Category Archives: Health

Health, National

COVID-19 Precautions Tighten as India Sees Rise in Cases; RT-PCR Now Mandatory for PM Meetings

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, June 11, 2025, Delhi : The national concern over the resurgence of COVID-19 has deepened as the country witnesses an upward trend in infections. In the past 24 hours alone, 306 new cases have been reported across India, and six individuals have succumbed to the virus, according to the Union Health Ministry. In response, the central government has implemented a critical preventive measure: RT-PCR testing is now mandatory for all ministers and officials seeking an appointment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This directive takes effect immediately.


Sources indicate that the total number of active COVID-19 cases in India has exceeded 7,000 as of Wednesday. While no official reason has been provided for the new testing requirement, government officials confirm it is a proactive measure aimed at safeguarding high-level interactions amid rising concerns.

Among the states, Kerala remains the most affected, reporting 170 new infections in the last 24 hours, bringing its active case tally to 2,223. Gujarat follows with 114 new cases, increasing its active total to 1,223. Karnataka has added 100 new cases, now totaling 459 active cases. The national capital, Delhi, has recorded 66 new infections, pushing its active case count to 757. In terms of fatalities, Kerala has reported the highest number, while Karnataka and Maharashtra have reported two and one death, respectively.

Health experts warn that the arrival of the monsoon season may further accelerate the virus’s spread. The enhanced testing protocol has been introduced to curb transmission risks, especially in sensitive government environments. Meanwhile, the Health Ministry continues to advise citizens to adhere to safety protocols such as wearing masks, avoiding large gatherings, and staying up to date with vaccinations. Special caution is advised for senior citizens, individuals with comorbidities, and those previously infected with COVID-19.

The current trajectory of infections serves as a reminder that while the peak of the pandemic may have passed, the virus remains a persistent threat. With the Prime Minister himself enforcing precautionary testing measures, the message is clear: public vigilance and responsibility are more essential now than ever.
Health

Bengal Reports First COVID-19 Death of 2025 Amid Rise in Cases

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Baby Chakraborty | KalimNews | Kolkata | June 4, 2025  :  West Bengal on Tuesday reported its first COVID-19-related death of the year, marking a sombre development in the midst of a fresh rise in infections. A 43-year-old woman from Howrah, who had been undergoing treatment at a private hospital in south Kolkata, succumbed to complications late Monday night.

According to the state health department, the woman had tested positive for COVID-19 and was admitted to CMRI Hospital on May 28 after experiencing a two-week bout of fever and severe respiratory distress. Although she had no known prior medical conditions, tests revealed that her heart’s ejection fraction was critically low at just 20%, and she had rapidly declining kidney function. She was initially supported by BiPAP (bilevel positive airway pressure) but later required mechanical ventilation. Despite medical intervention, her condition deteriorated due to acute coronary syndrome, acute kidney injury, and septic shock—complications that ultimately proved fatal.

“She was in septic shock and her organs were failing rapidly. Though we attempted intensive intervention, her health condition deteriorated too quickly,” said the hospital’s unit medical head.

The woman was one of eight COVID-19 patients under treatment at the hospital, and the only one in the ICU. Her death was confirmed as a COVID-19 fatality by the state health department, making her one of five COVID-19 deaths reported nationally on Tuesday.

As of Tuesday, West Bengal recorded 41 new COVID-19 cases in the past 24 hours, raising the active caseload to 372. Most cases are currently concentrated in Kolkata. Eleven patients have recovered during this period, according to data from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

Health experts have cautioned that while the current wave is largely mild in nature, individuals with pre-existing health conditions remain at significant risk. “In any outbreak—be it influenza, adenovirus, or COVID-19—mortality can occur among vulnerable populations. That’s why it’s critical that such individuals take extra precautions,” said Dr. Bhaskar Narayan Chaudhuri, Chief Microbiologist at Peerless Hospital.

