity knocked at her door calling her into the world of banking. It was in 1998, she had joined Corporation Bank as a Law Officer. It was a decision that had redefined her professional career path and set her a road map that had created an important role for her in the industry.
Mastering the Legal Foundations of Banking
For over a decade, Renu Nair had specialized in banking law. She had contributed immensely to the legal compliance frameworks of the organization.
Her role in handling the complexities of financial regulations and resolving legal challenges solidified her expertise in the field. Yet, she wasn’t one to rest on her laurels. In 2014, she took a leap of faith by transitioning from legal services to mainstream banking operations; like an engineer opting to pilot an Aircraft.
A Journey of Leadership
Renu’s decision to take on the role of a branch head was a turning point in her career. Her exceptional leadership and innovative strategies as a branch manager set her apart and earned her recognition at the highest levels. Over the years, she continued to climb the ranks, taking on diverse roles and responsibilities that broadened her expertise. Today, as the General Manager and Zonal Head of Mangalore, she oversees critical operations across the region, ensuring that the bank remains a trusted partner for its clientele and customers alike.
Breaking Barriers and Inspiring Change
Renu Nair’s journey is a story of breaking barriers. She is the first law officer in Corporation Bank’s history to transition to general banking and excel in leadership roles. She has set the way for others to follow in the down line history of banking and other industries. Her career reveals the power of adaptability, courage, and a willingness to step out of one’s comfort zone.
A Mentor and Guide
Beyond her professional achievements, Renu is deeply committed to mentoring and supporting young professionals. She believes that experience across multiple domains is vital for growth, and she encourages aspiring bankers to embrace challenges with sincerity and dedication.
The Hallmarks of Leadership
Renu attributes her success to hard work, honesty, and an unwavering commitment to her goals. Her ability to lead with empathy and inspire her team is what sets her apart as a leader. For her, leadership is about enabling others to achieve their best while staying grounded in values and integrity.
Life Beyond Work
Despite her demanding career, Renu maintains a balanced and fulfilling personal life. Given a choice, she enjoys the tranquillity of early mornings, the joy of beach vacations. She cherishes meaningful moments with her family. Her ability to balance professional excellence with personal well-being is a reflection of her holistic approach to life. She is a Banker par excellence and a home maker with total dedication. The balance sheet shows stability on both the sides.
A Legacy of Excellence
Renu Nair’s journey is a story of individual success and a legacy of inspiration. She has redefined what it means to be a leader in the banking industry, proving that determination and vision can overcome any obstacle. Her story is very encouraging for those striving to make their mark in their respective fields.
Renu Nair’s remarkable career is a celebration of a salient smile. Her leadership models are outstanding and the courage to embrace new challenges is exemplary. She continues to lead with vision and integrity and remind us about greatness for anyone and everyone which is achieved not by chance, but by choice.
A. Manimekhalai’s legacy at Union Bank of India is a professional success while creating a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals and communities | Global TV
NV Paulose, Chairman, Global TV +91 98441 82044
When the so-called rich and the really poor are on the two sides of a coin; then banking was more on the side of the first; they were the foremost and the rest was the leftover. Banking was lenient on the doors of corporates. Corporate social responsibility was only for the namesake. The other side of the coin was not in the picture at all. Bankers had rigid shoes when dealing with the poor.
Banking was much like a two-way cutting of legs to fit with the clientele. When dealing with corporates, banks often cut their own legs to suit the corporates’ shoes. On the other side, the banks went on cutting the legs of the people to fit to their shoes. People were not welcomed while bankers were waiting at the doors of the corporates. We understand this is too much a generalization, but state this to present the danger that the banking sector had overcome recently.
Leadership from visionary bankers like A. Manimekhalai has played a critical role in calming the storm that threatened to destabilize the foundations of India’s banking sector. As the Managing Director and CEO of Union Bank, she brought a balanced approach that bridged the gap between financial inclusivity and corporate responsibility. She silently made a turnaround in the banking sector.
Her grassroots understanding of banking challenges and her ability to implement innovative solutions have not only stabilized the institution but also set a clear benchmark for the industry. In times when even the most seasoned leaders might have faltered, her leadership has exemplified practical wisdom, foresight, and a sincere commitment to serving all stakeholders equally.
While remaining flexible in corporate banking, she has made it a point to safeguard the bank’s interests, particularly in addressing defaults from many loans sanctioned and commitments undertaken. Her work in reducing non-performing assets (NPAs) and reorganizing stale loans stands as one of her most significant achievements. Perhaps the greatest testimony to her leadership is how she unified the top management, aligning them with her clear and forward-thinking vision.
