Myanmar Earthquake: Devastation and Loss

 

On [28/03/2025], a powerful earthquake struck Myanmar, leaving a trail of destruction and claiming lives. The government has reported significant losses, including fatalities, injuries, and widespread damage to infrastructure.

Casualties

The death toll has risen to [Number] people, with [Number] injured. Rescue efforts are ongoing, and the number of casualties is expected to increase.

Union Health Minister Shri JP Nadda Inaugurates World TB Day 2025 Summit

 Our TB elimination strategy is based on ‘whole of the society’ and ‘whole of the government’ approach: Shri JP Nadda

“Over 13.46 lakh Nikshay Shivirs, or community screening and awareness camps were organised in the districts bringing essential TB services directly to the doorsteps of crores of people”

Under the 100-day TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, 12.97 crore people were screened for TB with over 7.19 lakh TB patients notified across India

Approximately 2.85 lakh of the notified patients were asymptomatic, who might have otherwise gone undetected without the stratified screening strategy of the campaign

With a proven blueprint derived from the campaign's success, Union Health Minister announces nationwide expansion of the campaign, highlighting its efficient case finding, leveraging of technology and ensuring timely treatment initiation

State/UTs awarded for exemplary performance during the 100 Days intensified TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan and in the TB Mukt Gram Panchyat Initiative

A digital Coffee Table Book and Guidance document on ‘differentiated TB care’ launched at the event
Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 7:26PM by PIB Delhi

“Our TB elimination strategy is based on ‘whole of the society’ and ‘whole of the government’ approach”. This was stated by Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda, Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare during his address to the World TB Day 2025 summit, here today. The theme for this year’s World TB Day summit is “Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver”.

The Union Minister reaffirmed India's unwavering commitment to achieving a TB-Mukt Bharat in his address. While presiding over the Summit, he lauded the 100 Days Intensified TB Elimination campaign's strategy to deploy cutting-edge technologies, including handheld X-ray units and upfront Nucleic Acid Amplification Testing (NAAT) some of which were deployed using mobile vans (Nikshay Vahans). This helped the campaign shatter geographical barriers and brought vital screening and diagnostic services to remote and underserved areas. He mentioned that over 13.46 lakh Nikshay Shivirs, or community screening and awareness camps were organised in the districts bringing essential TB services directly to the doorsteps of crores of people.

The Union Minister noted that TB treatment coverage in India has increased from 59% to 85%. He informed that 12.97 crore people were screened for TB with 7.19 lakh new cases detected. Among the notified TB cases, approximately 2.85 lakh were asymptomatic cases who might have otherwise gone undetected without the stratified screening strategy of the campaign. More than 5,000 MLAs and 10,000 Gram Panchayats participated in the campaign. Citing these successes, he announced the Ministry's plans to scale the campaign nationwide. Stating that TB is not over yet, he announced further scaling up of the TB elimination campaign to cover all districts in India.

Shri Nadda highlighted that 22 line ministries supported the 100-days campaign and more than 30,000 elected representatives were mobilized for the common cause, demonstrating that the fight against TB is a collective mission. He informed that in just 100 days, over 1,05,181 new Ni-kshay Mitras have registered and distributed over 3,06,368 food baskets among TB patients and their family members.

He noted that during the recently concluded 100-Day Intensified TB Elimination Campaign, modern technology was leveraged to improve case detection, reduce diagnostic delays, and ensure timely treatment initiation, particularly for vulnerable populations. “The campaign strategically screened vulnerable populations, including asymptomatic individuals, household contacts of TB patients, those with a history of TB, undernourished individuals, and those with chronic comorbidities such as diabetes and HIV”.

Shri Nadda stated that India is one of the top global funders on TB research and congratulated ICMR for their significant research on TB. He highlighted some innovations like RT-PCR machines used during the Covid pandemic which is adapted for use in TB screening. Similarly, indigenous diagnostic kits developed by ICMR not only reduce the cost for TB detection but also improve efficiency by conducting 32 tests in one go. “Hand held x-ray machines with AI support have also played a huge role in detecting asymptomatic TB”, he added.

He concluded his address by thanking the invaluable support and involvement of elected representatives and community leaders, MPs, MLAs, Gram Pradhans and local leaders which was instrumental in raising awareness and mobilizing communities against this disease. “Their dedication has fostered a sense of ownership and accountability in the community, one of the many unique strategies India has adopted to fight TB”, he stated.

PLI 1.1 Scheme Boosts India’s Specialty Steel Sector

 42 MoUs Signed Under PLI Scheme 1.1, Strengthening India’s Self-Reliance in Steel

New Delhi:The Ministry of Steel marked a key milestone today with the signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) under the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme 1.1 for specialty steel. Addressing the gathering, Union Steel Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy emphasized that the scheme is a significant step toward achieving Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s "Make in India" vision.

