ICMR DG calls for building collective narrative to tackle common health issues in South Asia
Speaking at the international meet on public health research hosted by the ICMR and Department of Health Research (DHR), Dr Bahl said that, 'the issues we face are common to all of us, and it is time for our region to move towards shaping its own narrative.'
'By learning from each other's research ecosystems, we can build stronger systems, generate knowledge that reflects our realities, and translate it into better health for our people,' he added.
Present at the event, Dr VKPaul, Member, NITI Aayog further outlined that, 'By working together, we can accelerate progress towards achieving Sustainable Development Goals across the region and there is tremendous scope to co-create research products, and translate science into action.'
The two day 'International Meeting on Health Research and Innovations in Public Health' is part of the Regional Enabler for South and Southeast Asia Research for Health (RESEARCH) Platform, which aims to promote, knowledge-sharing, and collaboration across innovators from South and Southeast Asian nations, the release stated.
Under the first-of-its-kind gathering, countries have signalled their intent to co-create solutions, improve public health and accelerate progress towards universal health coverage, it added.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
3 hours ago
- Time of India
ICMR DG calls for building collective narrative to tackle common health issues in South Asia
New Delhi: Pushing towards cross-border collaborations and knowledge-partnerships among South Asian nations, Dr Rajiv Bahl, DG, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), expressed that it's time to build and focus own narrative to address the region's common public health challenges. Speaking at the international meet on public health research hosted by the ICMR and Department of Health Research (DHR), Dr Bahl said that, 'the issues we face are common to all of us, and it is time for our region to move towards shaping its own narrative.' 'By learning from each other's research ecosystems, we can build stronger systems, generate knowledge that reflects our realities, and translate it into better health for our people,' he added. Present at the event, Dr VKPaul, Member, NITI Aayog further outlined that, 'By working together, we can accelerate progress towards achieving Sustainable Development Goals across the region and there is tremendous scope to co-create research products, and translate science into action.' The two day 'International Meeting on Health Research and Innovations in Public Health' is part of the Regional Enabler for South and Southeast Asia Research for Health (RESEARCH) Platform, which aims to promote, knowledge-sharing, and collaboration across innovators from South and Southeast Asian nations, the release stated. Under the first-of-its-kind gathering, countries have signalled their intent to co-create solutions, improve public health and accelerate progress towards universal health coverage, it added.
Time of India
4 hours ago
- Time of India
DHR-ICMR hosts international meeting on health research and innovations in public health
New Delhi: The Department of Health Research (DHR) and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) inaugurated a two-day regional meeting titled "Health Research and Innovations in Public Health: Exchange of Good Practices across RESEARCH Platform." The event, held at the Sushma Swaraj Bhawan, brought together senior representatives from Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, and Timor-Leste to deliberate on strengthening health research systems, facilitate the exchange of good practices and promote cross-border collaboration in South and Southeast Asia. The meeting is part of the Regional Enabler for South and Southeast Asia Research for Health (RESEARCH) Platform, which aims to foster solidarity, knowledge-sharing, and collaboration among participating countries. Delivering the plenary address, Dr. VK Paul, Member, NITI Aayog commended the participating countries for their significant progress in advancing the health and well-being of their citizens. "The progress we see across these countries is a testament to their commitment to health. There is tremendous scope for us to learn from each other, co-create research products, and translate science into action. By working together, we can accelerate progress towards achieving Sustainable Development Goals across the region," said Dr. Paul. Dr. Rajiv Bahl, Secretary, Department of Health Research and DG, ICMR, stated, "The issues we face are common to all of us, and it is time for our region to move towards shaping its own narrative. Research is the way forward, and by learning from each other's research ecosystems, we can build stronger systems, generate knowledge that reflects our realities, and translate it into better health for our people," he said. Representatives from Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, and Timor-Leste also delivered opening remarks, drawing attention to the health concerns that affect their populations and the region as a whole, such as anaemia, maternal and child health, tuberculosis, vector-borne diseases and non-communicable diseases. They emphasized the vital role of governments in ensuring public trust in science, highlighted the importance of sustained investments in capacity building alongside expanding infrastructure, and reiterated their commitment to regional solidarity in advancing health research and innovations. On the occasion, Dr. Paul also launched an exhibition showcasing medical innovations supported by ICMR's Medical Device and Diagnostics Mission Secretariat (MDMS). The exhibition highlights a range of innovative products and technologies developed by Indian innovators to address pressing public health challenges and modernize healthcare delivery in the country. Over the next two days, the meeting will include deliberations on diverse aspects of health research systems, including governance structures, research financing, mechanisms for prioritizing research agendas, and approaches to ensuring transparency and ethics. Countries will also discuss strategies to foster medical technology innovations, translate research into policy and programmes, and strengthen collaboration across sectors and with international partners. This first-of-its-kind gathering marks a significant milestone in fostering regional cooperation and knowledge-sharing in health research. By coming together under the RESEARCH Platform, the participating countries have signalled their intent to learn from one another, co-create solutions, and jointly harness the power of science and innovation to improve public health and accelerate progress towards universal health coverage.
