Category Archives: Health

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.
Health, West Bengal

No Bird Flu Threat in Bengal, Poultry Traders Reassure Amid Scare

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, February 20, 2025, Kolkata :  As fears of a potential bird flu outbreak rise in neighboring Andhra Pradesh, the poultry industry in West Bengal is experiencing a significant drop in demand for chicken and eggs. Amid the panic, traders and experts are trying to allay fears, assuring that the situation in Bengal remains unaffected.

Reports from Andhra Pradesh indicate that a bird flu scare has led to a decline in chicken prices, with many traders in the region expressing concern over their livelihoods. In response to the outbreak, the state government of Andhra Pradesh has taken measures to import chicken and eggs from other states to maintain supply. The ripple effects of this scare are now being felt in nearby regions, with concerns about a similar impact in Bengal growing.

However, Ratan Poddar, the state joint secretary of the West Bengal Poultry Traders Association, sought to ease these concerns. Speaking from Barasat, Poddar reassured the people of Bengal that there is no bird flu in the state at present. He clarified that although the bird flu scare has affected several areas in Andhra Pradesh, it has not spread to West Bengal or its neighboring states, including Odisha, Assam, Bihar, and Chhattisgarh.

Poddar attributed the illness among birds to seasonal changes, noting that just like humans, birds can fall ill during this time, a condition often referred to as bird flu. However, he emphasized that there is no need for panic, as medical science has confirmed that cooking poultry at 65 degrees Celsius eliminates any harmful germs, making it safe to consume. Poddar recommended boiling the meat thoroughly as a precautionary measure, urging the people of Bengal not to worry unnecessarily.

As fears of a widespread outbreak continue to stir, Bengal’s poultry industry remains hopeful, with traders working hard to reassure the public that there is no immediate cause for alarm. The state’s poultry business, however, is keeping a close watch on developments in neighboring regions to mitigate any potential risks.

Health, West Bengal

Expired Saline Linked to Pregnant Woman’s Death at Medinipur Hospital; Health Department Orders Inquiry

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 11, 2025, Kolkata:West Bengal has been rocked by a scandal involving expired saline that allegedly led to the death of a pregnant woman at Medinipur Medical College and Hospital. The deceased, Mamoni Rui Das, 21, gave birth to a baby on Wednesday but her condition rapidly worsened on Thursday after being administered the saline. She was moved to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) but tragically succumbed to her condition on Friday. Seven other pregnant women who were also given the same saline are now critically ill and are receiving treatment in the ICU.


The saline in question, Ringer Lactate, was later found to be expired, sparking outrage. Despite the incident, the saline continued to be used in hospitals for several hours. The West Bengal Health Department has since intervened, ordering an immediate inquiry into the matter and calling for the replacement of the existing saline stock with a fresh batch. The department has also demanded a detailed report from the principal of Medinipur Medical College regarding the alleged negligence and an explanation for the stocking of expired saline in the hospital.

In response to the crisis, the health department moved quickly to ban not just Ringer Lactate, but a range of other products from the same company, West Bengal Pharmaceuticals. The company’s products that have been banned include:

Ringer Lactate
Ringer Solution IP Injection
Dextrorose Injection
Mannitol Infusion
Paracetamol Infusion
Ofloxacin
1/2 DNS
Sodium Chloride Irrigation Solution
Pediatric Maintenance Electrolyte Solution

The use of these medications has been halted in hospitals across the state. Efforts are now underway to collect and remove these products from hospital wards.

In the wake of the incident, the hospital authorities have formed a 10-member committee to investigate the cause of the death and the circumstances surrounding the use of expired saline. The health department has also issued a formal ban on saline products manufactured by West Bengal Pharmaceuticals, the company responsible for supplying the contaminated stock.

This latest scandal has drawn attention to the dangers of expired medical products being used in healthcare settings. Last year, similar saline from the same company was linked to the deaths of four individuals in Karnataka. The West Bengal Health Department’s swift response to the crisis underscores the gravity of the situation, as public health safety becomes a key concern for authorities.

