‘Foul play' alleged over solo BMC MRI tenders
A technical team comprising heads of radiology departments is responsible for deciding the required specifications. "These specifications heavily favour Siemens in the bidding process over a number of other companies. At this point, there needs to be a departmental enquiry into it after many years of delay, which impacted patient care," said a senior radiologist at one of the BMC hospitals.
For instance, the tender specifies certain machine requirements, like 64 channels (which receive signals from the body), a gradient strength of 62 to 200 millitesla per meter (which affects image resolution and scan speed), and a 3-tesla rating.
These conditions exclude several other companies like Philips, which offers only 32 channels, and GE Healthcare, which does not feature high shimmering -- mentioned as a requirement in minutes of the health department's meeting -- but provides "auto shimmering" instead.
You Can Also Check:
Mumbai AQI
|
Weather in Mumbai
|
Bank Holidays in Mumbai
|
Public Holidays in Mumbai
Moreover, the radiologist said that when another potential bidder, United Imaging, entered the picture, a new country-specific clause was introduced to disqualify it.
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
Breakthrough "Skinny Pill" Takes Australia By Storm
Her Life & Health
Learn More
Undo
The tender floated this time states: "Magnet should be manufactured in the USA, Europe, or Japan." United Imaging manufactures this component in China.
A Siemens Healthineers spokesperson said, "The tender's technical committee has engaged in multiple rounds of discussions with all prospective bidders. It is important to note that the specifications outlined in the tender are not unique to Siemens Healthineers.
In fact, such units with comparable specifications have been procured by several government institutions across India."
DMC (CPD) Sandhya Nandedkar said, "We extended it eight times because there was only a single bidder. Earlier tenders were cancelled due to higher quoted rates. The committee has been insisting that these requirements are necessary."
One of the top former BMC officials said an earlier tender was set aside due to the lack of multi-bidder specifications.
"It was turning out to be a more expensive endeavour as well. If the experts specifically wanted that particular machine for technical reasons, they could have opted for proprietary procurement instead of going through the farce of a tender process," said the official.
Dr Neelam Andrade, Director of BMC Hospitals, said, "It was conveyed to all the HoDs that the terms should be such that multiple bidders can participate.
We do not know why other companies chose not to come forward."
A radiology HoD from one of the hospitals said, "We want to buy a high-end MRI for our poor patients, and we design the specifications accordingly. It's not that we want to favour Siemens; it's not our fault that no one else bids."
A representative from one of the companies that participated in BMC's recent pre-bid meeting said, "One can bid only if there's a chance of winning. If the terms and conditions make it clear we won't win, we don't invest in the fees and earnest money deposits."
BMC's AMC (health) Vipin Sharma and DMC (health) Sharad Ughade did not respond to queries till press time.
Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with
Friendship Day wishes
,
messages
and
quotes
!
