WorklifeIndia

India is a cricket-loving nation, with the sport played all over the country - from grassroots gully (street) cricket to domestic, national and international leagues. The Board of Control for Cricket in India is the world’s richest cricket governing body, with a net worth of around $2 billion. But women's cricket in the country has struggled to enjoy the same level of recognition and funding as men's cricket.

The recent announcement by the BCCI to pay equal match fees to both men and women players has been widely welcomed. But will it change the patriarchal mindset that women players face right from the start of their cricket journey? Will it help attract more brands and sponsors to women’s cricket? And how about the annual retainership fee that still has a huge gap between men and women cricketers?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss whether gender pay parity will change the way the sport is played in India. Presenter: Divya Arya

Contributors: Khyati Gulani, former cricketer, coach at Delhi & District Cricket Association; Ramakrishnan R, co-founder and director, Baseline Ventures; Ridhima Pathak, sports anchor

As mass layoffs at Meta and Twitter hit the global tech industry, many more companies have either already downsized or are expected to come out with similar announcements soon. Employees who’ve got the pink slip have all the more reason to worry as questions about an impending recession gain ground.

So what should be the immediate steps to safeguard one’s financial future? Do companies provide enough resources to plan the next career move? Are they even mindful of employees who have been laid off?

Losing a job can be devastating, and layoffs are always a gruelling ordeal. How does one endure the trauma and mental stress that layoffs often bring?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss the best strategies and resources available to deal with layoffs. Presenter: Divya Arya

Contributors: John Victor, clinical psychologist, founder of Reevin Mental Health; Prashant Pandey, business leader at Manpower Group; Deba Prasad Dhar, media professional, experienced layoff

In 2018, India’s Supreme Court decriminalised gay sex in a landmark ruling which was seen as a big victory for the country's LGBTQ+ community. But activists say attitudes on the ground have been slow to change. Members of the community still face discrimination and harassment in daily life.

While activists have called for specific laws to help fight these prejudices, several LGBTQ+ couples have also filed petitions seeking to legalise same-sex marriages. But will the struggle for the right to marry divert attention from the fight for equal rights and acceptance? And will the country evolve with changing times?

Presenter: Divya Arya Contributors: Saurabh Kirpal, senior advocate, identifies as gay; Debolina Dey, assistant professor, identifies as lesbian and queer; Sharif D Ranganekar, author, workplace culture consultant, identifies as gay

India’s festive season has prompted a surge in hiring of women for temporary jobs. But women still represent a small proportion of India’s workforce. Experts say corporate India is paying more attention to diversity in the workplace, opening many opportunities for women employees, but numbers still remain worryingly low.

India's overall joblessness is worrying: the country's unemployment rate has exceeded that of most emerging economies in recent years. Women also face enormous discrimination in the job market, and earn less than men even when they have the same qualifications and experience.

How can Indian women get better, more equitable opportunities? And is it possible to have a more diverse employee pool in both formal and informal sectors? In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss how can India add more women to its workforce. Presenter: Divya Arya Contributors: Amitabh Behar, CEO, Oxfam India; Rituparna Chakraborty, co-founder and executive director, TeamLease Services; Sabina Dewan, president and executive director, JustJobs Network

In a recent ruling, India’s Supreme Court made significant additions to abortion rights, saying every woman – married or unmarried – should be able to make reproductive choices without interference from the State. The verdict has made headlines in a country known for its patriarchal society, where women have little sexual autonomy. Pre-marital sex is taboo, while marital rape is not recognised as a crime. Moreover, an alarmingly large number of women in India go through unsafe abortions. Does a landmark ruling translate into effective implementation on the ground? Will this help change the mindset towards women’s reproductive rights? Can abortions be made acceptable across the country’s largely rural landscape?

Presenter: Divya Arya Contributors: Sakshi Bhatt, media professional; Dr Jahnvi Andharia, director and research fellow, Institute of Social Studies Trust; Dr Anjali Kumar, senior consultant gynaecologist and founder of Maitri Woman's Health

Antibiotics are the mainstay of modern medicine and play a critical role in treating bacterial infections, and saving lives. But what happens when you take them in excess? According to the World Health Organization, antimicrobial resistance due to indiscriminate use of antibiotics has become one of the biggest global public health threats. As many as 10 million people could die each year as a result of antimicrobial resistance by 2050, experts say. And for India, this is an urgent problem.

The country is among the world’s largest antibiotic consumers in absolute volume, but doesn’t have a comprehensive surveillance system to monitor use. And resistance to drugs has become so widespread that sometimes even some of the common infections are difficult to treat. Is this happening due to self-medication, as drugs are easily accessible over-the-counter? Or is it because of over-prescription by doctors? Do patients have enough awareness about antibiotics?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss how to tackle India’s antibiotics overuse.

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Dinesh Madan, Chairman of retail distribution chemist alliance; Dr Rachna Kucheria, founder of DocGenie Telemedicine and family physician; Dr Suneela Garg, professor of excellence for community medicine, chair of programme advisory committee at National Institute of Health and Family Welfare

Millions of Indian households rely on microfinance – small loans available to the poor as an alternative to traditional banking credit. For many, it is a lifeline, and often the only way to begin a business.

But despite the industry recording a 10% growth in its loan book this year, there is also a huge increase in borrowers defaulting on payments. After the pandemic, the cash crunch is even bigger, experts say. What is at the root of the crisis? Is it the exorbitant rates of interest charged by microfinance companies, or the easy availability of multiple loans to borrowers? What can be done to tackle the endless cycle of debt that micro loans create?

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Amit Arora, senior sector specialist, Rural and Development Finance; Devesh Sachdev, founder and CEO, Fusion Microfinance; Swati Sinha, CEO, Microfinance.ai

Do you feel motivated at work, or does going to the office make you feel stressed?

The idea of slowly withdrawing yourself from overwork has recently gained intense media attention. It is about “quiet quitting” - that is, clocking in and out of work, doing the bare minimum, and disengaging from all other aspects of the workplace. But is this a new trend?

Experts say the concept has been around for decades, but in the wake of the pandemic, employees feel particularly undervalued - and overworked. But is this also about broader cultural attitudes and toxicity at work that is seeping into our productivity and our careers in the longer term? How can discontentment be turned into ownership? Or is this trend here to stay, with the younger generation of employees preferring a better work-life balance? Can companies do something to avoid workers quietly quitting?

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Suhel Goel, executive vice president, SandMartin Consultants; Astha Chandra, leadership coach and trainer; Shikha Verma, HR consultant, learning & development expert

India’s roads are regarded as being among the most dangerous in the world. In 2021, road accidents claimed more than 150,000 lives - an average of 18 per hour, according to government data.

There is rarely any conversation around road safety in the country - but the recent death of Indian billionaire Cyrus Mistry in a car crash has changed that. Many are now calling for a mindset shift among Indians, who are used to traveling in overcrowded vehicles without proper safety measures, so that more people can travel at the same time.

Traffic rules don’t count for much here, but many also say that faulty road engineering plays a key role in many road accidents. What can be done to improve the design of Indian roads? How can vehicles introduce better safety measures and how can road users be made to follow traffic rules? Should the government bring in stricter enforcement of law?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss how to make India’s roads safer.

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Piyush Tewari, founder and CEO, SaveLIFE Foundation; Prof Sewa Ram, head of transport planning, School of Planning & Architecture; Anand Sharma, co-founder and director, Studio34

One in every four Indians to die by suicide in 2021 was a daily wage earner. In 2020, daily wage earners accounted for more than 35,000 of the nearly 150,000 recorded suicides in the country.

More than 90% of India’s workforce is engaged in the informal sector. That’s a huge number in a country with 1.4 billion people. A large number of them survive on whatever they are paid after a hard day’s work, and they lead very difficult lives. Finding work is a daily struggle. Then there is social discrimination and exploitation. Many get sucked into the debt trap.

Are welfare schemes run by the government not adequate? What can be done to make their lives easier? In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss what’s causing the increase in suicides among India’s daily wagers.

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Nikhil Dey, founder, Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan; Nida Ansari, labour rights activist, co-founder of Mazdoor Kitchen; Palle Ajay Swaero, IT consultant at LibTech India, son of daily wage worker

India’s startup ecosystem is among the largest in the world, and it has grown exponentially in the last six years. Government data puts the number of recognised startups in the country at more than 70,000 this year – from less than 500 in 2016.

But now funding is drying up, and investors are becoming increasingly picky when parting with their money. Experts say there are several reasons why the startup ecosystem is running into headwinds. A lot of startups are on a high cash burn model, and layoffs have been huge this year. Most startups are also unprofitable.

So is this a temporary pause to conserve cash and focus on building a strong foundation, or have global macroeconomic factors such as rising inflation and supply chain disruptions derailed growth? What can be done to sail through the downturns?

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Nikunj Parashar, founder and CEO, Sagar Defence Engineering; Sanchita Mukherji, senior finance professional, managing partner, TalkTheWalk LLP; Divanshu Kumar, co-founder and CEO, Solinas Integrity

Political parties in India, the largest democracy in the world, often try to win over voters by offering them free gifts such as television sets, mixers and grinders, electricity, and food rations. The list is long, and the trend not new, but a fierce debate over freebies is now raging in the country, especially after the issue reached the Supreme Court.

It’s a complex debate in a country where hundreds of millions of people still live below the poverty line. Can India really draw the line between welfare schemes, subsidies and freebies? Many experts point out that irrational freebies are doled out from public funds and put state finances under tremendous financial stress. Others say many of these schemes are life-changing interventions for the poor.

What is the way forward, and what can be done to ensure political parties are more mindful when making these promises? In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss whether India can afford a freebie culture.