Peerless Hospital also confirmed three new COVID-19 positive cases on Tuesday, including a child. Dr. Arpan Chakraborty, a critical care specialist at Apollo Multispecialty Hospital, highlighted that patients with cardiac, renal, or respiratory issues were more likely to require ICU care if infected. “We currently have seven COVID-positive patients, one of whom—an 80-year-old man with heart disease—is in critical care,” he said.

Other city hospitals are also reporting similar trends. Manipal Hospital in Dhakuria has three patients, including one in the ICU. RN Tagore Hospital has reported two positive cases, and Fortis Hospital Anandapur is treating three, according to Chief Nursing Officer Doli Biswas.

The Union Health Ministry and the West Bengal Health Department have both issued advisories urging people not to panic but to stay alert. Citizens, especially those with comorbidities or flu-like symptoms, are being advised to wear masks in crowded places and undergo early testing in case of symptoms like cough, cold, or breathing difficulty.

While the new strain appears less lethal than earlier variants, experts are warning against complacency. “The virus may have weakened in terms of fatality, but we cannot ignore that vulnerable individuals remain at risk,” said infectious diseases specialist Dr. Sayan Chakraborty.

As Bengal records its first COVID-19 death of the year, public health officials are urging continued vigilance, timely testing, and adherence to safety measures to prevent further escalation.

Health

Rise in COVID-19 Cases Across India Sparks Concern, but Experts Urge Calm

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kolkata, June 2, 2025: Is the specter of the pandemic looming again? As COVID-19 cases begin to rise once more, concerns are growing across the country. The number of daily infections has jumped from around 2,000 to nearly 3,000, with the total number of active cases currently standing at 3,395, according to data released by the Ministry of Health.

The latest reports confirm 685 new infections and four deaths in the past 24 hours. Kerala has reported the highest number of active cases at 1,336, followed by Maharashtra with 467, Delhi with 375, Gujarat with 265, Karnataka with 234, and West Bengal with 205. Tamil Nadu has recorded 185 active cases, while Uttar Pradesh stands at 117.

Health authorities have identified two emerging variants as the source of the latest spike. However, medical experts emphasize that the situation remains under control and that there is no immediate cause for alarm. Most infected individuals are showing mild symptoms and recovering at home without the need for hospitalization.

While the increasing numbers have sparked memories of earlier waves, health officials continue to monitor the situation closely. Preventive guidelines and surveillance measures are being reinforced in the affected states to manage the spread and avoid further escalation.

Health

Five New COVID-19 Cases Reported in Kolkata; Medical Authorities Urge Preparedness Amid Rising Infections

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kolkata, May 30, 2025 : In a concerning development, five individuals in Kolkata have tested positive for COVID-19, with all cases identified at a private hospital in Alipore. The patients, who were admitted with symptoms such as cold, cough, fever, shortness of breath, and pneumonia, are receiving treatment in the hospital. One of the five patients is currently in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), according to hospital sources.

Medical professionals have expressed concerns about the rising number of cases and emphasized the importance of paying special attention to vulnerable groups, particularly the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions. While the situation is not as severe as previous outbreaks, healthcare experts stress the need for immediate preparation to manage potential escalations.

Doctors are calling for the stockpiling of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) kits and other essential medical supplies, to ensure that healthcare facilities are adequately equipped should the situation worsen. Despite the relatively low numbers compared to past waves, health officials urge the public to remain vigilant, as the risk of further spread remains.

As the number of cases gradually increases, both medical staff and local authorities are on high alert, working to ensure that all necessary precautions are in place to contain the virus and safeguard public health. The hospital in Alipore has also assured that all necessary safety protocols are being followed to prevent further transmission. 

Health, National

India’s Active Covid-19 Cases Rise to 1,009 Amid Detection of New Subvariants

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, New Delhi, May 26, 2025  :  India is witnessing a concerning increase in Covid-19 cases, with official data from the Union Health Ministry revealing that the number of active infections has risen to 1,009 as of Monday. Just a week earlier, on May 19, the active case count stood at 257. States such as Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra are currently reporting the highest numbers.