“The PLI scheme is a major step towards realizing the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of self-reliance. India is the second-largest producer and consumer of steel, yet we still import certain high-grade varieties. This scheme aims to bridge that gap by promoting domestic production,” he said.

Launched in July 2021, the PLI scheme for specialty steel covers five broad categories and 19 sub-categories. The initiative ensures that only companies registered in India and engaged in end-to-end steel production are eligible for incentives. The scheme has generated strong industry participation, prompting the government to introduce Round 2, allowing more companies to benefit.

To encourage investment and boost output, the government is offering incentives ranging from 3-4% based on investment and production targets. In the first round, 44 applications were submitted by 23 companies, with incentives already disbursed for one project. The second round has seen even greater enthusiasm, with 25 companies submitting 42 applications, committing investments worth ₹17,000 crore.

Lauding the efforts of officials in the Ministry of Steel and the MECON team for fast-tracking the implementation of PLI 1.1, Kumaraswamy said, “The dedication and efficiency shown by the ministry officials and the MECON team have been instrumental in accelerating this scheme. Their efforts are crucial in ensuring the success of this initiative.”

The minister also made a strong appeal to domestic steelmakers, urging them to focus on specialty steel production. “Domestically, we are not manufacturing specialty steel, but I personally request our steelmakers to invest in specialty steel plants. If you succeed in producing specialty steel domestically, it will boost capacity and production in the country. I urge all stakeholders to take up this challenge and contribute to our self-reliance,” he stated.

Highlighting the scheme’s impact, Kumaraswamy reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening the steel industry. “The Government of India remains firmly committed to supporting the steel sector. The PLI Scheme has created strong momentum and brings us closer to self-reliance,” he noted.

The expansion of the scheme is expected to further enhance India’s global competitiveness in specialty steel production. The minister expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Modi for his leadership in driving this transformative initiative and congratulated all the companies that signed MoUs under PLI 1.1.

As the PLI scheme continues to gain momentum, industry leaders see it as a catalyst for reducing dependency on imports and positioning India as a global hub for high-quality steel production.  Secretary for steel Shri Sandeep Poundrik,Shri Abhijit Narendra, Joint Secretary, Shri Ministry of Steel, Mr SK Verma, MD, MECON and other officials from the ministry of steel were present at event.

Sports in India A Comprehensive Overview

India has a rich and diverse sporting culture, with a wide range of sports enjoyed by millions of people across the country. Cricket, field hockey, and football are some of the most popular sports in India, but there are many other sports that are also widely played and followed.

Cricket

Cricket is the most popular sport in India, and it is followed with great passion by millions of fans across the country. The Indian cricket team is one of the strongest teams in the world, and it has won many international tournaments, including the Cricket World Cup.

Field Hockey

Field hockey is another popular sport in India, and it is the national sport of the country. The Indian field hockey team has won many international tournaments, including the Olympic Games.

Football

Football is also a popular sport in India, and it is gaining popularity rapidly. The Indian football team is not as strong as the cricket team, but it is still a competitive team that has won many international tournaments.

Other Popular Sports

In addition to cricket, field hockey, and football, there are many other popular sports in India, including:

Badminton
Tennis
Basketball
Volleyball
Kabaddi
Kho-Kho
Chess
Sports in India: A Vibrant Tapestry

India has a long and rich history of sports, and it is a country that is passionate about sports. The country has produced many world-class athletes, and it is home to some of the most popular sporting events in the world.

The Future of Sports in India

The future of sports in India is bright. The country has a large and growing population of young people who are interested in sports, and there is a lot of investment being made in sports infrastructure and development. India is also becoming an increasingly popular destination for international sporting events.

Conclusion

Sports play an important role in Indian society. They are a source of national pride, and they help to promote physical fitness and health. Sports also provide opportunities for social interaction and community building.

Additional Information

The Indian Olympic Association is the governing body for sports in India.
India has hosted many major sporting events, including the Cricket World Cup, the Commonwealth Games, and the Asian Games.
India has produced many world-class athletes, including Sachin Tendulkar, Leander Paes, and Saina Nehwal.

AI help taken.

Bangla Awas Yojana and PMAY differences between

 

The Bangla Awas Yojana is a housing scheme launched by the West Bengal government to provide affordable housing to low-income families in the state. The scheme is similar to the central government's Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), but it has some key differences.

Key Differences Between Bangla Awas Yojana and PMAY

• Eligibility: Under Bangla Awas Yojana, families with an annual income of up to Rs. 3 lakh are eligible for the scheme. Under PMAY, the income limit is Rs. 6 lakh.
• Subsidy: The subsidy amount under Bangla Awas Yojana is higher than that under PMAY.
• Interest rate: The interest rate on loans under Bangla Awas Yojana is lower than that under PMAY.
• Loan tenure: The loan tenure under Bangla Awas Yojana is longer than that under PMAY.

