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Dengue Cases Rising in Kolkata: Hospitals Report 10–20 New Admissions Daily, Health Authorities Step Up Vigilance

Dengue Cases Rising in Kolkata: Kolkata is once again on high alert as dengue cases have started climbing across the city and its surrounding districts. Hospitals are reporting between 10 to 20 new patients being admitted daily, sparking concerns that the post-monsoon season may trigger another major outbreak. Health officials warn that if precautionary measures are not strengthened immediately, the city could face a repeat of previous years when dengue claimed several lives and overwhelmed medical infrastructure.

Dengue Cases Rising in Kolkata

Rising Trend Across Hospitals

Doctors in both government and private hospitals have confirmed a steady rise in dengue admissions over the past two weeks. While earlier in the year cases were sporadic, the sudden spike coincides with lingering stagnant water and humid weather conditions—ideal breeding grounds for the Aedes aegypti mosquito, the primary vector of dengue.

According to hospital sources, most patients are reporting classic dengue symptoms including high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, nausea, and in some cases skin rashes. A smaller but concerning proportion are showing warning signs of severe dengue, such as abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, and drops in platelet counts, necessitating critical care.

Dengue Cases Rising in Kolkata: Why Dengue Is Rising Now

Public health experts point to several factors fueling the current surge:

  1. Weather Conditions – Prolonged rains followed by warm temperatures create ideal environments for mosquito breeding.
  2. Waterlogging in Localities – Several parts of Kolkata and suburbs suffer from clogged drains and stagnant pools after monsoon showers.
  3. Inadequate Mosquito Control – Despite civic body drives, mosquito larvae continue to be found in construction sites, open tanks, flowerpots, and unused containers.
  4. Low Community Awareness – Many households fail to adopt basic preventive measures such as covering water containers or using mosquito repellents.

Hospitals Struggling with Admissions

With admissions ranging from 10 to 20 per day, hospitals like SSKM, NRS Medical College, and private chains such as Apollo and AMRI have had to allocate additional beds for dengue patients. Doctors warn that if the upward trend continues through October, non-dengue patients might face bed shortages.

Medical professionals are particularly cautious about pediatric and geriatric patients, who face higher risks of complications. Special pediatric ICUs have already been prepared in anticipation of more severe cases.

Civic Body Measures

The Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) has intensified its anti-dengue campaigns. These include:

  • Spraying insecticides in vulnerable neighborhoods
  • Releasing guppy fish in ponds to curb mosquito larvae
  • Issuing fines to households and establishments found with mosquito breeding sites
  • Deploying health workers for door-to-door awareness drives

KMC health officials claim that while vector-control measures are ongoing, community cooperation is critical. “Unless residents take responsibility for keeping their premises dry and clean, the spread cannot be contained,” a senior KMC official said.

Public Awareness and Precautions

Doctors stress that early detection remains the most effective way to reduce fatalities. People experiencing fever with severe body pain are urged to seek medical help immediately rather than self-medicating. Preventive measures recommended include:

  • Wearing full-sleeved clothing
  • Using mosquito repellents and nets, especially at night
  • Keeping water storage containers covered
  • Ensuring no stagnant water accumulates near homes
  • Allowing civic workers to inspect and treat residential premises

Government Monitoring

The West Bengal Health Department has instructed all hospitals to maintain daily logs of dengue admissions and deaths. Emergency review meetings are being held to track rising numbers. Health authorities are also coordinating with schools to spread awareness among children, urging parents to ensure protective clothing and preventive practices.

Past Outbreaks as a Warning

Kolkata has witnessed severe dengue outbreaks in previous years, most notably in 2017 and 2019, when hospitals were pushed to capacity. Experts caution that unless preventive measures are aggressively pursued now, the city risks another major health emergency.

External References for Public Information

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21st Instalment of PM-KISAN Released to Farmers in Strong Flood-Affected States of Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, and Uttarakhand

New Delhi: The Hon’ble Union Agriculture Minister, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, released the 21st instalment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme via video conferencing on September 26, 2025. This instalment has been given special priority for farmers from Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, and Uttarakhand, where recent floods, landslides, and crop damage have caused severe distress to farming families.

Direct Financial Support to Farmers

A total of more than ₹540 crore was directly credited to the bank accounts of over 27 lakh farmers, including approximately 2.7 lakh women farmers, across these three states. This financial aid aims to provide timely relief to help farmers cope with losses and resume agricultural activities.



Government Assurance and Benefits

During the release event, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to supporting farmers in all circumstances. He stated that the ₹2,000 instalment will assist farmers in meeting immediate household expenses and in procuring seeds and fertilizers for the next sowing cycle. This installment also serves as a reassurance that the Government stands firmly with farmers, ensuring no one is left behind in their fight against natural calamities.