The Health Ministry has confirmed the recent identification of two new Covid-19 subvariants in India — NB.1.8.1 and LF.7. A case of NB.1.8.1 was recorded in Tamil Nadu in April, while four cases of LF.7 were detected in May. Both subvariants have been classified by the World Health Organization as Variants Under Monitoring (VUM), indicating that they are being observed but have not yet been categorized as either Variants of Concern or Variants of Interest.

Health experts suggest that these subvariants may be contributing to the current spike in Covid-19 cases across parts of Asia, particularly in countries like China, Singapore, and Hong Kong, where similar trends have been noted. In India, while there is a marked rise in infections, most of the affected individuals have exhibited only mild symptoms and have recovered at home.

To ensure ongoing vigilance, surveillance efforts are being intensified through the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) and the Indian Council of Medical Research’s (ICMR) Respiratory Virus Sentinel Surveillance Network. The Health Ministry has reiterated that the situation is under constant review at both the national and global levels.

According to the Ministry, although some countries including Singapore and Hong Kong have reported rising infections, their respective health authorities have indicated that the new subvariants are not more transmissible or severe than earlier strains.

While the overall nature of the infections remains mild, public health experts are urging citizens to remain cautious. They emphasize the continued importance of preventive practices such as frequent handwashing, wearing face masks, and avoiding crowded places to limit further spread.

Health

COVID-19 Cases Rise Again in India Amid Emergence of JN.1 Variant; Health Authorities Urge Caution

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, May 20, 2025,  New Delhi  :  The COVID-19 situation in India is once again drawing concern with a gradual rise in infections, primarily attributed to the newly emerging variant JN.1. Recent fatalities in Mumbai and a surge in cases in Kerala have prompted renewed alerts within the medical community and public health authorities.

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has confirmed two COVID-related deaths at Chem Hospital in Mumbai. Although doctors have clarified that both individuals suffered from pre-existing health conditions and co-morbidities, health experts have issued a general advisory for increased caution, particularly for vulnerable groups.

According to the latest data released by the Union Health Department, the number of active COVID-19 cases across the country stands at 257. Kerala has reported the highest number of new infections, with 69 fresh cases. Other states witnessing a rise include Maharashtra with 44 cases, Tamil Nadu with 34, Karnataka with 8, Gujarat with 6, and Delhi with 3. Haryana, Rajasthan, and Sikkim have each reported a single active case.

Health experts warn that the winter season typically sees a rise in viral infections, and the emergence of the JN.1 variant has added a new layer of challenge to the ongoing pandemic management efforts. While the overall numbers remain relatively low, the increase is being closely monitored to prevent further spread.

The Health Department has issued updated public health guidelines urging citizens to remain vigilant. People are advised to wear masks in crowded or enclosed spaces, consult medical professionals promptly in case of cold or fever symptoms, and take extra care of the elderly and individuals with underlying health conditions.

The overarching message from health officials remains consistent: stay alert, follow preventive measures, and avoid complacency. As the situation evolves, authorities emphasize that public cooperation and awareness will play a key role in mitigating the impact of this new variant.

Health, Regional

Workshop in Cooch Behar Highlights Importance of Early Intervention for Children with Special Needs

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, April  24,  2025, Cooch Behar :   In an effort to raise awareness and provide support for children facing neurodevelopmental challenges, Blossoms Special School in Cooch Behar, North Bengal, recently organized a workshop aimed at educating parents and the broader community about the importance of early intervention. The event saw the participation of over 100 children and their families from across North Bengal.

The focus of the workshop was on two crucial themes: “Sensory Diet and Environment: Role in Developing Children’s Daily Living Skills and Occupational Abilities,” and “Words Without Context: Teaching the Unspoken Rules of Communication in Autism.” These discussions aimed to address the hidden difficulties children with autism and other speech-related challenges encounter in daily life and communication.