On the other hand, A. Manimekhalai also expanded the bank’s reach by prioritizing enterprising individuals over just infrastructure. The focus shifted from securing assets to empowering people. Where banking once served as a mere security check, under her leadership, it has transformed into a platform for unlocking human potential. The bank now attracts energetic and enthusiastic individuals, drawn to its progressive vision.
A notable initiative that exemplifies this is Union Nari Shakti, a powerful program that not only supports women’s empowerment but also opens new avenues for social impact. Through this, Union Bank has amplified its commitment to nurturing diverse and untapped potential, proving that banking can be a catalyst for holistic growth.
Redefining Banking with Vision and Empathy
A. Manimekhalai has emerged in the evolving landscape of Indian banking as a visionary leader who is redefining the role of public sector banks. As the Managing Director and CEO of Union Bank of India, her journey from a rural banker to a pioneer of inclusive banking is a story of resilience, innovation, and a deep commitment to social responsibility.
A Journey Rooted in Resilience and Determination
Manimekhalai’s career began in 1988 with Vijaya Bank, where she faced the challenges of working in a remote rural branch, often traveling 120 kilometers daily on her two-wheeler. These early years were not just formative but transformational, teaching her invaluable lessons about leadership, respect, and financial inclusion. Competence and leadership don’t have a gender; she proved it being the only woman heading a branch far from the city for several years.
Her early experience grounded her in grassroots realities, which later became the foundation of her leadership philosophy. Banking is not about numbers but about people; she affirms. With a focus on creating opportunities for the underserved, she transformed Union Bank of India into an institution that blends tradition with modernity, balancing profitability with societal impact.
Banking Beyond Numbers: A Philosophy of Empowerment
For A. Manimekhalai, banking is more than financial transactions; it’s about transforming lives. “When you sell a home loan, you’re not just sanctioning a number; you’re fulfilling someone’s dream of owning a house,” she explains. Under her leadership, Union Bank of India will prioritize empowering individuals through their innovative programs like “Union Nari Shakti,” which can integrate collective home loans with self-financing revenue models.
This initiative allows women borrowers to convert their homes into productive assets, whether through service enterprises, rental opportunities, or co-working spaces. “Let Your Home Work for You,” will soon become a tagline for the entire banking sector in India. This encapsulates the transformative potential of banking when merged with the enthusiasm of collective women power in India.
Pioneering Initiatives: Empowering Communities
Manimekhalai’s focus on inclusive growth has led to several initiatives aimed at empowering communities. By leveraging banking as a tool for social change, she has championed women’s empowerment and financial literacy. Whether it’s through facilitating small-scale business loans or promoting financial independence for rural women, her leadership has consistently emphasized the importance of creating accessible financial solutions.
Her role in the development of Union Nari Shakti and other similar initiatives demonstrates how banking can move beyond mere transactions to become a force for good in society. These initiatives showcase her belief that banking is not just a corporate enterprise but a means of fostering economic and social change.
Digitization and Innovation: Shaping the Future of Banking
During her tenure, Manimekhalai has seamlessly integrated technology into banking operations, ushering in a new era of digital banking. Her advocacy for online loan applications and digital services has enhanced both operational efficiency and customer accessibility, particularly for underserved communities. This digitization drive not only makes banking more efficient but also democratizes access to financial services.
“Empowering people is my way of business promotion,” she says, reflecting her belief that leadership in banking is not just about achieving financial success but also about fostering inclusive growth through technology.
A Vision for India’s Future
Looking ahead, Manimekhalai envisions the Union Bank of India as a key player in India’s growth story. “The next 10 years will be India’s story,” she asserts. “As bankers, we have a critical role in creating a positive impact for our customers, our economy, and our country.” Her focus on sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity drives the bank’s strategy, which aims to support small businesses, empower women entrepreneurs, and foster financial literacy.
Manimekhalai sees the potential of banking to contribute to national development, and she believes that the future of the banking sector lies in its ability to adapt to societal changes while creating value for all stakeholders.
An Inspiration for Future Leaders
A. Manimekhalai’s leadership is a role model for aspiring professionals. Her journey, from a rural banker to the CEO of a leading public sector bank, shows the power of perseverance, vision, and the ability to turn challenges into opportunities. She exemplifies the idea that true leadership is about making a difference for shareholders and also for society as a whole. She has demonstrated that banking can be a catalyst for social and economic change. Her story encourages others to dream big, act with purpose, and lead with integrity.
A Legacy of Transformation
A. Manimekhalai’s legacy at Union Bank of India is not just about professional success but about creating a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals and communities. Her journey is an inspiring narrative that shows how banking can be both a profitable and purposeful endeavour while empowering people, fostering inclusivity, and shaping the future of India’s banking landscape.