Previous Relief Measures and Total Disbursements

The Minister recalled the recent visit by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the flood-affected areas, where relief packages of ₹1,500 crore for Himachal Pradesh, ₹1,600 crore for Punjab, and ₹1,200 crore for Uttarakhand were announced, along with ex-gratia for affected families and support under the PM CARES for Children scheme. The cumulative PM-KISAN disbursement to these states has now exceeded ₹13,626 crore since the scheme’s inception on February 24, 2019.

State-wise Beneficiary Details

State No. of Beneficiaries Amount Transferred in 21st Instalment (₹ Cr.) Total Amount Transferred Since Launch (₹ Cr.)
Himachal Pradesh 8,01,045 160.21 3,631
Punjab 11,09,895 221.98 6,553
Uttarakhand 7,89,128 157.83 3,442

Conclusion

The early release of the 21st PM-KISAN instalment highlights the Government of India’s steadfast dedication to the welfare of farmers, especially those grappling with the dual challenges of natural disasters and livelihood disruptions. This financial support is vital for revitalising agricultural productivity and sustaining rural livelihoods in the impacted states.

For more real-time updates, visit Channel 6 Network.

Source: PIB

Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals (DCPC) Officials Lead Shramdaan under Swachhotsav 2025 at Gurugram

New Delhi: As part of the Swachhata Hi Seva campaign and in line with the theme “Ek Din, Ek Ghanta, Ek Saath,” the Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals (DCPC), Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers, organized a dedicated Shramdaan activity in collaboration with the Institute of Pesticide Formulation Technology (IPFT), Gurugram.

Collective Cleanliness Drive at Gurugram

The Shramdaan saw enthusiastic participation from around 50 officials and employees, including the Secretary of DCPC, alongside the Director and staff of IPFT. Together, the team undertook extensive cleaning work at the designated Cleaning Target Unit (CTU) located near the Police Station, Udyog Vihar, Sundahera, Gurugram. The event exemplified collective action, teamwork, and a commitment to cleanliness in support of the national Swachhotsav 2025 campaign.



Promoting Hygiene and Environmental Responsibility

The initiative reflects DCPC’s ongoing commitment to promoting hygiene, sanitation, and environmental responsibility within government workplaces and the larger community. Such drives support the Ministry’s broader objectives under the Swachhata Hi Seva movement, encouraging regular participation and leading by example.

Conclusion

By mobilizing officials and staff for the Shramdaan at Gurugram, the DCPC and IPFT demonstrated strong leadership and accountability in furthering the cause of cleanliness and sustainable living practices.

For more real-time updates, visit Channel 6 Network.

Source: PIB

India-Russia: Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan Meets Deputy Prime Minister of Russia Mr. Dmitry Patrushev to Strengthen Agricultural Cooperation: 2025

New Delhi: Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan had a high-level meeting with His Excellency Mr. Dmitry Patrushev, Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation, at Krishi Bhawan on September 26, 2025. The talks centered on expanding bilateral trade and deepening cooperation between India and Russia in the agricultural sector.

Focus Areas of Cooperation

The discussion focused on enhancing agricultural trade, with emphasis on increasing India’s exports of agricultural products to Russia. Shri Chouhan highlighted India’s priorities, including food security for citizens, augmenting farmers’ incomes, and promoting access to safe and nutritious food. He reaffirmed India’s commitment to the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—“the world is one family”—underscoring the importance of international collaboration for farmers’ welfare.



Russian Federation’s Interest and MoU Prospects

Mr. Dmitry Patrushev expressed Russia’s keen interest in further strengthening agricultural trade ties and indicated openness to formalizing this partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). Both sides agreed to promote balanced trade and enhance technical cooperation in agriculture.

Joint Initiatives and Academic Cooperation

The two governments resolved to deepen academic exchanges and scholarship opportunities for students, emphasizing knowledge sharing and capacity building. They also agreed to explore joint initiatives in seed traceability systems to foster innovation and technological advancement in agriculture.

High-Level Delegations

The Russian delegation included Deputy Minister of Agriculture Mr. Maksim Markovich, Ambassador Mr. Denis Alipov, and Head of the Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Surveillance Mr. Sergey Dankvert. Representing India were Agriculture Secretary Shri Devesh Chaturvedi, Additional Secretary from MEA, Joint Secretaries from International Cooperation and Plant Protection divisions, Trade Advisor, Deputy Director General of Crop Sciences, officials from Animal Husbandry and Dairying departments, and other senior officials.

