Kerala Health Minister Veena George on Saturday said the state government is closely monitoring the news reports about the massive HMPV outbreak in China of viral fever and respiratory infection in China and said there is no need to panic as of now. In a Facebook post, George said there have been no reports so far about any virus found in China that could become pandemic or spread rapidly to other regions. As Malayalees are there in all parts of the world and expatriates frequently come to the state, including from China, extra caution should be exercised, she said. "We are monitoring the situation in China. If an outbreak is detected that has the potential to spread to other areas, we can check its spread very quickly," she said. The minister also urged people, especially pregnant women, children and elderly people, to take extra vigil and asked them to wear masks. An official source said on Friday that the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) is closely monitoring respiratory and seasonal influenza cases in the country, and is in touch with international agencies in the wake of the recent reports of an outbreak of the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China. "We will continue to monitor the situation closely and validate information and developments accordingly," a senior official said. Director General of Health Services (DGHS), Dr Atul Goel, said the Human Metapneumovirus is like any other respiratory virus which causes common cold, and it could cause flu-like symptoms in the young and the very old. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
04 January,2025 06:57 PM IST | Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala) | PTIThe Congress has announced the launch of a 'Jai Bapu, Jai Bhim, Jai Samvidhan' campaign to press for the resignation of Union Home Minister Amit Shah for "insulting" BR Ambedkar, the principal architect of India's Constitution. Congress leader Pawan Khera said under the campaign, party leaders will organise 'Chaupals' in every district and tell people how the BJP-RSS has been insulting Ambedkar and demeaning the Constitution for decades. Launched on January 3, the campaign will culminate on January 26 with a grand rally at Mhow in Madhya Pradesh, the birthplace of Ambedkar, commemorating 75 years of the Constitution and the Republic, Khera said. "To safeguard his legacy and values, a 'Samvidhan Bachao Rashtriya Padayatra' will be held from January 26, 2025, to January 26, 2026 -- connecting villages and towns across India with a powerful message of unity and social justice. "We reiterate our demand to sack Home Minister Amit Shah for his derogatory remarks against Dr Ambedkar," Khera told reporters. The Congress leader also accused the BJP leadership of trying to "normalise the demonisation" of national leaders such as Mahatma Gandhi, Babasaheb Ambedkar and Jawaharlal Nehru, who left an indelible mark in the country's history. "'Make-up artists' cannot replace national icons whose contributions to the nation are immense. Such people have certainly created a name for themselves in the country's history. Icons like Mahatma Gandhi, Nehru and Ambedkar cannot be replaced," Khera said. He also said the campaign aims to awaken and tell the people of the country about BJP's actions and the "insult" to Ambedkar. Replying to a debate on the Constitution in the Rajya Sabha on December 17, Shah had criticised the Congress for repeatedly taking Ambedkar's name. "It has become a fashion to say Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar... Had they taken God's name so many times, they would have got a place in heaven," Shah had said. "We hoped that the home minister would apologise and the prime minister would intervene in this matter. But Prime Minister Modi supported the home minister and became a partner in insulting Ambedkar ji," Khera claimed. The Congress leader said this issue was also raised at the Belagavi meeting where it was decided that the party will launch a 'Jai Bapu, Jai Bhim, Jai Samvidhan' campaign across the country. "Under this campaign, we will organise 'Chaupals' in every district and tell people how the BJP-RSS has been insulting Ambedkar ji and demeaning the Constitution for decades," Khera said. The Congress leader also recalled how on November 30, 1949, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) described the Constitution as "un-Indian" in its mouthpiece 'Organiser'. "When Ambedkar ji talked about equal rights for women, RSS burnt his effigy at the Ramlila Maidan. Not just Ambedkar ji, but Gandhi ji's legacy is also being attacked today," he alleged. He also claimed that BJP was confident of changing Ambedkar's Constitution by winning more than 400 seats in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, which didn't happen. "But, had this happened, not only would the Constitution have changed, even Mahatma Gandhi's picture would have been removed from currency notes. "Mahatma Gandhi, whom the whole world considers an ideal, is slowly being removed by the ruling party of his own country. That is why the Congress is moving ahead and preserving the legacy of Babasaheb Ambedkar and Mahatma Gandhi," he said. Khera also said the BJP cannot roam around speaking about the Constitution while keeping 'Manusmriti' in its armpit. "BJP not just openly commits injustice against Dalits and Adivasis in the country, it also weakens their laws. The BJP is against constitutional and democratic institutions. It has always insulted Ambedkar ji, but we will not tolerate this anymore," he said. Khera also released a pamphlet for the 'Jai Bapu, Jai Bhim, Jai Samvidhan' campaign, claiming the Congress seeks to reveal with historical background how the BJP has been conspiring against 90 per cent of India's population. "Insulting Babasaheb Ambedkar or conspiring against him is a violation of the rights of 90 per cent of the people of this country... It is an attack on them," Khera alleged. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