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Yamini Aiyar, president and chief executive, Centre for Policy Research; NR Bhanumurthy, vice chancellor, Dr BR Ambedkar School of Economics University; Mitali Nikore, development economist, founder, Nikore Associates

The cheetah, declared extinct in India in 1952, is set to make a comeback in the country this year. The world’s fastest land animal is being translocated from South Africa and Namibia, home to the world’s largest populations of the wild cat.

This is the first time a large carnivore is being moved across continents, but can the ambitious project succeed? Many Indian conservationists are sceptical of the idea, and call it a cosmetic project. Some also question the priority being given to the cheetah, which isn’t a part of the national wildlife action plan.

Will the African cheetahs really roam free in India’s forest reserves soon? Will their numbers grow? And will they readily adapt to the different ecosystem that the country offers?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss the challenges and opportunities in bringing the cheetah back to India.

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Vivek Menon, founder and executive director, Wildlife Trust of India; Professor Adrian Tordiffe, vet wildlife specialist, University of Pretoria; Dr Ravi Chellam, CEO, Metastring Foundation and coordinator, Biodiversity Collaborative

In August 1947, India won its independence from British rule and split into two new states – India and Pakistan. The turmoil and trauma that followed marred the birth of the two newly independent nations.

Hundreds of thousands were killed, and an estimated 15 million were displaced, as Muslims migrated to Pakistan and Hindus crossed the border into India. It’s often cited as one of the biggest movements of people in history.

The issue continues to be debated with a sharp clash of narratives, but it is the individuals and families on both sides of the border who still carry painful memories of the displacement.

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we revisit and relive some of those memories of pain, nostalgia, anguish and hope, and talk to those who are helping to preserve these stories for future generations.

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Lady Kishwar Desai, author, chairperson, Partition Museum; Aanchal Malhotra, writer, oral historian; Saadia Gardezi, co-founder and Pakistan lead, Project Dastaan

Last year, nearly 160,000 Indians gave up their citizenship. In 2020, India was ranked highest by the United Nations among countries with the largest diaspora populations, with over 18 million Indians living outside the country.

What’s shaping these trends in India? According to experts, it is mostly the prospect of better education or employment. But many say that in recent years, growing concern over pollution and corruption have emerged as the strongest factors to move out. Some even point to the changing social environment of increased polarisation within the country.

So is this trend here to stay? What about the smaller but definitive group of Indians returning to the homeland? What’s their story of reverse migration?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss why are so many Indians moving abroad.

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Akshay Saxena, co-founder, Avanti Fellows; Ajay Sharma, founder and president, Abhinav Immigration Services; Maninder Singh, founder and coach, N-Kor Tennis Academy; Gaurav Kyal, country manager, UK-based tech firm

Traditionally, the luxury industry in India has used exclusivity as a way to maintain its mystique and desirability. But younger generations of luxury consumers are bringing in new trends. Attitudes are changing about what quality really means. Is it sustainable? Does it belong to an ethical brand? Is it a wholesome experience rather than just an expensive label to adorn?

In a market that is projected to cross $200 billion by 2030, what is the new meaning of luxury? Is it more inclusive of the rural artisans that form one end of the supply chain? And is it expanding to newer luxury shoppers through affordable retail options available through online stores?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss how luxury fashion is changing in India.

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Anita Dongre, founder, House of Anita Dongre; Ritu Beri, founder, Ritu Beri Designs and The Luxury League; Rahul Mishra, fashion designer

Egg freezing is a relatively new concept in India. Despite a lot of social stigma associated with it, the procedure is gaining attention and emerging as a growing trend in urban areas. A lot of women are now opting to freeze their eggs for social reasons, such as pursuing their dream careers, or waiting to marry at a later age.

But does egg freezing guarantee motherhood when you are finally ready for it, and how costly does it get? What are the wins and the pitfalls associated with the procedure, both mental and physical?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss the growing trend of egg freezing in India. Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Diana Hayden, actress, former Miss World; Dr Hrishikesh Pai, IVF specialist, founder, Bloom IVF; Gitanjali Banerjee, founder, Fertility Dost

The practice of tipping is widespread across the world. But when to tip, how much and to whom are questions that often stump people. For example, in the US, it is customary to tip a restaurant server anywhere between 15-25%. In Japan, however, tipping is considered rude.

But should restaurants be collecting a mandatory service charge, irrespective of whether you are happy with the service you have received? This has become the core of an unsavoury debate in India, after a government order banned restaurants from levying a default service charge on food bills. The restaurant association is challenging this ban, saying it isn’t illegal and that the amount is important for staff welfare. Many also argue that Indians are not always “generous tippers”.

So, should diners have the discretion to accept or reject charges beyond their food bill? And will removing a service charge hurt an industry already suffering from the ill-effects of the pandemic?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss whether a service charge should be mandatory when eating out.

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Pradeep Shetty, joint honorary secretary, FHRAI; Nikita Varma, food influencer; Rekha Agarwal, lawyer, consumer rights activist

Do you want to find out how much your colleagues earn? Pay is a major factor in deciding whether one takes up a job, or even applies for it in the first place, yet the moment one is on a company’s payroll, all talk about remuneration is shrouded in secrecy. But that is now changing in many organisations around the world.

Pay transparency has its advantages, but does it also lead to jealousy among co-workers, sapping them of motivation? Would everyone be receptive to this level of openness at the workplace? And what impact does it have on gender pay gaps within organisations?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss whether companies should follow an open salary policy.

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Rajneesh Singh, founder, SimplyHR; Sunder Malyandi, co-founder, Sahaj Software; Prerna Seth, senior researcher at women’s work project, CPR

A recent survey by the Indian government shows that Indians are getting fatter. Obesity increased by more than 4% in both men and women in India in the last five years. More alarmingly, it also became more prevalent in children under the age of five years.

Experts say too much body fat increases the risk of serious diseases like cancer, diabetes, heart problems, and lung conditions. In 2021, obesity accounted for 2.8 million deaths globally.

So what’s going on? Is a sedentary lifestyle responsible for obesity, or readily available fast-food options? Are Indians genetically inclined to put on too much fat? And what can be done to lose weight effectively while maintaining a healthy daily routine?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss the reasons behind India’s obesity problem and ways to counter it.

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Komal Khulbe, fashion blogger, founder, KOQAL; Dr Atul Peters, director of bariatric surgery, Max Hospital; Asad Hussain, founder, Odds Fitness

Every year, the month of June now comes associated with the colours of the rainbow. It’s celebrated as Pride Month to commemorate the struggle for equal rights for the LGBTQ+ community. In recent years, companies big and small have used the occasion to release creative campaigns focused on LGBTQ+ people. While the recognition is a welcome step forward, many from the LGBTQ+ community wonder if there is any real acceptance. So, do these companies simply cash in on moment marketing? Are they guilty of rainbow washing, or are they really making meaningful change? Should brands avoid the rainbow onslaught and come up with strategies throughout the year? And what about looking inwards to see if their policies are inclusive or discriminatory?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss how brands can avoid rainbow washing. Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Harish Iyer, equal rights activist; Sunny Sharma, beauty and makeup YouTuber, Mua Sunny; Neeraj Bassi, strategic advisor, Branding and Marketing

In India, reports of rising Islamophobia and hyper-nationalism are posing serious concerns. The past few weeks have been particularly tense. Several Islamic countries have confronted India over offensive comments against Prophet Muhammad by a spokesperson of the ruling Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party.

The Indian government has been trying to limit the damage from the controversy. But critics say the situation has worsened because of a studied silence by the country’s top leadership over increasing cases of Islamophobia and hate speech in the country.

Is this polarisation now affecting India’s interests on the global stage? In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss whether India’s global image is taking a hit over rising Islamophobia.

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Hamid Ansari, former vice president, India; Seema Chishti, journalist and author; Ashok Sajjanhar, former ambassador

Acid attacks remain a big issue in India. In most cases, the perpetrators are men, who throw acid on women for rejecting their advances. According to official statistics, there were nearly 200 cases in 2020 - but campaigners say the actual number of attacks is much higher. There are tough laws in place, but implementation has been inadequate, and conviction rates are abysmally low.

So what happens to someone who has survived an acid attack? What does it take to recover from the shock, the trauma and the hatred associated with such a crime? In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss the resilience of India’s acid attack survivors.

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Tania Singh, CEO and co-founder, Make Love Not Scars; Anshu Rajput, acid attack survivor; Sneha Mukherjee, lawyer, Human Rights Law Network

As the Russia-Ukraine war continues with no end in sight, countries across the world are imposing new restrictions on food exports. Many countries have banned essential items such as edible oils, poultry and grains. Now experts fear this protectionist move by governments could lead to the worst food crisis the world has seen in decades.

India too, recently announced curbs on its wheat and sugar exports. The decision came after an unseasonal heatwave in the country affected crops and drove domestic prices to a record high. But critics say it could lead to further food inflation and price fluctuations.

Is India prepared to face the consequences of export bans from other countries as well? Will this move trigger further disruptions in the food supply chain? And do export bans have a larger geopolitical impact?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss the cost of India’s food nationalism.

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Dr Avinash Kishore, research fellow, International Food Policy Research Institute; Devinder Sharma, food trade and policy analyst; Anu Meena, founder and CEO, Agrowave

The Indian Premier League (IPL) is one of the richest leagues in the world. It’s also among the most-followed sporting events. Over the last few years, the tournament has been known to shatter viewing records. But this year, television viewership dipped by more than 30% in the first few weeks of the season.