Conclusion: India-Russia

The meeting marked a significant step towards boosting India-Russia agricultural cooperation, aiming for sustainable and inclusive growth through reinforced trade, research, education, and technology partnerships.

For more real-time updates, visit Channel 6 Network.

Source: PIB

“Prayas” – A First-of-its-Kind Integrated Neuro Rehabilitation Centre Launched at AIIA Goa: 2025

Goa: The Ministry of Ayush marked a significant milestone with the launch of “Prayas,” an Integrated Neuro-Rehabilitation Centre at the All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), Goa, unveiled on the occasion of the 10th Ayurveda Day. The centre was inaugurated by Union Minister of State Shri Prataprao Jadhav, Ministry of Ayush (IC) and Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, alongside Shri Shripad Yesso Naik, Minister of State for Power & New & Renewable Energy, senior Ministry officials, and AIIA faculty.

Holistic Neuro-Rehabilitation Model

“Prayas” stands as one of the country’s first multidisciplinary centres combining Ayurveda, Physiotherapy, Yoga, Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and modern Paediatric care under one roof. The centre offers comprehensive and patient-centred neuro-rehabilitation, with a special focus on children facing neurological and developmental challenges.



Emphasizing Integrative Care and Hope

At the inauguration, Shri Prataprao Jadhav emphasized that the Ministry is committed to developing centres of excellence that fuse traditional wisdom with modern medical science. He described “Prayas” as a model of integrative rehabilitation, aiming to provide renewed quality of life and hope to patients and their families.

Echoing these sentiments, Shri Shripad Yesso Naik underscored the importance of rehabilitation in tackling neurological and developmental disorders. He lauded the innovative care model adopted at AIIA Goa for its potential to provide new hope to families managing complex health issues.

Academic and Research Focus

Prof. P.K. Prajapati, Director of AIIA, explained that the launch of “Prayas” aligns with the institute’s vision to pioneer innovative, evidence-based integrative healthcare models. Prof. Sujata Kadam, Dean of AIIA Goa, highlighted the centre’s role in delivering holistic neuro rehabilitation and its commitment to research and training in Ayush-based healthcare innovations.

Dignitaries and Faculty Participation

The inauguration was attended by senior dignitaries including the Secretary of Ministry of Ayush, Director and Dean of AIIA, Associate Dean, and the Kaumarbhritya (Paediatrics) Department faculty members such as Dr. Sumeet Goel, Dr. Rahul Ghuse, Dr. Samruddhi, Dr. Diksha, Dr. Shalini, and others.

Conclusion

“Prayas” symbolizes the Ministry’s vision of integrative healthcare by combining the best of Ayurveda and modern medical practices. It promises compassionate, comprehensive care and marks a new benchmark in paediatric neuro rehabilitation in India.

For more real-time updates, visit Channel 6 Network.

Source: PIB

President of India Presents National Geoscience Awards 2024, Recognizing Excellence in the Field of Geoscience

New Delhi: Smt Droupadi Murmu, the President of India, conferred the prestigious National Geoscience Awards-2024 during a ceremony held at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre on September 26, 2025. This distinguished event celebrated outstanding contributions to geoscience research, exploration, and innovation.

Significance of Minerals and Mining

The President underscored the vital role minerals have played throughout human civilization, noting that major periods such as the Stone Age, Bronze Age, and Iron Age are named after key minerals. Minerals form the backbone of industrialization, providing essential raw materials like iron and coal that support economic development and create substantial employment.



Environmental Responsibility in Mining

While lauding the mining sector’s contributions, the President cautioned about the adverse impacts including displacement, deforestation, and pollution. She stressed strict adherence to regulatory norms during mining operations and reclamation processes post-mining to safeguard residents and biodiversity.

Marine Mineral Resources and Geosciences Role

Highlighting India’s geographic advantage of being surrounded by oceans, the President called upon geoscientists to develop cutting-edge technologies for responsibly harnessing mineral resources beneath the seafloor, ensuring ecological balance and sustainable development.

Sustainable Mineral Development and Technological Innovation

The President emphasized the importance of addressing geo-environmental sustainability related to mining, advocating for technologies that add value to mineral products and minimize waste. She appreciated efforts by the Ministry of Mines to incorporate AI, machine learning, and drone surveys, along with initiatives to recover valuable elements from mine tailings.

Rare Earth Elements (REEs) and National Security

REEs, critical for modern technologies such as smartphones, electric vehicles, defense, and clean energy, were noted as strategic minerals of high importance. The President highlighted India’s imperative to become self-reliant in REE production through indigenous technology development, a key factor for national security and the vision of a developed India.

