Golden hour after an accident refers to the first hour after an accident during which medical intervention can reduce mortality.

To strengthen its road safety initiatives, the carmaker had partnered with the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), and International Road Federation (IRF) to provide first aid and trauma care training to commercial drivers at its Institute of Driving and Traffic Research (IDTR).

"The company aims to train drivers to become effective first responders during the ‘golden hour’ after accidents. Our customised programme provides practical hands-on life-saving interventions to enable drivers to handle trauma and injuries," Rahul Bharti, Executive Officer, Corporate Affairs, Maruti Suzuki India Limited, said in a statement.

The participants received comprehensive training in emergency care in collaboration with Jai Prakash Narayan-AIIMS Trauma Center.

The training provided them with the knowledge and practical skills needed to help road accident victims during the golden hour.

"As trauma is time-sensitive, the training of bystanders who are the real first responders to any road accident can go a long way to reduce the mortality and morbidity following road traffic crashes. Usually, this group of bystanders includes drivers of commercial vehicles," said Dr Amit Gupta, Professor at JPN Apex Trauma Centre, AIIMS, New Delhi.

New Delhi, April 30 (IANSlife) Fatty liver is a condition where excess fat gets deposited in the liver, which increases its size. According to Shlloka Joshii, a Classical Hatha Yoga teacher, and Diet and Lifestyle expert, there are two types of fatty liver. Non-alcoholic fatty liver occurs in people who don’t drink alcohol or drink too little. It usually occurs in people who are obese, diabetic, or due to some medication. Alcoholic fatty liver is caused due to over alcohol consumption, where the liver is unable to process nutrients and metabolize fat. This further leads to scarring of the liver causing fibrosis/cirrhosis, a condition where the liver becomes inactive.

Symptoms

"Initially, one may feel tired or experience discomfort or pain in the right side of the upper abdomen, often after meals. In advanced stages, one might experience severe tenderness in the upper abdomen, loss of appetite, nausea, weakness, weight loss, abdominal distention (ascites), pale-coloured stools, muscle wasting, and swelling in the legs," outlines Joshii.

Causes

Too much alcohol consumption (a male who drinks 15 or more drinks per week and females who drink more than 8 are surely to get fatty liver - liver failure over 10-15 yrs).

Obesity

Insulin resistance

Type 2 diabetes

Metabolic syndrome

High cholesterol levels (raised triglycerides)

Medicine side effects

Pregnancy

Genetic disorders

Infections like hepatitis C

Joshii shares five foods to cut out fatty liver

Lemon: Squeeze half a lemon into a glass of warm water and drink it on an empty stomach every day, it helps in flushing out the toxins and improves the liver's health.

Papaya: Consume a bowl of papaya on an empty stomach, the enzymes present in papaya reduce the inflammation of the liver. It is a source of fiber, minerals, and antioxidants including vitamins A, C, and E.

Apples: Apples are a rich source of pectin, which helps cleanse the body and release toxins from the digestive system. Having an apple a day can prevent fatty liver. However, if you have Grade 2 or Grade 3 fatty liver, you can have up to three apples a day, one before each meal (breakfast, lunch, and dinner). Or apple cider vinegar: drink 20-40ml of Apple cider vinegar on an empty stomach.

Beetroots: Beetroots are known to stimulate bile juice and boost enzymatic activity as they are rich in vitamin C, carrying out similar functions. Carrots, rich in Vitamin A, help prevent liver disease and support the overall functions of the liver. Having 1 medium-sized beetroot or 1 medium-sized carrot per serving before food, as a salad, would be a good idea.

Green vegetables: High in chlorophyll and necessary antioxidants, green vegetables flush out toxins from the bloodstream and aid the liver. You can include healthy greens like spinach, green peas, okra, kale, broccoli, cauliflower, lettuce, etc., in your diet. We recommend consuming 100-150 grams of steamed or boiled vegetables before a meal, or they can be substituted for the meal itself.

IANSlife can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in

Juna Akhara, one of the 13 Akharas of the country, conferred this title on Mahamandaleshwar Mahendranand Giri.

Mahendranand's disciple Kailashanand Giri was given the title of Mahamandaleshwar and Ram Giri was given the title of Shri Mahant.

Both these seers too belong to the Scheduled Caste.

These seers were ordained amid chanting of mantras at Siddha Baba Mauj Giri Ashram of Juna Akhara here at Prayagraj on Monday.

Swami Mahendranand is originally a resident of Banala village of Saurashtra Rajkot district of Gujarat.

All three seers are originally residents of Gujarat.

Kashi Sumeru Peethadhishwar Jagadguru, Swami Narendranand Saraswati, who is also the international president of Juna Akhara along with Shri Mahant Prem Giri, Shri Dudheshwar Peethadhishwar, Juna Akhara and international spokesperson Shri Mahant Narayan Giri, Mahamandaleshwar Vaibhav Giri garlanded the seers who received the titles.

During the ceremony, Mahendranand and Kailashanand were seated on the throne and presented with umbrellas.

Shri Mahant Prem Giri said, "Juna Akhara is working towards eliminating caste and class discrimination in the sanyasi tradition. The need was felt to further enrich this tradition to stop the process of conversion by creating differences among Hindus by other religions."

Taking important decisions in the same direction before Maha Kumbh-2025, Scheduled Caste seers are being conferred with important titles like Jagadguru, Mahamandaleshwar and Shri Mahant, he added.

After conferring the title, everyone took a holy dip in the Sangam and had the darshan of the city deity Lord Veni Madhav. Jagadguru Swami Narendranand Saraswati said that the decision of Juna Akhara is inspiring and after receiving the title of Jagadguru, devotion and dedication towards Sanatan Dharma has increased.

In 2021, at the Haridwar Kumbh, Juna Akhara conferred the title of Mahamandaleshwar on Mahendranand.