04 January,2025 06:30 PM IST | New Delhi | PTIThe Uttar Pradesh government has set up 1,240 night shelters and temporary accommodation facilities across the state, PTI reported. The shelters are equipped with all the necessary resources to help people stay warm during extreme cold. Over three lakh blankets have also been distributed to those in need. As per official statement on Saturday, CM Yogi Adityanath has emphasised that no negligence will be tolerated in delivering blankets to the destitute, PTI cited. The government is taking continuous measure to improve the facilities at night and temporary shelters. The goal is to shield every needy persons from the harsh winter season and provide them with safe and dignified accommodation, it said. The CM stated that the operation of these shelters should be done with the highest care and responsibility. Police officials have been instructed to ensure that no individual is compelled to sleep outdoors, on dividers, roadsides or in parks, PTI reported. The women's safety and needs have been given special attention in the night shelters. These shelters provide enough lighting, cleanliness, and heating systems to ensure women's safety and meet their needs. A control room in the Relief Commissioner's office provides immediate communication about the state of shelters, heating, and blanket delivery. Any shortcomings identified through feedback are swiftly addressed, PTI reported. The Uttar Pradesh government has also asked municipal corporations to tell the public about the night shelters. Each zone has a detailed list of shelters, and information can also be seen on digital screens at bus terminals and key landmarks. This allows individuals to simply find the nearest shelter. Adequate budget allocations have been made to address winter-related issues in all districts, in accordance with the chief minister's directives, as per official statement, adding that the District Magistrates and Municipal Commissioners have also been instructed to inspect night shelters and heating arrangements on a regular basis. District Magistrates are also responsible for visiting shelters, speaking with those in need, and implementing corrective actions based on their findings. They have been asked to maintain cleanliness and a respectful atmosphere at the shelters. Furthermore, technical support is being employed to monitor the status of the bonfires set up in various areas, according to the statement, PTI reported. (With PTI inputs)
04 January,2025 05:10 PM IST | Lucknow | mid-day online correspondentPrime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said some people are trying to disturb peace in the name of caste politics and called for thwarting such designs to preserve the social harmony in rural parts of the country, reported news agency PTI. Inaugurating the Grameen Bharat Mahotsav, the Prime Minister exuded confidence that villages will play a key role in pushing forward the dream of Viksit Bharat by 2047. Without mentioning any names, PM Modi said certain people are trying to disturb peace by spreading the venom of caste politics. "We have to work to strengthen the heritage of peace and harmony of villages," he said, reported PTI. Recalling the steps taken by the NDA government since 2014, for rural development, PM Modi, quoting an SBI research report, said poverty in rural India came down to below 5 per cent from 26 per cent in 2012. He said the previous government had neglected the people living in rural India, and even after decades of independence, villages were deprived of basic necessities, reported PTI. But his government is empowering villages, and focusing on those who were neglected before, the Prime Minister said. Speaking on the occasion, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said banks have undertaken a saturation drive for 16 government schemes, including Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, PM Mudra and PM SVANidhi. The Mahotsav, through various discussions, workshops and masterclasses, aims to enhance rural infrastructure, create self-reliant economies, and foster innovation within rural communities. Its objectives include promoting economic stability and financial security among rural populations, with a special focus on North-East India, by addressing financial inclusion and supporting sustainable agricultural practices. PM Modi said that after assuming office in 2014, he has been continuously working towards serving rural India at every moment. Addressing as gathering at New Delhi's Bharat Mandapam after inaugurating the Bharat Grameen Mahotsav 2025, PM Modi said, "At the beginning of the year 2025, this grand event of Grameen Bharat Mahotsav is introducing India's development journey. It is creating an identity. I congratulate NABARD and other colleagues for organizing this event," reported ANI. Reflected on the challenges faced by the rural areas, PM Modi said, "I feel fortunate to have spent my childhood in a small town, which gave me firsthand experience of the challenges faced by rural areas. At the same time, it also helped me understand the vast potential that villages hold. Despite their hard work, villagers often struggle to access opportunities due to limited resources". (With inputs from PTI and ANI)