What led to this fall? Experts point out many reasons, from cricket overdose, to post-Covid lifestyle, to a variety of viewing platforms. But companies are worried about the fall in viewership, as it curtails the reach of their advertisements.

Is IPL cricket losing its sheen and crowd-pulling power? Does the game need to overhaul its format? Or is it just a phase until the next season begins?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss whether the IPL needs to reinvent itself. Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Rammohan Sundaram, country head - Integrated Media, DDB Mudra Group; Shradha Agarwal, CEO and co-founder, Grapes; Arani Basu, sports journalist, Times of India

India is the world’s third-largest producer of electricity, and three-quarters of this electricity comes from coal-based thermal power plants. But despite having one of the world’s largest coal reserves, the country is often teetering on the brink of a power crisis. Last year, it was an unexpected surge in demand as the economy picked up after a deadly Covid wave; this year, it’s been an earlier-than-expected intense heatwave coupled with the war in Ukraine that is making coal imports costly and unaffordable. In fact, the power crisis rose to such a level that over 100 passenger trains had to be cancelled to make way for coal carriages. So, does India’s coal shortage stem from a lack of proper risk allocation, inefficient coal production, or a failure to anticipate a surge in demand? In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss what’s behind India’s power crisis. Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Partha Bhattacharya, former chairman & managing director, Coal India; Manmohan Gaind, vice-president, Manesar Industries Welfare Association; Karthik Ganesan, fellow and director, research coordination, CEEW

Streaming is now the main growth driver for music revenues worldwide. In India, music streaming is estimated to cross $870m by 2025. According to a recent study, Indians also listen to more music than the rest of the world - over 19 hours a week, compared to 18 hours globally. And nearly 67% of this music is consumed through social media sites or apps. With those kinds of figures - what kind of effect is this having on young artists, who are often told, told, “It’s the future of music” or, “It’s here to stay, so learn to work with it.”

How does this affect their creativity, and how do they deal with the pressure to gain more followers on social media? We discuss the perils and pitfalls of social media for aspiring artistes.

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Nikhil Chinapa, DJ, anchor, music festival curator; Chintan Kalra, producer, musician, co-founder - Indie Band Parikrama; Lekha Raman, fashion model, disc jockey

Photo: Watching a concert on a mobile phone Credit: Getty Images

Encouraging a quick transition to electric vehicles (EVs) is at the heart of India’s efforts to overhaul its transportation industry. It’s also because transport accounts for more than 140 million tonnes of carbon emissions - making it the third-largest emitter of CO2 in India. Sales of EVs have been going up consistently in the last few years, leading to suggestions that the industry is about to hit a turning point, but a recent spate of fire incidents in electric two-wheelers has raised severe safety concerns and experts say it’s time for the government to bring in proper regulation and safety standards in the EV industry.

How hard has consumer confidence been hit? Would incentives to buy EVs fuel its adoption, or would people rather wait for the technology to become more reliable and opt for ICE (a conventional vehicle, powered by the internal combution engine) vehicles instead?

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Rajiv Kumar, economist, former vice chairman, Niti Aayog; Sulajja Motwani, founder and CEO - Kinetic Green Energy, vice chairperson - Kinetic Group; Kedar Soman, chief technology officer, eBikeGo

Photo: A worker on an Electric Bike assembly line Credit: Getty Images

We live in a world with constantly mounting standards of beauty and fitness. For many, it turns into a rollercoaster of feeling anxious and getting reassurance from other people that they look good. Often, it turns into negative self-image; if left unchecked, it can become a serious disorder.

But is there just one way to be fit, or one ideal look? How important is it to be neutral about the diverse range of body shapes and appearances around us? And what can be the different ways to tackle body image concerns and disorders?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss ways of dealing with body shaming.

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Nimrat Kaur, Bollywood actress; Khushi Jain, founder, DefEating Disorders; Neha Parulkar, plus-size model, body positivity influencer; Diksha Chhabra, nutritionist, fitness expert

Often referred to as the next big thing in the digital space, the metaverse has caught the fancy of big tech firms around the world. The belief is that soon we will all be hanging out in different digital worlds to work, play, attend concerts, watch movies, or catch up with a friend over coffee.

The concept is now also finding firm ground in India, where many companies have begun exploring the space. Some have launched retail stores inside a metaverse shopping mall, while some have opened up office complexes. Some have even organised weddings.

But does it all sound much like a souped-up version of virtual reality? Does India have the right technology and bandwidth to develop the metaverse, or is it just a fad that is likely to pass after some time?

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Rajesh Dhuddu, VP and practice leader - Blockchain, Tech Mahindra; Manish Maheshwari, founder and CEO, Invact Metaversity; Sai Srinivas, CEO and co-founder, Mobile Premier League; Pushpak Kypuram, co-founder and director, NextMeet

A bizarre controversy over food has grabbed the spotlight in India recently. Calls for a meat ban by right-wing politicians during a Hindu religious festival sparked a fierce debate about unwanted interference in people’s food choices.

Many see this as an assault on secularism - one of the key principles on which independent India was founded. Experts also point out that despite common beliefs about India being a largely vegetarian country, research has shown that only about 20% of Indians are actually vegetarian. Hindus, who make up 80% of the country's population, are major meat-eaters.

While the Hindu nationalist government has reasserted its commitment to secularism, there is rising fear that the call for a meat ban is just another part of the process, which aims to gradually undermine the freedom of choice that minority communities have so far enjoyed. And what about the Constitutional rights to food and livelihood?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss whether the state should be policing people’s food choices.

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Zainab Sikander, writer, columnist; Dr Manoshi Bhattacharya, clinical nutritionist, food historian; Rahul Easwar, author, right-wing activist

Image: A view of a meat shop, at INA market on April 6, 2022 in New Delhi, India (Credit: Raj K Raj/Hindustan Times via Getty Images)

Over the last few decades, India has seen a consistent rise in heatwave conditions, and this March was the hottest India has seen in over 120 years. Weather experts say the situation can only get worse as global warming heats up the planet. There are serious long term consequences but for many, living through India’s frequent heatwaves itself is a question of survival. A majority of India’s workforce from the low-income community works outdoors or lives without proper shelter from the heat. What can be done to save lives and prevent heat-related illnesses? Is this an irreversible change, or can appropriate policies and measures make a difference?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss the solutions to deal with India’s heatwave challenge. Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Ulka Kelkar, director - Climate, World Resources Institute India; Anshu Sharma, co-founder, SEEDS; Sachii Tripathii, founder, Terracotta by Sachii; Deepa Subramaniam, co-founder, Woody Grass

Photo: A worker in Delhi, India, takes rest during a sweltering summer's day Credit: Getty Images

Five weeks into Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, India has been walking a diplomatic tightrope, trying to balance its ties with Moscow and the West. Many say it’s because of India’s dependence on Russian military hardware, and its old friendship with the Kremlin. Add to that around $10 billion in bilateral trade - but critics point out that India’s bilateral trade with the US exceeds $100bn.

What is driving India’s policy on the international stage? Is “strategic autonomy” becoming an outdated concept in the changing world order, or can India leverage its neutral stand to build stronger ties with all nations, and play the role of a mediator in the Russia-Ukraine conflict?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss the choices India has made and their likely impact on its relationship with the West.

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Shyam Saran, former foreign secretary of India; JN Misra, former Indian diplomat, distinguished fellow, OP Jindal University; Vivek Mishra, fellow, Observer Research Foundation

Photo: A peace campaigner holds portraits of Russian President, Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelensky in Bhopal, India Credit: Getty Images

The global semiconductor industry is at a crunch point. Millions of products, including cars, smartphones, and network routers, rely on chips, also known as semiconductors. But the Covid pandemic and the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine – both major suppliers of raw materials needed to make semiconductors – have hugely affected this industry.

The shortage of chips has resulted in huge disruptions for several industries. India, which imports most of its semiconductors, is also feeling the brunt. According to industry experts, consumer products using chips are likely to get more expensive, while cars relying on modern chips will have longer waiting queues.

So what can be done to deal with this? Should manufacturers curtail production? Or can the government’s new schemes to make semiconductors locally really help? In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss how can India deal with this global chip crisis.

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Parag Naik, CEO, co-founder, Saankhya Labs; Shruti Saboo, associate director, India Ratings and Research; Ganesh Ramamoorthy, managing VP, emerging technologies and trends, Gartner

More than three million people have fled Ukraine since the Russian invasion began in February this year. A large part of the country’s population is still caught in the middle of war. They have witnessed horrific bombings, experienced loss of lives around them, and watched their homes and cities destroyed. How scarred will they remain by what they have experienced?

And what about those trained to fight or report in a conflict? According to mental health experts, distressing events during a war can lead to post-traumatic stress disorders.These could even be experienced by those not directly involved, but who consume information through online or offline media.

So what are the tips to stay safe, and warning signs to watch out for? How can therapy and counselling help? In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss ways to deal with the trauma of war.

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Nitin A Gokhale, defence and security analyst; Dr Parul Tank, psychiatrist, EMDR Association; Lt Col Samir Rawat (Retd), military psychologist, war veteran; Shourya Royal, MBBS student, Kharkiv Medical University, Ukraine

In the last two years, the world has become accustomed to remote working. The Covid pandemic changed the way we work, with many people rarely, if ever, going into the office.

But as the world returns to normality, corporates are now facing an interesting question: Should they let the workers stay at home, bring everyone back to the office, or find a solution in between?

And what about the employees? Do they want to return and what are their concerns? What are the difficulties companies are facing in bringing them back to the office space?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss what companies are doing to bring employees back to the office.