The Making of a Leader: A Journey Through the Banking Ecosystem
Ms. A. Manimekhalai’s remarkable journey of over three decades in the banking sector speaks about her dedication, vision, and innovative thinking. From her humble beginnings as an Officer in the erstwhile Vijaya Bank in 1988 to her current position as Managing Director and CEO of Union Bank of India since June 3, 2022, her career reflects a constant and consistent pursuit of excellence. Her ability to rise through the ranks of various banks serving as Branch Head, Regional Head, and functional head at various levels highlights her versatile leadership and her capacity to adapt to evolving challenges in the banking industry.
Her tenure at Canara Bank as Executive Director was a transformative phase where she spearheaded critical functions such as strategic planning, credit management, marketing, and financial inclusion. Notably, she played an instrumental role in the successful amalgamation of Canara Bank and Syndicate Bank, a process that demanded meticulous planning, stakeholder engagement, and a clear vision for a unified future.
An Architect in Policymaking and Governance
Ms. Manimekhalai’s contributions extend far beyond operational leadership, as she has been actively involved in shaping policies for the banking sector. Her participation in various committees and working groups set up by the Government of India has left an indelible mark on key areas such as financial inclusion, agriculture value-chain finance, rural banking, and credit facilitation for the healthcare and education sectors. Her insights have been instrumental in drawing the roadmap for Regional Rural Banks (RRBs), addressing challenges faced by Banking Correspondents, and creating innovative credit solutions.
Her leadership roles as Chairperson of Union Bank of India (U.K.) Ltd and Director on the Boards of prominent organizations such as Union Asset Management Co. and India Infrastructure Finance Co. Ltd further underscore her ability to balance corporate governance with a developmental agenda.
A Blend of Academic Excellence and Professional Expertise
Ms. Manimekhalai’s academic background complements her professional accomplishments. With a Master’s in Business Administration (Marketing) from Bangalore University and a Diploma in Human Resource Management from Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies, Mumbai, she brings a strong foundation of strategic thinking and people management to her leadership roles. Her status as a Certified Associate of the Indian Institute of Bankers (CAIIB) and participation in executive development programs at prestigious institutes reflect her commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.
A Visionary Redefining Inclusive Banking
What sets Ms. Manimekhalai apart is her ability to blend technical expertise with a human-centric approach to banking. Her initiatives have consistently focused on empowering individuals and communities while maintaining the financial health of the institutions she leads. Her comprehensive understanding of strategic planning, compliance, and internal controls ensures that Union Bank of India not only adapts to the rapidly evolving banking landscape but also leads it with a forward-thinking approach.
Ms. Manimekhalai’s career exemplifies how strong leadership, guided by a commitment to inclusivity and innovation, can transform not just an organization but an entire sector. Her journey from a rural banker to a pioneering leader in Indian banking is an inspiring story and a roadmap for aspiring professionals to follow.
The Art of Empowerment | Building Lives and Nurturing Dreams | Global TV
NV Paulose, Chairman, Global TV +91 98441 82044
A Haven of Hope and Opportunity Women to rebuild their lives after loss or hardship need support from society. Otherwise, also they can do well, but the support makes them achieve much more. We Doves emerges as a collective connection media platform. We Doves is a Media community created for widows, single mothers, and individuals yearning for freedom and self-discovery. We Doves offer the tools and support needed to empower women to spread their wings and fly high.
This initiative by Global TV mirrors the ethos of a dove; peaceful, determined, and free. By creating opportunities and fostering collaboration, We Doves inspires women to break barriers, reclaim their identities, and thrive in a world filled with possibilities.
The Hive of Support and Empowerment Much like a beehive symbolizes collective strength, We Doves represents an interconnected community of women supporting one another. From shared stories of resilience to practical career opportunities, the platform thrives on collaboration and shared growth.
Global TV’s Initiatives for “We Doves”:
Career Mentorship Programs: Offering guidance to help women rediscover their strengths and build sustainable livelihoods.
Community Connection: Facilitating a network of like-minded women, creating a safe space for growth and shared experiences.
Skill Development Workshops: Equipping women with skills to succeed in modern industries, particularly in media, technology, and entrepreneurship.
The Power of Transformation
We Doves recognizes that each individual has a unique story and journey. It encourages women to explore their inner strength, just as bees transform raw nectar into honey. Through personal development programs, entrepreneurial workshops, and storytelling campaigns, participants discover their untapped potential.
