Is India Winning the War Against Rising Non-Communicable Diseases? The latest health statistics paint a concerning picture: diabetes, heart disease, and cancer rates are climbing, impacting millions across the country. From rural healthcare access to the burgeoning urban health crisis, challenges remain significant. This week, we delve into the crucial initiatives underway – government policies, technological advancements in telemedicine, and the rising role of preventative healthcare – that aim to address this national health emergency. Experts weigh in on the effectiveness of current strategies and the critical need for increased public awareness campaigns targeting lifestyle diseases. Are these efforts enough? Explore Abtak.com's in-depth coverage on healthcare in India and discover the vital information you need to protect your well-being and the future of public health. Stay informed; stay healthy.
New Delhi, Dec 18 (PTI) Vegetarians consuming plant-based alternatives to meat -- suggested as one of the means to lower the environmental impact of meat consumption -- could have a 42 per cent increased risk of depression compared to vegetarians who refrain from them, according to a study. Published in the journal Food Frontiers, the study also found higher blood pressure and inflammation levels, along with lower levels of 'good' cholesterol (HDL), in vegetarians who ate plant-based meat alternatives. Researchers at the University of Surrey, UK, analysed data from over 3,300 vegetarians in the UK Biobank -- about half were consumers of plant-based meat alternatives, and half were non-consumers. Made using plant-based proteins such as soy, plant-based meat alternatives (PBMA) are considered a potential solution for sustainability, as fewer natural resources such as water, land and energy are required to produce them compared to animal meat. However, these meat alternatives are also considered 'ultra-processed foods,' as chemicals are often added to make them taste like meat. The researchers noted that while consuming plant-based meat alternatives was not linked with clear health benefits, more studies are needed to investigate concerns related to inflammation, which may arise from eating these products. "In conclusion, while no clear health risks or benefits were associated with PBMA consumption in vegetarians, the higher risk of depression, elevated CRP (C-reactive proteins), and lower apolipoprotein A levels (HDL cholesterol) in consumers of PBMA suggest potential inflammatory concerns that warrant further investigation," the authors wrote. Co-author Anthony Whetton, a professor of translational biosystems at the University of Surrey, said, "Ultra-processed plant-based meat alternatives can be a useful way for people to transition to a vegetarian diet effectively, which helps with sustainable agricultural practices." "Further research, including longitudinal studies and trials with more diverse populations, is necessary to confirm these findings and the relationship between vegetarian foods and mood," Whetton added. In the study group, the researchers found no notable differences in the intake of sodium, free sugars, total sugars, or saturated fatty acids between vegetarians who ate plant-based meat alternatives and those who did not. The team also found that consuming plant-based meat alternatives was linked to a 40% lower risk of irritable bowel syndrome. "The overall findings are reassuring, suggesting that plant-based meat alternatives may be a safe option when they are part of an overall balanced diet. However, the potential link between these foods, inflammation, and depression warrants further investigation," said senior author Nophar Geifman, a professor of health and biomedical informatics at the University of Surrey. PTI KRS ARD ARD
New Delhi [India], July 8 (ANI): The cost of home-cooked meals eased in June as compared to the same month last year, driven by a sharp correction in vegetable prices, according to the Crisil Intelligence report. In the monthly report titled 'Roti Rice Rate', the average cost of a vegetarian thali (Plate) declined by 8 per cent year-on-year (YoY), while the cost of a non-vegetarian thali was down nearly 6 per cent. The decline in vegetarian thali prices was primarily attributed to a significant drop in key vegetable prices, which had spiked the previous year due to adverse weather and crop d ...Read More >
Hyderabad: Overdependence on white rice, refined grains and added sugars is fuelling a surge in diabetes and obesity among Indians, according to an ICMR-INDIAB survey. Telangana reflects the same dietary risks as the rest of the country. The study, published in Nature Medicine, found that more than 62 per cent of daily calories in Indian diets come from low-quality carbohydrates, while protein intake remains low and saturated fat consumption exceeds recommended levels in most states. In Telangana, high reliance on refined cereals and inadequate protein has been linked to an elevated risk of t ...Read More >
New Delhi [India], September 29: This Diwali, OyeGifts, a leading name in the gifting industry, brings to you exceptional express Diwali hampers that are truly a celebration of tradition and that of thoughtful gifting. The inclusion of fresh flowers amidst gifts for the season of lights, is a careful blend of convention with that of modern elegance for the matter. The brand's new collection of Gift Hampers for the upcoming festival is to present an assortment of traditional sweets, colourful flow ...Read More >
