Classrooms in Kerala light up again as students commence new academic year
On Monday, when tiny tots — dressed up in uniforms, carrying a backpack and clutching a water bottle — prepared to enter for the first time the world of formal learning, the weather gods themselves paused 'Operation Monsoon'.
Indeed, golden rays of sunlight pierced the dark rain clouds that had until then hung low all across the state. They dispelled the uncertainties that parents and teachers likely harboured about how their wards would fare in the new surroundings on a rain-soaked morning.
If the ride to the school was eventless, the proceedings that began on getting there were anything but. Decked up and gleaming, the classrooms were an arena of festivities, which commenced at 8.30 am with performances by the students.
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United News of India
3 hours ago
- United News of India
Monsoon in Kerala make it unsafe to eat food from hotels, road-side stalls
Thiruvananthapuram, Jun 15 (UNI) The Kerala Food Safety Department has recently flagged off 'Operation Monsoon' drive after the outbreak of umpteen cases of food poisoning in the state so as to prevent further spread of communicable diseases. The monsoon season exposes Keralites to many pathogens leading to an increase in communicable diseases. Therefore monsoon in Kerala make it unsafe to eat food from hotels or road-side stalls, said Dr Naresh Purohit, Advisor, National Communicable Disease Control Programme (NCDCP) . Raising concern on this issue in a statement here, renowned Epidemiologist, Dr Purohit pointed that the monsoon season contributes to a rise in gastroenteritis cases, and food poisoning is a significant factor. The elevated humidity during this period creates a favourable environment for the proliferation of bacteria and other micro-organisms. This increased microbial activity in food is a primary cause of food poisoning. There is a strong emphasis on the role of contaminated food, with street food being a notable source of concern due to potential unhygienic preparation and handling practices. "Food poisoning during monsoon is largely triggered by the growth of bacteria, viruses, and parasites in food and water due to the damp and humid climate. Poor hygiene practices like unwashed hands, consumption of unclean or street food, use of contaminated water, and inadequate food storage all contribute to increased infection risk. Bacterial contamination, such as Salmonella and Shigella, and viruses like norovirus and rotavirus are commonly implicated in monsoon-related gastrointestinal illnesses," he revealed "Mostly, it is the perishable and improperly stored foods that pose the highest risk of poisoning. For instance, leafy vegetables, which often carry soil-borne pathogens, can harbour or parasites if not thoroughly washed. Street food like chaats, golgappa, and cut fruits are prone to contamination due to unhygienic handling. Dairy products can turn rancid quickly if left unrefrigerated. Seafood, too, can rapidly spoil due to humid conditions. Fermented foods and those rich in starch can also promote microbial growth if not handled properly," he added. Noted Infectious Disease expert averred that a prominent symptom of food poisoning is loose motions or diarrhoea. It's important to recognize that individuals with pre-existing health conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, or underlying heart or lung illnesses, are considered more vulnerable to experiencing severe complications of food poisoning, he said. "The damp monsoon environment often delays recovery due to recurring exposure to pathogens, especially in areas with poor sanitation. Prompt medical attention is essential for managing these effects effectively." he added. "Children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable to food poisoning due to their weaker immunity. Adults with pre-existing conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, compromised immune systems, hypertension, or underlying heart or lung illnesses are also at higher risk." "Children under five, elderly individuals, pregnant women, and those with compromised immune systems are particularly susceptible to food poisoning because their immune responses are either underdeveloped or weakened, making it harder to combat infections," he cautioned. He emphasised to prevent food poisoning by washing hands thoroughly before eating or cooking. Drink only boiled or filtered water and to avoid street food and uncovered meals Wash fruits and vegetables properly and to store food in airtight containers and refrigerate promptly. Make a habit to refrain from consuming stale or reheated food and prefer freshly cooked, home-made meals. UNI DS BM
Time of India
4 days ago
- Time of India
Operation monsoon shuts down 80 shops after food safety inspections
T'puram: Health minister Veena George said the food safety department conducted inspections across 4,451 establishments statewide. The inspections were intensified following complaints about food being distributed in unsanitary conditions in commercial establishments during the rainy season. The inspections, part of Operation Monsoon, which runs from May to July, would continue. Following the drive that began on May 2, operations of 80 shops that did not comply with food safety standards were shut down. Rectification notices were issued to 592 establishments and compounding notices were given to 433 establishments. For further inspections, 1,850 surveillance samples and 1,054 statutory samples were collected. As part of the drive, night squads also conducted inspections. The inspections were carried out from 4pm to 8pm, focusing on shops that are active in the evening. In addition to hotels and restaurants, inspections were conducted in all establishments involved in food production and distribution as part of Operation Monsoon. Strict action would be taken if shops are found operating in unhygienic conditions during the monsoon. Cooking and distribution of food should be done in a sanitary environment. It must be ensured that the water used in shops is clean and that cooked food is stored in a clean environment. Online distributors should also handle food with care, keeping these factors in mind. Establishments like street food vendors operating at night should pay extra attention to food distribution, the minister said.
New Indian Express
02-06-2025
- New Indian Express
Classrooms in Kerala light up again as students commence new academic year
On Monday, when tiny tots — dressed up in uniforms, carrying a backpack and clutching a water bottle — prepared to enter for the first time the world of formal learning, the weather gods themselves paused 'Operation Monsoon'. Indeed, golden rays of sunlight pierced the dark rain clouds that had until then hung low all across the state. They dispelled the uncertainties that parents and teachers likely harboured about how their wards would fare in the new surroundings on a rain-soaked morning. If the ride to the school was eventless, the proceedings that began on getting there were anything but. Decked up and gleaming, the classrooms were an arena of festivities, which commenced at 8.30 am with performances by the students.