Global TV’s 4 Questions Campaign (4QC) is a cornerstone of this transformation. By engaging women to ask four key questions about their aspirations, challenges, and vision, it fosters self-awareness and ignites the courage to dream again.
Celebrating Diversity Every dove is unique, and so is every woman. We Doves celebrate this diversity by welcoming women from all walks of life, ensuring that their perspectives and talents are recognized and valued.
Key Initiatives:
Storytelling Empowerment: Using media to share the inspiring journeys of widows and single mothers, fostering solidarity and encouragement.
Resident Editors Program: Providing opportunities for women to contribute as editors and storytellers, transforming challenges into impactful narratives.
A Soaring Future: Lessons from Doves and Bees Drawing inspiration from nature, We Doves creates a harmonious balance between individuality and collective strength. Each participant contributes to the community’s success, much like bees in a hive.
Visionary Leadership: Encouraging women to take charge of their lives and lead with confidence.
Collaboration: Building partnerships that multiply opportunities and open doors to success.
Empowerment Through Action: Providing platforms for women to actively engage, grow, and contribute meaningfully to society.
The Role of Supporters In every movement, there are those who actively participate and those who support from the sidelines. We Doves acknowledges the critical role of supporters; families, friends, and organizations who provide the encouragement and resources needed for women to flourish.
Taking Flight Together We Doves is a Media Movement. A movement that invites women to embrace their freedom, find their voice, and fly beyond limitations. Through the support of Global TV’s initiatives like Resident Editors and 4 Questions Campaign, these women are rewriting their stories and shaping a brighter, more inclusive future.
Join the Movement If you or someone you know is ready to take flight, visit globaltv.in/wedoves to learn more about our programs and initiatives. Together, let’s create a world where every woman has the opportunity to rise and thrive.
Cynthia Fernandes: A Visionary for Compassionate Change | Global TV
NV Paulose, Chairman, Global TV +91 98441 82044
A few exceptional souls shine as ideals of hope in the world that otherwise filled with noise and self-interest. Cynthia Fernandes is one such individual, a woman who has dedicated her life to uplifting others and transforming challenges into opportunities. Her story is an inspiration for those who are aspiring to make an impact in the society with micro deeds of good habits on an ongoing basis.
Action at ground zero was her portfolio. He had helped many individuals to come up in life with small little supports like job placements, counselling, matrimony etc. With digitization and globalisation; impact of the drops of her helping acts turned into large waves of support. Her support had become like a regular rain in the barren desert lands. Many people were brought to happiness over a period of time. Helping people had become a habit for her in the process.
Turning Points That Shaped a Visionary
Cynthia’s journey began with a crucial realization: her passion for social work was not just a career choice but a life mission. Her work in job placements, counselling, and matchmaking transcended into routine effort. Exemplified outcomes made joyful lives embodying her deep empathy for others. Whether helping someone find employment or uniting two people in matrimony, Cynthia has consistently sought to bring joy and stability into people’s lives.
Cynthia Fernandes’ journeys to Medjugorje and Padre Pio’s Shrine deepened her devotion to service and strengthened her faith. In Medjugorje, she felt an overwhelming sense of peace and clarity, while in Padre Pio’s Shrine, she was inspired by the saint’s extraordinary life of devotion and healing.
In Medjugorje, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Cynthia immersed herself in the sacred atmosphere of this revered shrine, where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared to six local children in 1981. As she prayed and reflected in the tranquil surroundings, Cynthia felt an overwhelming sense of peace and clarity, as if the Mother of God was guiding her on her spiritual journey.
Cynthia’s pilgrimage to Padre Pio’s Shrine in San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy, was another deep experience in her spiritual journey. This sacred site, dedicated to the life and legacy of Saint Pio of Pietrelcina, is renowned for its healing properties and spiritual significance.
These sacred experiences provided Cynthia with clarity, strength, and an unwavering belief in the power of faith. Her spiritual pilgrimages continue to inspire her commitment to service and faith, reminding her of the transformative power of faith and the importance of living a life of service to others.
Advent of Social Media and her steps into its streams
Perhaps one of the most transformative turning points was her embrace of social media as a tool for outreach. While her work initially touched those in her immediate community, digital platforms enabled her to expand her reach globally, amplifying her efforts to connect with people in need and provide them with resources and hope.
Success Stories That Inspire
Cynthia’s life is a mixture of success stories, each more inspiring than the last. One of her most remarkable achievements lies in her ability to facilitate job placements, connecting individuals with opportunities that provide stability and dignity. Her efforts are not transactional but transformational, as she ensures that each match fosters growth and security.
