Today in History (September 13th, 1929)
On September 13, 1929, Jatindra Nath Das, an Indian freedom fighter, passed away after a prolonged hunger strike to protest against the inhumane treatment of political prisoners in British jails, in Lahore Central Jail.
Summary of Today’s News
Nipah virus
The Nipah virus, primarily spread by fruit bats in South and Southeast Asia, poses a significant health risk to humans. It can be transmitted from animals (especially bats and pigs) to humans, and human-to-human transmission is also possible, as is transmission through contaminated food. The virus can lead to a range of symptoms, from none at all to severe respiratory problems and potentially fatal encephalitis. Unfortunately, there is currently no available treatment or vaccine for Nipah virus infections. Since its identification in 1999 in Malaysia, it has been detected frequently in Bangladesh, with occasional outbreaks in India, including a notable one in Kerala.
Harami Nala
Harami Nala is a 22-kilometer tidal channel located at the Rajasthan border in Gujarat’s Kutch region, serving as a natural boundary between India and Pakistan. The name “Harami Nala” translates to “rogue or treacherous channel” and reflects its notoriety as a potential entry point for infiltrators from Pakistan to India. Its historical reputation as an entry route for criminals and terrorists, including Ajmal Kasab of the 2008 Mumbai attacks, has contributed to this name. Despite its ecological significance, illegal fishing poses a challenge to the channel’s ecosystem. The area’s strategic location near urban centers and its historical use for illicit activities make border security in this region complex, involving maritime dynamics and border complexities.
Ayushman Bhav campaign
The Ayushman Bhav campaign, to be virtually inaugurated by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan, aims to extend healthcare services to all villages and towns across India. Led by the Union Health Ministry, the campaign strives to establish a comprehensive nationwide healthcare initiative with universal coverage. A key aspect of the campaign is the introduction of the Ayushman Apke Dwar 3.0 program, which enables eligible PM-JAY scheme beneficiaries to independently download their health cards. This initiative marks a significant stride towards enhancing healthcare access and coverage throughout the country.