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Sandeep Rao, CEO, One Source Group; Devita Saraf, chairman and CEO, Vu Group; Zubin Palia, chief group HR & IR, Tata Steel; Krish Shankar; EVP & group head, HR, Infosys

There is a growing clamour for criminalising forced sex in a marriage. Campaigners have demanded this for a long time, but there are many in India’s strongly patriarchal society who are outraged. They believe the law will be misused and lead to false cases against men. But is that a good enough reason not to make forced sex illegal when women outside of marriage have strong legal protection? And how can India provide justice to victims fighting a lonely battle in a society that, more often than not, blames them for maligning the institution of marriage? In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss whether it is time for India to criminalise marital rape.

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Colin Gonsalves, senior advocate, Supreme Court of India; Tara Krishnaswamy, co-founder, Political Shakti; Wasif Ali, co-founder, Men Welfare Trust

More and more women are taking up professional sports across the world, becoming more visible, assertive and active in the sporting arena. But these hard-won victories are not the norm, and they invariably have amazing back stories of struggles off the field. Women starting out in any sport often have an uphill battle to wage due to limited opportunities, support and money.

In India, family obligations and a patriarchal mindset are often the biggest roadblocks. But as the BBC announces this year’s awards to honour India’s finest sportswomen, we look at their personal journeys to understand the sweat, grit and struggle that goes into every win. Is there a better way to formulate policies to encourage more women and para athletes to take up sport?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we look at India’s ace women athletes and what goes into the making of a champion. With contributions from Dr Deepa Malik, president, Paralympic Committee of India; Manu Bhaker, Olympian shooter; Deepthi Bopaiah, CEO, GoSports Foundation.

Presenter: Devina Gupta

(Photo: The India team celebrate the final of the women's 4*400m athletics event on day 12 of the Asian Games 2018 in Indonesia. Credit: Fred Lee/Getty Images)

An escalating row over the hijab, a headscarf worn by Muslim women, has highlighted India’s sharpening religious divide in recent weeks. After a government-run college barred six Muslim girls from attending classes for wearing the hijab, a debate over uniform dress code erupted across the country. The girls say the hijab is an essential part of their religious identity, which is protected by the Constitution.

Protests both in favour of and against the Muslim girls’ demands have been organised in several parts of India. Some have turned violent. An Indian court has now asked students to abstain from wearing religious clothing in educational institutions till final orders are issued, but the larger issue remains.

Is it restrictive to ask students to stick to a uniform dress code at college level? Should they be forced to choose between education and religious practices? Will it have a wider impact on the education of girl students in the country? How feasible is it to impose such rules in a nation known for its diverse cultural identity?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss whether India’s colleges should have a dress code.

Presenter: Devina Gupta

Contributors: Afreen Fatima, student activist; Sabika Abbas Naqvi, community and advocacy manager, Fearless Collective; Professor Geeta Bhatt, University of Delhi; Priyanka Chaturvedi, MP, spokesperson - Shiv Sena; Kavita Krishnan, secretary, All India Progressive Women's Association

India’s unemployment rate was at almost 8% last month, a recent study has reported, significantly higher than that seen in the last many years. The situation is so bad that two Indian states saw violent protests last week, with some job seekers setting railway carriages on fire. There is also a huge mismatch in available jobs and people with the right skills for them.

The government has announced plans to create millions of new jobs by promoting local manufacturing and big spending on infrastructure. But the gap in demand and supply is huge.

Can India create enough jobs to meet the needs of its hundreds of millions of poorly employed people, especially the youth? In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss ways to tackle India’s jobs crisis.

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Mahesh Vyas, MD and CEO, CMIE; Pawan Goyal, chief business officer, Naukri.com; Mehar Sindhu Batra, career coach, influencer; Prafull Billore, founder, MBA Chai Wala

India’s online space has seen an alarming rise in misogyny and harassment of women during the pandemic. In a recent incident, more than 100 prominent Muslim women were put up for sale in a mock online auction. Critics say cyber bullying and trolling of Muslim women in particular has worsened in recent years in India’s polarised climate.

So, what are the right doors to knock on, if facing online hate? Do women, particularly those who are vocal and influential in India’s patriarchal society, know their basic cyber rights? How does it impact their mental wellbeing? And what’s causing this environment of online hate to spread wider?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss what’s prompting online misogyny and the ways to deal with it.

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Sayema Rahman, radio presenter; Sadaf Vidha, founder, Guftagu Therapy; Dr Pavan Duggal, cyber law expert, advocate

Five states in India are headed to regional ballots in the coming weeks. More than 180 million people are eligible to vote to choose their local leaders for nearly 690 assembly seats. Physical rallies and election roadshows have been banned due to the pandemic, and poll campaigning has shifted online, with hashtags and digital rallies dominating the election battle. Many political parties have even trained their workers as “social media warriors” to spread their message.

But can digital campaigning really be effective in states that have many regions still with little or no access to the internet? Can virtual meetings really replace the impact of seeing your leaders in person? And does misinformation influence voting behaviour?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss the way digital campaigning is shaping India’s elections.

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Ankit Lal, founder, Politique Advisors; Rajika Kacheria, media joint in-charge, BJP - Gujarat North Zone; Sanjay Kumar, professor - CSDS, political analyst

A sharp surge in coronavirus cases in recent weeks has made India’s key cities brace for the pandemic’s third wave. Many places have imposed weekend curfews and other restrictions to curb the spread of the virus, driven mainly by the Omicron variant. Nationwide, rising infections are a sombre reminder of the devastating second wave. Experts say the new wave may not be as devastating as the previous one, but advise caution against increasing caseloads.

How well are hospitals prepared to handle the additional pressure? Can vaccine manufacturers develop solutions for the virus’s mutations? And how can state authorities ensure social distancing and other measure to stem the spread?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss how India is dealing with the third wave of the coronavirus pandemic.

Presenter: Devina Gupta

Contributors: Dr Murad Banaji, mathematician, University of Middlesex, London; Kirill Dmitriev, CEO, Russian Direct Investment Fund; Shobana Kamineni, executive vice chairperson, Apollo Hospitals Group; Dr Shahid Jameel, virologist, Green Templeton College, University of Oxford, UK

For many, a retirement plan is something that usually ranks far down the list of more urgent priorities - but the expectations we have for our later years may not completely match up with reality. For example, would you have a fixed income that matches the pace of inflation when you retire?

Recent studies have pointed out that most people are not aware of how much they really need to save for their silver years. Nearly 80% of urban Indians are not ready for retirement, according to one such study.

So, what should you be doing to achieve that dream life after retirement? And what if you want to retire early and pursue an alternative career?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss the skills, the saving plans, and the mindset you should have as you plan for your retirement.

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Surya Bhatia, financial advisor; Neha Bagaria, founder and CEO, JobsForHer; Aditi Sholapurkar, co-founder, SALT; Dinesh Mohan, model

Many successful start-ups have been founded in India over the last decade, but a vast majority of them are led by men. While many Indian women have entrepreneurial ambitions, it is often more difficult for them to succeed. In fact, a recent study by the World Economic Forum says that worldwide, women entrepreneurs face a systemic lack of access to capital, credit, land, or financial products that prevent them from starting a company. There is also an unconscious bias and a lack of family support and child-care options, especially in India’s patriarchal society.

So what’s holding India's women entrepreneurs back, and what needs to be done to encourage more women to break through these barriers?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss how India’s women leaders and businesswomen are breaking stereotypes and making a name for themselves.

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Dimpy Dewan, co-founder, Hanchens; Mona Singh, venture capitalist, India Accelerator; Sairee Chahal, founder, SHEROES, Mahila Money; Rama Gupta, founder, Shrishti

Have you ever sat in a room surrounded by gift wrapping paper, a pile of holiday or festive gifts, and wondered whether you will ever use any of them? Once again, we are in the middle of the gifting season. And the dilemma for many of us is what to buy.

How can you make that joy even more special for someone receiving the gift? Is it okay to just go ahead and buy the most expensive gift you can find? Should a bunch of flowers or a cake accompany every present you give? Would you rather gift a voucher, a digital card or an investment? Or are you for a sustainable present, or one that focuses on an experience?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss the many, many ways you can choose a perfect gift.

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Harshvardhan Khemani, founder, OyeHappy; Pawan Gadia, CEO, Ferns n Petals; Dominique Lopez, co-founder, Oh Scrap!; Bhavna Kanoria, founder, Scift; Shweta Gupta, gift curator

Global fans of Korean popular culture, known as the K-wave or ‘hallyu’, crossed 100 million in 2020, according to a Korean government agency. In India, everything from K-dramas to music to food and beauty products seems to be making huge inroads. While Korean thriller Squid Game topped the OTT charts for weeks since its release in 2021, music streaming giant Spotify ranked BTS as its fourth most popular boy band in 2020 in India, and the Korean language has seen a dramatic rise in Indian takers.

What’s causing this Korean rush in a land hugely dominated by Bollywood culture? Is the K-wave here for the long haul? In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss the rise of K-wave in India.

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Anupam Tripathi, actor; Amit Shah, chief cluster officer - north, west, premium, ZEE; Nikita Engheepi, co-founder, Namaste Hallyu, PinkBox Entertainment; Orlinda Fernandes, India Korea Fans Club Mumbai

Renting high fashion is becoming popular worldwide as more and more people move towards sustainable fashion options. But the industry faces several challenges, especially stigma and taboo related to renting clothes. In India too, although the idea has been around for several decades, renting attires for occasions other than weddings, continues to raise eyebrows.

While many feel fashion rentals in the country may not be following stringent hygiene measures, others think renting clothes and handbags frequently helps the circular fashion economy. So is it mostly the Gen Z or millennials who are into fashion rentals? Is social media lifestyle making luxury designer wear more accessible and affordable through rental services? What is the new business model for subscription fashion services?