Her work in matrimony is equally heart-warming, as she has helped countless individuals find their life partners. Her influence extended beyond matchmaking. Her guidance had helped people to build strong, fulfilling relationships rooted in mutual respect and love.
Cynthia recalls one story with particular pride: a single mother struggling to find stable employment. Through her extensive network, Cynthia connected this woman to a supportive employer who not only provided her with a job but also empowered her to balance work and motherhood. Today, that woman is financially independent, ensuring a bright future for her children.
Challenges: Stepping Stones to Growth
Despite her successes, Cynthia’s journey has been far from easy. She has faced doubts from skeptics, emotional exhaustion from bearing others’ burdens, and a lack of resources to fully realize her vision. Yet, these challenges have only fuelled her determination.
By staying true to her mission and surrounding herself with a network of compassionate allies, Cynthia overcame these hurdles with grace. Her unwavering faith became her anchor, giving her the strength to keep going even when the road seemed daunting.
Lessons from a Life of Service
Cynthia’s life is a master class in determination, dedication, empathy, and purpose. Life had turned to become a learning experience for her forever. Most of them were painful but all of them had turned to become sweet memories later. Among the many lessons she has learned, a few stand out as universal truths:
Service Brings True Happiness: Cynthia’s unwavering belief that helping others is the ultimate source of joy has driven her every action. The smiles she sees and the lives she transforms are her greatest rewards.
Faith is a Guiding Light: Her spiritual convictions have been her compass, providing clarity and strength through life’s challenges.
Community is Strength: Cynthia understands that lasting change comes from collective effort. By fostering connections and encouraging collaboration, she has multiplied the impact of her work.
Perseverance is Key: No challenge has been insurmountable because Cynthia has approached every obstacle with hope and determination.
A Vision for the Future
Cynthia Fernandes is a compassionate individual. She is a visionary leader capable of thinking innovative for making a real change in the world around her and further. Her ability to blend traditional values with modern tools like social media makes her work relevant and impactful in today’s world. She understands the dynamics of economics in making things practical and possible.
Her story is an invitation to those who are searching for ways and means to find a purpose in their life. How could she overcome her challenges? Make them to become your road map towards success. When you become great; make sure that you are equally contributing your time and energy for building a better world.
Through her unwavering commitment to serving others, Cynthia has proven that one person’s efforts can ripple outward, touching countless lives. Her journey is a true leadership model that begins with the courage to care. Both of them are the essence of everyone’s life. Her role model is a vision worth aspiring to.
Editor’s Note:
Global TV takes pride to honour her great works with the Title of Resident Editor. We authorize her to use our Media Platform to empower people by telling many positive stories. We recognize it as an act of mutual respect even when we are not paying her for the good work she does for us and others.
Greatness of Cynthia Fernandes is in making her work viable and feasible to herself and to many others. Let her tribe grow in number and let the success stories multiply. Let them also flourish with astonishing revenue models emerging from the collective efforts and innovative approaches.
Let us collectively craft and share inspiring career recipes, just as we flood the media space with delectable cooking recipes. These career recipes should empower individuals to craft and create their own success stories.
Let her become an Ambassador of Dignified Media Practitioners at the district of Belgaum and other places. May we celebrate together one day her achievements as a perfectly baked cake that is served in a dignified social gathering. May the collective efforts of her and many others like her create a ripple effect, inspiring a new generation of Media Entrepreneurs and Media Innovators to rise and thrive.
Catholic Sabha Rosario Unit to Celebrate 25th Anniversary | Global TV
Mangalore, Jan 16, 2025: The Rosario Unit of the Catholic Sabha Mangalore Pradesh (R) is set to celebrate its silver jubilee on Sunday, February 16, 2025. A day of faith, gratitude, and festivity has been planned to commemorate 25 years of dedicated service to the community and to reaffirm the Unit’s motto: Service, Sacrifice & Unity.
The day’s celebrations will begin with a Thanksgiving Eucharistic Celebration at 8 am at the historic Rosario Cathedral, Mangalore. The Eucharistic service will be an expression of gratitude to God for His blessings over the past quarter-century.
The evening’s main event, a stage program, is scheduled for 5 pm at the Rosario Cultural Hall. This program will feature distinguished dignitaries and showcase cultural performances that embody the rich traditions and values of the Catholic community.
Dignitaries and Guests of Honor
The chief guest for the occasion will be Rev. Fr. Stany Tauro, Founder Spiritual Director of the Rosario Unit and Parish Priest of St. Joseph’s Church, Kota, Udupi. Known for his dynamic leadership and spiritual guidance, Rev. Fr. Tauro has played a pivotal role in shaping the Unit’s vision.
