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India Today
2 days ago
- Business
- India Today
How India's Digital Nomads travel for months while working remotely
When Rachana reached Bir in Himachal Pradesh from Bengaluru, she wasn't thinking about the mountain views. She was thinking about Wi-Fi. A chalkboard outside a cafe promised "fast internet, power backup, quiet workspace upstairs", and that was enough for the Digital Nomad looking to work from another new location in Himachal the hiss of the coffee machine mixed with the low murmur of two people at work, one man on a headset pacing by the window, a young woman bent over her laptop with a coffee gone cold. Rachana, an architect, plugged in her laptop, exhaled, and prepared for her client's call, the mule cart rattling past outside the only reminder that she was far from the Rachana sat and worked from Bir, Aditya was attending a meeting from a resort in Goa, and Subhashis was fielding client calls from Darjeeling. Around them worked many consultants, content strategists, designers, and software engineers — all remotely. Welcome to the world of Digital Nomads. A bunch of people who travel throughout India, set up base at a location for weeks, if not months, and earn their daily dal-roti from far-away locations. They return to their homes for a month or two, only to travel to and work from a new a decade ago, this would have been fast and cheap internet connections to remote work jobs across sectors to tourist spots adapting to WFH needs, all these have enabled the Digital Nomads. And now, Sikkim has presented this community, who carry their offices in backpacks, a village to call their month, Yakten in Sikkim was declared the first "digital nomad" village in India. The eight homestays in Yakten have exclusive facilities to cater to Digital Digital Nomads are very different from the usual remote-working professionals, who usually stick to their homes or travel infrequently. With their constant travels, the Digital Nomads are not just working differently but also discovering cultures, cuisines, and at times, travels are also helping these professionals bring fresh ideas and creative solutions to the professional table. Yakten in Sikkim has emerged as India's first dedicated digital nomad village, offering homestays equipped for remote work. (Image: Prem Prakash) COVID LESSONS CAME HANDY FOR INDIA'S DIGITAL NOMADSIt started with the Covid-19 pandemic. Except for frontline workers, most people were restricted to their homes and learnt to work remotely. What started as a necessity led to benefit in employees working remotely, many companies shifted to a hybrid work culture after the pandemic. This allowed young professionals to unmoor themselves from urban centres while being these professionals got a taste of workation, there was no going back. Why work from a single location when there's scope to travel to newer places and work? This gave birth to the breed of Digital Nomads in Nayak, who earlier went on just an annual vacation, now travels and works from Kashmir, Ladakh and Kerala, among other places in India."I enjoy living in different places like a local and meeting new people," Nayak, a marketing manager, told India Today Digital. With his new travel-and-work lifestyle, he is also trying out his luck as an the architect from Bengaluru, has now made the hills in Himachal her second home."I go to different places in Himachal and work from there. A lot of professionals I come across are those who go on local visits after their work," said the from Kolkata works while travelling with his Bengaluru-based girlfriend."We are in a long-distance relationship and we both love travelling. We even went to Vietnam together and take several trips together every year. Darjeeling is our favourite place," he says. Women digital nomads in India like Rachana are carving out freedom and flexibility while navigating safety and societal constraints. (Image: Rachana) advertisementDIGITAL NOMADS: A GROWING COMMUNITY IN INDIAIndia is home to around 1.7 million Digital Nomads, according to the 2025 State of Digital Nomads report by the Nomad List the website says, is 2% of the global Digital Nomad States46,994,10143%2United Kingdom7,508,0317%3Canada4,986,1555%4Russia4,870,9635%5Germany4,360,8294%6France3,690,2483%7Brazil2,748,1453%8Australia2,554,7872%9Netherlands1,995,2852%10Spain1,896,5492%11India1,736,1042%Data: Digital Nomads ReportA 2022 Deloitte India Workforce and Workplace survey found that nearly 80% of Indian professionals prefer remote or flexible work what points to the growing band of remotely working professionals, platforms like Airbnb report a steady climb in long-term stays booked from hill towns and coastal impact of this growing community is both visible on social media and how businesses are trying to benefit from in Himachal's McLeodganj now advertise not only momos and thukpa but "high-speed Wi-Fi and backup generator". Guest houses in Bir sell monthly packages with desk space and community Goa, co-living villas market themselves