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.
Bengaluru: The Karnataka government on Wednesday unveiled a draft policy designed to address the growing concerns around excessive and unsafe digital technology use among students, with a strong focus on mental health, cyber safety, and responsible digital behaviour through a structured school-based framework. Releasing the gist of the draft policy, state Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao noted that the public is aware of the negative effects of mobile phones on health and education, citing links to anxiety, cyber-bullying, sleeplessness and social isolation. "You also must be noticing family members converse less with each other due to mobile phones. They are disturbing our social structure. We have learnt its usage and not the negative effect it has on people, including digital addiction and its effect on our mind," Rao told reporters.The Minister said the policy stresses the need to train parents and teachers to minimise the use of mobile phones among children.The draft policy, prepared by the Department of Health and Family Welfare in collaboration with National Institute of Mental Health and Neurological Sciences (NIMHANS) and other stakeholders, highlights the increasing prevalence of problematic internet use among adolescents and its adverse impact on their well-being, including anxiety, sleep disturbances, poor academic performance, and social isolation."With nearly one in four adolescents showing signs of problematic internet use, the policy recognises the rising burden of mental health issues such as anxiety, sleep disturbances, poor academic performance, and social isolation linked to excessive screen time," the document notes.According to the policy framework, the core aim is to promote digital well-being, emotional resilience, and responsible use of technology among students by integrating digital literacy, mental health awareness, and cyber safety into the education system. It adopts a preventive approach with early identification and management strategies, involving schools, teachers, parents, students, and government systems.Key directives proposed include issuing state-level guidelines to schools, implementing teacher training programmes for healthy technology use, and strengthening school communication with parents. The policy also mandates curriculum integration, where digital wellness will be embedded into life skills and ICT education, covering social media literacy, ethical technology use, and cyber safety.The draft further proposes that each school formulate its own digital use policy, including defining screen-time norms, capped at one hour per day for recreational use, addressing cyber misconduct, and ensuring access to counselling support.Teachers will be trained to identify early warning signs of digital distress and refer students to appropriate mental health services through structured mechanisms.In addition, Digital Wellness Committees will be set up at the school level to oversee implementation, awareness initiatives, and incident management. Regular sensitisation programmes for students, teachers, and parents have also been emphasised.The policy underscores the importance of promoting offline activities such as physical exercise, hobbies, and designated "tech-free" periods to ensure balanced development among students. Monitoring systems will also be established to track digital distress and provide access to support services, including Tele-MANAS.A structured Training of Trainers (ToT) model under a 'digital detox' framework will equip teachers to understand technology addiction using the 5C model-Craving, Control, Compulsion, Coping, and Consequences-and implement classroom and peer-led interventions.Recognising parents as key stakeholders, the policy encourages them to enforce screen-time rules, create device-free zones at home, and model responsible digital behaviour. Schools will facilitate this through regular engagement and guidance sessions.The policy outlines clear roles and responsibilities for all stakeholders, with students expected to practise responsible digital behaviour, teachers to monitor well-being and integrate digital wellness, parents to supervise usage, schools to implement support systems, and the government to provide oversight and resources.Expected outcomes of the policy include improved digital literacy, reduction in technology addiction and related mental health issues, early detection and intervention, stronger school-parent collaboration, and the creation of safer digital environments in schools.The document concludes that the policy represents a proactive and scalable approach to managing digital risks among students by combining education, mental health, and cyber safety within a unified framework aimed at nurturing a balanced and resilient generation.