Conclusion: National Geoscience Awards

The National Geoscience Awards presentation not only honored eminent geoscientists but also reaffirmed India’s commitment to advancing sustainable mineral resource development, innovation in geosciences, and safeguarding ecological integrity while driving national progress.

For more real-time updates, visit Channel 6 Network.

Source: PIB

ATAB Initiatives- Shri Prataprao Jadhav Reviews Progress of Ayurveda Training Accreditation Board: 2025

New Delhi: In a high-level meeting chaired by Union Minister Shri Prataprao Jadhav, Ministry of Ayush, the progress and strategic direction of the Ayurveda Training Accreditation Board (ATAB) were reviewed. The meeting included assessments of ATAB’s efforts to expand the global recognition and credibility of Ayurveda education and professional practice.

ATAB’s Mandate and Establishment

ATAB was established under the Ministry of Ayush via a Gazette Notification in December 2019, operating through the Rashtriya Ayurveda Vidyapeeth (RAV). It was created to accredit Ayurveda courses offered both in India and abroad that are not regulated by existing statutory frameworks such as the National Commission for Indian System of Medicine (NCISM) Act 2020.



Accreditation Achievements

To date, ATAB has accredited 113 Ayurveda training courses, including 99 from 24 institutions in India, and 14 courses in two foreign countries. This initiative significantly enhances educational standards and global trust in Ayurveda training programs beyond the purview of other regulatory bodies.

Professional Endorsement Scheme

ATAB has introduced an endorsement scheme aimed at formally recognizing Ayurveda professionals practicing overseas. As of now, 41 Ayurveda doctors have been endorsed under this program, which requires meeting rigorous benchmarks in skills, knowledge, and ethical conduct. This endorsement strengthens professional legitimacy and fosters international mobility for Indian Ayurveda practitioners.

Strategic Implications

The endorsement initiative builds a trusted network of qualified Ayurveda professionals globally, promotes integration of Ayurveda into mainstream healthcare systems worldwide, and encourages academic exchanges and collaborative research. These efforts align with India’s vision of establishing its traditional medical systems as pillars of global wellness.

Leadership and Participation

Senior officials including Secretary Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha and Ayush experts participated in the meeting. Presentations highlighted current achievements and future plans for ATAB’s enhancement of quality assurance in Ayurveda education.

Conclusion

The Ministry of Ayush through ATAB reinforces its commitment to maintaining stringent quality standards, promoting global outreach of Ayurveda, and supporting the international community of Ayurveda practitioners in delivering credible and effective traditional healthcare services.

For more real-time updates, visit Channel 6 Network.

Source: PIB

BCCL Launches “Swachhata Hi Seva 2025” and Begins Preparation for Special Campaign 5.0

New Delhi: Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL), a subsidiary of Coal India Limited under the Ministry of Coal, has actively launched its “Swachhata Hi Seva 2025” activities while commencing preparations for Special Campaign 5.0. This move reiterates BCCL’s dedication to the national mission for a cleaner, greener, and sustainable India.

Inauguration and Swachhata Pledge

The campaign was inaugurated with the administration of the Swachhata Pledge by Shri M.K. Ramaiah, Director (HR), BCCL. Officers, employees, and workers participated enthusiastically, collectively committing to cleanliness as a patriotic service rather than a mere duty.



Wide-Ranging Activities

BCCL’s initiative includes various impactful activities:

  • Shramdaan drives urging collective participation for cleanliness.

  • Plantation campaigns titled ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ engaging employees and communities.

  • Beautification of public places to foster cleaner surroundings.

  • Health camps organized to promote welfare among sanitation workers.

  • Swachhata Rangoli competitions encouraging creative expression of cleanliness themes.

These programs saw enthusiastic participation from diverse stakeholders including employees, students, and local communities, helping to instill cleanliness as a consistent habit.

Special Campaign 5.0 and High-Footfall Drives

Answering the call of “Ek Din Ek Ghanta Ek Sath,” BCCL organized extensive cleanliness and awareness drives in high-traffic areas within Dhanbad. Concurrently, “Swachhata Ki Pathshala” sessions imparted lessons in hygiene and environmental care, inspiring young students in Koyla Nagar to uphold cleanliness values in their schools and homes.

Digital Outreach

BCCL is leveraging multiple social media and digital platforms to broaden the campaign’s reach, enhancing public awareness and encouraging participation far beyond operational boundaries.

Commitment to Sustainability and Community

With the heartfelt involvement of its staff and stakeholders, BCCL continues to be a significant contributor to India’s national cleanliness drive and maintains its stature as a responsible and sustainable mining enterprise.

For more real-time updates, visit Channel 6 Network.

