HEALTH DEPARTMENT
India is likely undercounting heat deaths, affecting its response to increasingly harsh heat waves
India's worst heat wave in over a decade, with temperatures exceeding 50°C, left hundreds dead, but the true toll is vastly underreported. Public health experts warn that miscounting heat-related deaths hampers effective future preparations. Improved data collection and real-time monitoring are crucial to address the severe impact of extreme heat.
Government eases rules for global sourcing of medical gear
Pavan Choudary, chairman, Medical Technology Association of India (MTAI), termed the move a path-breaking effort by the government towards equitable policy making, spanning the crucial last mile which was uncovered so far.
The worrying changes in India’s monsoon patterns have implications for everything from agriculture to health
Take Maharashtra, 80% of which is rainfed. In areas such as Vidarbha and Marathwada, the onset of monsoon is now late. After a small pickup in July, there is a break in rainfall in August, lasting up to three-four weeks during the fruit formation phase. The wet spell starts again in September and continues well into October, when it should be dry. This isn't limited to Maharashtra. Several critical areas considered the breadbasket of India—Bihar, West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh—are witnessing the same pattern.
Bihar government cancels contracts worth Rs 826 crore awarded during 'Mahagathbandhan' regime
The NDA government in Bihar has cancelled 350 contracts worth Rs 826 crore awarded during the previous RJD-led 'Mahagathbandhan' government due to irregularities in selecting contractors for rural water supply projects. The Public Health Engineering Department uncovered discrepancies and initiated a thorough probe. RJD leaders criticised the cancellations, claiming the NDA is intimidated by the success of the previous government's welfare initiatives.
Food Safety: Karnataka govt imposes 10 lakh fine on usage of artificial colours in some food items
Karnataka has banned the use of artificial colors in food items, including kebabs, chicken, fish, and vegetarian dishes, after tests revealed harmful levels of sunset yellow and carmoisine. Violations of this ban can lead to severe penalties, including imprisonment and hefty fines. This action follows earlier bans on other harmful colors, with Health Minister Dinesh Gundurao highlighting the commitment to food safety and public health through stringent enforcement measures.
Brutal heatwave: Death toll climbs to 143, actual numbers could be high
The Indian health ministry has reported 143 recorded deaths and 41,789 people suffering from suspected heatstroke between March 1 and June 20 this year. However, the heatwave toll is expected to be higher due to the lack of updated data from states and health facilities uploading data on heatwave casualties. Union Health Minister J P Nadda has directed officials to visit central hospitals to assess the number of deaths due to heatstroke and to set up special heatwave units in all central government hospitals.
- Go To Page 1
Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma takes over health department in cabinet reshuffle after Lok Sabha polls
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has reshuffled some departments following the recent Lok Sabha polls. He has taken over the Health and Family Welfare Department from Keshav Mahanta, who previously handled the health portfolio. Mahanta will oversee Transport, Excise, and Fisheries departments.
Mental health institute in Chandigarh receives bomb threat over email
A mental health institute in Chandigarh received a bomb threat via email, prompting the evacuation of patients and staff while authorities conducted a search operation. The threat was part of a series of emails sent to hospitals in Delhi and south India. Despite extensive searches by police, bomb disposal squads, and fire officials, no explosives were found. The institute's deputy medical superintendent reported the incident and email contents to the police.
Odisha govt reassures public amid confusion over Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana continuity
Governor Das expresses concern over BSKY confusion, instructs immediate action; Health department's helpline 104 available for complaints against hospitals denying BSKY treatment.
Be prepared to beat the heat: Health ministry to states
The government urged all states and union territories to promptly implement heat health action plans to safeguard people from intensifying heatwaves. In a meeting chaired by Dr. Atul Goel of the health ministry, directives included assessing healthcare facilities, creating heatstroke rooms, and disseminating heatwave forecasts. Additionally, measures for fire prevention and staff training were emphasized.
Porsche crash: Juvenile's blood samples were replaced with those of woman, Pune cops tell court
17-year-old in Pune crash had blood samples replaced with his mother's to hide drunkenness. Doctors Ajay Taware and Shrihari Halnor, along with employee Atul Ghatkamble, in custody till June 5. Public health department involved in the Maharashtra probe. Incident occurred in Kalyani Nagar area.
Bihar battles heatwaves during critical election days, 19 people die
In Bihar's Aurangabad, the death toll due to heat wave conditions has reached 12, while four people died in Kaimur district, including a worker on election duty, on Thursday and three people have died in Bihar's Arrah in Bhojpur district after suffering from extreme heatwaves in the region.
Woman dies and 178 suffer food poisoning after eating Biryani-type dish with Mayonnaise at Kerala restaurant
A woman died and 178 people suffered food poisoning in Thrissur, Kerala, after consuming a Biryani-type dish from a local restaurant. Symptoms included diarrhea and vomiting. Officials suspect mayonnaise in "kuzhimanthi" caused the outbreak. The restaurant has been sealed, and inspections revealed unsanitary conditions. Authorities have promised stringent actions against the establishment.
Delhi govt to direct private, state-run hospitals to complete fire audit by June 8: Bharadwaj
Dr Naveen Khichi and Dr Aaksh arrested for running an unlicensed neonatal hospital without qualified doctors, where a fire killed newborns, as Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj addresses fire safety measures and compensation for affected families.