Minister Jitendra Singh emphasized the importance of public understanding and participation in India's biotechnology mission, highlighting the goal of achieving a $300 billion bioeconomy by 2030. He noted the significant growth of India's biotechnology ecosystem, driven by supportive policies and partnerships.Science and Technology Minister Jitendra Singh Monday called for a wider public understanding and inclusive participation in India's biotechnology mission, stating that every Indian is a sta ...Read More >
NEW DELHI, SEPT 27: India's food processing sector received strong support from global and domestic investors as the World Food India 2025 summit, organized by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI), surpassed ₹1 lakh crore in Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) by the end of Day 2. The event, held at Bharat Mandapam, reinforced India's image as a place ready for investment. It featured numerous deals and discussions on technology, sustainability, and international trade. Investment Surge The Ministry of Food Processing Industries announced that on Day 2 alone, twenty-one compan ...Read More >
This is a Mint Premium article gifted to you. Subscribe to enjoy similar stories. New Delhi: The debate on laboratory-grown meat, dairy, and egg products may soon be settled, with the issue reaching India's apex food regulator, three people aware of the development said. The development comes in the backdrop of concerns about public health, food security and ecological sustainability. While the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has put in place a regulatory framework for plant-based protein products, manufacturers and sellers of fermentation-derived and cultivated protein ...Read More >
Ranchi: On the occasion of World Environment Day on Thursday, chief minister Hemant Soren appealed to the people of Jharkhand to put a stop to plastic usage. He emphasised the urgent need for collective action from all quarters to promote a sustainable and environment-friendly approach.Addressing the public during environment day programme besides inaugurating the Siromtoli flyover, the CM said that rampant plastic usage was a pressing concern, and efforts were being made to put an end to it. He appealed for a shift towards alternative options to plastic."The time has come to change our habits ...Read More >
New Delhi: Delhi govt has prepared a plan under which Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) bus drivers and conductors will receive regular training, with a focus on ethical values, customer service and safe driving, transport minister Pankaj Singh said on Friday. The move is for improving the public image of DTC buses.The minister mentioned that DTC bus drivers who fail to halt at designated stops or are found speeding will face strict departmental action.Several commuters have complained about the behaviour of DTC bus drivers. There have alleged that the buses often fail to stop at the designate ...Read More >
Kochi (Kerala), September 12 (ANI): Himachal Pradesh is steadily emerging as a model for mountain urbanisation, with development efforts focused on sustainability and climate resilience, PWD and Urban Development Minister Vikramaditya Singh said on Friday. Addressing the Conclave on 'Sustainable Urbanisation and Climate-Resilient Development, ' Singh said that Himachal, being one of the most ecologically sensitive regions, requires a distinct model of urban growth that balances development with environmental conservation. According to the official statement, the Minister stated that Himachal ...Read More >
Kochi (Kerala), September 12 (ANI): Himachal Pradesh is steadily emerging as a model for mountain urbanisation, with development efforts focused on sustainability and climate resilience, PWD and Urban Development Minister Vikramaditya Singh said on Friday. Addressing the Conclave on 'Sustainable Urbanisation and Climate-Resilient Development, ' Singh said that Himachal, being one of the most ecologically sensitive regions, requires a distinct model of urban growth that balances development with environmental conservation. Also Read | PM Narendra Modi Launches Gyan Bharatam Portal, Says 'Need ...Read More >
Bangalore Gold Rate Today: Shattering all hopes of retail jewellery buyers of some relief amid the ongoing Navratri festival, gold rates in Bangalore, and other Indian cities broke another record on Monday, September 29. The price of gold in Bangalore, aka Bengaluru, witnessed a sharp surge bringing 24 karat gold Rs 16,000 above the historic Rs 1 lakh mark. The gold price rally in Karnataka capital mirrored the surge in gold rate in India and across the world. The sharp rally in precious metal is on its path to beat the record-rally of 1979. Multiple factors like US Fed rate cut, trade becau ...Read More >
RIYADH: Indian companies and business groups are stepping up efforts to tap into Saudi Arabia's growing petrochemical sector, with a focus on refining complexes, technology partnerships, and joint ventures, according to an official at the Indian Embassy in Riyadh. The move underscores the expanding economic cooperation between the two nations, with chemicals and petrochemicals forming a key pillar of bilateral trade. The partnership was further reinforced during a recent high-level meeting aimed at boosting investment and technological exchange, Al-Eqtisadiah reported. Saudi Arabia's emergen ...Read More >