directly to founders and freelancers, offering both accommodation and threads on Digital Nomads in India read like support groups and troubleshooting guides. Questions and answers point to a thriving community, whose members are helping each other cafes in Rishikesh keep power in the monsoon? Which lanes in Bir are safe for women walking home? Which Airtel plan gives stable backup in the hills?WHY BECOME A DIGITAL NOMAD? DIGITAL NOMADS ANSWERAs to why go elsewhere to work, leaving behind the comfort and stability of home? The answers repeat with weary familiarity: traffic, smog, burnout, and exhaustion. However, for some, the nomadic way of life isn't an escape, but a lifestyle promise of the metropolitan city is followed by its disillusionment. The lure of glass towers, fast promotions, and nightlife soon gives way to endless commutes, choking air, and the gnawing sense that life is being lived in transit rather than in full."I lasted three months back in Bengaluru after lockdown and couldn't take it any more," a software engineer told India Today Digital. "Here in Darjeeling, I breathe easier."For architect Rachana, it is more about working from different places in Himachal rather than escaping Bengaluru's traffic chaos or about how I want my life to feel when I shut the laptop at 7 pm," she promise opportunity, but they rarely leave room for reflection.A cottage in Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu, or a rented flat in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, offers the chance to measure days not just in deadlines, but in walks, swims, and sunsets. Digital Nomad Subhashish has worked from Kashmir, Ladakh and Kerala among other places, and enjoys clicking photographs and sharing them online. (Image: Subhashish) WHAT DIGITAL NOMADS GIVE BACK TO EMPLOYERS, CLIENTSStart-up founders in Bengaluru now speak of creating retreats in the hills, not only as escapes but as hubs of creativity. Communities like those in Bir or Goa stitch together strangers into networks that feel like alternatives to corporate appeal isn't only cost or comfort; it's the promise of living outside the city's describe newfound focus, the absence of commutes, giving them more hours to create."I finish more in five hours by the beach than in eight at an office desk," said a Reddit user from the Indian Digital Nomad Rachana, the architect, her travels inspire her design, which reflects in her work. When she is back at base, she feels rejuvenated and her output is better even when she's in the occasional glitches in terms of network and connectivity remain."I once had to reschedule a pitch because three cafes in McLeodganj all lost power in the same storm," shared Aditya, a 30-year-old software engineer based in Bengaluru, who regularly works from nothing can deter the Digital carry multiple dongles, extension cords, a mental map of cafes with reliable backups. For nomadism demands not just freedom but a tolerance for COMPANIES IN INDIA ARE BECOMING NOMAD-TOLERANTThough the younger professionals are itching to travel and work, much depends on the firms with remote-first cultures tolerate it, even encourage it. Some Indian startups use location flexibility to attract plenty of traditional employers still expect a physical presence in offices, and many nomads operate in a grey zone."As long as I deliver, no one asks," says Aditya, the software engineer whose employer is based in freelancers and consultants, the equation is simpler: clients only care about deadlines and what's being SAFETY FIRST FOR WOMEN DIGITAL NOMADSFor women, digital nomadism in India comes with lure of freedom and flexibility is strong, but safety shapes every decision — where to stay, when to return, which cafes to often have to negotiate parental anxiety, workplace scrutiny, and social judgment more than men have to."I picked Rishikesh because I knew I'd find other women living alone," said a female designer from person didn't share her name because she operates in the grey zone, where her employer isn't always aware that she is away from her home with communities of peers offer not just sockets and Wi-Fi, but a sense of VILLAGES FIND NEW LOCALS IN DIGITAL NOMADSWFH, which was once an experiment during the pandemic, has reshaped how Indians imagine work and there are conflicts, both external and internal, that Digital Nomads and their hosts deal with.A surge of outsiders often means rising rents and cultural friction in small welcome new business but worry about losing affordability, or seeing their communities reshaped into enclaves for Nomads, meanwhile, wrestle with questions of belonging — are they visitors or residents, and what responsibility do they bear towards the places they temporarily call home?For Rachana, Bir is not forever. She will move again when the lease ends, perhaps to Manali, perhaps back to Bengaluru for some is the paradox of this way of life: it is built on impermanence. What endures is not the town or the cafe but the conviction that work no longer has to be tied to a cubicle or a commute. The Digital Nomads are here, and quaint towns and villages in India are opening their doors to them.- Ends