NEW DELHI: Axiom-4 crew members, including Shubhanshu Shukla, were welcomed with hugs and drinks as they stepped into the International Space Station on Thursday. The newly launched spacecraft -- the fifth in the Dragon series and named Grace -- successfully completed a soft docking with the International Space Station at 4.01pm while orbiting above the North Atlantic Ocean."At 6:31 am EDT (4:01 IST) on Thursday, the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft docked to the International Space Station for the fourth private astronaut mission to the orbiting laboratory, Axiom Mission 4," the National Aeronautics ...Read More >
Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], June 27 (ANI): A female student was allegedly gang-raped inside a law college in Kolkata's Kasba on Wednesday evening. The police have arrested all three accused within 24 hours. The three accused, named as Monojit Mishra (31), Zaib Ahmed (19), and Pramit Mukhopadhyay (20), were former students or staff members of the same law college. Also Read | Student Gang-Raped at South Kolkata Law College: Police Arrest 3 Youths for Sexually Assaulting Young Woman Inside Law College. According to the police, the accused named in the FIR will be produced before the A.C.J. ...Read More >
Thiruvananthapuram, Jun 27 (PTI) Zumba dance, a high-energy fitness programme introduced in schools in Kerala by the General Education Department as part of its anti-drug campaign, is facing opposition from certain Muslim groups who argue that it goes against moral values. The programme was introduced in schools following a directive from Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, who stated that the dance -- which combines dance and aerobic movements performed to lively music -- would help reduce stress among schoolchildren and, in turn, counter the menace of drug abuse among young people. From this ...Read More >
Agartala (Tripura) [India], June 29 (ANI): Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha on Saturday said that people need to be made more aware of combating cybercrime and that criminal activities should be prevented using the internet. 'Cybercrime is in such a place that it is like fighting with shadows. For this, there is a need to be more technically skilled. Along with this, people need to be more aware and alert about cybercrime. The police system should be further developed and strengthened in line with crime. And the reputation of Tripura Police should be kept intact,' he said. Chief Ministe ...Read More >
Madhya Pradesh Director General of Police (DGP) Kailash Makwana said on Sunday (June 29, 2025) that the police force alone cannot curb rape incidents while claiming that various other factors, like pornography, internet and alcohol, are causing a decline in morality in society, leading to an increase in cases of sexual assault. Mr. Makwana made the remarks after holding a review meeting for Simhastha Kumbh Mela, slated to be held in 2028, with top officers in Ujjain. He went on to claim that earlier children used to listen to parents and teachers, and "vulgarity is now being served on the int ...Read More >
Winter pollution is increasingly harmful, posing serious physical and mental health risks. As air quality deteriorates, cities, particularly the capital, face heightened pollution levels, leading to stress and health complications. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is on the rise, especially among the young, while adults are experiencing worsened existing conditions. To combat the effects of pollution, it's essential to adopt mindful practices, stay hydrated, follow a skincare routine, keep indoor plants, and maintain regular exercise. These steps can improve well-being, reduce stress, and enh ...Read More >
CoinEx Charity's Starlink Program, under its "Bridge to Hope" initiative, has launched its first Starlink unit in the Philippines, aiming to bring high-speed satellite internet to remote areas. The first deployment in EB Magalona, Negros Occidental, enhances access to education, economic opportunities, and essential services. Mayor Marvin Malacon highlighted plans for educational seminars on blockchain and cryptocurrency. CoinEx Charity, established in 2022, focuses on global charitable efforts, while CoinEx, a leading crypto exchange, offers user-friendly trading services to over 10 million u ...Read More >
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has charged five individuals, including goldy Brar, in relation to the 2024 Gurugram club bombing plot, as revealed in a recently filed chargesheet. This case involves a conspiracy to bomb two clubs, aiming to disrupt communal harmony in Haryana, with the banned terrorist group Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) implicated. The NIA's investigation highlights the severity of the plot. Those charged include satinderjit Singh (Goldy Brar), Sachin Talian, Ankit, Bhavish, and Randeep Singh. News Directory 3 provides crucial updates on sensitive cases such ...Read More >
Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], July 2 (ANI): Building on the momentum towards the India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2025, Asia's largest digital technology forum scheduled to be held in October this year, IMC on Tuesday organised a roadshow in Bengaluru, a release said. Organised by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI), IMC 2025 has put a major focus on Bengaluru as a critical launchpad, reflecting the city's thriving startup ecosystem and leadership in deep-tech advancement. Also Read | Nothing Phone 3 Price, Specifications and Features ...Read More >
Jaipur: Police in Didwana have stepped up their probe into a cross-border smuggling case in which they arrested two arms and drug smugglers on June 27 for supplying Austrian Glock and Chinese Norinco pistols. It has emerged that the case has links to a massive Rs 300-crore heroin consignment seized by Punjab's Amritsar police near the India-Pakistan border in Barmer on June 30. Canada-based Joben Kaler was identified as the main overseas handler of the heroin consignment. Didwana-Kuchaman police had arrested Mohammad Ilyas from Khunkhuna and Amarjeet Singh Takhar, alias Prince, from Jalandhar ...Read More >