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
2 hours ago
- Time of India
Emergency air quality alert in New York as Canadian wildfire crisis escalates. Here's how you can track and what you should do
Canadian wildfires prompted the New York State Department of Environmental Conversation to issue an air quality health advisory for most parts of the New York in effect until midnight August 4. The air quality alert has been issued for Oneida, Yates, Seneca, Cayuga, Onondaga, Steuben, Schuyler, Chemung, Tompkins, Madison, Cortland, Chenango, Otsego, Tioga, Broome, Delaware and Sullivan counties, according to local media reports. "The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation at Albany has issued a Air Quality Health Advisory for Fine Particulates until midnight tonight," states the weather service. Productivity Tool Zero to Hero in Microsoft Excel: Complete Excel guide By Metla Sudha Sekhar View Program Finance Introduction to Technical Analysis & Candlestick Theory By Dinesh Nagpal View Program Finance Financial Literacy i e Lets Crack the Billionaire Code By CA Rahul Gupta View Program Digital Marketing Digital Marketing Masterclass by Neil Patel By Neil Patel View Program Finance Technical Analysis Demystified- A Complete Guide to Trading By Kunal Patel View Program Productivity Tool Excel Essentials to Expert: Your Complete Guide By Study at home View Program Artificial Intelligence AI For Business Professionals Batch 2 By Ansh Mehra View Program ALSO READ: Trading and cooking event update: How to make cooking recipe in Grow a Garden by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Shooter Action MMO Crossout Play Now Undo New York air quality A massive cloud of smoke is wreathing New York City leading concerned monitoring groups to issue an Air Quality Health Advisory. The smoke comes from a terrifying number of wildfires burning across the border in Canada. ALSO READ: Severe thunderstorms warning for two Texas counties after deadly flash flood killed 135. Here's what you can do The New York state Department of Health has urged individuals — especially those with asthma, heart or lung conditions, the elderly, and young children — to limit prolonged or strenuous outdoor activities during this period. Those experiencing symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing, or wheezing should consider contacting their healthcare provider. Live Events According to Mirror, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Amanda Lefton and State Department of Health (DOH) Commissioner Dr. James McDonald are issuing an updated Air Quality Health Advisory for fine particulate matter. This was put in place due to smoke from wildfires in Canada billowing down from the North. There is also the potential for visible smoke and hazy skies across the state and New Yorkers may see temporary spikes in smoke-related pollution. DEC and DOH issue Air Quality Health Advisories when DEC meteorologists predict levels of pollution, either ozone or fine particulate matter (PM2.5), are expected to exceed an Air Quality Index (AQI) value of 100. The air quality health advisory covers large swathes of New York and surrounding state including Orang, Putnam, Rockland and Westchester counties as well as the five boroughs of New York City (Manhattan, Bronx, Staten Island, Brooklyn and Queens). It also covers parts of Central New York, Western New York, Eastern Lake Ontario, and Adirondack regions. The alert also covers parts of Central New York, Western New York, Eastern Lake Ontario, and Adirondack regions. ALSO READ: Karoline Leavitt, 27, has a net worth of $7 million: Here's the secret behind how Trump's youngest star amassed such fortune What should the New Yorkers do? The Alert runs for the entire of Monday - midnight to midnight local time (EDT). The Department of Environmental Conservation warns: "Exposure can cause short-term health effects, such as irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat, coughing, sneezing, runny nose, and shortness of breath. "Exposure to elevated levels of fine particulate matter can also worsen medical conditions such as asthma and heart disease. People with heart or breathing problems, and children and the elderly may be particularly sensitive to PM 2.5." ALSO READ: Duke Dennis handcuffed after bizarre mall game in San Antonio. What are the charges against him? The NWS adds: "People who may be especially sensitive to the effects of elevated levels of pollutants include the very young, and those with preexisting respiratory problems such as asthma or heart disease. Those with symptoms should consider consulting their personal physician." You can track air quality in New York through the state Department of Environmental Conservation's Air Quality Index by visiting Air quality across the country can also be tracked through
Time of India
2 hours ago
- Time of India
From flaxseeds to dark chocolate: 8 foods that influence female hormones