Swami Narendranand Saraswati said, "Juna Akhara is following the path of social harmony shown by Lord Shri Ram. Mahamandaleshwar Kailashanand pledged to connect those Scheduled Caste people who have been converted to Sanatan Dharma".

The five elected Sri Panchas of the akhara, headed by the secretary, hold the positions in decreasing order of seniority.

Acharya Mahamandaleshwara is the senior most teacher of the spiritual order of God.

Jagadguru is a prominent, well-versed, and highly knowledgeable seer of the akhara.

Mahamandaleshwara is the senior divisional leader of the spiritual order of the God. Mandaleshwara is the divisional leader of the spiritual order of God. Sri Mahant is the senior spiritual leader who looks after the affairs of the akhara.

Each Math (marhi) within the akhara is governed by five mahants, all of whom can be considered gurus. They collectively elect the secretary among themselves.

Urdu Zubaan -- the book so far being used to teach Urdu has been replaced by a new textbook titled 'Shehnai'.

Mathematics and English will now be taught as separate subjects in Urdu medium.

Till now, these subjects were covered in Urdu language books only.

Anandmay Riyazi has been prescribed as the textbook for Mathematics and Mridangam is the new English textbook. These books have been prepared and once printed, they will be made available to the students.

For students of class 1, the book Shehnai and Anandmay Riyazi 1 has been developed by the State Education Institute in collaboration with two institutions.

Similarly, Anandmay Riyazi-2 book has been prepared for Urdu medium students studying in class 2 and Mathematics subject for madrasas.

Assistant Deputy Director, State Education Institute, Deepti Mishra, said Shehnai and Anandmay Riyazi books were prepared by customising the curriculum of NCERT in the context of Uttar Pradesh under the direction of Naval Kishore, the Principal of the State Education Institute.

Apart from this, the English Language Teaching Institute has prepared the book Mridangam-1 for class 1 and Mridangam-2 for class 2 by customising it for Uttar Pradesh.

However, due to these changes, books for classes 1 and 2 of Basic Education Council along with Urdu medium and madrasas are yet to be printed. The tender process is being completed at the government level.

Soon after the books are printed, they will be made available free-of-cost to the students.

Before this, preparations are also being made to give training to teachers to teach students according to the changes in the book.

Urdu Zubaan -- the book so far being used to teach Urdu has been replaced by a new textbook titled 'Shehnai'.

Mathematics and English will now be taught as separate subjects in Urdu medium.

Till now, these subjects were covered in Urdu language books only.

Anandmay Riyazi has been prescribed as the textbook for Mathematics and Mridangam is the new English textbook. These books have been prepared and once printed, they will be made available to the students.

For students of class 1, the book Shehnai and Anandmay Riyazi 1 has been developed by the State Education Institute in collaboration with two institutions.

Similarly, Anandmay Riyazi-2 book has been prepared for Urdu medium students studying in class 2 and Mathematics subject for madrasas.

Assistant Deputy Director, State Education Institute, Deepti Mishra, said Shehnai and Anandmay Riyazi books were prepared by customising the curriculum of NCERT in the context of Uttar Pradesh under the direction of Naval Kishore, the Principal of the State Education Institute.

Apart from this, the English Language Teaching Institute has prepared the book Mridangam-1 for class 1 and Mridangam-2 for class 2 by customising it for Uttar Pradesh.

However, due to these changes, books for classes 1 and 2 of Basic Education Council along with Urdu medium and madrasas are yet to be printed. The tender process is being completed at the government level.

Soon after the books are printed, they will be made available free-of-cost to the students.

Before this, preparations are also being made to give training to teachers to teach students according to the changes in the book.

Barring the period when President Murmu would offer prayers to the deity, the movement of the devotees would not be regulated.

Office-bearers of the Ram temple trust said on Tuesday that the queue system would remain operational as usual on Wednesday and 'darshan' would go on as per the scheduled timing.

President Murmu is expected to arrive in the city by a special plane around 4 p.m., after which her cavalcade and security personnel would be escorted to the temple complex via the VIP gate.

According to senior government officials, the President would be in the city for nearly three hours.

Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath are expected to be present in the city to welcome her.

Elaborate traffic diversions will remain enforced over the Lucknow-Ayodhya-Gorakhpur national highway and on the route connecting the Ayodhya airport to Ram Path.

During the evening hours, preparations are being made at the banks of the Saryu river to host the President when the 'aarti' of the river takes place.

Member of the Ram Temple trust, Anil Mishra said, "The detailed programme is yet to arrive, but we are gearing up to welcome the President on May 1. Common devotees would continue to get darshan as usual. We are taking steps to organise the high-profile visit while causing minimal inconvenience to the pilgrims."

The queue would be regulated for a brief period only when dignitaries arrive in the temple.

Divisional Commissioner of Ayodhya, Gaurav Dayal, said, "Briefing of the government officials and security personnel will be held on Tuesday. Traffic diversions and arrangements will be done to ensure seamless movement of the President's cavalcade."

"We brought her back just like we had sent her off after her wedding. We want her to begin afresh with her chin up," said her father Anil Kumar, who works for BSNL.

Anil's daughter Urvi, 36, an engineer at the Palam Airport in New Delhi, was married to a computer engineer in 2016.

The couple lived in Delhi and had a daughter.

Allegations are that Urvi's in-laws were harassing her for dowry after which she moved court for a divorce. The court granted the couple a divorce on February 28.

"I tried hard to save the relationship after enduring eight years of torture, beatings, and taunts, but in the end, it broke down," she said.

"While bringing her back home, I made arrangements for 'band baaja' so that a positive message would be sent to the society and people would try and understand their daughters rather than ignore them after marriage," Anil said.

Urvi's mother Kusumlata said, "I look forward to being with my daughter and granddaughter. And it is a great feeling."

"Initially, we thought Urvi was getting married a second time. But when we understood her father's intent, it was an overwhelming feeling," said Indrabhan Singh, a neighbour.

Meanwhile, Urvi appreciated her parents' gesture and said that she would take a break before beginning afresh.