Presenter: Devina Gupta

Contributors: Aanchal Saini - CEO, Flyrobe Ravina Sachdev - Fashion influencer Gaurav Khanijo - Luxury fashion designer

Resignations in many countries have gathered pace and made headlines around the world. More than 4.3 million workers quit their jobs in the US in August alone.

The pandemic has been a key reason why many in India have also decided to reconsider their choice of career. According to studies, nearly 68% of people in India want to switch their industries, and more than 50% of workers want to try something in which they have little to no experience.

But how easy or difficult is it to make the switch to an entirely new skillset? What is driving this migration of talent across sectors? In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss how talent migration is affecting India’s job market and the workforce.

Presenter: Devina Gupta

Contributors: Tushar Verma, travel influencer and co-founder, Untouched Lands; Akshita Wadhwana, founder and director, The Empty Crate Company; Rajneesh Singh, managing partner, SimplyHR Solutions

Algorithms drive most industries today, from medicine to manufacturing, finance and even the legal profession. Everyone uses code that makes their work – and lives – easier.

It’s a lucrative career option, especially here in India, and tech-savvy kids are getting into coding in increasingly large numbers. Children as young as 5 to 7 years old are learning to write code, and even build apps. In India, the new national education policy has also tried to give a big push to coding at junior school level, calling it a “skill of the future”.

But is there a hidden cost to be paid by starting coding so early? Is there an ideal age when young people can start learning to code? In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss whether children should learn to code at a young age.

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Shivansh Gupta, coder; Vikrant Singh Rana, coder; Anshul Bhagi, CEO, Camp K12; Dr Upasana Chaddha, psychologist

Air quality continues to be severe in Delhi, the world’s most polluted national capital. The air turns especially toxic in the winter months because of unfavourable weather conditions, and farmers in neighbouring states burning crop stubble add to the problem. It gets particularly bad after Diwali, the festival of lights, when people burst firecrackers, which adds to the toxic haze covering the city.

But other factors also play a key role. Vehicular and industrial emissions and dust make the levels of PM2.5 - tiny particles that can clog people's lungs - far higher than the World Health Organization's (WHO) safety guidelines.

To escape the pollution, many people are now choosing to relocate, either permanently or for a few months, even if it means leaving behind family and friends or taking a hit on professional growth.

Should the government take stricter action against pollution? What’s it like to leave behind a well-established life for a place with cleaner air? In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss how many are choosing to escape Delhi’s toxic air.

Presenter: Devina Gupta

Contributors: Saurabh Bhasin, advocate; Anu Anand, freelance journalist; Srinivas Ganesh, advertising professional

Despite progress in women’s representation as politicians in many parts of the world, there are deep-seated biases that they need to conquer on a daily basis. Only 24 countries have women serving as heads of State or government, according to a recent study by the United Nations; it also says that, at the current rate, gender equality in the highest positions of power cannot be attained for another 130 years.

India ranks better than the US and the UK in terms of political empowerment of women, according to a World Economic Forum report released last year. But of the country’s 28 states, only one has a woman chief minister.

How can there be better representation of women from grassroots to the highest roles in Indian politics? Would mandatory reservations for women in legislative bodies help?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss how more women can join politics in India.

Presenter: Devina Gupta

Contributors: Supriya Shrinate, national spokesperson, Indian National Congress; Dipsita Dhar, student activist, Communist Party of India; Shaina NC, spokesperson, Bharatiya Janata Party

The beleaguered tourism sector in India is showing initial signs of revival. The country’s peak travel season is just kicking off and, with the government easing restrictions on air travel, many holiday destinations are once again crowded. Foreign tourists could also be allowed in soon, after being kept away for more than a year-and-a-half.

But will this lead to complacency and trigger another wave of Covid infections? How will domestic and international tourists, and the industry, cope with new safety checks and guidelines? And is the industry expecting a rush of foreign tourists, or is it already too late for this season?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss how to revive tourism in post-pandemic India.

Presenter: Devina Gupta

Contributors: Deep Kalra, founder and group executive chairman, MakeMyTrip; William Boulter, chief commercial officer, IndiGo; Savi & Vid, founders, Bruised Passports, travel influencers

India gets 70% of its energy from coal, but has very ambitious plans to get 40% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030.

But there is also a growing demand for energy. While coal is the cheapest source of electricity, what about the long-term gains of using wind, hydro, and solar energy? And how challenging is it for India to commit to net zero emissions?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss the benefits, risks and challenges that India faces in its transition to renewable energy.

Presenter: Devina Gupta

Contributors: Dr Ajay Mathur, director general, International Solar Alliance; Namrata Mukherjee, deputy chief of party, USAID SAREP, RTI International; Sumant Sinha, Chairman & CEO, ReNew Power

The global space industry is expected to be worth about $1 trillion by 2040. India hopes to tap into this increasingly lucrative market, but the country presently holds only about 2% of the world’s space economy. To change that, it is now encouraging private players to drive innovation in space technology.

Will the recent opening up of this sector help meet its space goals? How can space tech startups bring in solutions to resolve ground problems? And will Indian space tourism be a reality in the coming years?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss how Indian businesses can get ahead in the space race.

Presenter: Devina Gupta

Contributors: Rahul Vatts, Director, OneWeb India; Chirag Doshi, MD & CEO, Walchandnagar Industries; Pawan Chandana, Founder & CEO, Skyroot Aerospace

Job applications can be tricky. Most parts of the process are tedious, requiring sharp focus and attention to detail. Catching a recruiter’s eye is not easy, and a growing number of firms are now using artificial intelligence in the initial screening and hiring of candidates.

What is the secret to getting invited for an interview? What about applying for senior leadership positions? And how creative can you get in the age of video resumes and social media hiring?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss the do’s and don’ts that make or break a CV.

Presenter: Devina Gupta

Contributors: Harlina Sodhi, entrepreneur, HR professional and leadership coach; Ankit Vengurlekar, India managing editor, LinkedIn News; Rajat Rai Handa, environmental consultant; Rupak Agrawal, CEO, EvueMe Selection Robot; Rajneesh Singh, managing partner, SimplyHR Solutions

More than 18 months have passed since Covid-19 was officially declared a pandemic. Hundreds of millions of people have lived through lockdowns, adapting to the new ways of working. Millions lost their jobs, many others had to take pay cuts.

How has it impacted the way you get paid? Do you think you are paid adequately for the amount of work that you deliver? If not, then you need to ask for more. But how do you do that? Is there a right way of speaking with your manager about how much you are worth? What are the best ways to negotiate your wages? What are the common mistakes employees make when asking for a raise?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss the best ways to ask for a pay rise.

Presenter: Devina Gupta

Contributors: Sue Ann Vaz, head of value added services and marketing, ABC Consultants; Ankur Warikoo, personal finance influencer; Aishwarya Srivastava, digital marketing professional; Pushkin Shailen, global operations leader, consultant; Smriti George, communications and digital content consultant

Humour, fashion, music or memes: social media stars have a big influence on today’s digital audience, and India, with more than 500 million people using social media platforms, is a buzzing base for all things trending.

But is there a method to the frenzy of new content being created and consumed by the hour? What are the pressures of dealing with internet fame? And how do brands collaborate with trending stars of the internet world to monetize their fame?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we find out how to trend on social media.

Presenter: Devina Gupta

Contributors: Yohani Diloka de Silva, singer, songwriter; Bhuvan Bam, digital star, BB Ki Vines; Yashraj Mukhate, music producer, YouTuber; Neha Puri, CEO, co-founder, Vavo Digital

Traditional canvas paintings on easels or walls dominate the popular perception about how art is created and consumed. But technology is revolutionising the way we perceive art.

Digital tools are letting artists bring still pictures to life, and blockchain technology is letting them sell their artworks as a non-fungible-token (NFT), which creates a unique digital certificate of authentic ownership. The trend has become so lucrative that a digital-only artwork fetched $69mn at Christie’s auction house earlier this year.

But is this a bubble in the making or is NFT art here to stay? Can digital art help younger artists monetize their work easily?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss the future of digital art.

Presenter: Devina Gupta

Contributors: Aparajita Jain, co-director, Nature Morte Art, and founder, Terrain.art; Ishita Banerjee, artist, creator, Soul Curry Art; Amrita Sethi, NFT artist

Before India legalised homosexual sex in 2018, the LGBTQ+ community in this country of more than a billion people lived under the shadow of a law dating back nearly 160 years to colonial rule.

As the ruling was handed down, there were celebrations all across the country, but three years on, have social mindsets and attitudes changed? Do professionals from the LGBTQ+ community find it easier to apply for jobs or ask for promotions, or is it still monumental to come out at work? And do corporate India’s inclusive policies tackle real representation, or are they mere tokenism?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss how inclusive Indian workplaces are for the LGBTQ+ community.

Presenter: Devina Gupta

Contributors: Ritu Dalmia, chef, restaurateur, LGBTQ+ activist; Harish Iyer, head – Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Axis Bank; Ishaan Sethi, business, marketing and product consultant; Ahmed Faraz, business process outsourcing professional

China’s recent move to limit the time children spend on online gaming has put the spotlight back on the long-running concern about how excessive gaming can impact the young.

India has a booming online gaming market with around 350 million gamers, 60% of whom are under 25 years, and the pandemic has led to a massive growth of the gaming industry.

Experts say addictive behaviour in gaming comes from other underlying concerns, such as loneliness, fear of rejection, or coping with social phobia. Should gaming companies take more ownership to improve awareness and restrict gaming hours for minors? Or should the onus be more on parents to impose gaming curfews? And what are the early signs to detect addictive behaviour?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss how to prevent gaming addiction in children.