News18
31-07-2025
- Sport
- News18
U17 World Wrestling Championships: Rachana, Ashvini Clinch Gold; Moni Settles For Silver
India excelled at the U17 World Wrestling Championships: Rachana (43kg) and Ashvini Vishnoi (65kg) won gold, Moni (57kg) got silver, Komal Verma (49kg) claimed bronze. India had a stellar day at the U17 World Wrestling Championships on Thursday, with Rachana (43kg) and Ashvini Vishnoi (65kg) capturing gold medals in the women's competition, while Moni (57kg) narrowly missed the top spot, settling for silver. Rachana delivered a commanding performance in the 43kg final, defeating China's Xin Huang with a confident 3-0 scoreline. Equally impressive, Ashvini blanked Uzbekistan's Mukhayyo Rakhimjonova by the same 3-0 margin to claim the 65kg crown. Moni Falls Just Short of Gold In the 57kg final, Moni put up a valiant fight but lost by the narrowest of margins, going down 5-6 to Kazakhstan's Madkhiya Usmanova. Despite the defeat, Moni's silver medal capped a strong campaign. Komal Claims Bronze with Aggressive Display Komal Verma added to India's medal tally with a bronze in the 49kg category, defeating Anhelina Burkina 8-3. Komal's aggressive tactics and offensive mindset paid off in the bronze medal bout. Not all Indian wrestlers reached the podium. Preeti Yadav (40kg) and Kasish Gurjar (46kg) exited in the quarterfinals, losing to Maisie Anna Claire Elliot and Jaclyn Rose Bouzakis, respectively. In the 53kg category, Saarika also bowed out in the quarterfinals, falling to Japan's Rion Ogawa. (with PTI inputs) view comments Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
News18
31-07-2025
- Sport
- News18
Rachana and Ashvini are U17 world champions, Moni ends runner-up
Athens, Jul 31 (PTI) Indian wrestlers Rachana (43kg) and Ashvini Vishnoi (65kg) emerged champions at the U17 World Championships while Moni narrowly missed out on a gold in the 57kg in the women's competition here Thursday. Rachana delivered a clinical performance, defeating China's Xin Huang 3-0 in the final while Ashvini blanked Uzbekistan's Mukhayyo Rakhimjonova by the same margin. Moni settled for a silver medal after a hard-fought 5-6 loss to Kazakhstan's Madkhiya Usmanova. Komal Verma earned the country a bronze medal in the 49kg category. She overpowered Anhelina Burkina with an aggressive approach and came out victorious 8-3 in the bronze medal play-off. India are also assured of at least two more medals with Yashita (61kg) and Kajal (73kg) set to compete in the title clash while Manisha will fight for bronze in 69kg. However, not all Indian wrestlers made it to the podium on Thursday. Preeti Yadav (40kg) and Kasish Gurjar (46kg) were eliminated in the quarterfinals, losing to Maisie Anna Claire Elliot and Jaclyn Rose Bouzakis respectively. Saarika, competing in 53kg weight category, also bowed out in the quarterfinals after a loss to Japan's Rion Ogawa. PTI AT PDS PDS (This story has not been edited by News18 staff and is published from a syndicated news agency feed - PTI) view comments First Published: July 31, 2025, 22:15 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Time of India
21-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Jagriti actress Rachana Mistry on World Music Day says, ‘Music is emotion, connection and healing'
World Music Day, celebrated on June 21st, honours the timeless, universal language of music—something that connects hearts across cultures without needing translation. On this special occasion, television actress Rachana Mistry, who currently portrays the titular role in Jagriti – Ek Nayi Subah, shared a deeply personal reflection on how music has shaped her life and creativity. 'Some of the most beautiful moments in my life have been wrapped in music,' Rachana shared. 'Quiet evenings with soft classical tunes playing in the background, long walks where lyrics echoed my thoughts, and childhood memories of humming lullabies with my mother.' For Rachana, music is more than just entertainment—it's her emotional anchor, both on-screen and off. 'I've always believed that music isn't just sound—it's emotion, connection, and healing,' she said. Even during her intense acting scenes, she often turns to music to find focus. 'When I'm working through a complex scene, I sometimes listen to instrumental or classical pieces to centre myself.' She is particularly drawn to the way music transcends language. 'What fascinates me most is how music transcends language—you don't need to understand the words to feel the emotion. That's true magic,' she explained. On this World Music Day, Rachana hopes to celebrate music's quiet power. 'Whether you're dancing in your room, playing a flute under a tree, or simply listening in silence, music speaks. Always.' As the voice behind Jagriti – Ek Nayi Subah, a show rooted in hope and resilience, Rachana's sentiments echo the very spirit of music—one of healing, unity, and emotion that lingers long after the last note fades.
