As a unique initiative, the Prime Minister of India has endorsed the concept of celebrating Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana in the form of a ‘Godh Bharai’ ceremony. This celebration happens in Dausa, Rajasthan, with pregnant women congregating to receive Poshan Kits that will ensure their infants’ improved health. The scheme benefitted around 3.5 lakh women in Rajasthan alone in the 2022-23 period.
The traditional Indian ‘Godh Bharai’ ceremony is akin to a baby shower, celebrating the anticipation of a new arrival. The Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana embodies this spirit, providing financial aid for health and nutritional care to pregnant and lactating women. Execution of this centrally sponsored program is entrusted to the Ministry of Women and Child Development.
The Reality of High Altitude Living: Challenges and Survival Strategies
Residing at high altitudes poses particular challenges requiring certain adaptations by its inhabitants. India’s highest settlement, Karzok in Ladakh, stands at an elevation of 4,570 meters above sea level. Similarly situated is Komic in Himachal Pradesh, with an altitude exceeding 4,500 meters. Globally, nearly 0.1% of the population, about 6.4 million people, reside at heights over 4,000 meters.
These high-altitude plains, such as the Andes in South America or Tibet in Asia, have been home to populations for over ten millennia. Unaccustomed visitors from lower heights may find it hard to deal with the cold, reduced atmospheric pressure, and decreased oxygen levels that are characteristic of these regions.
Despite the challenging economic scenario, due to limited agricultural opportunities requiring careful terracing and irrigation, residents supplement their income through livestock rearing and mining. Physiological adaptations like a higher basal metabolic rate and improved lung capabilities are necessary for survival in these low-oxygen environments.
Interestingly, some research indicates that living in high altitudes could have positive effects on health and fitness. A study conducted in Himachal Pradesh found that individuals aged 70-74 had an average blood pressure of 120/80, demonstrating the possible benefits of living under harsh conditions.
Cooperation in action: Ex Ekuverin
The 12th annual edition of the joint military exercise “Ex Ekuverin” took place from June 11 to June 24, 2023, between the Indian Army and the Maldives National Defence Force. The exercise, alternating between India and Maldives, aims at enhancing interoperability in Counter Insurgency/Counter Terrorism Operations under the UN mandate and performing joint Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief operations.
The Maldives, located in the Indian Ocean southwest of Sri Lanka, consists of almost 1200 small coral islands grouped into clusters of atolls, with Malé as the capital and largest city. Islam predominates as the religion, with Dhivehi as the official language, although English is widely spoken, particularly in tourist areas.
Captagon Pills: Fueling Conflict
Emerging reports suggest that Captagon, a potent amphetamine-type drug, has been extensively used by Islamic State (IS) fighters and Syrians to enhance alertness and reduce hunger during prolonged battles. This highly addictive drug primarily manufactured in Syria acts as a stimulant on the user’s central nervous system, providing increased energy, heightened concentration, elongated wakefulness, and euphoria.
Captagon was first developed in the 1960s and contained fenetylline, a synthetic drug from the phenethylamine family, which also includes amphetamines. Later, it was banned in the 1980s due to its addictive properties.
Last Modified: February 20, 2024