Krishnamachari Srikkanth Joins VISION 2020 India to Fight Preventable Blindness
Former Indian cricket captain Krishnamachari Srikkanth has been appointed the Goodwill Ambassador of VISION 2020 India. This initiative, driven by Sankara Nethralaya and other stakeholders, aims to tackle the issue of avoidable blindness, which affects millions nationwide, with 80% of cases being preventable. Srikkanth’s role includes spearheading awareness campaigns and supporting free eye screenings, surgeries, and treatment for underserved communities. His commitment is expected to draw significant attention to the cause, encouraging early diagnosis and ensuring better access to eye care services across India, aligning with the mission to eliminate preventable blindness in the near future.
Telangana Announces ₹3.04 Lakh Crore Budget Focused on Growth and Welfare
The Telangana government has unveiled its most ambitious budget yet, totaling ₹3.04 lakh crore for the 2025-26 fiscal year. Prioritizing welfare, ₹69,000 crore has been allocated for backward classes, scheduled castes, and tribes. Significant investments in agriculture, education, and healthcare amount to ₹24,439 crore, ₹23,108 crore, and ₹12,393 crore, respectively. Additionally, ₹31,605 crore is allocated for rural development and ₹17,677 crore for urban projects. The budget underscores sustainable growth, featuring initiatives like the Musi Riverfront Development and renewable energy projects, while aiming to propel Telangana toward becoming a trillion-dollar economy by 2050 through inclusive and progressive strategies.
Lando Norris Opens F1 2025 Season with Thrilling Australian GP Victory
The 2025 Formula 1 season began with a gripping Australian Grand Prix as McLaren’s Lando Norris claimed a hard-fought win. Battling unpredictable wet-dry conditions and multiple safety car disruptions, Norris managed to fend off a fierce challenge from reigning champion Max Verstappen in the final laps, finishing just 0.895 seconds ahead. Mercedes’ George Russell secured third place, while rookie Andrea Kimi Antonelli impressed with a P4 finish. The chaotic race saw six drivers retire, including Fernando Alonso and Carlos Sainz, showcasing the demanding track conditions. Norris’ victory sets an electrifying tone for the season ahead.
Unified Standards for AYUSH Drugs Recommended by Parliamentary Panel
The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Health and Family Welfare has proposed establishing a single independent drug controller to consolidate AYUSH drug standards under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act of 1940. This move aims to streamline regulatory processes, enhance drug quality, and maintain uniform efficacy standards. The committee recommends collaboration between the Pharmacopoeia Commission for Indian Medicine & Homoeopathy (PCIM&H) and the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) for improved testing and standardization. Additionally, it emphasizes promoting AYUSH globally and increasing outreach through fairs, with the goal of boosting the sector’s economic and healthcare contributions.
Trump Utilizes Alien Enemies Act to Address Venezuelan Gang Threat
President Donald Trump has invoked the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 to deport individuals allegedly linked to the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua. This marks the act’s first use since World War II. The administration cites the gang’s involvement in crimes like human trafficking and drug smuggling as a national security threat. However, the decision has faced legal challenges, with a federal judge temporarily halting deportations. Critics argue the act, originally intended for wartime, is being misapplied, while supporters view it as a necessary measure to safeguard U.S. citizens. The move has sparked significant debate over its implications.
India Achieves Milestone with CAR T-Cell Therapy for Cancer Treatment
India has introduced CAR T-cell therapy, a groundbreaking advancement in cancer care. Results from clinical trials, published in The Lancet, revealed a 73% success rate in treating blood cancers such as B-cell leukemia and lymphoma. Developed collaboratively by IIT Bombay and Tata Memorial Hospital, this therapy involves genetically modifying T-cells to target and eradicate cancer cells. Remarkably cost-effective, it is priced at $30,000, compared to global treatments exceeding $1 million. This innovation not only offers hope to Indian patients but also sets a precedent for accessible, cutting-edge cancer treatments in low- and middle-income nations globally.