Barring the period when President Murmu would offer prayers to the deity, the movement of the devotees would not be regulated.

Office-bearers of the Ram temple trust said on Tuesday that the queue system would remain operational as usual on Wednesday and 'darshan' would go on as per the scheduled timing.

President Murmu is expected to arrive in the city by a special plane around 4 p.m., after which her cavalcade and security personnel would be escorted to the temple complex via the VIP gate.

According to senior government officials, the President would be in the city for nearly three hours.

Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath are expected to be present in the city to welcome her.

Elaborate traffic diversions will remain enforced over the Lucknow-Ayodhya-Gorakhpur national highway and on the route connecting the Ayodhya airport to Ram Path.

During the evening hours, preparations are being made at the banks of the Saryu river to host the President when the 'aarti' of the river takes place.

Member of the Ram Temple trust, Anil Mishra said, "The detailed programme is yet to arrive, but we are gearing up to welcome the President on May 1. Common devotees would continue to get darshan as usual. We are taking steps to organise the high-profile visit while causing minimal inconvenience to the pilgrims."

The queue would be regulated for a brief period only when dignitaries arrive in the temple.

Divisional Commissioner of Ayodhya, Gaurav Dayal, said, "Briefing of the government officials and security personnel will be held on Tuesday. Traffic diversions and arrangements will be done to ensure seamless movement of the President's cavalcade."

A Manipur government official said that the state authority noticed this incorrect mentioning of the game as of Mizoram.

Earlier terming it as "a gross error", BJP legislator Rajkumar Imo Singh requested state Education Minister Basanta Kumar Singh to take up the matter with the Central government to resolve the issue.

Singh, the son-in-law of Chief Minister N Biren Singh, said on X: "Mukna-Kangjei is a traditional sport of Manipur, a variant of hockey and involves wrestling too, thus known as Wrestling-Hockey. NCERT has made a gross error by publishing the association of this traditional sport with Mizoram".

"It is purely a traditional sport of the state of Manipur. NCERT needs to rectify this mistake immediately. Our state Education Minister Shri Th Basanta Singh should take this matter up with the Government of India to solve this issue and ensure that such errors are not repeated again by NCERT."

Citing the mistake, the Physical Education Teachers’ Association emphasised the importance of accuracy in educational curriculum, particularly those relating to cultural heritage and indigenous games, and urged the government authorities to take suitable steps to correct it.

The Supreme Court had cancelled his bail recently and directed him to surrender before the court to be taken to judicial custody.

After the surrender, the authorities took the seer into custody and sent him to the district prison after conducting a medical test.

The seer's lawyer Pratap Jogi said that the Supreme Court had given direction for the court hearing the matter to complete the inquiry within four months and that the seer will have to be in prison for a few months.

On April 23, the Supreme Court stayed the order of the Karnataka High Court granting bail to the seer, contending that it would be appropriate to conduct the questioning of witnesses when the accused seer is in judicial custody. It also stated that until the inquiry of the victims and their parents is completed, the seer must be in prison.

The court order came as counsel for victims argued that the seer is highly influential, and even as the charge sheet is submitted, he could influence the witnesses during the trial.

The two minor girls who were studying at the Marugha mutt-run institution had complained about sexual exploitation by the seer to the Nazarabad police on August 26, 2022, and he was arrested on September 1, 2022.

The deceased was identified as Gopal Gupta, a resident of Hari Nagar Extension in Jaitpur.

Deputy Commissioner of Police, Rajesh Deo said: "He was working as a security guard with GSS Securities and was performing the duties of Traffic Marshal at Meethapur Chowk."

During the initial probe, it was revealed that Gopal was an alcoholic.

"He had come to the place of incident (tin shed) where he slept beside Rajesh a.k.a Sonu who was known to him. Rajesh has been traced and his version has been recorded. Prima facie the case does not seem to be of homicide," said the DCP.

The DCP further said that the fresh injuries on Gopal's body seems due to nibbling by rats.

"Postmortem of Gopal is being conducted at AIIMS. Further legal action shall be taken as per the findings of the autopsy report," the DCP added.

The bird flu or avian influenza A (H5N1) virus outbreak in poultry farms is not a new occurrence. It has periodically been reported all around the world, including poultry farms in parts of India.

Migrating wild birds bring the virus to poultry farms. However, in recent years, this bird flu virus H5N1 has jumped to mammals.

In 2023, the H5N1 virus killed a record number of birds and also spread to otters, sea lions, foxes, dolphins, and seals, among others. More recently it also affected numerous cattle farms across the US. Health officials in the US found fragments of bird virus in pasteurised milk sold in stores, including in about 20 per cent of samples in initial testing across the country.

"This shows that the H5N1 bird flu virus has now adapted for circulating among mammals. It is now able to easily spread from mammal to mammal, rather than having to jump each time from bird to mammal. This shows the virus has made suitable adaptations already. And bird flu virus has moved one step closer to humans," Dr Rajeev Jayadevan, co-chairman of the Indian Medical Association’s National Covid-19 Task Force, told IANS.

Importantly, "there is no record to date of sustained human-to-human transmission. This can only occur if the virus makes more adaptations by mutating. The concern now is the virus has found a new host among cattle, which is always in contact with man," he added.

Can bird flu infect humans?

Bird flu -- a common phenomenon seen in India -- raised infection concerns among humans in Jharkhand’s Ranchi last week. Two doctors and six staff members of the Regional Poultry Farm in Hotwar were quarantined for two days. However, their throat swab samples sent for tests on April 27, were found to be negative.

According to data from the World Health Organisation, from 2003 to 2023, a total of 873 human cases of infection with influenza A (H5N1) and 458 deaths have been reported globally from 21 countries. However, to date, no sustained human-to-human transmission has been detected.

"Human infection due to avian influenza happens only with close contact with infected animals. Although the risk for human infection is rare, such occurrences come with a high mortality rate," biologist Vinod Scaria, told IANS.