Source: PIB

FICCI: Ministry of Coal Proudly Organizes 2nd Roadshow on Coal Gasification in Collaboration

New Delhi: The Ministry of Coal successfully hosted its 2nd Roadshow on Coal Gasification—Surface and Underground Technologies—at FICCI Federation House, New Delhi, on September 26, 2025. This event built upon the success of the inaugural roadshow held in Mumbai, focusing on promoting India’s adoption of cleaner and sustainable coal utilization technologies.

Key Addresses and Focus

Ms. Rupinder Brar, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Coal, emphasized coal’s pivotal role in India’s energy sector, noting that coal production has surpassed 1 billion tonnes. She highlighted coal gasification as a vital technology to reduce environmental impact, minimize coal imports, and strengthen national energy security. These technologies are expected to create new industries, stimulate investments, and accelerate India’s progress toward becoming the world’s third-largest economy while ensuring sustainability and self-reliance.

Shri Sanoj Kumar Jha, Additional Secretary, stressed the importance of private sector participation in the rapid adoption of coal gasification and underground coal gasification initiatives. He outlined the Government’s Coal Gasification Mission targeting 100 million tonnes by 2030 and the creation of the syngas production sub-sector in 2022 as key milestones.



Industry Perspectives and Opportunities

Shri Subhrakant Panda, Past President of FICCI and MD of Indian Metals & Ferro Alloys Ltd, underlined coal gasification’s strategic role in reducing dependency on imports such as natural gas, methanol, and ammonia. He noted that coal gasification opens new industrial avenues by producing fertilizers and clean fuels, contributing to sustainable growth and energy security.

Technical Presentations and Stakeholder Engagement

The roadshow featured detailed presentations by Shri Shubham Goel from SBI Capital Markets on the surface coal gasification commercial bid process, and by Shri Ajitesh Kumar and Shri Birendra Kumar Thakur from the Ministry of Coal, who provided insights on underground coal gasification technologies, operational procedures, and investment opportunities. The interactive Q&A session facilitated dialogue on regulatory compliance, project financing, and environmental safeguards.

Commitment to Growth and Sustainability

This initiative underpins the Ministry of Coal’s dedication to transparency, stakeholder collaboration, and innovation. It showcases investment prospects and government support to advance energy security, industrial growth, and the vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat through sustainable coal utilization.

For more real-time updates, visit Channel 6 Network.

Source: PIB

Flagship 2 Reveals the Largest Universe Simulation with 3.4 Billion Galaxies

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Flagship 2 Unveils the Most Detailed Cosmic Map Ever

Flagship 2 marks a major milestone in astrophysics, presenting the largest and most detailed simulation of the universe. Created by the Euclid Consortium in collaboration with the European Space Agency (ESA), this digital universe includes 3.4 billion galaxies and tracks the gravitational interactions of more than 4 trillion particles, giving scientists an unprecedented view of cosmic evolution.Flagship 2

Flagship 2 Powered by Piz Daint Supercomputer

Flagship 2 was brought to life using Piz Daint, one of the world’s most powerful supercomputers, located in Switzerland. Developed using an advanced algorithm by astrophysicist Joachim Stadel from the University of Zurich, the simulation consumed over 80% of the supercomputer’s total capacity. This immense computational effort highlights the scale and complexity of replicating the universe digitally.

Helps Explore Dark Matter and Dark Energy

It plays a crucial role in supporting ESA’s Euclid space telescope mission, which studies the distribution of dark energy and dark matter across the cosmos. By modeling the formation and clustering of galaxies over 10 billion years, the simulation allows researchers to compare real observations with virtual predictions, improving our understanding of the universe’s hidden forces.Flagship 2

Flagship 2 Offers Insight into Galactic Structures

Each of the 3.4 billion galaxies is represented with hundreds of properties, including brightness, velocity, position, and shape. This level of detail enables scientists to analyze the large-scale structure of the universe and understand how galaxies form, interact, and evolve over time. Also Read: Apple 17 Air Launch: 5 Stunning Features That Redefine the iPhone Experience

Flagship 2 Prepares Scientists for Future Discoveries

Flagship 2 serves as a testing ground for algorithms and data analysis tools used in the Euclid mission. As new observational data arrives, the simulation helps scientists process massive datasets efficiently, ensuring accurate interpretations and facilitating future breakthroughs in cosmic research.Astronomers have spotted the largest known object in the universe | New  Scientist

Conclusion

Flagship 2 stands as a remarkable achievement in cosmic simulation, offering scientists a detailed virtual universe to study. This milestone brings humanity closer to understanding dark matter, dark energy, and the large-scale structure of the cosmos.