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Zerah Gonsalves, gamer, esports consultant; Dr Manoj Sharma, professor - clinical psychology, Nimhans; Rajan Navani, vice chairman and managing director, JetSynthesys

Thousands of Afghans continue to flee their country since the Taliban seized control last month. Nearly half a million are expected to seek sanctuary in other countries by the end of the year, according to the United Nations.

Many of them will head to India. The country has a long-standing practice of welcoming asylum seekers, but selectively, and still doesn’t have a clearly defined state policy. Is an ad hoc system sufficient to take in more refugees on top of the estimated 245,000 that India currently hosts? And can it ensure uniform treatment of refugees from different communities such as the Rohingyas, the Tibetans or the Sri Lankan Tamils? What measures could help asylum seekers feel more socially included and have the basic rights to jobs and education?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss whether it’s time for India to formulate a national refugee protection framework.

Presenter: Devina Gupta

Contributors: Dilip Sinha, former Indian ambassador; Anas Tanwir, advocate, founder – Indian Civil Liberties Union; Sadaf Habib, Afghan national, Asylum seeker; Ali Johar, refugee, founder - Rohingya Literacy Programme

India’s mega film industry - the world's largest in terms of the number of productions - has suffered losses worth billions of dollars due to the pandemic. Since last year, the country’s 9,500 theatres were shut because of the coronavirus outbreak. This led to massive job losses. Film production was hit too, and has only recently started picking up, as theatrical releases make a comeback.

But has big-screen movie watching taken a backseat with Covid norms in place? Do on-demand platforms offer more versatile content than multiplexes? And how are actors shooting for movies with so many safety restrictions in place?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss how the coronavirus pandemic has changed Bollywood.

Presenter: Devina Gupta

Contributors: Rahul Mittra, filmmaker; Shubhra Gupta, film critic and columnist; Alok Tandon, CEO, INOX Leisure Limited; Siddharth Malhotra, actor; Kiara Advani, actor

The coronavirus pandemic has had a catastrophic impact on schoolchildren. More than 300 million students in India have been impacted due to school closures as the country battled the health crisis. Many have shifted completely to online classes for more than a year, but millions of others haven’t had access to digital platforms.

So, what’s been the fallout as schools begin to take small steps to resume offline classes? How can students recover the lost learning curve? And what about their social-emotional wellbeing? Is it time to rethink education?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss the challenges and the solutions needed to bridge the learning gap.

Presenter: Devina Gupta

Contributors: Arindita Gogoi, experiential educator and teacher; Shantanu Rooj, Founder and CEO, TeamLease Edtech; Vikas Jhunjhunwala, CEO, Sunshine Schools

Ever since partition in 1947, India and Pakistan have been locked in conflict. Often, the two nations are in the news for increasing hostilities along the Line of Control, the de facto border that divides disputed Kashmir. The two countries have a shared history and similar cultures, but despite many attempts at resolving their disputes, lasting peace and good neighbourly relations have eluded them.

As both countries prepare to mark their 75th year of independence, we hear from those who dared to love and marry across the borders. What has life been like for them? What is it that they yearn for the most? Would love beyond borders conquer collective prejudices?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we bring you love stories from India and Pakistan that are filled with hope, even in the face of grave challenges.

Presenter: Devina Gupta

Contributors: Sarita Singh Sodha, ex-royal, Ghanerao; Zoya Fatima Rizvi and Mir Irfan Hussain Najafi, India-Pak couple; Shazman Mansoor and Mansoor Ali, India-Pak couple

Unusually severe rainfall, flooding, and heatwaves in different parts of India have raised questions about extreme weather becoming more common in the country. According to a recent study, India saw the world's largest displacement in 2020 caused by floods and cyclones. The economic loss was estimated to be over 20 billion dollars.

So, with unpredictable and erratic weather patterns, what's the way out to minimize the damage? Is it too late to reverse the impact? And what lessons can be learnt from similar climate incidents happening across the world?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss what's causing these extreme conditions and whether better planning and preparation can mitigate the impact on human lives.

Presenter: Devina Gupta

Contributors: Bahar Dutt, environment journalist & conservation biologist; Dr Vikram Ghanekar, partner – SGM Hospital, Chiplun; Dr Roxy Mathew Koll, climate scientist, Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology

India has a population of almost 1.4 billion people and is expected to become the most populous country in the world, overtaking China, by 2027, according to the United Nations. And now, India's most populous state, has unveiled a controversial bill to curb population growth. With over 220 million people, Uttar Pradesh says it'll deny government jobs, subsidies and the right to contest local polls - to anyone who has more than two children. Critics say it's likely to encourage sex selective abortions and further impede minorities' rights in a state, which is often challenged for its divisive, right-wing Hindu nationalist image. So, should the government strengthen education and healthcare campaigns to stabilise population growth? Or, do fertility rates require stricter governance in more states across India? Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Dr SY Quraishi, former chief election commissioner, India; Gopika Kaul, parent; PKD Nambiar, political strategist and commentator

Toxic workplaces take many forms, but they share a common thread of bullying, negativity and harm. And they may result in wide-ranging consequences - right from physical health impacts to poor mental health and burnout, as well as organisational fallout.

Experts say most bullying originates from poor management, with destructive behaviours trickling down from the top level. Abusive bosses can engage in harassing behaviour anywhere – before the pandemic, it would be during in-person meetings, presentations or casual workplace interactions. Now, they even occur on Zoom team calls, in messages or over e-mails.

Bullying affects the quality of people's work, but what can be done about it? And how can you confront a bullying boss who's making your work-life a misery?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss the ways one can deal with bullying at the workplace.

Presenter: Devina Gupta

Contributors: Astha Chandra, life coach; Rosita Rabindra, co-founder, Diversity Dialogues; Sagar Mandhani, product manager at a startup; Anindita Sharma, communications consultant; Ronak Kotecha, media professional

Across the world, drones are already being used to carry products, perform security surveillance or conduct warfare. It's becoming more common to hear the soft buzz of a drone flying overhead. India, which has so far trailed in adopting the technology, is now eager to ease norms and encourage the use of drones.

Does that mean getting your pizza delivered within 10 minutes with a drone flying in through your window? Would everyone welcome this trend? And how would it impact bigger scale applications in areas such as the military, healthcare and geospatial mapping?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss how new policy rules could impact the drone industry's future.

Presenter: Devina Gupta

Contributors: Vipul Singh, co-founder, CEO, Aarav Unmanned Systems; Dr Ruchi Saxena, director, India Flying Labs; Smit Shah, director, Drone Federation of India

Burnout is rising in the world of office goers. Months of disruption and uncertainty caused by the Covid pandemic has led workers at many companies to feel stressed and exhausted. Daily life has been disrupted, and the lines between work and leisure blurred. Many are finding it difficult to cope.

In response to this, many companies have announced burnout leave. It’s being seen as a way to show the workers that they have a support system to lean on. Or is it just a headline grabbing tactic? And what about the professionals who are availing this leave? Has it really helped them?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss how companies define wellness, and whether burnout leave actually works.

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: TN Hari, HR head, BigBasket; Sahil Mathur, chief HR officer, InMobi Group; Himel Sarkar, content supervisor, Organic by MSL

After a promising start in January, India's vaccine drive has been hobbled by challenges. A severe shortfall from May onwards left many searching for jabs. But logistics aside, another problem has cropped up – women are falling behind men in getting vaccinated.

According to recent data, of the total jabs administered so far, 54% have gone to men and only a little over 46% to women. Experts say women's health has always taken a backseat due to patriarchal social norms. Access to healthcare continues to be a challenge, particularly in rural areas, where nearly 65% of India's population lives. On top of that, unfounded beliefs that the vaccine may cause infertility or menstruation issues also are keeping women away.

What can be done to counter these challenges at the grassroots, as well as at a policymaking level? In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss the measures needed to bridge the gender divide in India's vaccination programme. Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Shivangi Karmakar, sr project officer, DEF; Dr Tanya Seshadri, community health practitioner; Dr Gagandeep Kang, virologist, professor, CMC Vellore

An estimated 115 million children in India are said to be at risk of malnutrition. Experts say India's Covid lockdowns interrupted crucial government schemes that benefit hundreds of millions of women and children.

The malnutrition rates were already on the rise in the years leading up to the Covid outbreak. India’s lockdowns, some of the severest anywhere in the world, have made matters worse. In fact, recent reports indicate stunting among children in some areas has gone up by as much as 20% in a matter of just a few months.

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss the challenges and the measures being taken to tackle child malnutrition during a devastating pandemic.

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Dr Pavitra Mohan, co-founder, Basic HealthCare Services; Sophie Healy-Thow, food systems & nutrition activist, Ireland; Dr Sreehari M, state nodal officer - child health, NHM, Kerala

Covid has dealt a heavy blow to Indian businesses. Battling the first and then a ferocious second wave of coronavirus infections, the country has seen consumer demand crash, upended supply chains and a transformation in consumer habits. Millions of jobs have been lost in both rural and urban areas.

Surviving this changed landscape amid an ongoing virus scare has been a major challenge for both big and small businesses. So, how vulnerable are some sectors compared to others? Are there newer opportunities to tap into? Or should the aim be to just stay afloat and tide over this crisis? We take an in-depth look into the survival strategies of Indian businesses facing the Covid challenge.