Relatives of the affected patients have filed formal complaints with the police, demanding accountability for the negligence that led to the tragic loss of life and critical illnesses. As investigations continue, the health department has promised to take necessary actions to ensure that such incidents are not repeated.
Health, West Bengal

Abhishek Banerjee Inaugurates Sevashray Mega Health Camps in Diamond Harbour to Provide Free Healthcare Services

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 3, 2025, Kolkata – The Sevashray health initiative was officially launched in Diamond Harbour on Thursday, marking a significant step in the region’s healthcare outreach. Abhishek Banerjee, MP and General Secretary of AITMC personally inaugurated the project at the SDO ground, arriving around 9 AM to a warm reception from local administration and grassroots leaders. He was welcomed with an uttariya, a traditional ceremonial garment, before cutting the ribbon and lighting the lamp to signal the commencement of the health camp.


Following the inauguration, Banerjee took a detailed tour of the health camp, inspecting its operations firsthand. He inquired about the specific treatments that would be offered, the availability of doctors, and the logistical details of the camp’s functioning. The MP also focused on ensuring that the camp would have the necessary medical infrastructure and resources, asking thorough questions about the timing of doctor shifts, the treatment protocols, and the overall patient care process.

According to sources, the Sevashray health camps are set to operate for ten days every month in each of the seven assembly constituencies that fall under the Diamond Harbour Lok Sabha seat. Each camp will be staffed by at least two specialist doctors, with approximately 800 doctors expected to participate in the initiative. The first phase of the program will roll out in the Diamond Harbour assembly constituency.

Banerjee emphasized that the Sevashray initiative is aimed at providing free healthcare services to the public. The health camps will offer a range of services, including free medicine distribution, diagnostic tests, referral services, and an app-based registration system that will provide real-time updates. These camps will be open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, beginning Thursday, January 3, and will continue until January 11.

Banerjee, in his remarks, stressed the importance of accessible healthcare and the need for such initiatives in underserved regions. He further mentioned plans to visit the health camps in Blocks 1 and 2 of the Diamond Harbour constituency to ensure that the services are being provided effectively. The initiative is expected to benefit a large number of residents in the area, offering essential medical support at no cost to the community.
Health, Politics, West Bengal

Abhishek Banerjee to Launch ‘Sevashray’ Mobile Health Camp in Diamond Harbour on January 2

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kolkata, December 29, 2024 : Trinamool Congress All India General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee is set to inaugurate a major healthcare initiative, Sevashray, in Diamond Harbour on January 2, marking the launch of a mobile hospital project aimed at providing essential health services across his parliamentary constituency. This initiative, which aims to offer free medical care and diagnostics to residents, will kick off with an inaugural ceremony at the SDO Ground in Diamond Harbour.


The Sevashray health camp is the brainchild of Abhishek Banerjee and will run from January 2 to 11 as part of its first phase. The program is designed to benefit the seven assembly constituencies under Banerjee’s jurisdiction, offering mobile healthcare services to thousands of people. The camps will provide a range of medical services, including general medicine, diagnostic tests, and specialty consultations, free of cost.

According to Banerjee, general medicine doctors will be available for seven days in each constituency, while the remaining three days will feature specialized care from super-specialty doctors. In total, there are plans for 40 health camps each day across the constituency, with more than 800 doctors expected to participate in the 75-day program. The camps will feature portable diagnostic tools such as ECG machines and offer services like blood tests. If any health issues are detected, immediate diagnosis and treatment will be provided, along with free medicines.

In addition to healthcare services, the camps will utilize an app-based registration system, providing real-time updates for attendees and a dedicated emergency help desk. This initiative is expected to have a significant impact on the local community by making healthcare more accessible, particularly in rural and underserved areas.

Abhishek Banerjee’s decision to personally inaugurate the Sevashray initiative has raised questions, as it marks a significant departure from the usual protocol where similar projects are launched by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. While the Chief Minister has inaugurated various welfare programs throughout Bengal, the launch of this mobile health initiative by a Member of Parliament underscores Abhishek Banerjee’s increasing involvement in regional development projects, particularly in his constituency.

This move is likely to enhance his political profile, especially ahead of upcoming elections, as it reflects a direct commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure in his constituency. The Sevashray project aims to bridge gaps in healthcare access and is expected to provide a much-needed boost to public health services in the region.
Health, National

Study finds sleep helps with learning new language

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PTI, December 05, 2024, New Delhi : Getting those eight hours of sleep can have linguistic benefits, according to a study that found it helped adults speak a new language.