The workshop featured prominent speakers including Dr. Md. Sahidul Arefin, a renowned speech and hearing expert, and Mr. Subhendu Moulick, an experienced occupational therapist. Both experts shared insights into how appropriate therapy can significantly improve communication skills and help children with autism develop independence.

One of the key messages of the event was the importance of early therapy and parental awareness. According to Dr. Arefin, early intervention can make a profound difference in overcoming speech and language difficulties. “Appropriate therapy can significantly improve speech difficulties,” he emphasized during his address.

Mr. Moulick added that it is crucial for both the government and the private sector to take responsibility in ensuring that children with special needs receive the support they deserve, regardless of where they live. “Every child deserves equal opportunities—whether in a city or a village,” he said, stressing the need for widespread access to therapy and specialized support services.

Suparna Majumdar, a mother from Alipurduar, shared her appreciation for the workshop’s impact. “Workshops like these are usually only held in big cities. We’ve traveled to Kolkata many times for treatment. Now it feels like something meaningful is possible even in our district. That thought inspired this initiative,” she remarked.

The workshop concluded with a hopeful message from the founder of Blossoms Special School, Mr. Abhijit Biswas. He expressed his hope that every district in West Bengal will eventually have dedicated experts like Dr. Arefin and Mr. Moulick, ensuring that children with special needs receive the therapy and support they require.

This initiative marks a significant step towards addressing the challenges faced by children with neurodevelopmental disorders in North Bengal, and it highlights the vital role of community awareness and support in enhancing the lives of these children.

Health, West Bengal

World Autism Awareness Day Observed with Special Awareness Camp in Uttarpara

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, April 3, 2025, Kolkata: World Autism Awareness Day, observed annually on April 2nd, was marked this year with a special awareness camp in Uttarpara, Hooghly district, aimed at educating parents and dispelling misconceptions about autism. The event brought together distinguished professionals, parents, and community members, all united in the mission to foster a deeper understanding of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and promote early intervention.

Dr. Md. Sahidul Arefin, a renowned Speech-Language Pathologist, addressed the gathering, emphasizing that autism is not a disease but rather a unique way of perceiving the world. “Autism is simply a different way of experiencing life. However, without timely intervention, these differences can create challenges in communication and social interaction,” he explained.

Dr. Arefin also shed light on the emotional struggles faced by parents of autistic children, who often endure discouraging remarks from society. “Many parents approach us in distress, having been told that their child will never learn or communicate. But modern research has proven otherwise. With effective therapies and the right support, children on the autism spectrum can thrive. It is crucial to break free from superstitions and seek professional help,” he urged.

Highlighting the importance of early intervention, he stated that autism, when identified between the ages of 3 to 5, can be managed effectively through consistent speech therapy. “The brain’s neuroplasticity is at its peak during early childhood. Many non-verbal children start speaking meaningfully within months of therapy. Delays in intervention result in missed opportunities for improvement,” he said.

Organizer Tarun Dasgupta underscored the necessity of inclusive education, advocating for autism-friendly schools, reduced screen time for young children, specialized training for Anganwadi workers, and increased accessibility to therapy services, particularly for rural and low-income families.

The awareness camp served as a crucial platform for empowering parents with knowledge, resources, and hope, reinforcing the message that autism is not a barrier to success but a different way of learning and growing.
Health, West Bengal

Bigger Veterinary Hospital to Soon Rise in New Town, Kolkata

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 31 2025, Kolkata : As the demand for better pet healthcare services grows alongside the increasing number of pets in Bengal, the North 24 Parganas administration has announced an ambitious initiative to address the gap in modern veterinary facilities. Recognizing the growing needs of pet owners, the New Town Kolkata Development Authority (NKDA) has plans to construct a larger, more equipped veterinary hospital in New Town, with construction set to begin soon.