The high mortality rate is because "humans have no prior immune memory for this particular type of influenza virus", said Dr Jayadevan.

The WHO believes that available epidemiological and virological evidence does not indicate that current bird flu viruses have acquired the ability of sustained transmission among humans. However, the recent episode of transmission to cattle, where it has reportedly affected one human, has raised fresh concerns.

Genomic analysis suggests that it has silently been spreading among the cattle for months - since December or January.

"Scientists are worried whether the virus will now make further adaptations where it can not only easily infect man, but also spread from man to man, in which case it could become a major catastrophic event. We hope it will not happen," Dr Jayadevan told IANS.

The WHO advises people in close contact with cattle and poultry to regularly wash hands and employ good food safety and food hygiene practices, pasteurise milk, as well as to get vaccinated against seasonal human flu, to reduce the risk that H5N1 could recombine with a human avian virus.

"Appropriate personal protection while handling infected birds/dead birds or excreta is very important and awareness of this among the public is important," Scaria told IANS.

Chennai, April 29 (IANS) A 45-year-old man died while climbing Velliangiri hills in Coimbatore to offer prayers at the Lord Shiva temple located atop the hill, Coimbatore Forest Department said in a statement on Monday.

The tragic incident had occurred on Sunday, according to the statement. The deceased, identified as Punniyakodi, was a resident of Ponneri Taluk in Tirvallur district.

According to the officials, he was climbing the hill along with a group of devotees and suddenly, he felt uneasy and nauseous.

The police said that Punniyakodi was brought down to the Boulavampatti Primary Health Centre, however, before being administered first aid, he died.

This is the ninth reported death of this season during the trek on the Velliangiri hills.

Earlier, responding to the situation, Coimbatore Forest officials advised people with medical conditions like heart ailments, diabetes, breathlessness, and obesity, as well as aged people, to not climb Velliangiri hills.

In addition to this, the devotees are also advised to have a complete medical check-up and fitness test before undertaking the Velliangiri temple trek.

The trek commences in February and continues till late May. It is believed that the idol of Lord Shiva at the top of the hill was ‘Swayambhu’ or appeared on its own.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), immunisation efforts have saved at least 154 million lives over the past 50 years worldwide.

"On the occasion of World Immunisation Week, we all should take a pledge that everyone should get proper immunisation as needed. Vaccination has saved billions of lives," Dr Ravindra Gupta, Head of Department, Internal Medicine, C.K. Birla Hospital, Gurugram, told IANS.

"Our immune system fights against pathogens and protects us from infectious diseases. Vaccination helps our immune system fight against these infections and protects ageing adults and children from severe infections," added Dr Agam Vora, General Secretary of the Association of Physicians of India.

The progress achieved on immunisation suffered a severe setback with some 20 million children missing out on one or more of their vaccines during the recent global Covid-19 pandemic. Further, growing conflicts, economic downturns, and a rise in vaccine hesitancy are some of the threats to efforts to reach these children.

"As a result, the world is seeing sudden outbreaks of diphtheria and measles diseases that, until now, we'd had nearly in hand," as per the WHO.

Immunisation eradicated smallpox and almost eliminated polio. Despite childhood immunisation being highly successful, adult immunisation for pneumonia, various kinds of flu viruses, Covid, cervical cancer, and now herpes zoster are lagging.

Dr Agam told IANS that vaccination can be key to protecting ageing adults from serious infections and their complications such as shingles, pneumonia, and influenza. It is because the immune system also undergoes ageing and does not function as well.

Similarly, children below the age of five also need vaccination because their immune system is not fully developed. This makes them susceptible to multiple infections that can interfere with their growth and development, the doctor said.

Though related, Traditional and modern wear represent divergent approaches to Indian fashion. Traditional wear reveres the past, preserving ancient techniques and motifs with meticulous care, while modern wear embraces innovation and global influences, reinterpreting classic styles for contemporary tastes.

Despite their differences, both categories contribute to India's vibrant sartorial landscape, offering a tapestry of options for self-expression and cultural celebration. Together, they form a dynamic fusion of heritage and modernity, embodying the enduring allure of India's rich cultural heritage in the ever-evolving world of fashion.

Traditional wear in India is more than just clothing; it is a tangible expression of the country's rich cultural heritage and identity. Spanning across regions and communities, traditional attire serves as a unifying force, transcending geographical boundaries to embody the essence of pan-Indian culture.

Whether adorned with the intricate embroideries of Banarasi sarees or the reflective brilliance of Rajasthani lehengas, each garment tells a story of craftsmanship and tradition passed down through generations. These garments are not mere fabric; they are living testaments to India's historical legacy, carrying within them the artistry and skill of centuries-old techniques.

From the vibrant hues of Gujarat's Bandhani to the graceful drapes of South India's Kanjeevaram sarees, traditional wear celebrates the diversity of Indian craftsmanship while preserving the cultural nuances that make each region unique.

What distinguishes traditional wear in India is its unwavering commitment to authenticity. These garments act as guardians of cultural heritage, carefully conserving ancient techniques and motifs originating from eras long past. From the intricate handloom textiles of Varanasi to the elaborate weaving traditions of Kanchipuram, traditional wear pays homage to the craftsmanship of yesteryears with unparalleled precision.

n an era marked by rapid modernization, traditional wear serves as a timeless link to the past, offering a sense of continuity in an ever-changing world. It embodies a profound reverence for heritage, not merely as clothing but as tangible embodiments of cultural identity and legacy. The revival of ancient techniques and motifs in modern fashion highlights the lasting significance of traditional wear, demonstrating that amid the pursuit of innovation, the treasures of history continue to serve as invaluable wellsprings of inspiration and admiration.

Modern wear in India epitomizes innovation and adaptability, charting a bold new course in the realm of fashion. Unlike traditional wear, which draws inspiration from the past, modern wear embraces contemporary aesthetics and global influences, transcending cultural boundaries to create a fusion of styles. It thrives on pushing limits, experimenting with unconventional silhouettes and materials to redefine traditional motifs in refreshing ways.