    
While one sleeps, the brain is known to integrate or ‘consolidate’ information learnt during the day with previous knowledge to file it for long-term storage.

Researchers, led by those at the University of South Australia, tracked brain activity in 35 native English-speaking adults as they were learning a miniature language called ‘Mini Pinyin’, which is based on Mandarin but has grammatical rules similar to English.

A miniature language is used in scientific experiments for studying aspects related to learning languages.

Mini Pinyin “mimics natural language as it is based on an existing language (Mandarin Chinese) and includes both structure and meaning”, according to a 2020 study published in the journal Behavior Research Methods and written by researchers at the University of South Australia.

In this study published in the Journal of Neuroscience, half the participants learnt Mini Pinyin in the morning and returned in the evening to have their memory tested, the researchers said.

The other half learnt Mini Pinyin in the evening and then slept in the laboratory overnight, while having their brain activity recorded. The team tested the participants’ progress in the morning.

Those who slept were found to perform significantly better, compared to those who remained awake before having their memory tested.

“We found that sleep relative to wake was associated with superior performance for rules that followed a sequence-based word order,” the authors wrote.

Improvements in memory because of sleep were related to the linking of slow oscillations and sleep spindles, which are brainwave patterns that synchronise during the non-REM phase of sleep, according to lead researcher Zachariah Cross, who did his PhD from the University of South Australia.

Non-rapid eye movement (REM) sleep is the restful phase of sleep when eyes stop moving and during which muscles relax, and brain activity, breathing and heart rate slow down.

“This coupling (linking) likely reflects the transfer of learned information from the hippocampus to the cortex, enhancing long-term memory storage,” Cross said.

“Post-sleep neural activity showed unique patterns of theta oscillations associated with cognitive control and memory consolidation, suggesting a strong link between sleep-induced brainwave co-ordination and learning outcomes,” the lead researcher said.

The researchers also said the findings could potentially inform treatments for individuals with language-related impairments, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and aphasia, who experience greater sleep disturbances than other adults.

Increasing slow oscillations could accelerate aphasia-based speech and language therapy, Cross said.
Health, National, Regional, States

Study finds how pollution can increase risk of inflammation pregnancy complications

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PTI, December 02, 2024, New Delhi : Exposure to PM2.5 pollution could lead to higher inflammation levels among pregnant women potentially resulting in adverse birth outcomes, such as low birth weight and preterm birth, according to a study examining how pollution alters human DNA.

     
The findings, published in the journal Science Advances, provided a new understanding of the biological routes through which air pollution affects pregnancy and birth outcomes, researchers said.

Particulate matter (PM) 2.5 pollution is caused by particles sized 2.5 micrometres or less. Common sources are vehicular and industrial emissions, while natural ones can include carbon from wildfires and dust.

The study, led by Harvard University’s School of Public Health, US, found that exposure to PM2.5 can influence the histones of pregnant women. Histones are proteins found in chromosomes, vital to DNA structure and cell function.

Air pollution can, thus, disrupt the normal balance of cytokine genes — genes involved in producing immune responses — and lead to increased inflammation in both women and foetuses, the researchers said.

Among pregnant women, the increased inflammation could be related to adverse pregnancy outcomes, they said.

“Our findings highlight the importance of minimising air pollution exposure in pregnant women to protect maternal and foetal health,” co-author Youn Soo Jung, a research associate at Harvard University’s School of Public Health, said.

“Policy interventions to improve air quality as well as clinical guidelines to help pregnant women reduce their exposure to pollution could have a direct impact on reducing pregnancy complications,” Soo Jung said.

While previous studies have found links between PM2.5 exposure and complications in maternal and child health including low birth weight and developmental delays, the study is the first to examine the effects of PM2.5 on maternal and foetal health at a cell level, the authors said.

The study involved both non-pregnant women and 20-week pregnant women. Average exposure to PM2.5 was calculated using air quality data from the US Environmental Protection Agency.

Within each cell, the researchers were able to map changes to histones — the proteins that help control the release of cytokines, which are known to help regulate inflammation.

“These modifications in specific histones and cytokines could indicate the toxicological mechanism of PM2.5 exposure in inflammation, inflammasome pathway, and pregnancy complications,” the authors wrote.