The existing veterinary hospital, established by NKDA in New Town six years ago, has been instrumental in providing regular treatment and care for pets. However, residents have consistently voiced the need for a more comprehensive facility that can cater to a wider range of veterinary services. Pet owners expressed their dissatisfaction with the current infrastructure, highlighting limited services and the lack of specialized care. While private clinics offer veterinary services, the steep treatment costs have made them inaccessible for many.

“Although we can afford basic food and medicine for our pets, finding a reliable pet clinic with qualified doctors is a challenge in this area,” said a local pet owner. The only affordable or free veterinary treatment currently available is at the Belgachia Animal Hospital, which often faces overwhelming demand.

In addition to the new veterinary hospital, NKDA had previously launched a pet clinic and crèche in New Town in 2019. Located behind Shankar Nethralaya near Tata Cancer Hospital, this facility has been offering outdoor pet treatment services, providing some relief to pet owners in the region.

With the upcoming veterinary hospital, the authorities aim to ensure that pet owners in New Town and surrounding areas receive the quality healthcare their beloved animals deserve.

Health, West Bengal

World Tuberculosis Day Observed with Efforts to Eradicate TB in India

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kolkata, March 24, 2025: World Tuberculosis Day was observed globally on March 24 to raise awareness about tuberculosis (TB) and further the efforts to eradicate it from the world. In India, the Union Ministry of Health has been actively working towards a TB-free nation, launching the National Tuberculosis Eradication Programme, ‘100 Days of TB Eradication,’ which began on December 9 last year and concluded on World Tuberculosis Day.


In Kolkata, the occasion was marked by an event at the Maa Sarada Charitable Dispensary, which is run by the Bagbazar Ramakrishna Math. The event focused on screening marginalized communities for tuberculosis, in collaboration with the Kolkata branch of the National Small Industries Corporation (NSIC). This effort is part of the broader initiative to tackle TB in India and raise awareness among the public.

Dr. Anupam Gayan, Zonal General Manager of NSIC in Kolkata, highlighted the importance of increasing screening efforts to identify and address TB cases early. He emphasized that more testing is necessary to detect TB in communities and ensure timely treatment. To support these efforts, NSIC donated TB testing kits, contributing to the nationwide battle against tuberculosis.

Sannasi Swami Abhinnanand Maharaj, Project Coordinator of Bagbazar Ramakrishna Math, announced plans to test 1,000 patients for tuberculosis starting from this day. With the support of NSIC, the organization aims to provide free medication to these patients and expand the testing efforts in the future, with the goal of further increasing the number of individuals tested in the coming months.

This collaboration between the Ramakrishna Math and NSIC underscores the collective effort required to achieve a tuberculosis-free India, and the importance of community participation and support in this crucial health mission.
Health, West Bengal

State’s First Smart OPD Under Construction at Naihati State General Hospital

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 24, 2025, Kolkata :  In a significant step towards modernizing healthcare services, the first smart OPD in the state is being constructed at Naihati State General Hospital. This state-of-the-art facility will enable patients to receive medical treatment both in person and remotely from home, enhancing accessibility and efficiency in healthcare services.


The foundation stone for this initiative was laid by Barrackpore MP Partha Bhowmik, following an announcement by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee after her visit to the Baram temple in Naihati post the by-election. Construction work commenced today in the presence of key dignitaries, including MP Partha Bhowmik, Naihati MLA Sanat De, Naihati Municipality  Ashok Chatterjee, and District Health Officer Dr. Samudra Sengupta. The project is expected to be completed soon, ensuring that the smart OPD becomes operational at the earliest.

This smart OPD aims to provide enhanced medical services to patients from distant areas, making quality healthcare more accessible. As the first of its kind in the state, it is being developed as a model project. The state health department has outlined plans to establish similar OPDs in other government hospitals, including Bhatpara State General Hospital, to extend the benefits of modernized healthcare facilities across the region.