From the fusion of Eastern and Western elements in couture to the avant-garde designs that defy categorization, modern wear embodies a spirit of experimentation and individuality. It reflects a dynamic and ever-evolving landscape, where designers constantly seek to anticipate and respond to shifting tastes and trends. In a world characterized by rapid change, modern wear serves as a mirror of society's evolving values and aspirations, celebrating diversity, creativity, and the limitless possibilities of self-expression.

A blend of traditional and modern wear in India complements each other, creating a vibrant tapestry of fashion that celebrates both heritage and innovation. While traditional wear preserves cultural authenticity, modern wear provides a platform for self-expression and liberation from conventional norms. Together, they offer diverse avenues for individuals to express their identity, bridging the gap between tradition and contemporary style.

This harmonious coexistence underscores the dynamic nature of Indian fashion, where the past and present converge to shape an evolving sartorial landscape. From the classic allure of a traditional Kanjeevaram saree to the modern sophistication of a designer Chikankari lehenga, each garment resonates with tales of resilience, creativity, and cultural pride, serving as steadfast reminders of tradition amidst rapid change. They embody the story of India's rich cultural heritage, inspiring generations with their profound connection to the past.

(Kavita Bajpai is a Fashion Expert and Brand Manager at LIVA)

IANSlife can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in

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The researchers found that "CO2 can be stored permanently in the ocean in the form of solid hydrate beyond 500 m of sea depth through the liquid CO2, thereby can be helpful to make our industrial clusters carbon neutral".

Called CO2 sequestration, this process envisages the ocean acting like a storage reservoir for greenhouse gas which will help to decarbonise industrial clusters, without harming marine ecology.

The research findings can also help India achieve its national decarbonisation and climate change goals.

"Methane hydrates have been in the ocean for millions of years without affecting the environment. Methane is a more potent greenhouse gas than CO2. This attracts researchers to explore the ocean to store CO2 permanently. Our analysis shows that at above 2,800 m depth, CO2 is denser than seawater, which offers an additional gravitation barrier for CO2 to escape," said Prof. Jitendra Sangwai, Department of Chemical Engineering, IIT Madras.

"CO2 sequestration in oceans will be beneficial for India as, according to a conservative estimate, the Bay of Bengal alone can be able to sequestrate several hundred giga tonnes of anthropogenic CO2 in oceans and marine sediments, which is equivalent to several years of total GHG (Greenhouse Gas) emission emitted by India. Some countries in Europe (e.g., Norway and Denmark) are working on CO2 storage in the North Sea," Prof. Jitendra added.

Once the CO2 is permanently stored as a gas hydrate, it does not allow for any reemission into the atmosphere owing to the gravitational and hydrate permeability barrier in the subsea sediments.

The findings were published in several research papers in reputed peer-reviewed journals including Energy Fuels and Fuel.

Anthony Albanese will on Wednesday hold a meeting of the national cabinet, which is composed of federal, state and territory leaders, to discuss plans to prevent male violence against women, Xinhua news agency reported.

"We need to look at the full suite of policy measures that can make a practical difference here," he told state media Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) television on Monday.

On Sunday, the Prime Minister was one of thousands of Australians who joined protests across the country demanding an end to gender-based violence following a wave of incidents.

According to the advocacy group Destroy the Joint, 27 women have died violently in Australia so far in 2024, more than double the 12 in the first four months of 2023.

Addressing protesters in Canberra, Albanese dismissed organisers' calls for the government to declare family violence a national emergency, instead making the case for long-term action to address the national crisis.

He told the ABC on Monday that an emergency declaration would trigger immediate one-off government actions, such as emergency payments during natural disasters.

"What we need here is not one-off actions. What we need here is a concerted plan," he said.

Earlier on Monday, Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek said that misogyny online was working against government policies aimed at reducing violence against women.

She told Seven Network television that adolescent boys in particular are being fed violent content online that is supporting misogynistic attitudes.

Devnatha’s 15th solo showcase promises to captivate art enthusiasts with a distinctive semi-figurative style that is uniquely his own.

With the knack of blending traditional techniques with modern sensibilities, Devnatha’s style deeply resonates with his understanding of the artistic medium.

Featuring over 55 captivating artworks, each a testament to his mastery of both acrylic and oil colours, the exhibition will display the artist’s figurative work and contemporary art, characterized by delicate, feminine figures rendered in pastel colours, all within his signature unique style.

The exhibition will allow the guests to delve deeper into the world where art transcends traditional boundaries, inviting intense interpretation and introspection where his commitment shines through in each meticulously crafted piece, offering a glimpse into his creative process and boundless imagination.

Devnatha’s artistic journey is permeable with a deep musical influence that echoes his oeuvre. Drawing inspiration from nature and the rhythms of life, the art genius infuses his canvases with vibrant colours and fluid strokes, creating a visual symphony that resonates with joy and happiness.

IANSlife can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in

Seoul, April 29 (IANS) South Korea’s Health Minister Cho Kyoo-hong, on Monday, said that the government plans to deploy more medical staff as senior doctors at five major hospitals in Seoul decided to take a weekly day off starting this week.

Cho also renewed a pledge to accomplish medical reform, although a mass walkout by trainee doctors has crippled public health services at major hospitals for more than two months, Yonhap news agency reported.

The government will "further strengthen the emergency treatment system by sending more medical personnel to prevent damage to patients because of sudden resignations or leaves of absence by medical professors," Cho told at a government response meeting.

Cho said that the government will "unwaveringly push for medical reform," while calling for senior and junior doctors to stop their collective action against the government's plan to hike the number of medical students.

Last week, medical professors working for South Korea's five major hospitals -- Asan Medical Center, Samsung Medical Center, Severance Hospital, Seoul National University Hospital, and Seoul St. Mary's Hospital -- decided to suspend their work either on a day, or every week.