NEW DELHI: Former head of Air India and chairman of the Railway Board Ashwani Lohani is the new Prime Ministers Museum and Library (PMML) director. The official order for his appointment was issued on Wednesday. A 1980-batch officer of the Indian Railway Service of Mechanical Engineering (IRSME), Lohani is known for turning around various organisations during his illustrious career. Following his retirement from IRSME service, he joined the GMR Group as the CEO. According to the order dated June 4, his appointment to the post of director, Prime Ministers Museum and Library in the rank and pa ...Read More >
New Delhi: Alleging "blatant misuse" of agencies to defame its leaders, AAP on Thursday questioned why the first information report filed against former Delhi ministers Saurabh Bharadwaj and Satyendar Jain was being kept under wraps and "selective" press notes were being leaked to the media.Bharadwaj, who is Delhi AAP convener, alleged that only two former ministers were named in the case without any reasonable cause while all the officers of the health and public works departments, who were actually responsible for executing the hospital projects, were spared. "Is the FIR so baseless that BJP ...Read More >
The coal ministry is set to launch a second round of viability gap funding (VGF) of approximately Rs 2400 crore for coal gasification projects. They are also collaborating with the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG) to facilitate the sale of byproducts like methanol and green hydrogen. The ministry of coal will shortly roll out the second tranche of viability gap funding (VGF) of around Rs 2400 crore for coal gasification projects and is also in talks with the ministry of petroleum an ...Read More >
Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], September 26 (ANI): The Ministry of Coal on Friday successfully organised the 2nd roadshow on Coal Gasification - Surface and Underground Technologies in collaboration with FICCI in New Delhi. Building upon the success of the first edition held in Mumbai, the event focused on promoting India's cleaner and more sustainable coal utilisation technologies, according to a release from the Ministry of Coal. Rupinder Brar, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Coal and Sanoj Kumar Jha, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Coal, along with senior officials of the ministry, key ...Read More >
Dehradun (Uttarakhand) [India], October 17 (ANI): The Ministry of Mines, Government of India, released the State Mining Readiness Index (SMRI) on Thursday, in which Uttarakhand has secured a leading position in the 'C' category. This achievement reflects the continuous efforts of the state government towards transparency, efficiency, sustainable development, and technological advancement in the mining sector. Prepared in line with the announcement made in the Union Budget 2025-26, this index evaluates various states on multiple parameters, including mining reforms, policy transparency, enviro ...Read More >
New Delhi, Oct 17 (SocialNews.XYZ) Food safety is a shared responsibility and must be formed with public awareness, said government officials, while also stressing the need to tackle food myths and promote food literacy. At an event held in the national capital on World Food Day 2025, policymakers, industry leaders, food scientists, and academia addressed the urgent need for science-backed food education in an era dominated by conflicting narratives and digital misinformation. "Food safety is a shared responsibility that extends beyond regulatory frameworks to public awareness. We welcome in ...Read More >
STL Digital, an IT Services and Consulting Company (a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sterlite Technologies), announced the successful deployment of RISE with SAP S/4HANA Cloud for eight Vedanta companies (Hindustan Zinc, Sterlite Copper, Cairn Oil & Gas, Sesa Goa Iron Ore, Vedanta Aluminium, Vedanta Zinc International, ESL Steel, Vedanta Corporate), globally. Vedanta, a globally diversified natural resources, energy, and technology conglomerate, prioritizes operational excellence, timely execution o ...Read More >
Haridwar: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Sakshi Maharaj on Sunday demanded that hotel, dhaba and eatery owners on the Kanwar Yatra routes should display their names and identities on boards outside their business establishments. The owners, who hide their identities under fake names, on the Kanwar Yatra routes should not be spared, he told reporters here. "Tampering with faith of the Hindu devotees during the Kanwar Yatra will not be tolerated," said the Unnao MP. The food shops on the Kanwar Yatra routes should have a board outside with the names of their owners clearly written on them, h ...Read More >
Gandhinagar: In households in Gujarat's cities, cereals may take up less space in the grocery bill, but they still dominate the dinner plate. A new Union govt report shows that cereals, while accounting for just 3.8% of household spending, supply 35% of total calorie intake in cities. In villages, their role is even more dominant, making up 43% of calorie consumption while accounting for 4.5% of total spending.Cereals also account for a major portion of protein intake for people in Gujarat.These insights come from the Centre's latest "Nutritional Intake in India" report, which tracks food patt ...Read More >