04 January,2025 02:00 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentA rare melanistic leopard was sighted carrying a cub in Nayagarh district of Odisha, said PCCF Wildlife in-charge Prem Kumar Jha on Friday, PTI reported. Prem Kumar Jha said on X that these "elusive black panthers" are vital to the environment and conserving their habitat would guarantee a "thriving wildlife heritage." He also said that these sightings reflect the region's remarkable biodiversity. A rare melanistic leopard with cub has been sighted in central Odisha, reflecting the region's incredible biodiversity. These elusive "black panthers" are vital to the ecosystem-protecting their habitat ensures a thriving wildlife heritage. @ForestDeptt @CMO_Odisha pic.twitter.com/IlwaI0qipq — Prem Kumar Jha (@Prem_CWLWOdisha) January 3, 2025 Mumbai: Wildlife conservationist Dr Jane Goodall praises human-leopard co-existence Legendary wildlife conservationist Dr Jane Goodall, renowned for her groundbreaking research on chimpanzees, praised Mumbai’s human-leopard coexistence model during a visit to the city. She also highlighted the pivotal role of young people in environmental protection. Addressing state forest department officials and young conservationists at Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP), Dr Goodall (90), emphasised, “Young people have the power to create positive change. The youth are the future, and they must unite to lead efforts in environmental and wildlife conservation.” Dr Goodall commended Mumbai’s unique human-leopard coexistence, stating, “Mumbai is a prime example that shows the world how humans and wildlife can live in harmony. We must recognise that wildlife and humans are inseparable, and the only way forward is peaceful coexistence.” The 90-year-old conservationist visited India for the first time as part of her Hope Global Tour. Since November 16, she has been in Mumbai, promoting Roots & Shoots, a global initiative by the Jane Goodall Institute India. The programme united young people from diverse backgrounds with the shared mission of improving the environment. When speaking about Mumbai’s rich biodiversity, Dr Goodall stressed, “Protecting our green spaces is crucial in the face of climate change. We must unite and adopt measures to mitigate this pressing issue.” The event at SGNP was attended by Dr V Clement Ben, additional principal chief conservator of forests, wildlife, west; G Mallikarjun, director and chief conservator of forests at SGNP; and wildlife conservationists. Dr Goodall interacted with forest officials and on-ground staff to gain a deeper understanding of man-animal coexistence in Mumbai, where wildlife and urban life exist in a delicate yet remarkable balance. Forest staff shared their experiences and insights, underscoring the challenges and successes of managing this unique ecosystem. Through these interactions, Dr Goodall reaffirmed her commitment to sustainable conservation practices that support both human and wildlife communities. (With inputs from PTI)
04 January,2025 01:55 PM IST | Nayagarh | mid-day online correspondentIn a sharp critique of the Mahayuti government's functioning, NCP (SC) MP Supriya Sule raised concerns over the lack of clarity and coordination within the Maharashtra government, particularly regarding the roles and responsibilities of key leaders. Supriya Sule highlighted the absence of communication with Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, questioning his involvement in ongoing government initiatives. "I did not see any statement from him (Ajit Pawar) in the last 15 days. I have no knowledge of what is going on in his department," Sule said during a public interaction in Pune. She went on to express concerns about the overall governance, stating, "I see the Chief Minister daily on TV, and yesterday, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde was also seen announcing some schemes. There is no clarity in the government about who is doing what, who is working, and who is not working." Pune, Maharashtra | NCP-SCP MP Supriya Sule says "I did not see any statement from him (Ajit Pawar) since last 15 days. I have no knowledge of what is going on in his department. I see the Chief Minister daily on TV and yesterday DCM Eknath Shinde was also seen announcing some… pic.twitter.com/nGYYI5USFU — ANI (@ANI) January 4, 2025 Sule emphasised the lack of coordination in the state administration, stating that the two individuals who appear to be actively engaged are Devendra Fadnavis and Eknath Shinde. "I can only see two people working, one is Devendra Fadnavis, and the other is Eknath Shinde," she said, questioning the efficacy of the current government structure. Further, Sule pointed out the absence of communication between the state government and elected representatives, which is crucial ahead of the Union Budget. "We are elected as MPs to represent Maharashtra, and usually, before the Union Budget, the Chief Minister calls all MPs and discusses the points we should present to secure maximum benefits for the state," Sule added. However, according to her, this practice has not been followed in the current government, raising doubts about the state's preparedness for the upcoming budget session. Her comments come at a time when political uncertainty continues to swirl around Maharashtra’s leadership, with multiple factions and leaders vying for influence and clarity on their roles. With the budget season approaching, Sule’s criticism serves as a stark reminder of the growing concerns over governance in the state.