Those serving at Seoul National University Hospital will take a day off on Tuesday, and Severance professors will take a weekly break starting Tuesday through end of May.

Asan centre professors vowed not to work on Tuesday and Friday, and professors for Samsung and St. Mary's hospitals are discussing exactly when to take a day off, the report said.

About 12,000 trainee doctors have left their worksites since February 20 in protest of the plan to boost the number of medical students by 2,000, causing delays in medical treatments, with some emergency rooms partially limiting their treatment of critically ill patients.

The government launched a special presidential commission on medical reform on Thursday for talks on the issue with the medical community, including doctors.

It also decided to allow universities to decide their quotas by a range of 50 to 100 per cent of what the government assigned for next year.

But doctors have rejected the proposals, calling for the government to revisit the issue from scratch.

Separately, Second Vice Health Minister Park Min-soo repeated calls for doctors to find progress through talks to resolve the standoff over the hike in medical school admissions, the report said.

"The government has a willingness to hold one-on-one dialogues with the medical community," Park said.

Park said the government would increase compensation for treatment of cerebrovascular disease and organ transplants, as part of its efforts to support essential medical fields.

TDP President N. Chandrababu Naidu alleged that Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy is resorting to false propaganda that the reservations for Muslims will be repealed if the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) comes to power.

The TDP is contesting next month’s Assembly and Lok Sabha polls in the state in alliance with the BJP and Jana Sena Party.

During an interaction with Muslims at Nellore, the former Chief Minister promised that soon after the NDA comes to power in the state, Rs 1 lakh financial assistance will be extended to every Muslim for Haj pilgrimage.

Chandrababu Naidu told the Muslim community that though the TDP was part of the NDA even in the past, it never allowed any kind of injustice to be done to the community.

He promised the Muslim community that after coming to power, the NDA will revive all schemes for their welfare which were rescinded by the YSR Congress government and new schemes will also be implemented.

Mentioning that 90 per cent works of the Gurukula (residential) schools for Muslim students was completed, he promised to complete the remaining work within six months of forming the NDA government.

The TDP president alleged that the YSRCP extended unconditional support for the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) in the Parliament. He also claimed that the YSRCP backed the National Register of Citizens (NRC).

"While the TDP built a Haj House for the benefit of the Muslim community, Mr Jagan has built palaces for his own comfort," he said.

Naidu noted that the entire Muslim community is known for trust and courage and they always believe in hard work. He stated that the community is playing a significant role in all sectors. He observed that if there are no Muslims there will be no development.

A majority of the community depends on auto repair works in all urban areas in the two Telugu states, he said.

"Muslim brethren in Hyderabad are far ahead of their community in other parts of the country, in fact, the world, because of the initiatives taken by the TDP when it was in power," he said.

Recalling that Urdu University was established in Hyderabad during the TDP regime and when Atal Behari Vajpayee was the Prime Minister, he said that Haj House too was built by the then TDP government.

Naidu also pointed out various other welfare measures implemented for the Muslim community during the TDP regime and regretted that attacks on Muslim women have been on the rise in the past five years in the state.

Claiming that several mosques were built when he was the Chief Minister, Naidu said Jagan Mohan Reddy had not built even a single mosque during the last five years. He recalled that it was during the TDP rule that direct flights were introduced for Haj pilgrimage.

Testicular cancer is not only rare worldwide, but also in India. The country has one of the lowest incidences of testicular cancer with less than 1 man per 100, 000 population affected by this condition. However, it is the most common cancer in young men aged 15 to 35 years, and can significantly affect their fertility levels.

"Testicular cancer has a direct impact on the organs that produce sperm, which may interfere with the ability to reproduce," Dr Pallavi Prasad, Fertility Consultant, Nova IVF Fertility, Basaveshwara Nagar, Bengaluru, told IANS.

"Surgery is frequently used as the primary therapy for testicular cancer, which involves removing the cancerous testicle. While this surgery tries to eliminate malignant cells, it may influence sperm production. Even if the remaining testicle is healthy, sperm production might be temporarily or permanently impaired," she added.

In addition, chemotherapy and radiation therapy, used to target cancer cells throughout the body, can also cause collateral harm to sperm cells, reducing sperm production and quality. The doctor suggested fertility preservation methods, like sperm banking to save sperm samples before cancer treatment.

"Men can maintain the prospect of biological parenting by storing sperm before treatment, even if cancer therapy influences fertility. However, it is important to note that fertility preservation methods may not be available to all men, and the decision to explore such treatments might be difficult. Treatment urgency, financial factors, and personal preferences may all impact people's fertility preservation decisions," Dr Prasad said.

Although precise reasons behind testicular cancer are not yet understood, risk factors include early exposure to oestrogens via hormone therapy, and congenital conditions like small testes, or undescended testes (cryptorchidism), among others.

Dr Shalabh Agrawal, Consultant, Urology, C.K. Birla Hospital, Gurugram, told IANS that the most common symptom of testicular cancer is a painless enlargement in one of the testicles.

"This is in contrast to a sudden, painful enlargement, which is more likely to be due to an infection rather than cancer. If a patient is being treated for a long-standing testicular infection but the enlargement persists, they should be screened for the possibility of testicular cancer," he added.

Yet, "testicular cancer is considered a highly treatable form of cancer, with a 10-year survival rate exceeding 90 per cent," Dr Agrwal said, stressing the need for early detection via self-examination.

"The self-examination should be performed daily, after showering, by gently palpating both testicles to check for any abnormalities in size, position, or the presence of lumps or swelling. If any such changes are detected, it is essential to promptly report them to a healthcare provider for further evaluation and appropriate management," he added.

Raja S, Audiologist, Founder & Managing Director of Hearzap shares with IANSlife five loud noises that can damage your hearing:

Unexpected Explosions: While uncommon for most people, unexpected explosions like a car backfire or a sonic boom can be incredibly loud (often exceeding 140 dB) and cause immediate hearing damage.