Presenter: Devina Gupta

(Photo: People visit at Chandni Chowk in Old Delhi. Credit: Sonu Mehta/Hindustan Times/Getty Images)

Fake news and misinformation are hampering India's battle with the coronavirus pandemic. Right from the origins of the virus to unproven alternative cures to efficacy of vaccines, a wave of mass anxiety has washed over the country's social media. While most misleading messages spread through online platforms, experts say senior leaders and influencers have also played a role in fuelling traditional sentiments that prefer alternative therapies to modern medicine. This has increased vaccine hesitancy, especially in rural India, and led to political as well as medical misinformation. Conspiracy theories and false claims not only spread rapidly, they also prompt people to take action in real life - often with severe consequences. What kinds of fake news have dominated India's coronavirus landscape? What role can tech companies play to keep this in check? And is the government a bigger stakeholder in fighting the fake news menace? Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Pratik Sinha, co-founder, Alt News; Apar Gupta, executive director, Internet Freedom Foundation; Dr Vasundhara Rangaswamy, microbiologist, primary care physician

India is seeing a decline in the second wave of coronavirus infections, but a rare and deadly fungal infection is affecting patients recovering from Covid.

India has reported more than 11,000 cases of the black fungus infection, also known as mucormycosis. It has a mortality rate of over 50 per cent, and the drug needed for its treatment is in short supply. Missing a dose can result in removal of tissues or, in serious cases, bones and even the eye.

Doctors say there is a link between black fungus and indiscriminate use of steroids to treat Covid patients. Diabetics are said to be particularly at risk.

So, what are the treatment challenges, and what is happening to the families of patients faced with the double stress of health and finances?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss what can be done to tackle India’s black fungus crisis. Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Dr Akshay Nair, oculoplastic surgeon; Dr Ramanan Laxminarayan, founder and director, Centre for Disease Dynamics; Iqra Khalid, lawyer, black fungus patient’s kin

With nearly 470 million children, India has the world’s largest child population. Campaigners say millions of them have been seriously impacted by the pandemic, including their access to medical care, food, shelter, schooling, and even means of livelihood.

Many are facing severe mental trauma due to confinement and isolation at home, and a recent study says 577 were orphaned in less than two months during the second wave of the pandemic. Many children have also caught the virus, but thankfully complications have been rare.

The scale of the problem is daunting, but what can be done to ensure that children’s lives are not thrown into chaos? We discuss Covid’s impact and solutions needed to protect India’s children.

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Sudarshan Suchi, CEO, Save the Children, India; Dr Indu Khosla, paediatric pulmonologist, SRCC Children’s Hospital; Akanksha Singh, parent

While the total number of daily Covid infections in India is on the wane, the share of cases in rural districts is seeing a big surge. A large number of people in rural towns and villages live in poverty, and rundown local hospitals and clinics are unequipped to cope with a crisis of this scale. There is also a severe distrust in modern medicine. What can be done to control the spread of the pandemic in rural areas, and is there a way to resolve the under-reporting of actual cases and fatalities? In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss ways of lessening the impact of Covid in rural India. Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Dr Pavitra Mohan, co-founder, Basic HealthCare Services; Brian Lobo, activist, Kashtakari Sanghatana; Osama Manzar, founder & director, Digital Empowerment Foundation

Earlier this month, India became the first country in the world to report more than 400,000 new coronavirus cases in a single day. And despite being the world's biggest producer of vaccines, the country is facing an acute shortage to meet domestic demand. All Indian adults are currently eligible for a shot, but there are just not enough vaccines to go around.

Access and affordability are two other significant challenges in inoculating a population as large as India's. Although the government is spending $5bn to provide free doses at state-run clinics and hospitals, not everyone is eligible, and the cost of a single shot has massively jumped at private hospitals.

What would it take for India to ramp up production and roll out a successful immunisation programme? In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we look at the road ahead as India tries to vaccinate its billion people.

Presenter: Devina Gupta

Contributors: Dr Sharvil Patel, managing director, Zydus Cadila; Dr Rachna Kucheria, epidemiologist, founder, DocGenie; Shyam Sunder, co-founder, Getjab.in

A devastating wave of coronavirus infections in India has seen crematoriums overwhelmed and hospitals reeling under a massive oxygen shortage.

There have been a record number of Covid cases and deaths. This exponential surge has swamped the healthcare system. Patients are seen dying in ambulances and parking lots outside hospitals – many of them gasping for breath due to a lack of oxygen, which is vital for those infected. There have been reports of hoarding and even black marketing as relatives scramble to arrange medical oxygen for their friends and kin.

What has led to this crippling shortage and what can be done to improve the situation? In this edition, we discuss the situation on the ground and the ways India can tackle its oxygen crisis.

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Dr Sudhanshu Bankata, executive director, Batra Hospital; Puneet Singh, trustee, Khalsa Aid; Gautam Raj Anand, Mission Oxygen India

Covid-19 is ravaging India. India is reporting more fresh cases everyday than any other country has during the pandemic. India also crossed the devastating figure of 200,000 coronavirus deaths this week. The real number of deaths is thought to be much higher. The country's crumbling healthcare system is battling an onslaught of fresh cases, and an acute shortage of resources like medical oxygen, hospital beds and essential medicines.

At the forefront of this fight are the health workers. They are working relentlessly with scare resources to go beyond the call of duty and save precious lives. How is the fresh wave affecting their health and wellbeing? How is it impacting their loved ones? How do they fight feelings of burnout, guilt and trauma?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we ask frontline health workers how they are coping in this deadly second wave and what can be done to help. Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Dr Saswati Sinha, critical care specialist, AMRI Hospital; Dr Roma Kumar, senior consultant psychologist; Jibin TC, nurse, president, United Nurses Association (Maharashtra)

Heart-breaking stories from across India are grabbing headlines the world over. Amid a deadly new wave of Covid infections, the country’s crumbling healthcare system is battling an acute shortage of medical oxygen and hospital beds. The number of fresh cases and deaths continues to set new daily records. India is now reporting more fresh cases everyday than any country has during the pandemic. What led to the sudden spike when numbers were on a decline in February? And why is the new wave more infectious? In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss what has led to a deadlier new wave of Covid infections in India, and how its impact can be mitigated.

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Prof K Srinath Reddy, president, Public Health Foundation of India; Prof Polly Roy, professor of virology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine; Dr Ambarish Satwik, vascular surgeon, Ganga Ram Hospital

For most companies, the pandemic has had far-reaching consequences. Established business models and proof-read plans became irrelevant, while growth reached an abrupt halt.

In this volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (or VUCA) world, businesses are now seeking to make sense of newer priorities and economic patterns. A recent study of 100 CEOs in India indicates a stronger focus on purpose-led leadership after the pandemic’s business disruption.

But how will this impact business branding and behaviour? Would passive adaptability score higher over aggressive marketing? In this edition, we ask how businesses can build and retain their brands in the VUCA world.

Presenter: Devina Gupta

Contributors: Harish Bijoor, brand and business strategy consultant; Mansi Tripathy, vice president, commercial lubricants, Shell APME; Nithin Kamath, founder & CEO, Zerodha

India is facing an alarming surge in coronavirus cases, a dangerous second wave that’s threatening to again derail both lives and livelihoods. Hard lockdowns last year battered its economy, and fresh restrictions and regional lockdowns to contain the surge are making many wonder what an economic recovery is going to look like.

Many millions have lost their jobs over the last year, or seen their incomes dip. Is this a temporary phase? Recent estimates have raised India's growth forecast for this year to higher-than-expected, at over 12%. But how severely will the fresh wave affect recovery? How much of it depends on the rate of vaccinations? And how badly will the new curbs, curfews and lockdowns affect consumer sentiment?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss what can be done for India's economic recovery.

Presenter: Devina Gupta

Contributors: Gurcharan Das, author, commentator; Geeta Goel, country director, Michael & Susan Dell Foundation; Deep Kalra, founder & CEO, MakeMyTrip

Unpaid domestic work in India is nearly 40% of the country’s GDP, according to recent estimates. India’s homemakers, like many in different parts of the world, clean, cook and care for their families, accounting for nearly 300 minutes a day. Globally too, women still do the lion’s share of housework.

Should this work – largely seen as thankless household chores – be monetized? Or would it prevent women from stepping out of their homes and taking up formal professions? What could be the unintended consequences of guaranteed income for housewives?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss whether housework should get remunerated. Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Mitali Nikore, development economist, founder of Nikore Associates; Dr Saundarya Rajesh, social entrepreneur, founder and president of Avatar; Prof Prabha Kotiswaran, professor of law and social justice, King’s College London

An estimated 500 million Covid-19 vaccinations have been administered so far globally. In India, that figure has crossed the 50-million mark.

But while the country is seeing a new wave of coronavirus cases, many aren't willing to get a vaccine shot. Recent estimates suggest that only about 50% of people eligible to get a jab are actually stepping forward.

Why do some people have concerns about taking the coronavirus vaccine, and how should the government and health providers respond?

Vaccine hesitancy remains one of the top 10 threats to global health, according to the World Health Organization, so in this edition of WorklifeIndia, we debunk myths and discuss how to overcome vaccine hesitancy.

Presenter: Devina Gupta

Contributors: Heidi J Larson, founding director - Vaccine Confidence Project, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine; Dr Shiv Kumar Sarin, director, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences; Preetha Reddy, vice chairperson, Apollo Hospitals Group

All of us keep learning new things all the time. It could be learning to speak in public, a technical skill, a new language, finding a square root, or playing the guitar - our minds continuously evolve with new information.

But is there a way to train the brain to learn things faster, and reduce the effects of stress that come with modern lifestyles? And if you knew what time of the day your performance peaks, would you plan your day differently? How important is cognitive fitness to our physical and emotional well-being?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we delve deeper into our minds and discover ways to improve brain agility.