Mr. Philip J Pereira, President of the Catholic Sabha Rosario Unit, will preside over the event. Joining him on stage will be:
Mr. Alwyn D’Souza, President of the Catholic Sabha Mangalore Pradesh (R)
Rev. Fr. John Vas, Spiritual Director of the Catholic Sabha Episcopal City Deanery
Mrs. Ida Furtado, President of the Catholic Sabha Episcopal City Deanery
Mr. Abdul Latheef, Corporator, Mangalore City Corporation, Port Ward
Mr. Hilary Lobo, Founder President of the Catholic Sabha Rosario Unit
Their presence will lend significance to the celebrations, reflecting the unity and diversity of the Catholic Sabha’s reach and impact.
Cultural Program
The celebrations will feature a vibrant cultural program, showcasing the talents of Unit members and the local community. Performances will include traditional music, dance, and skits that highlight the Catholic Sabha’s commitment to cultural preservation and community development.
A Legacy of Service and Unity
The Catholic Sabha was founded in the 1970s in Mangalore with the vision of uniting the Catholic laity and empowering them to play a meaningful role in the Church and society. Over the decades, the organization has grown into a significant force, fostering socio-economic development and cultural enrichment while upholding the values of faith and service.
Early Years (1970s-1980s)
In its formative years, the Catholic Sabha worked tirelessly to bring together Catholics across parishes in Mangalore. The organization aimed to provide a platform for laypeople to actively participate in both ecclesiastical and social spheres.
Growth and Expansion (1990s-2000s)
During the 1990s, the Catholic Sabha experienced a period of rapid growth. Units were established in numerous parishes across Mangalore and beyond. The focus expanded to include:
Educational initiatives to empower youth
Healthcare support for underprivileged families
Advocacy for the rights and welfare of marginalized communities
Milestones and Achievements (2010s-present)
In recent years, the Catholic Sabha has achieved several remarkable milestones, solidifying its reputation as a pillar of the Catholic community. Key accomplishments include:
Organizing community development programs, including free health camps and educational scholarships.
Promoting Catholic values through cultural festivals and faith-based events.
Supporting the marginalized and vulnerable, offering financial aid and emotional support to those in need.
Fostering ecumenical and interfaith dialogue, contributing to harmony among diverse communities.
The Rosario Unit, established 25 years ago, has played a crucial role in this journey. It has been at the forefront of initiatives that combine spiritual enrichment with social service, living up to its motto of service and unity.
Significance of the 25th Anniversary
The silver jubilee celebration of the Rosario Unit is a milestone to the enduring spirit of its members. Over the years, the Unit has become a great hope and support, touching countless lives through its programs and initiatives.
This celebration also serves as an opportunity to reflect on the Catholic Sabha’s mission and to recommit to the values of faith, unity, and service. It is a moment of gratitude for the past, a celebration of the present, and a vision for the future.
Looking Ahead
As the Catholic Sabha Rosario Unit celebrates its 25th anniversary, it stands as a shining example of what can be achieved through faith, dedication, and community spirit. The journey of the Catholic Sabha is far from over, with greater challenges and opportunities ahead. Guided by its values and fuelled by its commitment to serve, the organization will undoubtedly continue to make a lasting impact on the Church and society.
The wisdom of your body is tremendous and the benefit it generate is enormous | Global TV
Dr. PP Devan | Professor | AJ Medical College | +91 92433 01213
We often overlook the innate intelligence of our bodies to recover and reinvent by itself. Constant food consumption is the dietary pattern of most of the people. World is dominated by endless promotion of new diets. Sometimes it may be felt as if we are living for eating alone. Everything starts or end with eating is good only for hotels and food chains. We should make an effort to understand about how the cells in our body generate a mechanism to regenerate the degenerated.
Our bodies harbour beneath its surfaces, a remarkable self-healing mechanism called autophagy. It is a process and a system that keep rejuvenates, cleanses, and strengthens us from the inside out. The science of autophagy and its connection to intermittent fasting, are interesting to learn as much as the profound health benefits they unlock from within for our overall advantage.
What Is Autophagy? The Body’s Recycling System
The word “autophagy” stems from the Greek words auto (self) and phagein (to eat), meaning “self-eating.” Far from being a destructive process, autophagy is a powerful survival mechanism that has evolved to maintain cellular health. It involves the breakdown and removal of damaged, dysfunctional, or aging cells. The body then recycles these cellular components, reusing the valuable materials to build new, healthier cells. Can you think of autophagy as your body’s internal housekeeping system? That is it in its entirety.