Vastu Housing has raised $100 million from the global consumer internet group Prosus. The Amsterdam-based investor has acquired an 8.4% stake (7.8% fully diluted) in the home finance company. Vastu Housing Finance is a prominent player in the affordable housing finance sector, focusing on underserved communities. In September, Vastu received a $50 million loan from the United States International Development Finance Corporation (USDFC). Housing finance companies have attracted significant funding in recent months. Recently, Easy Home Finance raised $35 million in a fresh funding round led by ...Read More >
New Delhi, June 27 (SocialNews.XYZ) Showcasing resilient economy amid robust policies, the collective brand value of the top 100 Indian companies reached $236.5 billion in 2025 to date, according to a new report. The 'Brand Finance India 100 2025' ranking results remain stable, reflecting a year of steady gains for major Indian brands across sectors. Tata Group has once again secured its position as India's most valuable brand ranked by becoming the first Indian brand to cross the $30 billion threshold. Its brand value is up 10 per cent to $31.6 billion. As the second most valuable Indian b ...Read More >
Srinagar- Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on Saturday said foreign countries were told clearly during the post-Operation Sindoor diplomatic outreach that in case of a fresh provocation, India would repeat its action. Speaking at a discussion at the Ahmedabad Management Association, Tharoor said Indian delegations which visited foreign countries in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor managed to convey that India acted with restraint and responsibility. "In other places, we actually were able to get some very high-placed people to say not only that they respected and supported India's right of self- ...Read More >
India will observe National Doctor's Day on July 1. The day acknowledges doctors' dedication. The 2025 theme is 'Behind the Mask: Who Heals the Healers?'. It highlights the mental health of doctors. The day commemorates Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy. He was a physician and former Chief Minister of West Bengal. Events will include ceremonies and campaigns. India marks National Doctor's Day on July 1 every year to recognise the tireless service, dedication, and compassion of the country's medical profess ...Read More >
Morbi pretium leo et nisl aliquam mollis. Quisque arcu lorem, ultricies quis pellentesque nec, ullamcorper eu odio. Trump and Musk's most "hot" alliance, the breakup is also the most "hot" and spectacular: on Thursday, the two were almost completely torn apart in a live broadcast similar to a reality show. Musk called him "ungrateful" and Trump described him as "crazy". As soon as the news came out, it immediately caused a sharp drop in the stock and crypto markets. ETHRANSACTION reminds cryptocurrency holders to convert their cryptocurrencies into investment plans as soon as possible (to av ...Read More >
Srinagar, Jun 7 (PTI) Authorities on Saturday barred Eid prayers from taking place at the Eidgah ground and the Jama Masjid in the old city here, while Hurriyat Conference chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq claimed that he was put under house arrest. "Anjuman Auqaf Jama Masjid Srinagar deeply regrets to inform that the authorities have once again disallowed Eid-ul-Adha prayers at the Eidgah as well as at the historic Jama Masjid in Srinagar by closing the gates of the mosque and deploying police personnel outside," the management of the historic mosque said in a statement. ...Read More >
Bhubaneswar: Revenue minister Suresh Pujari on Saturday said Odisha would not be allowed to follow the lawless path in sand operations like it is in Bihar and West Bengal, while responding to the recent assault of an additional tehsildar in Kaptipada block, Mayurbhanj district, by the sand mafia. He promised stringent action against the sand mafia regardless of their connections, while speaking to mediapersons here on Saturday."The Kaptipada incident represents a serious escalation in conflict between law enforcement and the sand mafia. The attack on officers performing their enforcement dutie ...Read More >
Imphal (Manipur) [India], June 8 (ANI): The Manipur government has ordered the suspension internet and mobile data services including VSAT and VPN services in five districts for five days with effect from 11:45 P.M. of June 7. The five districts are Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Kakching & Bishnupur. "In view of the prevailing law and order situation in the State of Manipur especially in Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Kakching & Bishnupur districts districts of Manipur, there is apprehension that some anti-social elements might use social media extensively for transmission serious of ...Read More >
Mumbai: Uddhav and Raj Thackeray will hold a joint protest march of their parties in the city on July 5 against what they allege is imposition of Hindi in the state's schools from Class 1 through the new three-language policy. This will be the first time they will come together on a political platform after Raj Thackeray's decision to quit Shiv Sena to form MNS nearly two decades ago.There has been speculation of a reunion of the estranged cousins for the coming civic polls, and the protest march is being seen as the first step in that direction, reports Chaitanya Marpakwar.Uddhav and Raj had ...Read More >
VIJAYAWADA: The State government on Friday accorded approvals to a slew of industries. Among those are Krishnapatnam Power Corporation Limited (KPCL), which is set to establish a 350 MW Solar and Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in Thamminapatnam and Mommidi villages of SPSR Nellore district with a Rs 1,225 crore investment, creating 575 jobs. Furthermore, the government also waived off a Rs 54 crore extension of time fee, contingent on project completion within two years as per the Andhra Pradesh Integrated Clean Energy Policy-2024. The government also allocated 22.80 acres at MPSEZ in N ...Read More >