Additionally, high-level discussions are being held to address the current challenges at Naihati Hospital and improve its infrastructure to provide better medical services. The hospital plays a crucial role in catering to the healthcare needs of a vast population, and the construction of the smart OPD is expected to significantly enhance service delivery.

The project is set to be completed in three phases, ensuring a structured and efficient rollout. Once fully operational, the smart OPD is expected to benefit thousands of residents, providing them with state-of-the-art medical care and reinforcing the commitment to advancing healthcare services in the region.
Health, West Bengal

Dermatologist Dr. Satarupa Mondal Shares Essential Tips for Protecting Your Skin from Harmful Holi Colors

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 13, 2025, Kolkata : As the joyous festival of Holi approaches, renowned dermatologist Dr. Satarupa Mondal has issued important skincare tips to protect against the harmful effects of chemical and synthetic colors. At a recent discussion in Kolkata, Dr. Mondal emphasized the potential risks associated with certain Holi colors, which often contain harmful compounds such as lead oxide, copper sulfate, and mercury. These substances can lead to significant damage to the skin, hair, and eyes if proper precautions are not taken.

Pre-Holi Skincare Routine:

Dr. Mondal advised against undergoing facial treatments, including facials and laser procedures, at least 4-5 days before Holi to avoid skin sensitivity. Prior to playing with colors, it is essential to apply a good moisturizing lotion or cream an hour beforehand to minimize color absorption and make it easier to remove afterward. Additionally, applying sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 to exposed skin areas such as the face, neck, arms, hands, and feet is crucial. Dr. Mondal recommends using coconut oil as a natural moisturizer, which can serve as a protective barrier for the skin.

Hair Protection:

To protect the hair from color damage, Dr. Mondal suggests applying coconut oil from root to tip. This creates a protective layer and minimizes the penetration of harmful chemicals. Tying the hair in a braid or bun can help reduce the exposure to colors and prevent tangling and breakage during the cleansing process.

Eye Protection:

To safeguard the delicate eye area from chemical exposure and sun rays, Dr. Mondal recommends wearing sunglasses while participating in Holi celebrations. This simple step can help protect the eyes from potential irritation caused by the chemicals present in some colors.

Hydration:

Staying hydrated is essential, and Dr. Mondal stressed the importance of drinking plenty of water before and after playing Holi. Hydration is key to maintaining skin and body health during the festivities.

Post-Holi Care:

After the celebrations, Dr. Mondal advises rinsing off the colors as soon as possible with lukewarm water. It is important to avoid harsh soaps and instead use a mild shampoo for the hair and a gentle body wash for the skin. Scrubbing the skin harshly with loofahs or rough towels should be avoided, as it can irritate the skin. Following cleansing, it is vital to apply a moisturizer to maintain hydration and prevent dryness.

If any irritation, redness, or rashes appear, Dr. Mondal strongly advises against self-treatment and recommends consulting a dermatologist immediately for appropriate care. These proactive measures can help ensure that Holi remains a fun and safe celebration for everyone.

Health, West Bengal

NSIC Conducts TB Awareness and Screening Drive at Salt Lake Bus Terminus to Support National Eradication Campaign

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 13, 2025, Kolkata :   The prevalence of tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant health concern in sectors like transportation, construction, and among marginalized communities, driven by factors such as road smoke, dust, and malnutrition. To address this, the Union Health Ministry launched the ‘TB Eradication 100-day pledge’ initiative, which began on December 9 last year and is set to conclude on March 24 this year, with the motto ‘TB Harega, Desh Jitega.’


In alignment with this national effort, a tuberculosis screening and awareness campaign took place at the Navdiganta Bus Terminus in Salt Lake, organized by the National Small Industries Corporation (NSIC). The initiative aimed at identifying and addressing TB among bus drivers, workers, and marginalized individuals.

Dr. Anupam Gayan, NSIC Kolkata Zonal General Manager, along with Dr. Pinaki Bhattacharya, the North 24 Parganas District Tuberculosis Officer, and Arunabh Das, NSIC Senior Branch Manager, led the event. They emphasized the importance of raising awareness and increasing participation in TB screenings.