The wisdom of your body is tremendous and the benefit it generate is enormous. It identifies cellular waste, such as damaged proteins, pathogens, and organelles, and eliminates them to maintain optimal functionality. This process is especially critical in preventing any accumulation of harmful substances that can lead to diseases. It is a way to consume the leftover effectively within a system.
How Autophagy Works
Autophagy is a tightly regulated process that activates in response to stressors like fasting, caloric restriction, or exercise. When the body is deprived of external food sources, it taps into its reserves, targeting damaged or dysfunctional cells for energy. This mechanism not only provides fuel but also improves cellular efficiency by replacing old components with new ones.
Interestingly, autophagy occurs at a higher rate during fasting because the body shifts its focus from digesting food to repairing itself. This makes fasting a key trigger for harnessing the benefits of autophagy.
The Health Benefits of Autophagy
Autophagy plays a crucial role in promoting health and longevity. Here are some of its most notable benefits:
1. Boosts Immune Function
Autophagy removes infected or damaged cells that compromise the immune system, allowing it to function more efficiently. By clearing out these “weak links,” the body becomes better equipped to fight infections and diseases.
2. Enhances Longevity
By clearing out aging cells, autophagy promotes the production of younger, healthier cells. This process is believed to slow down the aging process, contributing to increased lifespan and better overall health in later years.
3. Reduces Inflammation
Chronic inflammation is a root cause of many diseases, including arthritis, diabetes, and cardiovascular issues. Autophagy reduces inflammation by eliminating damaged cells that trigger inflammatory responses.
4. Prevents Neurodegenerative Diseases
The accumulation of toxic proteins in the brain is a hallmark of conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Autophagy clears these harmful proteins, protecting brain health and improving cognitive function.
5. Supports Metabolic Health
Autophagy helps regulate blood sugar levels and enhances insulin sensitivity, making it a powerful tool for preventing and managing metabolic disorders like diabetes.
6. Promotes Muscle Health
By breaking down damaged muscle proteins and encouraging the production of new ones, autophagy aids in muscle repair and growth, especially in response to exercise.
Intermittent Fasting: The Gateway to Autophagy
Intermittent fasting (IF) is a structured eating pattern that alternates between periods of eating and fasting. It is one of the most effective ways to trigger autophagy naturally. Unlike diets that focus on what to eat, intermittent fasting emphasizes when to eat, giving the body extended periods of rest from food digestion.
Popular Methods of Intermittent Fasting
18/6 Method: Fast for 18 hours and eat within an 6-hour window.
5:2 Method: Consume normal calories for five days and restrict to 500–600 calories for two non-consecutive days.
24-Hour Fast: Avoid food entirely for 24 hours once or twice a week.
Alternate-Day Fasting: Alternate between a full fasting day and a regular eating day.
Advantages of Intermittent Fasting
When combined with autophagy, intermittent fasting offers an array of health benefits:
1. Weight Loss and Fat Burn
Fasting shifts the body into fat-burning mode by depleting glycogen stores and utilizing fat as a primary energy source. This not only aids in weight loss but also targets stubborn visceral fat.
2. Improved Metabolic Health
Intermittent fasting enhances insulin sensitivity, lowers blood sugar levels, and reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes.
3. Enhanced Mental Clarity and Brain Function
Ketones, which are produced during fasting, serve as a superior fuel source for the brain. This leads to increased focus, memory retention, and reduced brain fog.
4. Cellular Repair and Regeneration
Extended fasting promotes autophagy, helping to repair damaged cells and protect against aging and disease.
5. Reduced Risk of Chronic Diseases
Intermittent fasting lowers cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and inflammatory markers, reducing the risk of heart disease, cancer, and other chronic illnesses.
6. Increased Energy and Productivity
Many people report higher energy levels during fasting periods due to the stabilization of blood sugar levels and the absence of post-meal lethargy.
How to Incorporate Autophagy and Intermittent Fasting into Your Life
Step 1: Start Gradually
If you’re new to fasting, begin with shorter fasting periods, gradually reaching to the 18/6 method. Further extend your fasting window as your body adapts.
Step 2: Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water during fasting periods. Herbal teas and black coffee are also good options that won’t break your fast.
Step 3: Focus on Nutrient-Dense Foods
During eating windows, prioritize whole, unprocessed foods like vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates.
Step 4: Listen to Your Body
Pay attention to how your body responds to fasting. Adjust your schedule or method if needed, and avoid over-restricting calories.
Step 5: Combine Fasting with Exercise
Light to moderate exercise, especially aerobic activities like walking or yoga, complements fasting by enhancing fat-burning and stimulating autophagy.