04 January,2025 01:23 PM IST | Pune | mid-day online correspondentThe Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), currently spreading in China is just a ‘winter occurrence,’ is less severe, and is spreading on a smaller scale, said the country’s foreign ministry spokesperson, reported news agency IANS. The statement comes as photos and videos emerged on social media showing hospitals in China swamped with people amid rising cases of HMPV – causing respiratory illness --, and raising serious concerns of another pandemic akin to COVID-19. Speaking to reporters, China's foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning called it an annual occurrence in winter and assured that the country is safe to travel. “Respiratory infections tend to peak during the winter season in the Northern Hemisphere. Recently, the National Disease Control and Prevention Administration of China held a press conference to share information about the prevention and control of respiratory diseases in China during the wintertime,” said Ning, reported IANS. “The diseases appear to be less severe and spread on a smaller scale compared with the previous year,” she added. Further, reassuring the safety of citizens and tourists, she noted: "I can assure you that the Chinese government cares about the health of Chinese citizens and foreigners coming to China", adding that "It is safe to travel in China", reported IANS. Over the last few days, there has been a sudden spike in respiratory illnesses across China, reminding people of a similar surge before COVID-19 was confirmed. The media in neighbouring countries like Indonesia, India, and Japan also cautioned its citizens to be aware of the situation in China and take needed precautions. Meanwhile, Indian health officials have also assured that there is no need to worry. "The spread of HMPV in China is like any other respiratory virus," said Dr Atul Goel, Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), while speaking to the media, reported IANS. “There is no need for alarm, about the present situation," he added. The expert noted that the disease can lead to "flu-like symptoms," in the elderly and very young children, reported IANS. HMPV was first discovered in 2001 and is part of the Pneumoviridae family along with the Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The virus can lead to upper and lower respiratory disease in people of all ages. Young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems are majorly affected, reported IANS. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), symptoms commonly associated with HMPV include cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath, reported IANS. It reportedly has an incubation period of between three to five days. Wearing a mask, washing hands frequently, and increasing immunity can help prevent the disease. HMPV had in 2023 been detected in the Netherlands, Britain, Finland, Australia, Canada, the US, and China. (With inputs from IANS)
04 January,2025 12:40 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentDense fog continues to play havoc with flight operations across several cities in northern and eastern India, affecting visibility even during daytime hours. A senior official from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) told Mid-Day, "airports in Delhi, Chandigarh, Amritsar, Srinagar, Guwahati, and Patna are witnessing disruptions due to the prevailing weather conditions." "Flights operations to and from these destinations have been facing disruptions," the official said. The flights to/from these destinations are either delayed, rerouted or cancelled leaving passengers stranded and airlines grappling with logistical challenges. "While landing and takeoffs continue at Delhi Airport, flights that are not CAT III compliant may get affected. Passengers are requested to contact the airline concerned for updated flight information. Any inconvenience caused is deeply regretted," the Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL) said in a statement.
04 January,2025 12:07 PM IST | Mumbai | Prasun ChoudhariFifteen flights were diverted at the Delhi airport early Saturday morning as low visibility due to dense fog impacted operations for the second straight day. Due to the adverse weather conditions, many flights were delayed and the country's largest airline IndiGo temporarily put arrivals and departures on hold. An official said 15 flights were diverted at the Delhi airport between 12.15 am and 1.30 am due to reduced visibility. "While landing and takeoffs continue at Delhi Airport, flights that are not CAT III compliant may get affected. Passengers are requested to contact the airline concerned for updated flight information. Any inconvenience caused is deeply regretted," the Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL) said in a post on X at 6.56 am. CAT III facility allows aircraft to operate in low visibility conditions. Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) is operated by DIAL. "#6ETravelAdvisory: Departures and arrivals at #DelhiAirport are currently on hold due to reduced visibility," IndiGo said in a post on X at 1.05 am on Saturday. Air India said in an update on X at 1.16 am that poor visibility due to dense fog is impacting flight operations in Delhi and parts of northern India. A thick blanket of fog had enveloped Delhi on Friday as well, delaying more than 400 flights. In a related development, air quality in the national capital was in the 'very poor' category, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) reading of 380 at 9 am, according to Central Pollution Control Board data. An AQI between zero and 50 is considered 'good', 51 and 100 'satisfactory', 101 and 200 'moderate', 201 and 300 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', and 401 and 500 'severe'. The minimum temperature settled at 7.8 degrees Celsius, a notch above normal. The Met office has predicted dense to very dense fog during the day. The maximum temperature is likely to settle around 21 degrees Celsius. (With inputs from Agencies)