PRNewswire Thane (Maharashtra) [India], September 13: Fermenta Biotech Limited (BSE: 506414) (Bloomberg: FERMENTA:IN) (Reuters: FERM.BO), India's leading manufacturer of premium-grade APIs, intermediates, and nutritional premixes for global markets, today announced that the Indian Patent Office has formally granted a patent for its invention of a plant-based Vitamin D3. - Indian Patent granted for proprietary Plant-Based Vitamin D3 manufacturing process created in-house by Fermenta's R&D - Strengthens Fermenta's IP portfolio and leadership in sustainable Vitamin D3 solutions - Reinforces F ...Read More >
62% calories comes from carbs, added sugar intake higher than recommended India's rapidly changing eating habits are fueling an alarming spike in diabetes and obesity with at least 21 states and UTs exceeding the national recommendations of less than 5%E (total energy) for added sugar intake while overall protein intake was suboptimal averaging 12% of the daily calories, according to the findings of the survey as part of the study by Indian Council of Medical Research-India Diabetes (ICMR-INDIAB ...Read More >
Guwahati, November 27 (IANS): Union Tourism and Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat on Wednesday underscored the northeastern region's legacy, cultural diversity, and natural wealth emphasising its rich cuisine, crafts and biodiversity while inaugurating the 12th edition of the four-day long International Tourism Mart (ITM) in Assam's Kaziranga. Speaking on the occasion, the Union Minister said that the ITM is a remarkable opportunity for the northeast India to showcase its rich culture and diversity to the world, adding that the event also offers a platform for people from across the g ...Read More >
Mumbai, July 15 (SocialNews.XYZ) Kolkata-based Himadri Speciality Chemical Limited on Tuesday reported a year-on-year (YoY) revenue decline of 6.84 per cent, with total revenue falling to Rs 1,118.29 crore in Q1 FY26 from Rs 1,200.41 crore in Q1 FY25. On a quarter-on-quarter (QoQ) basis too, revenue slipped by around 1.44 per cent, compared to Rs 1,134.64 crore in Q4 FY25, according to its stock exchange filing. Additionally, Anurag Choudhary-led company's total income followed suit and declined by approximately 5.61 per cent YoY to Rs 1,144.97 crore, compared to Rs 1,213.05 crore in a year- ...Read More >
NewsVoir Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], September 29: As India observes World Heart Day, the conversation around cardiovascular health has once again turned to prevention, timely treatment, and most importantly, access to affordable medicines for everyone. Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in India at 28.1%, with more than half a billion people affected by a heart ailment. While treatment protocols have advanced, the cost of long-term medication continues to be a burden for many families. More so if one takes into account the fact that almost half of them cannot afford the medica ...Read More >
New Delhi [India], December 3 (ANI): The Delhi High Court has issued a notice in response to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) challenging the alleged unlawful construction of Urban Extension Road II through the village pond land in Goyla Khurd, located in the Southwest District of Delhi. The construction, which took place between 2018 and 2024, is visible in Google satellite images and raises concerns about the loss of natural resources crucial for environmental sustainability, especially as the city grapples with pollution, heatwaves, groundwater depletion, and climate change, plea stated ...Read More >
People from Indigenous communities do not show the same link between chronic inflammation and age-related illness seen in industrialised societies, a study that looked at nearly 3,000 adults in four countries has found. Inflammation is an important part of the immune system's response to infection -- but long-term inflammation can cause damage. The latest findings, published in Nature Aging on 30 June, show that chronic inflammation -- which has been long considered a hallmark of aging -- could ...Read More >
Dibrugarh: In one of the largest anti-encroachment drives in recent years, the Lakhimpur district administration on Thursday demolished 218 illegal homes and cleared 288 bighas of encroached land across three Village Grazing Reserves (VGRs).The eviction drive, which was conducted under the supervision of district commissioner (DC) Pronab Jit Kakoty and senior superintendent of police (SSP) Gunendra Deka, saw a massive deployment of police and paramilitary forces, along with 12 excavators, at Phukanarhat, Debera Doloni and Christian VGR areas."The drive was conducted peacefully and no untoward ...Read More >
Mumbai, Jul 18 (PTI) A three-storey chawl collapsed in the western suburb of Bandra here in the early hours of Friday, with at least 10 people feared trapped in the debris, civic officials said. As many as seven people have been rescued from the debris so far and admitted to the civic-run Bhabha Hospital, they said. According to preliminary information, chawl number 37 in the Bharat Nagar area of Bandra East collapsed around 5.56 am. Eight fire engines are at the spot along with teams from the Mumbai police and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's local ward machinery, an official from ...Read More >