The public health crisis in Indore exposed deep urban governance failures, as sewage-contaminated water from ageing pipelines caused deaths despite prior warnings by the Comptroller and Auditor General of India. The episode reveals neglect of core water infrastructure and highlights the need for audits, monitoring, accountability, and effective implementation of AMRUT 2.0.
Click to View MoreA recent scare over counterfeit rabies vaccines has raised serious public-health concerns. Suspected fake or repackaged batches of a commonly used rabies vaccine were reported in multiple Indian cities, prompting advisories from several countries for travellers vaccinated in India. Investigations indicate that while most vials contained genuine vaccine, packaging was altered and government-supplied stock was likely diverted to the private market, revealing weaknesses in supply-chain monitoring. The incident risks creating vaccine hesitancy for a disease that is almost 100% fatal once symptoms appear. The crisis underscores the need for strict regulation, better tracking systems, strong law enforcement, transparent public communication, and assured availability of authentic vaccines and immunoglobulin to maintain trust and prevent avoidable deaths.
Click to View MoreThe Government of India proposes a special cess on goods like pan masala to create a non-lapsable fund for health and national security, linking public health with national stability. Critics warn it weakens fiscal federalism and risks poor fund use amid past evidence of unspent cess.
Click to View MoreThe WHO’s first guideline on GLP-1 therapy marks a major shift in treating obesity as a chronic disease rather than a behavioural issue. It conditionally recommends drugs like semaglutide and tirzepatide for adults with obesity, but only alongside diet, exercise, and counselling. While the therapy shows significant weight loss and metabolic benefits, WHO warns of high costs, limited access, safety gaps, and the need for strong health systems to ensure equitable, long-term care.
Click to View MoreFirst Indian study measuring inhalable microplastics at breathing height across four metros shows plastics now form up to 5% of urban particulate pollution. Markets in Kolkata and Delhi show highest loads. iMPs carry pathogens, heavy metals and toxic chemicals, posing emerging health risks including inflammation, hormonal disruption and possible cancer pathways. Urgent inclusion of microplastics in air-quality regulation is needed.
Click to View MoreThe Centre has introduced two Bills to raise excise duty on tobacco and impose a capacity-based cess on pan masala manufacturing, replacing the outgoing GST compensation cess. The move protects revenue, combats tax evasion, funds health and national security, and supports India’s ongoing tobacco control efforts.
Click to View MoreUN ESCAP’s 2025 report warns that Asian megacities may experience an additional 2–7°C due to urban heat island effects, with India, Pakistan and Bangladesh facing 300+ days above 35°C. Extreme heat is now the region’s fastest-growing climate hazard, threatening health, livelihoods and economic stability.
Click to View MoreThe world’s first human H5N5 bird flu death has been reported in Washington. While the virus poses low human risk, it remains a significant ecological and agricultural threat. No human-to-human transmission is detected, but scientists urge vigilant surveillance and One Health–based monitoring to prevent future spillover events.
Click to View MoreMalnutrition in India remains a pressing public health challenge, affecting children, pregnant women, and vulnerable populations, especially in tribal and remote areas. It manifests as undernutrition—including stunting, wasting, underweight, and micronutrient deficiencies—as well as the rising problem of overnutrition. Despite initiatives like POSHAN Abhiyaan, ICDS, Anemia Mukt Bharat, and food fortification programs, gaps in implementation, healthcare access, infrastructure, and community awareness persist. Evidence shows that targeted interventions in high-risk areas, maternal nutrition support, technology-enabled monitoring, and community engagement are critical to reducing malnutrition and improving overall health outcomes.
Click to View MoreIndia’s NAP-AMR 2.0 (2025–2029) adopts a One Health approach and, for the first time, assigns budgeted responsibilities to over 20 ministries. It strengthens governance, surveillance, infection control, and stewardship, but its success depends on funding, regulation of the unorganised sector, and behavioural change.
Click to View MoreIndia has reduced TB cases and deaths but will miss its 2025 elimination target. It still carries 25% of the global burden, worsened by drug resistance, malnutrition, funding gaps and private-sector under-reporting. COVID-19 setbacks make a stronger, multi-sectoral strategy with nutrition and private engagement essential.
Click to View MoreHepatitis A is a viral liver infection that spreads through contaminated food and water. While usually mild in children, it can be severe in older children and adults, sometimes leading to liver failure. Improved sanitation has reduced early childhood exposure, leaving many young people vulnerable. Safe and effective vaccines are available, including a single-dose option with long-lasting protection. Despite this, Hepatitis A is not yet part of India’s national immunisation program. Strengthening surveillance, promoting hygiene, improving water quality, and introducing phased vaccination can help prevent outbreaks and protect public health.
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