During the event, Dr. Gayan stated that the initiative has significantly raised awareness about TB, contributing to a gradual decline in its incidence. He called for further expansion of screening efforts and urged both corporate and government organizations to help strengthen infrastructure to fight the disease.

Dr. Bhattacharya reassured attendees that the government offers free treatment and financial assistance through the Nikshay Poshan Yojana for those diagnosed with TB. The initiative’s goal was to highlight these resources and encourage more people to get tested.

This screening drive is one of several efforts aimed at ensuring a tuberculosis-free India, continuing the momentum set by the government’s national tuberculosis eradication program.
Health, West Bengal

Health Department Takes Immediate Action as 93 Medicines Fail Quality Tests, Enforcement Measures in Place

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 7, 2025, Kolkata: 

The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) recently conducted a thorough quality test of medicines and found that 93 products, including widely used drugs such as paracetamol, blood pressure medications, and nausea relief medicines, failed to meet the required safety standards. This alarming discovery has prompted the state health department to take urgent action.

In response to these findings, the health department has directed the Central Medical Store to immediately remove the affected medicines from hospitals across the state. The department has also issued a warning to wholesalers and retailers, instructing them to cease the sale of these substandard products. This swift move comes in the wake of the state’s recent experience with an adulterated saline case, which heightened concerns about public safety.

The health secretary has announced that the state drug control authorities will conduct thorough inspections to ensure compliance with the ban. Any violations of the directive, such as continued sale or use of the failed medicines, will result in strict legal actions. The department’s efforts are aimed at preventing any further risks to public health and ensuring that only safe and quality medicines are available to the public.

As the state continues to grapple with ensuring the safety of its healthcare products, the swift and decisive actions of the health department are a clear indication of their commitment to protecting the health and well-being of its citizens.

Health, West Bengal

World Hearing Day: Kolkata Hosts Awareness Walk to Address Growing Hearing Health Concerns

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 3, 2025, Kolkata : As hearing problems continue to rise globally, the importance of awareness and early intervention has never been more critical. According to a report by the World Health Organization, approximately 1.5 billion people worldwide suffer from hearing issues, with that number expected to rise to 2.5 billion by 2050. In India alone, around 1.17 lakh children are born each year with congenital hearing impairment. With proper awareness and timely medical attention, many of these problems can be addressed effectively.


In observance of World Hearing Day on March 3, the West Bengal Branch of the Speech and Hearing Association of India organized an awareness walk in Kolkata. The walk, which stretched from Rashbehari Crossing to Gariahat, aimed to raise awareness about hearing health. The event saw participation from speech and hearing specialists, children suffering from hearing impairments, and their families, all walking together to spread the message of the importance of early intervention and hearing care.

This year’s World Hearing Day theme, “Changing Mindsets: Empower Yourself, Make Ear and Hearing Care a Reality for All,” was highlighted by Dr. Md. Sahidul Arefin, Joint Secretary of the Association. He pointed out the significance of Universal Newborn Hearing Screening (UNHS), a simple test that can diagnose hearing issues in infants. While over 98% of newborns in developed countries undergo this screening, in India, only 5-15% of infants receive it. Dr. Arefin emphasized the need for greater awareness to ensure early intervention and better outcomes for children with hearing impairments.

Dr. Babul Basu, former president of the Indian Speech-Language and Hearing Association, spoke about the dangers of excessive noise exposure, unnecessary honking, and loud sounds, urging people to be mindful of these everyday practices that can contribute to hearing loss. Dr. Amrita Bhattacharya, from Shishumangal Hospital, also highlighted the rising concern over excessive headphone use, which is increasingly linked to hearing problems. She urged the public to exercise caution when using headphones to protect their hearing health.

Parents of children who have overcome hearing difficulties shared their personal experiences during the event, encouraging others not to panic in the face of hearing challenges but to seek help from specialists promptly for effective solutions.