India.com
18-06-2025
- Health
- India.com
COVID-19 In India: Expert Reveals Why Blood Donations In Rural Areas Are Still Suffering Post-Pandemic
India is witnessing rising COVID-19 infections, with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare reporting 6,483 active cases as of the latest update. Leading the tally is Kerala with 1,384 cases, followed by Gujarat (1,105) and the national capital, Delhi (620). While the surge is being closely monitored, healthcare experts are drawing attention to a different kind of long-term consequence of the pandemic, a deepening rural crisis in blood donation. Dr Rachana Shamrao Pawar, from K J Somaiya Hospital and Research Centre, emphasises that while urban India has largely bounced back in terms of blood donation levels, rural areas continue to struggle with fear, misinformation, and lack of access. 'There is no significant change in urban blood donation patterns post-COVID,' says Dr Rachana. 'But rural areas are still facing a serious decline. The problem is not the willingness, it's the awareness and infrastructure.' Urban vs Rural: A Stark Divide In metropolitan regions, organised blood drives, hospital-based collection systems, and digital awareness campaigns have restored normalcy. Urban hospitals continue to operate with active participation from repeat and volunteer donors, often supported by tech-enabled communication and reminders. However, rural India tells a different story. In many villages and small towns, blood donation activities have dropped drastically. The key reasons, Dr Rachana reveals, are: 1. Persistent misinformation about blood safety post-COVID 2. Lack of awareness about updated donation guidelines 3. Limited access to healthcare infrastructure and mobile donation camps Is It Safe to Donate Blood After COVID Vaccination? This is one of the most common concerns among potential donors. Dr Rachana clarifies: 'COVID-19 vaccines do not affect blood donation eligibility. Individuals can donate blood safely after a short deferral period, generally a few days to two weeks depending on the vaccine,' she explains. The hesitancy seen during the initial vaccine rollout has mostly faded in cities, thanks to scientific evidence and updated health authority guidelines. Still, in rural zones, the lack of dissemination of this information means many believe they are ineligible post-vaccination or post-infection, which isn't the case. Blood Banks Still Follow Standard Safety Protocols Dr Rachana says that blood banks continue to implement stringent screening, counselling, and hygiene practices to ensure donor safety and confidence. 'These processes help ease anxieties about infection and assure people it's absolutely safe to donate, even after COVID recovery,' she says. Interestingly, the core demographics of donors, age, gender, and repeat donation frequency, haven't changed significantly post-COVID, according to her. The Real Challenge: Rebuilding Trust in Rural India Despite the resilience shown by urban India, Dr Rachana underscores the urgent need to rebuild trust, awareness, and access in the countryside. She suggests that mobile donation drives, local awareness campaigns, and community engagement are key to narrowing the donation gap that has persisted since 2020. 'India's overall donor base is strong,' she says, 'but the future of safe and adequate blood supply depends on how well we bridge the rural-urban gap in the post-COVID world.'