Hormones run the show, your mood, skin, energy, sleep, and even how bloated you feel before your period. But what many people don't realise is how much your diet can affect them. You don't need pills or a complicated plan. Some everyday foods can actually help bring your hormones back into balance, naturally. From greens to seeds to a little chocolate, here are eight foods that quietly support your body, ease PMS, and help you feel more like yourself again. 8 foods that support female hormonal balance Cruciferous vegetables Veggies like broccoli, cabbage, and kale do more than fill your plate. They help your body manage extra hormones, especially before your period. Regularly eating these veggies can reduce mood swings, bloating, and that 'off' feeling some women get mid-cycle. You don't have to eat them plain, roast them, toss them in pasta, or blend them into soup. Flaxseeds These tiny seeds are surprisingly powerful. Flaxseeds can help steady your hormones, especially if your cycle tends to be unpredictable or you deal with skin issues. Just one spoonful of ground flax a day (in oats, smoothies, or even chapati dough) can support more regular periods and keep things running smoothly inside. Dark chocolate Yes, chocolate belongs here and not just for comfort. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like The Secret Lives of the Romanovs — the Last Rulers of Imperial Russia! Learn More Undo A square or two of dark chocolate (at least 70% cacao) can actually help lower stress hormones and lift your mood. It's a small treat that makes a big difference, especially right before your period when your body needs a little extra support. Dairy Milk, curd, paneer, dairy can be helpful or triggering, depending on your body. Some women feel great with it, while others notice breakouts or bloating. If you suspect dairy might be messing with your hormones, try going light for a week or two and see how your body reacts. There's no one-size-fits-all answer here. Soy products Tofu, soy milk, and tempeh can be helpful, especially for women whose estrogen is low (like during menopause). But like most things, balance is key. A few servings a week is plenty. Stick to simple soy foods, and you might notice fewer hot flashes or better hormonal balance overall. Green tea A quiet game-changer. Green tea helps your body handle stress better and keeps your energy more stable. If you feel jittery after coffee or crave sugar during your cycle, switching to green tea for a few days might help smooth things out, inside and out. Eggs Eggs are a simple way to support your hormones. They're full of good fats and nutrients your body uses to make hormones in the first place. Whether scrambled or boiled, eggs help keep your energy up, your moods steadier, and your hunger in check, especially in the second half of your cycle. Nuts and seeds From almonds to chia to sesame, these are little hormone helpers. They keep your blood sugar steady, support better skin, and even help with ovulation. A small handful a day is enough to support hormonal health without overthinking it. Want balance? Start with what's on your plate. These foods won't magically fix everything overnight, but they give your body the tools it needs to find its rhythm again. Hormones respond to consistency, nourishment, and care, so small shifts in your daily diet can lead to big changes over time. Think of it less like a strict plan and more like building a support system from the inside out. Because when your hormones are happy, you're more likely to feel energetic, emotionally steady, and in sync with yourself. So go ahead, fuel your body right and let your food be part of your hormone-healing toolkit. Also read| Boiled potatoes health benefits- Why this humble food deserves a comeback
Time of India
2 hours ago
- Time of India
Japan's oldest living person Shigeko Kagawa becomes 114-year-old longevity icon after Miyoko Hiroyasu death
Source: ABC News Japan, a country known for its incredible life expectancy and vibrant elderly community, has celebrated yet another milestone in longevity. Shigeko Kagawa, a 114-year-old retired physician from Nara Prefecture, has officially been recognised as Japan's oldest living person, according to the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare. This honour comes after the passing of Miyoko Hiroyasu, also aged 114, who previously held the title. Kagawa's life, spanning more than a century, reflects Japan's rich cultural heritage, advancements in healthcare, and the unique lifestyle choices often linked with exceptional longevity. Japan's oldest living person early life and medical career Born in the early 20th century, Shigeko Kagawa's life began in a very different Japan. She pursued higher education at a time when opportunities for women, particularly in medicine, were rare and challenging. Kagawa graduated from medical school before World War II, making her part of an early wave of women who broke gender barriers in healthcare. Her initial medical work was conducted in Osaka during wartime, a period marked by limited resources, societal upheaval, and urgent medical needs. She later returned to her hometown, where she took over her family's clinic, serving as an obstetrician and gynecologist. Her work focused on women's health, maternal care, and childbirth, areas that were vital for post-war recovery in Japanese society. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Cardiologists Recommend: Eat 1 Teaspoon Tonight – Wake Up With a Flatter Stomach Get Fit Today Click Here Undo Kagawa continued practicing medicine until the age of 86, demonstrating not only her professional dedication but also her remarkable physical and mental resilience. Shigeko Kagawa at 109: Olympic torchbearer and longevity icon Even after retirement, Shigeko Kagawa's life continued to inspire. In 2021, when the world was still recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic, she became one of the oldest Olympic torchbearers in history. Participating in the Tokyo 2021 Olympic Torch Relay at the age of 109 made headlines worldwide, symbolizing hope, perseverance, and the enduring spirit of the elderly community. Her appearance wasn't just ceremonial—it carried a powerful message: age does not define one's ability to contribute, inspire, and celebrate life. For many, Kagawa became a living example of Japan's 'ikigai' philosophy, which emphasizes having a purpose and joy in everyday life as a secret to longevity. Japan's oldest living person secret to longevity: 'I Just Play Every Day' When asked about her secret to longevity in a 2023 interview with TOS News, Shigeko Kagawa's response was simple yet profound: 'I don't have any. I just play every day. My energy is my greatest asset. I go where I want, eat what I want, and do what I want. I'm free and independent.' Her lifestyle emphasises freedom, independence, and a playful approach to daily living. Unlike rigid dietary regimens or structured fitness programs often associated with longevity, Kagawa attributes her long life to mental well-being, active living, and personal happiness. These traits are common among centenarians, particularly in Japan, where psychological wellness and social connections often play as big a role as physical health in extending life expectancy. Miyoko Hiroyasu: Art teacher, centenarian, and longevity icon of Japan Shigeko Kagawa's recognition as Japan's oldest living person follows the death of Miyoko Hiroyasu, who had also lived to the remarkable age of 114. Hiroyasu, born in 1911, lived a life filled with creativity and education. She studied art in Tokyo, worked as a teacher in Hiroshima Prefecture, and raised three children. Her later years were spent in a nursing home in Oita Prefecture, where she enjoyed reading newspapers, sketching, and playing card games—activities that kept her mind active and engaged. On her 113th birthday, she expressed gratitude for her health and longevity, saying: 'I am grateful to be healthy.' Hiroyasu's life story, much like Kagawa's, reflects the value of staying mentally and socially active, traits commonly linked with Japan's exceptional number of centenarians. Why Japan leads the world in life expectancy Japan holds a global record for life expectancy, with women often outliving men by several years. As of 1 September 2024, the country had 36 million people aged 65 or older, making up 29% of the total population—the highest proportion of elderly citizens in the world. Even more striking is the fact that 10% of Japan's population is now aged 80 and above, according to the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications. This demographic trend has profound implications for healthcare, social support, and economic planning. While longevity is often celebrated, it also presents challenges. A rapidly aging population increases demand for elder care, medical infrastructure, and pension systems. Policymakers are focusing on innovative solutions, such as robotics for elderly care, community-based support programs, and promoting healthy aging through technology and wellness education. At the same time, people like Shigeko Kagawa provide valuable insight into how to live a long, fulfilling life without rigid rules or extreme lifestyle changes. Her story resonates with younger generations who are increasingly seeking work-life balance, mental well-being, and personal freedom. How do so many Japanese live beyond 100 Japan's unusually high number of centenarians—individuals aged 100 and older—has long fascinated researchers and policymakers. Several factors contribute to this phenomenon: Diet rich in nutrients Japanese cuisine emphasizes fresh vegetables, fish, rice, seaweed, and fermented foods, all of which promote heart health and digestion. The traditional diet is low in processed sugars and saturated fats, reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Active lifestyle Many elderly Japanese remain physically active through simple routines like walking, gardening, or even participating in community events, just as Kagawa did with the Olympic torch relay. Strong social connections Loneliness has been linked to reduced life expectancy globally, but Japan's elderly often benefit from tight-knit communities, cultural respect for seniors, and strong family bonds. Healthcare system Japan's universal healthcare system provides affordable medical access, ensuring early detection and treatment of diseases that might otherwise shorten life expectancy. Cultural mindset and 'Ikigai' The Japanese concept of 'ikigai', meaning a reason to live or purpose in life, is often cited as a key to longevity. People like Kagawa embody this philosophy by maintaining independence, enjoying simple pleasures, and staying engaged in meaningful activities. Also Read | World's Boiling River stuns the world with deadly heat and Amazon mystery challenging science