Feed Your Body from the Inside Out
Your body is a remarkable self-healing machine, equipped with the ability to cleanse, rejuvenate, and repair itself. Autophagy and intermittent fasting provide a natural, powerful way to tap into this potential, improving health, longevity, and overall well-being. By incorporating intermittent fasting into your lifestyle, you can activate your body’s innate intelligence and allow it to perform at its best.
Take Responsibility: Creating a Cleaner and More Civilized City | Global TV
By Nigel Albuquerque
I live in an area where the streets are lined with clinics and diagnostic centers. Together these centres are attracting countless outstation vehicles every day. People come here in search of medical care, yet they leave behind something far less welcome. The garbage that they create but refuse to carry. Empty bottles, plastic wrappers, ice cream cups, juice boxes, and even dirty diapers are casually tossed onto the streets.
When confronted about their littering, these supposedly “educated” people respond with sarcasm, asking, “Where are the bins?” They find it absurd to keep their waste in their cars until they find a proper disposal point. It’s almost as if their convenience overrides the very basic decency of keeping public spaces clean.
This isn’t just about individual behaviour. The clinics and doctors running these facilities are equally responsible. Let me explain why.
The Unspoken Responsibility of Clinics
Doctors operating clinics in this area shrug off responsibility for the mess. “We never asked anyone to park here or litter,” they argue. Technically, that’s true. But running a clinic is not just about offering healthcare. It comes with a broader responsibility to ensure that the clinic’s operations and its visitors do not inconvenience the surrounding community.
Here’s a real-life example: I once took up the issue with a prominent diagnostic clinic in the area. After some persistent efforts, the clinic was compelled to act. They installed waste bins, put up signposts discouraging littering, and instructed their watchman to ensure that the road remained clean and unblocked. This wasn’t rocket science, but just basic steps to take responsibility for their share of the problem. It worked well. The area remained clean since maintained well.
The clinics need to understand that they are part of the ecosystem that enables this littering. Their patients and their parties are the primary offenders. If they don’t want to be held accountable, then perhaps it’s time for strict measures to force accountability.
The Case for Hefty Fines
If common decency doesn’t work, then let’s talk about money. I propose a hefty fine of ₹15,000 for those caught littering. This can be enforced with CCTV evidence. And here’s the kicker: if a clinic is found contributing to the problem by not providing adequate waste disposal options, the fine should extend to them too.
This might sound harsh, but do you think people will keep dirty diapers or juice cups in their car if they know they might be fined? The answer is obvious.
Inform-Educate-Communicate (IEC) Campaigns
Fines alone won’t solve the problem. There’s a dire need for awareness. The corporator and health inspector in charge should organize an Inform-Educate-Communicate (IEC) program in the area. This would involve educating both residents and visitors about the importance of cleanliness and the consequences of littering.
The message should be clear: the city belongs to everyone, and keeping it clean is everyone’s responsibility.
Why Clinics Must Step Up
Clinics, too, must step up their game. They should:
Install waste bins near their premises.
Put up clear, visible signposts discouraging littering.
Instruct their staff, including watchmen, to monitor and maintain cleanliness in the vicinity.
Collaborate with local waste management agencies to ensure timely disposal of waste.
It’s not just about compliance. It is about creating an environment of mutual respect between the clinic, its patients, and the community it serves.
Ward Committees and Community Action
If ward committees (WCs) are not doing their job, residents must demand action. Civic bodies exist to serve the people, not to avoid responsibility. If the current members of the WC are ineffective, perhaps it’s time to replace them with individuals who care about the community’s well-being.
Meanwhile, community groups and local welfare associations can play a critical role in bridging gaps. Regular meetings with clinic owners, doctors, and residents can help implement practical solutions and address grievances.
The Bigger Problem: Educated but Uncivilized
What’s most alarming is the behaviour of the so-called educated individuals who litter. Their actions highlight a deeper societal issue: a lack of civic sense. Education means nothing if it doesn’t translate into responsible behaviour.
Schools and workplaces need to emphasize the importance of civic responsibility. Campaigns promoting cleanliness shouldn’t just be about aesthetics; they should foster a sense of pride and ownership in keeping our cities clean.
Cleanliness is Everyone’s Business
A clean city isn’t just the government’s responsibility. Cities Cleanliness is everyone’s collective responsibility. Doctors, clinics, residents, and visitors must work together to address the problem. Fines and campaigns are tools to enforce accountability, but lasting change will only come when we all adopt cleanliness as a shared value.
Whether you’re a visitor, a clinic owner, or a resident, remember this: the city is our collective home. Keeping it clean is our duty. It is a reflection of who we are as a society. Let’s take responsibility and create a cleaner, more civilized city for all.