Presenter: Devina Gupta

Contributors: Anoop Kumar, emergency physician, mind-body strategist; Vidita Vaidya, neuroscientist, professor, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research; Neelakantha Bhanuprakash, fastest human calculator, founder, Exploring Infinities

Over 40 million people are recorded as unemployed in India. To add to that, the coronavirus pandemic continues to devastate the jobs sector worldwide. Once you lose your job, finding another in these uncertain times is not easy. The statistics are staggering - but there's also a human story behind each number.

So what are the stories of some of the Indians who found themselves unexpectedly hit by the pandemic? How did they reinvent themselves amid challenging times? What does it take to switch professions? What about the dreams and aspirations that were driving their lives before the pandemic struck? Have they changed?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we hear stories of people who switched careers during the pandemic to stay afloat.

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Dipankar Baruah, travel professional-turned-farmer; Ayushi Shrivastava, digital marketing professional; Sunil Suresh, beatboxer, stock trader

Abusive comments and insults have become far too common on the internet. Social media platforms in particular are a hotbed of trolls - people taking pleasure in sending sexist, malicious comments. Recent figures estimate that more than 40% of women Internet users in India fear being bullied or trolled online.

Should one engage with trolls by debating them, or ignore and block them, so their abusive views don’t gain any further visibility? When are the limits of free speech breached, and what can be done to control online trolling?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss solutions with three high-profile women who have themselves faced vicious online trolling.

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Mandana Karimi, Bollywood actor; Karuna Nundy, advocate, Supreme Court of India; Sagarika Ghose, journalist and author

India generates over 270 million tonnes of waste every year - 80 percent of what South Asia produces - and nearly 77 percent of this waste ends up in open landfill sites, a clear sign that the country is running on a take-make-waste economy.

So, how can we do our bit to save the planet? How can we give the things we buy a new life rather than dumping them in landfill sites, or letting them wind up in the oceans?

While a lot of people want to go zero waste and plastic-free, the issue of convenience stands in the way. But those who do make changes say they love the challenge: planning ahead, shopping around, and finding creative ways to adopt a more sustainable lifestyle.

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we speak to three inspiring women championing zero waste in India, as they share their quick tips on making more responsible lifestyle choices.

Presenter: Devina Gupta

Contributors: Wilma Rodrigues, CEO, founder, Saahas Zero Waste; Nayana Premnath, zero waste influencer; Sahar Mansoor, CEO, founder, Bare Necessities

Many top sports events, disrupted by Covid, are finally back. And so is the BBC’s Indian sportswoman of the year award. Public voting is now underway to pick a winner from the five nominees: shooter Manu Baker, sprinter Dutee Chand, chess player Koneru Humpy, wrestler Vinesh Phogat and hockey player Rani. (You can read more about them on the BBC India website.) Each one of them has inspiring stories of grit and perseverance.

Sports changed their lives, but is the going now easier for the next generation of potential stars, or are issues like sexism and the gender pay gap holding them back? Can young women athletes follow genuine career pathways in professional sports?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we talk to three aspiring stars to discuss how sports can be a gamechanger for women. Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Anjum Moudgil, shooter; Aveka Singh, footballer; Palak Kohli, para badminton player

Interfaith relationships in India have always faced the heat. Love remains difficult and at times dangerous across large sections of Indian society, which runs on patriarchy, caste, and religion.

New anti-conversion laws implemented by some states now make interfaith marriages even more difficult. Their apparent target is the so-called 'love jihad', a term used by radical Hindu groups to accuse Muslim men of converting Hindu women by marriage.

We speak with two interfaith couples, one married for over 20 years and the other for nearly two years, to hear their stories – and struggles – of love, faith and religious identity. They tell us what keeps them going, as we ask if love is bound by religion.

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Ranu Kulsreshtha and Asif Iqbal, co-founders, Dhanak of Humanity; Krutika Lele and Tamir Khan, musicians and interfaith couple

Image: A group of housewives and working professionals heading various voluntary organisations demonstrate demanding an anti-conversion law along the lines of Uttar Pradesh government's Prohibition of Unlawful Religious Conversion Ordinance, at Central Park, on December 10, 2020 in Jaipur, India. (Photo by Himanshu Vyas/Hindustan Times via Getty Images)

Warning: This programme contains racial slurs.

Whether it is impulsive or intended, structural or whispered, racism in sport has been growing over the decades. Racial bias and inequalities not only interfere with the game but also affect players’ morale and sometimes lead to lost opportunities.

How do top players deal with racism on and off the field and what needs to be done to stamp it out? How can sporting federations address this issue, and can audiences be made more aware of the impact racial slurs have on players?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we talk to three Olympians about ways to tackle racism in sport.

Presenter: Devina Gupta

Contributors: Anju Bobby George, former athlete, senior vice president, Athletics Federation of India; Jwala Gutta, Indian shuttler; Anita Asante, Aston Villa defender, former England international

India ranks fourth highest in the world when it comes to unicorns - privately-owned startups with valuations of over $1bn. But despite being a global startup hub, only a handful reach unicorn status and nearly 90% new ventures fail within the first five years of their inception.

So, what is the secret to building a billion-dollar business? What should your strategy be when picking an idea, trying to secure investment or putting a team together? And what about the long-term viability of businesses once they become unicorns?

Three Indian entrepreneurs tell us stories of their struggles and success, and share tips on how to build a billion-dollar startup.

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Piyush Shah, co-founder, InMobi Group; Mehul Agrawal, co-founder and COO, CARS24; Neeti Mehta Shukla, co-founder, SVP, brand & culture, Automation Anywhere

(Photo: Young businessman standing in his factory. Credit: Getty Images)

When signing up on a social media platform or installing an app, do you take even a couple of minutes to think what information is being asked for? Do you feel comfortable sharing your location, contacts and photos, or agreeing to the terms & conditions? How much of your personal information do you give away with that single click, and do you know who is benefiting from it?

Be it a social media company, a messaging app, or an e-commerce website, your personal data is significant as a core underpinning of these companies’ business models - so should you, as a user, be made more aware of who is using your data, and where?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss data privacy and bring you tips on how to keep your data safe.

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Sudhir Naidu, CEO, Troop Messenger; Dr Karnika Seth, cyber law expert; Himanshu Arya, digital marketer, founder and CEO, Grapes Digital

For many people, spending time at home, indulging in a hobby helps to escape the stresses of a global health crisis - and what better way than books?

A recent study says people across the world read more during the lockdown - but despite this, the publishing industry and bookstores struggled. Many had to put their shutters down.

So, is 2021 going to put that ember of hope in book sales? What genres are set to capture the readers’ imaginations? And what can you do to motivate yourself to read more or to inculcate a love for books in your kids? We bring you some easy-to-follow tips.

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Chetan Bhagat, author, columnist; Chiki Sarkar, publisher, co-founder, Juggernaut Books; Manpreet Kaur, booktuber

Audio for this episode was updated on 18 January 2021.

Covid-19 has changed the way many people look at fitness. Shredding pounds has given way to immunity building, and physical fitness has expanded to include mental wellbeing. With gyms closed during the lockdowns, virtual exercises and home workouts have gained immense popularity, and an explosion in fitness tech has replaced the gym’s personal trainer.

So, how permanent is this shift? Is it a temporary trend or here to stay? As 2021 begins, what are some of the most pressing fitness requirements?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we discuss how to stay fit during a pandemic.

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Jitendra Chouksey, founder, Fittr; Ira Trivedi, yoga guru; Jinal Shah, nutritionist

Are there lessons in the pandemic upheaval about the evolving nature of work? In the new world, there is a new economic possibility - making money out of small, passion-fuelled endeavours, rather than the conventional 9-to-5 routines of the pre-pandemic world. This rise of the “passion economy” is towards more niche, fluid pathways, in contrast to the traditional means of employment. But is it a temporary trend experiencing a surge due to the pandemic, or is it more fundamental? More importantly, will innovation and passion shape the economy of the future? In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we hear the stories of three different individuals taking uncharted courses to turn their passions into professions. Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Sulakshana Bhattacharya, woodworker and founder, MishtooMade; Sonakshi Srivastava, wildlife conservationist; Rajat Ubhaykar, travel writer

Social media influencers are getting younger and younger, and the alpha generation - those born entirely in the 21st century - is becoming the newest power broker in this space.

While kid influencers remain a relatively new concept to India, their growth has spiked in recent years. They play pranks, review toys, and break down gadgets on their online platforms. Many are immensely popular and have millions of subscribers, attracting bigger and bigger brands for digital marketing and promotions. But is that taking their childhood away? Or is it simply a part of growing up these days?

In this edition of WorklifeIndia, we listen to young social media stars telling us their stories and discuss with them the rise of India’s child influencers.

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Anantya Anand, kid influencer - MyMissAnand; Pranay Chouhan, teen influencer - TechTheory; Lakshmi Balasubramanian, co-founder, Greenroom digital agency

Many people dream of a trip to Switzerland’s fairytale-like snowy peaks, or the pristine waters of Hawaii. But plans for these and other holidays in 2020 were brought to an abrupt halt by the coronavirus pandemic. With international and domestic travel replete with restrictions, there is no immediate relief in sight.

But the holiday season is nearly here, and as the world gets closer to a vaccine, the holidaying sentiment is also seeing an uptick.

But what is the new normal in planning a holiday? Are hotels and travel companies quick to adapt to travellers’ changed preferences? And how do safety and hygiene concerns affect people’s travel plans?

Presenter: Devina Gupta Contributors: Ankita Kumar, travel influencer; Ankita Sheth, co-founder, Vista Rooms; Vivek Shukla, general manager, corporate affairs, The Lalit