Delhi children's hospital fire: Saurabh Bharadwaj seeks 'immediate enquiry' into accident which took lives of 7 babies
A fire at a children's hospital in Delhi's Vivek Vihar resulted in the death of seven new born babies. Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj has requested a speedy enquiry into the incident and has directed officials to ensure free treatment for rescued children in the best private hospitals under the Farishtey scheme. He has also issued directions for speedy compensation to the families of deceased and injured children and to expedite the arrests of those running the hospital. Legal action is being taken against the hospital owner, Naveen Kichi.
Delhi hospital fire: Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj calls meeting
Delhi Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj called for a meeting at the Delhi Secretariat with Health department officials to discuss the east Delhi hospital fire that killed seven newborns, ongoing heatwave conditions, and the private neonatal hospital operating without a valid license or qualified doctors. Dr Naveen Khichi and Dr Aaksh were arrested by the police.
Large parts of India swelter under intense heat, 37 cities record temperatures over 45 deg C
The intense heat wave sweeping across large parts of India has led to soaring temperatures and challenging conditions for residents and authorities alike. Maharashtra's Akola has imposed Section 144 until May 31 to prohibit public gatherings, while a 'red' warning has been issued for several states including Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi, indicating a very high likelihood of heat-related illnesses.
Assam prepares for Cyclone Remal's impact
Government of Assam has taken extensive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens in light of the impending increase in rainfall and wind speeds due to Cyclone Remal, which will make landfall on May 26 at West Bengal and Bangladesh and move northwards towards the Northeast.
Kerala rains: IMD issues Orange alert for three districts
Heavy rains continue to batter Kerala with parts of the state receiving over 200 mm of rain in 24 hours causing waterlogging in cities like Kochi and Thrissur. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an Orange alert for three districts, including Pathanamthitta, Kottayam and Idukki districts. As many as 11 deaths have been reported due to rain-related incidents. Relief camps have been set up and efforts are underway to mitigate the impact of the ongoing heavy rains.
No respite from heat wave in large parts of India, Barmer sizzles at 48.8 degrees C
Barmer was followed by Phalodi with maximum temperature at 48.6 degrees degrees, Fatehpur at 47.6 degrees Celsius, Jaisalmer at 47.5 degrees Celsius, Jodhpur at 47.4 degrees Celsius, Jalore at 47.3 degrees Celsius, Kota at 47.2 degrees Celsius and Churu at 47 degrees Celsius, the Met Centre said.
Heavy rains lash Kerala, IMD issues red alert in two districts
Kerala faces heavy pre-monsoon rains, prompting the India Meteorological Department to issue red alerts for Ernakulam and Thrissur districts, indicating over 20 cm of rain in 24 hours. Major cities like Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, and Thrissur suffer from waterlogging. The state reports four deaths and significant property damage due to flooding and landslides. Relief camps are opened, and authorities warn residents of rising water levels in rivers.
Kerala rains cause havoc: Four dead as IMD issues orange alert in 9 districts, flights disrupted, dam shutters opened
Heavy rains in Kerala have resulted in flooding, flight delays, and road damages. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert in nine districts, urging residents to take precautions. The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) has advised against venturing into the sea, and the health department has established a control room to manage epidemic prevention activities.
Heat wave: IMD issues red alert for 5 states including Delhi NCR as temperature breaches 48 degrees
A severe heat wave is forecasted to persist in northwest India, including Rajasthan, with temperatures reaching 48°C. The India Meteorological Department warns of intense heat wave conditions affecting several states, including Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh.
Brutal heat in large parts of India; temperatures set to rise further, says IMD
Official data showed that at least 24 places in Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh recorded maximum temperatures of 45 degrees Celsius or above on Wednesday.
Heatwave grips Rajasthan, Barmer hottest at 48 deg C; govt cancels leaves of doctors, officials
Health authorities had already cancelled the leaves of all doctors and paramedical staff in government hospitals as temperatures soared in the state.
Rajasthan authorities cancel leaves of doctors, paramedics as temperature soar
Owing to the soaring the soaring temperatures in the country and more so in the state, Rajasthan health authorities cancelled the leaves of doctors. IMD has predicted heatwave for the coming few days. Following that, instructions have also been given to reserve beds for heat stroke patients in all medical institutions, to ensure the availability of necessary medicines and testing facilities.
BSF jawan roasts papad in sand in Rajasthan. Watch video
A video of a Border Security Force (BSF) jawan roasting 'papad' in Bikaner, Rajasthan amid a severe heatwave. Rajasthan faces scorching temperatures with predictions of temperatures exceeding 47 degrees Celsius. The IMD warns of no immediate relief, and health departments are on alert, recommending homemade drinks and staying hydrated.
Delhi reels under severe heatwave: IMD issues 'red alert' as temperatures soar
Delhi is experiencing an intense heatwave, with temperatures soaring above 47 degrees Celsius, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue a 'red alert' for the next five days. The scorching weather has led to record peak power demand and the immediate closure of schools by the Delhi government. The extreme conditions are not limited to Delhi, as northwest India, northern Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat are also facing severe heatwaves. Safety precautions, including staying hydrated and avoiding prolonged sun exposure, are being emphasized to prevent heat-related illnesses.
Kerala govt activates emergency operation centres amidst heavy rains
Kerala government opens emergency operation centres in all districts to tackle heavy rains, mudslides, and issues warnings to tourists about possible landslides in hilly areas. Safety boards will be installed to warn travellers, and night travel bans may be imposed in hilly areas. District collectors address intense water logging, uprooting of trees, and Health Minister Veena George warns about epidemics.
Load More