Festivals and concerts: Try to stay away from loudspeakers while attending a concert or festival. Carry your earplugs so that you can secure your ears completely. Keep your hearing at a safe distance.

Home improvement equipment: Do you want to tackle an upcoming home improvement project? Put in earplugs before the chainsaw or drill machine is plugged in. The sounds of the machine and chainsaws produce sounds greater than 90 dB. Safeguard yourself before it hurts you more.

Personal Audio on High: Many people crank up their headphones or earbuds to drown out background noise. However, the CDC warns that listening to music above 60% volume for extended periods can also damage hearing. Be mindful of the volume setting and consider using noise-cancelling headphones to reduce the need for such high volumes.

Hidden Culprits: Even some seemingly harmless places can have surprisingly loud noises. Arcades, movie theaters, and bowling alleys can all exceed safe listening levels. Be aware of your surroundings and take breaks from the noise whenever possible.

"Securing ears is more important, as it helps make our lives joyful. Any time, you encounter any sort of pain, get yourself tested immediately," concludes Raja S.

IANSlife can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in

Every year, April 22 to 29 is observed as World Primary Immunodeficiency Week. It aims to raise awareness about Primary immunodeficiencies (PIs), also known as inborn errors of immunity (IEI) -- a group of 450 rare and chronic conditions where a part of the body's immune system is missing or does not function correctly.

Dr Gaurav Kharya, Director, Department of Bone Marrow Transplant and Cellular Therapy, Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, New Delhi, told IANS that the prevalence of primary immunodeficiency disorders (PIDs) is rising in India.

"These are potentially fatal genetic conditions that affect a child's immune system, making them more susceptible to infections, autoimmunity, and malignancies," he explained.

While there is no nationwide data on the prevalence of PIDs in India, statistical projections claim that there could be more than one million patients with PIDs in the country.

Dr Sagar Bhattad, Consultant - Paediatric Immunology & Rheumatology, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore, told IANS that over the past seven years, the hospital has identified more than 450 children suffering from rare and complex immune deficiency diseases.

"Whereas, a decade ago, the number was limited to 1-2 cases per month, which has now increased to 10-12 every month -- a significant five-fold increase. In the past year alone, over 125 diagnoses were made, and experts predict this number to rise substantially in the coming years.

"It is estimated that before 2004, less than 50 cases of immune deficiency were identified nationally. This number has risen dramatically, with an estimated 300-500 cases diagnosed in 2014 and a further increase to 2,500-3,000 cases projected in 2024. This represents a staggering 300-400 per cent increase over the past decade," Dr Sagar said.

The doctors blame lack of awareness about the conditions as well as treatment facilities to be a major reason for the rise in PIDs.

"These genetic conditions are more common in communities that practise consanguineous marriages. Many cases of immunodeficiency go undiagnosed due to a lack of facilities and awareness, especially in rural areas," Dr Gaurav said.

"The lack of awareness and diagnostic facilities are often the reasons why these patients do not reach tertiary care centres where they can be treated for these disorders," he explained.

The doctors stressed the need for recognising the signs and symptoms that can help in early diagnosis, as well as better outcomes. Genetic testing during pregnancy can be key to identifying potential problems and preventing recurrence in future pregnancies.

According to Dr Gaurav, bone marrow transplant (BMT), which replaces the defective immune cells of the patient with healthy cells from a compatible donor, has emerged as a potentially curative treatment for several types of primary immunodeficiencies.

"If a child falls ill repeatedly and requires frequent antibiotics, it could be a sign of a serious genetic immune problem. These conditions can affect multiple children in the same family," Dr Sagar said.

"By identifying these conditions at early stages, children can receive the targeted treatment they need to avoid frequent infections and the overuse of antibiotics," he said, calling for a wider availability of affordable genetic testing to enable earlier diagnoses and improve treatment outcomes.

"By working together, we can ensure that no child misses out on a healthy life due to an undiagnosed immune deficiency," the doctor said.

Food is fuel. Fuel for the body equals nourishment, healing and balance. It equals fitness and a fit body is a creative, productive and long-lasting body. Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of consuming foods that are warm, freshly cooked and easily digestible. Incorporate foods that are high in fibre. Consume plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts and seeds daily. Fibre helps to regulate bowel movements and promotes digestive health.

The addition of spices and herbs is great for digestion. Ayurvedic herbs like Triphala are often used to support digestion and cleanse the gastrointestinal tract. Spice-like ginger is known for its digestive properties. Ginger can be consumed in various forms such as fresh ginger tea or can be added to meals. Cumin, Coriander, and Fennel Tea (CCF Tea) are commonly used in Ayurveda to help digestion and alleviate bloating and gas.

Consume foods rich in probiotics, such as yoghurt, homemade pickles, buttermilk, rice kanji and other fermented foods. Probiotics help maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria, which is important for proper digestion. Certain foods can trigger digestive discomfort. Often spicy foods, caffeine and certain types of dairy can cause digestive discomfort. It is better to limit the consumption of such foods. Avoid heavy and fried foods. Minimize the intake of processed, packaged, preserved, bottled and high-fat foods, as they can be harder to digest and may lead to digestive discomfort. Instead of large and heavy meals, eat smaller meals throughout the day. This can help prevent overloading the digestive system and therefore, prevent bloating and indigestion.

Eat consciously while being present in the moment consuming meals. Ensure breathing in and breathing out, and have a relaxed eating pace. Eating in a calm, relaxed environment can help improve digestion too. Chew your food slowly and thoroughly. This helps in the breakdown of food particles and promotes better digestion in the stomach and intestines.

Drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day. Water helps in the digestion and absorption of nutrients, as well as the movement of food through the digestive tract. Ayurveda suggests drinking warm water throughout the day to help digestion and cleansing.