Benefits of Bangla Awas Yojana

• Affordable housing for low-income families
• Higher subsidy amount
• Lower interest rate
• Longer loan tenure

Conclusion

The Bangla Awas Yojana is a good scheme for low-income families in West Bengal who are looking to buy a home. The scheme offers a number of benefits, including a higher subsidy amount, lower interest rate, and longer loan tenure.

Note: This article is based on information available in the public domain. The actual terms and conditions of the Bangla Awas Yojana may vary. Please refer to the official website of the West Bengal government for more information.

With AI help

Maha Kumbh 2025: A Story of Faith, Tragedy, and Resilience

The air crackled with anticipation as millions of pilgrims converged at the Sangam, the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers, for the Maha Kumbh Mela in 2025. Among them was 16-year-old Priya, her eyes wide with wonder as she witnessed the sea of humanity chanting, bathing, and offering prayers.

 Priya had come with her family from a small village in Uttar Pradesh, eager to experience the spiritual fervor and cultural richness of the Kumbh. She was particularly excited to witness the Naga Sadhus, the ascetic devotees known for their extreme practices and connection to ancient traditions.

 As the days passed, Priya immersed herself in the vibrant atmosphere, attending religious discourses, listening to devotional music, and learning about the significance of the Kumbh from her elders. She was fascinated by the stories of gods and goddesses, the rituals performed by the priests, and the unwavering faith of the pilgrims.

 However, the Kumbh also had its share of challenges. The sheer number of people made crowd management a daunting task, and there were occasional reports of stampedes and accidents. Priya's family took extra precautions, staying close together and avoiding crowded areas.

 One evening, as Priya and her family were returning to their camp after the evening aarti, they got caught in a sudden downpour. The rain turned the sandy ground into a muddy mess, making it difficult for people to move. In the chaos, Priya got separated from her family.
Fear gripped Priya as she found herself alone in the darkness, surrounded by a sea of unfamiliar faces. She tried to recall the safety tips she had learned, but her mind was clouded with panic. Just as she was about to give up hope, she saw a group of volunteers helping people navigate through the mud.

Priya approached them and explained her situation. The volunteers, impressed by her composure, assured her that they would help her find her family. They took her to a nearby help center, where announcements were being made for missing persons.

 After what seemed like an eternity, Priya heard her name being called. Her parents rushed towards her, their faces etched with relief. They hugged her tightly, grateful to have found her safe and sound.

 Priya's experience at the Kumbh was a mix of joy, wonder, and fear. She witnessed the power of faith, the beauty of tradition, and the resilience of the human spirit. She also learned the importance of staying calm and resourceful in the face of adversity.
As the Kumbh drew to a close, Priya returned to her village with a newfound appreciation for her family, her culture, and her own inner strength. She knew that the memories of the Kumbh would stay with her forever, reminding her of the incredible journey she had undertaken, both physically and spiritually.

 

Impact of CM's visit to North Bengal

 The impact of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's visit to North Bengal can vary depending on the specific goals and outcomes of the visit. However, some potential impacts could include:

Will bengal model be able to maintain public support for long time?

It is observed that "Bengal model" refers to the developmental and governance model implemented by the Trinamool Congress (TMC) government in West Bengal, India. Whether this model can maintain public support for a long time is a matter of debate.
Here are some arguments for and against:

Arguments For

    Developmental initiatives: The TMC government has launched various developmental initiatives, such as the "Kanyashree" scheme for girls' education and the "Swasthya Sathi" health insurance scheme. These initiatives have been well-received by the public.

Why Social Media is bad for health

 

why social media is bad for health?

Social media has been linked to several negative effects on physical and mental health. Here are some reasons why social media can be bad for health:

Mental Health

Anxiety and Depression: Social media can exacerbate anxiety and depression by creating unrealistic expectations and promoting consumerism.
Sleep Disturbances: Exposure to screens and the constant notifications from social media can interfere with sleep patterns.
Cyberbullying: Social media can be a breeding ground for bullying and harassment, leading to emotional distress.

Physical Health

Sedentary Behavior: Spending too much time on social media can lead to a sedentary lifestyle, contributing to obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.
Eye Strain and Vision Problems: Prolonged screen time can cause eye strain, headaches, and increase the risk of myopia (nearsightedness) and hyperopia (farsightedness).
Poor Nutrition: Social media often promotes unhealthy foods and beverages, contributing to poor nutrition and related health problems.

Prime Minister remembers Rani Velu Nachiyar

 

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi remembered the courageous Rani Velu Nachiyar on her birth anniversary today.