Mumbai, Dec 18 (PTI) Jobs and talent platform and a Quess company, foundit, on Wednesday announced the appointment of V Suresh as its Chief Executive Officer. With over two decades of experience in the internet domain, digital transformation, and the e-recruitment ecosystem, Suresh brings a wealth of strategic expertise and a forward-looking vision to foundit (formerly Monster APAC and ME), the company said in a statement. "Suresh's deep understanding of the digital talent ecosystem and proven ability to scale businesses will help us strengthen our leadership position in the market. Under hi ...Read More >
Srinagar, Jan 31: Online gambling has become a growing menace in Kashmir, driving several families into severe financial distress and emotional turmoil. The easy accessibility of online betting platforms has lured many, particularly youth, with the illusion of quick financial gains. However, this often results in heavy monetary losses, debt and psychological suffering. According to details obtained by the news agency -- Kashmir News Observer (KNO), a youth from south Kashmir initially won Rs 10,000 in online betting within a few days. Encouraged by this, he borrowed lakhs of rupees from neigh ...Read More >
Imphal: The Manipur government has ordered the suspension of internet and mobile data services, including VSAT and VPN, in the territorial jurisdiction of five valley districts for five days with effect from 11.45 pm on Saturday, an official statement said. The districts include Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Bishnupur and Kakching. The order followed widespread protests in Imphal East and Imphal West districts on Saturday night after the arrest of a leader of the Meitei outfit Arambai Tenggol. The protesters torched tyres and old furniture in the middle of the road in Kwakeithel and Urip ...Read More >
Kochi (Kerala) [India], June 26 (ANI): As part of the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, the Commissionerate of Customs (Preventive), Kochi, has conducted an awareness campaign for school children under 'Mission Drug Free India'. Shaikh Khader Rahaman, Chief Commissioner, Central Tax, Central Excise and Customs, Thiruvananthapuram Zone, inaugurated the function, and T Tiju, Commissioner, CCP,Kochi, conducted an Awareness Session for the students at the Govt. Higher Secondary School for Girls, Ernakulam. Also Read | Will You Lose Your EPFO Pension From August If You ...Read More >
Gurgaon: Two days after a law student died and his friend suffered critical injuries when a car knocked them down as they stood near railing on the service lane of Delhi-Jaipur highway in the early hours of Tuesday, a civil engineer was arrested on Thursday.Mohit (31), an employee of a private company in the city, told police that he got drowsy while driving. He is staying at a PG facility in Sector 14.The student who died, Harsh Singhal (25), was a resident of Om Nagar colony. His friend Abhishek Kumar (23), who is from Shanti Nagar in Sector 11, is undergoing treatment at a private hospital ...Read More >
Hyderabad - Synchrony is a leading consumer financial services company providing customers with innovative savings and premium credit solutions. Synchrony has been ranked #2 among India's Best Companies to Work For™ 2025 by Great Place to Work®, the global authority on workplace culture. This prestigious recognition, revealed at the awards ceremony on June 25, 2025, solidifies Synchrony's standing as a top employer of choice in India, underscoring its ongoing commitment to creating a high-trust, high-performance workplace culture that champions innovation, flexibility, and employee well-being. ...Read More >
Mumbai: Shefali Jariwala, India's pop sensation who rose to fame with her electrifying performance in the music video Kaanta Laga, died at the age of 42. According to media reports, her husband and actor Parag Tyagi, rushed her to the hospital on the intervening night of June 27 and 28. However, by the time they arrived, the actress had already passed away, and doctors were unable to revive her. Doctors confirmed that Shefali Jariwala suffered a sudden cardiac arrest, though they have not released any specific details at this time. Her untimely demise has come as a big shock to the entertain ...Read More >
Vijayawada: Tripura Governor Nallu Indrasena Reddy stressed the importance of mental health as essential to the nation's progress while inaugurating the M.Phil Clinical Psychology and Professional Diploma in Clinical Psychology (PDCP) courses at Indlas Hospitals here on Monday. Speaking at the event, Indrasena Reddy stated that the vision of a Viksita Bharat (Developed India) is incomplete without ensuring the mental well-being of its citizens. Along with medical and health minister Y Satya Kumar Yadav, he handed over admission letters to students of the newly-launched courses. He also point ...Read More >
Have a calm conversation with your parents, expressing your feelings for your boyfriend while being open about the current situation between the two of you. Sometimes, parents worry because they don't know the full picture, says rediffGURU Kanchan Rai. You can post your questions to rediffGURU Kanchan Rai HERE. Illustration: Dominic Xavier/Rediff.com Are your parents worried about your marriage? What do you do when your parents disapprove of your relationship? Is it normal to have feelings for someone else while you are in a committed relationship? How to handle your emotions when you f ...Read More >
Bengaluru: Ex-Karnataka Chief Minister and former External Affairs Minister SM Krishna died here early on Tuesday, leaving behind a rich legacy of statesmanship and public service that saw the 92-year-old leader scale all heights of political achievements. Suave, sophisticated and a man with enviable academic credentials, Somanahalli Mallaiah Krishna started off his political innings as an independent MLA from Maddur in 1962, stunning a then Congress veteran in the elections, and went on to become the state's CM and later the country's External Affairs Minister. Tributes poured in for the fo ...Read More >