Regular physical activity is also necessary to promote healthy digestion. Optimal movement therapy helps stimulate bowel movements and reduces the risk of constipation. Certain yoga postures and breathing exercises stimulate the abdominal organs which promote relaxation and ultimately better digestionâ€"Asanas like Pavanamuktasana (wind-relieving pose) and Bhujangasana (cobra pose) help. Pranayama like Nadi Shodhana (alternate nostril breathing) can also help balance the digestive system. Massaging the abdomen in a clockwise direction with warm sesame oil can be particularly beneficial for digestion. This improves circulation and calms the nervous system, thereby stimulating digestion. Panchakarma therapies such as Virechana (therapeutic purgation) and Basti (medicated enema) are used for cleansing the body and balancing the doshas, which indirectly support digestive health.

Lastly, follow the circadian rhythm and eat and sleep at regular times. This discipline and pattern are very important for healthy digestion. Consistency helps to regulate the digestive processes and promote better gut health.

Good, easy-to-digest foods lead to creative thinking, give you courage, can beat stress, bring in confidence and create harmony between the body, mind and spirit.

IANSlife can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in

Tens of thousands of Australians on Sunday gathered at events across the country to demand action to address gendered violence, Xinhua news agency reported.

In Canberra, protesters were joined on their march to Parliament House by Albanese, who earlier in April said Australia was facing a crisis of violence against women, and senior government ministers.

According to the activist group Destroy the Joint, 26 women have been violently killed in Australia since the start of 2024.

"Violence against women is an epidemic. We must do better," Albanese wrote in a post on social media on Sunday morning. "Governments need to do better, and as a society, we need to do better."

Speaking at a press conference earlier on Sunday, Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth said more time was needed to determine if the 10-year National Plan to End Violence against Women implemented by the government in October 2022 was yielding results.

The plan set a goal of eradicating violence against women within a generation.

"The results will take some time to see the change we need to turn things around," Rishworth said on Sunday.

She said she was hopeful the current national conversation would bring sustained resolve across society to address the issue.

He emphasised the critical role of intensified intelligence gathering at the micro-level by Police Commissioners, Deputy Commissioners, Superintendents of Police, and officials from the Excise Department.

"This proactive approach aims to bolster legal actions against individuals engaged in such illicit activities," Prasad said while presiding over the meeting here on Saturday to review preparations for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls.

Divisional Commissioners, Deputy Commissioners, and Commissioners of police officers from Gurugram, Panchkula, Sonipat, and Jhajjar, among other officials, also attended the meeting.

Haryana Chief Electoral Officer, Anurag Agarwal, ADGP, CID Alok Mittal, and Principal Secretary, Excise Department, Devinder Kalyan also attended the meeting through video conference.

During the meeting, Prasad sought information about the status of illegal liquor seized district-wise.

He directed senior officers to establish coordination with the neighbouring states to trace the origin of the seized liquor.

Additionally, the Chief Secretary also emphasised the need for heightened vigilance, especially in districts bordering Delhi and other states.

Referring to the data, Prasad highlighted the seizure of 2,78,819 litres of illicit liquor valued at Rs 9 crore within Haryana so far.

He stressed the necessity of maintaining the effectiveness of these strict measures and also directed to increase surprise inspections on alternative routes rather than main thoroughfares.

During the meeting, Gurugram Deputy Commissioner, Nishant Kumar Yadav briefed the Chief Secretary on the district's progress, highlighting the establishment of 47 checkpoints in Gurugram and the seizure of the quantity of liquor so far.

Harpreet told IANS: "We are absolutely elated and honoured to be entrusted with the monumental task of designing costumes for the upcoming historical movie, 'Ramayana'."

Rimple added, "This opportunity feels like a true blessing, as the Ramayana holds unparalleled significance in our country's cultural heritage."

The duo has previously showcased their talent by creating stunning costumes for films like 'Padmaavat', 'Housefull 4', and the upcoming series 'Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar' by Sanjay Leela Bhansali.

Hapreet called it "a huge responsibility" as "Ramayana not only embodies the essence of timeless values and virtues but also serves as a guiding light for generations."

"We are deeply committed to bringing forth the richness and intricacy of this epic tale through our designs, paying homage to its profound impact on our collective consciousness," Rimple added.

The film features Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama and Sai Pallavi as Sita.

Additionally, Lara Dutta portrays Kaikeyi, and Arun Govil depicts Raja Dashrath.

Divers and teams deployed by the authorities have been looking for the three persons who went missing after a boat capsized in Jhelum River on April 16 in Gandbal Batwara area of Srinagar district, in which six people were killed while three went missing.

The body of one student was recovered on Friday, while another body was recovered on Saturday.

Officials said that one person is still missing after this boat tragedy that shook the society as the victims were minor school children.

Police said that a self-styled mystic named Ghulam Rasool alias Lassa Bab, axed a 60-year-old woman to death in his room in Chogal village of Handwara tehsil on Friday.

The self-styled mystic has been arrested and booked under relevant sections of law. Doctors have said that the so-called mystic is a madman.

The incident has sent shock waves throughout the Valley as credulous people, mostly women, seek favours from such people.

This is an increase of just under 1.8 million from the previous year when the rate was 18.4 per cent, the national statistical agency was quoted as saying on Friday by Xinhua news agency.

The proportion of those who were marginally food insecure remained relatively stable, at 6 per cent, while the proportions of those who were moderately and severely food insecure both increased to reach nearly 17 per cent.

According to the agency, people in one-parent families and unattached non-seniors remained at a particularly high risk of food insecurity. People in non-senior couples and couples with children had somewhat lower rates, though all were higher than the rates for people in senior families or unattached seniors.

The food insecurity data were collected from January to June 2023. Food insecurity is inadequate or insecure access to food due to financial constraints, and refers to the 12-month period prior to the interview, the agency said.

Meanwhile, 9.9 per cent of the population, approximately 3.8 million Canadians, lived below the poverty line in 2022, up from 7.4 per cent in 2021, Statistics Canada said.