04 January,2025 11:19 AM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentDense fog over Delhi for a second consecutive morning reduced visibility to zero in several areas, leading to 81 trains being delayed and 15 flights getting diverted, officials said on Saturday. The Met Office said there was zero visibility since 11:30 pm on Friday at Palam and 12:30 am on Saturday at Safdarjung. The air quality in Delhi-NCR has deteriorated to the 'very poor' category, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) of the national capital recorded at 383 on Saturday, according to the Central Pollution Control Board. This marks the second consecutive day that the city's air quality has remained in this category. Some regions even recorded an AQI of 400 plus -- Anand Vihar (469), Ashok Vihar (423), ITO (401), Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium (418), RK Puram (415), Okhla Phase 2 (459). Furthermore, the neighbouring cities of Faridabad (312), Noida (465), Gurugram (363), and Ghaziabad (414) also exhibited poor air quality levels, significantly increasing health risks. Following a brief respite at the end of 2024 due to heavy rainfall that improved Delhi's air quality to the 'moderate' category, the conditions worsened again as the AQI slipped to the 'poor' category on Thursday. In response to the rising pollution levels, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has reimplemented Stage III measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). GRAP is a framework designed to combat air pollution through a tiered system of interventions based on AQI severity. Stage III restrictions, which include curbs on industrial activities and construction work, are activated when the AQI surpasses 350, while Stage IV measures are enforced if the index crosses 400. The Supreme Court has previously instructed authorities to promptly implement GRAP measures when thresholds are exceeded. CAQM officials attributed the worsening air quality to dense fog, low wind speeds, and other unfavourable meteorological factors. On Saturday morning, the Air Quality Index (AQI) exceeded 350, reaching 371 by 4:00 p.m. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast that these adverse conditions are likely to persist, keeping air quality in the "very poor" category in the coming days. Temperatures in Delhi have also plummeted, with a minimum of 7°C recorded on Saturday morning, exacerbating the situation. Dense fog has further disrupted daily life and commutes across the region. GRAP measures range from Stage I for 'poor' air quality (AQI 201-300) to Stage IV for 'severe plus' conditions (AQI above 450). Restrictions under Stage III include bans on construction and demolition activities, the closure of brick kilns, and enhanced monitoring of industrial emissions. Delhi is currently dealing with significant air pollution and thick fog. In response, officials are advising residents to limit their exposure, refrain from outdoor activities during times of high pollution, and implement preventive measures to protect their health. (With inputs from Agencies)
04 January,2025 10:48 AM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentWelcome to Mid-Day's Top News at this hour! We bring you a curated selection of the most significant and compelling news from around the globe. Stay informed with the latest developments in the nation, Mumbai, entertainment, sports, and more. Let's dive into the headlines shaping our world today. Crackdown on illegal immigrants and terror suspects: Anti-terrorist squad wants stricter screening of contract labour Amid rising security threats posed by illegal Bangladeshi immigrants, the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) is preparing a detailed report on their unlawful entry into India. The report will outline how these immigrants procure fake Indian identities, the role of Indian agents in facilitating their shelter and employment and the networks aiding their movement. Read more. Sanpada firing: Police suspect professional rivalry A garbage contractor was badly injured in Navi Mumbai’s Sanpada area on Friday after two unidentified assailants on a motorcycle allegedly shot at him. The incident occurred at 9.30 am opposite D-Mart, the Sanpada police said. The police have identified the injured as Rajaram Thoke, a 48-year-old contractor at the Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC) and a resident of Ghatkopar. Read more. Kurla-Santacruz Road has no street lights for over a year Kurla-Santacruz Road, famously known as CST Road, plunges into complete darkness after evening hours as there are no streetlights between Kolivery Road junction and Bharat Ratna Ambedkar Chowk junction in Kalina. On the adjacent Hans Bhugra Road, streetlights are only functional on one side, leaving the other lane dark. Read more. The world deserves to know who made call on Rohit’s omission The worst kept secret in the cricketing world was finally out in the open on Friday morning when Jasprit Bumrah, and not Rohit Sharma, waited for Pat Cummins at the toss to set the ball rolling in the final Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground. By late Thursday evening local time, it was obvious that Rohit would not play the series decider against Australia, though even 24 hours later, there was no official word on the sequence of events that led to this unprecedented move in Indian cricket. Read more. Hansal Mehta's next to be an action film starring 'Kill' actor Lakshya? After a Kareena Kapoor Khan-fronted thriller, and a dramatic web offering featuring Pratik Gandhi, filmmaker Hansal Mehta is set to explore a genre that he has, until now, kept his distance from. Sources tell mid-day that Mehta, who is known for his poignant tales, including biopics and socially relevant stories, is now working on an action film. Read more.
04 January,2025 10:24 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