World Hearing Day serves as a reminder that hearing health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, and through education, awareness, and early intervention, many hearing and speech-related issues can be mitigated. The Kolkata walk marked a significant step in promoting hearing care and supporting those affected by hearing impairments.
Education, Health, West Bengal

Basirhat Students Create Innovative Model to Combat Pollution and Purify Factory Smoke

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 3, 2025, Basirhat : Environmental pollution continues to be one of the most pressing issues of our time, with factory emissions and vehicle exhaust being major contributors. In a bid to tackle this problem, three students from Chapapukur Higher Secondary School in Basirhat, North 24 Parganas, have developed an innovative solution aimed at reducing air pollution caused by factory smoke. Their groundbreaking model has already caught the attention of environmentalists and the public.


The students, hailing from Basirhat 2 Block, designed a special “carbon observer” model that filters polluted smoke produced by factories. The model works by channeling smoke emitted from a factory chimney through a special pipe that passes through a filter-equipped structure. This filter traps harmful substances, including carbon, from the smoke, allowing much of the purified air to be released back into the environment.

According to the students, this dual-purpose innovation offers significant benefits. Firstly, it helps to clean the air by removing toxic pollutants, providing fresher, healthier air for the environment. Secondly, the carbon accumulated in the filter can be repurposed to create useful products, including ink and paint, turning waste into valuable resources.

This remarkable achievement has been lauded by both the local community and school teachers. Environmental experts are particularly impressed with the students’ ingenuity in finding a practical solution to combat pollution. As awareness of environmental issues continues to grow, this student-driven innovation stands as a shining example of how young minds can contribute to solving some of the world’s most urgent challenges.
Health, West Bengal

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to Hold Crucial Meeting with Doctors Amid Healthcare Concerns

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, February 23, 2025, Kolkata :  Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is set to hold a significant meeting with doctors from government and private hospitals in the state on Monday. The meeting gains importance in the wake of the Ajikar scandal, sparking speculation across various quarters regarding the discussions at Dhandhanya Sabhagriha. Informed circles are questioning whether issues concerning the state’s medical infrastructure will be addressed, while a large section of doctors anticipate discussions on complaints about intimidation practices in medical colleges.


The Grievance and Redressal Committee of the state health department has conducted extensive visits across districts, engaging with doctors associated with medical colleges and district health departments. These discussions have surfaced numerous complaints regarding shortages of resources and medical staff. While some of these concerns have been addressed at the college, district health organization, and chief health officer levels, several systemic issues persist and have been forwarded to the Chief Minister for resolution.

The committee has engaged with doctors from the State Health Service, 24 government and two medical colleges, ESI hospitals, and Kolkata Municipality health facilities. Additionally, discussions have been held with doctors from select private hospitals. The committee has received complaints regarding inadequate infrastructure in district medical colleges, lack of transparency in the posting of doctors, and disruptions in services due to insufficient staffing and equipment. Students and doctors from multiple institutions have also raised concerns about hostel mismanagement, inadequate playgrounds, and substandard toilet facilities. Most of these complaints and recommendations have been formally relayed to the Chief Minister for review.

Committee Chairman Dr. Saurabh Dutta stated that while discussions on institutional concerns have been extensive, the details of what was communicated to the Chief Minister remain confidential and will be disclosed only at her discretion.

Ahead of the meeting, the West Bengal Joint Platform of Doctors has submitted a letter to the Chief Minister highlighting critical vacancies in the healthcare system. The letter points out that approximately 40 percent of doctor positions and nearly 70 percent of support staff posts, including Karmabandhu roles, remain unfilled. Notably, no medical organization has been invited to this crucial meeting between the Chief Minister and representatives from government and private hospitals. The meeting’s outcome is expected to have a significant impact on the state’s healthcare landscape as the government seeks to address mounting concerns ahead of the 2026 assembly elections.