Time of India
8 hours ago
- Time of India
Does eating ‘roti and sabzi' increase blood sugar? What diabetic patients must know
Roti and vegetables are staple foods in many diets, especially in South Asian households. For diabetic patients, understanding how these commonly consumed foods affect blood sugar levels is essential for effective management of the condition. While both roti and vegetables can be part of a balanced diabetic diet, their impact on blood glucose depends on factors such as the type of flour used, the type of vegetables, portion size, and meal combinations. This article explores the relationship between eating roti and vegetables and blood sugar levels, offering useful insights for diabetic patients. How roti and sabzi affect blood sugar levels in diabetics A study conducted by the Madras Diabetes Research Foundation evaluated the glycaemic index (GI) of 12 traditional Indian foods prepared from millets, wheat, maize, and pulses in healthy volunteers. Surprisingly, several whole‑grain rotis, including those made from sorghum, pearl millet, and maize, registered high GI values, indicating a potential for significant post-meal blood sugar spikes. In contrast, pulse-based dishes such as white peas sundal and white chickpea sundal fell into the low GI category, thanks to their higher resistant starch and fibre content The Glycemic Index of roti : Why flour choice matters in maintaining blood sugar The glycemic index (GI) measures how quickly carbohydrates in foods raise blood glucose levels. Foods with a high GI cause rapid blood sugar spikes, which can be harmful for diabetics. White flour (maida) rotis have a high GI and may cause blood sugar levels to rise quickly. Rotis made from whole wheat, ragi (finger millet), jowar (sorghum), bajra (pearl millet) or besan (chickpea flour) tend to have a lower GI, making them better choices for blood sugar control. Choosing the right type of flour is crucial for managing post-meal blood glucose levels effectively. Balancing blood sugar with diabetes: Non-starchy picks for diabetics Vegetables are a vital part of a healthy diabetic diet because of their rich nutrient and fibre content. However, the type of vegetable consumed influences blood sugar differently: Non-starchy vegetables like spinach, bitter gourd, bottle gourd, cauliflower, and broccoli have a low glycemic index and help regulate blood sugar. Starchy vegetables such as potatoes and sweet potatoes have a higher glycemic index and should be eaten in moderation. Incorporating plenty of non-starchy vegetables helps maintain stable blood glucose levels. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Your Finger Shape Says a Lot About Your Personality, Read Now Tips and Tricks Undo Meal combinations: How to balance roti and vegetables Combining foods wisely can help prevent blood sugar spikes: Pair roti with high-fibre vegetables and lean protein sources like lentils, paneer, or chicken to slow carbohydrate absorption. Limit starchy vegetables like potatoes in meals to avoid rapid increases in blood sugar. Adding healthy fats (such as a small amount of ghee or olive oil) can further improve blood sugar control. Balanced meals reduce the risk of blood sugar fluctuations. Portion control: The key to avoiding blood sugar spikes Even the healthiest foods can affect blood sugar if eaten in large quantities: Limit intake to one or two small-to-medium rotis per meal, based on individual blood sugar responses. Control portion sizes of vegetables, especially starchy ones. Eating moderate portions aids better blood sugar management. Monitoring portion size is a simple but powerful strategy. Cooking methods: Preserving nutritional benefits The way roti and vegetables are cooked impacts their nutritional value and effect on blood sugar: Opt for cooking techniques like grilling, steaming, or light sautéing instead of deep-frying. Use minimal oil to keep meals healthy. Adding spices such as turmeric and fenugreek, known for their blood sugar-regulating and anti-inflammatory properties, can enhance benefits. Healthy cooking practices support overall diabetic control. Monitoring blood sugar levels : Why it's important Regular blood glucose monitoring helps diabetics understand how different foods affect their condition: Track blood sugar before and after meals to see the effects of roti and vegetable combinations. Use this data to adjust diet and portion sizes accordingly. Consult healthcare professionals for personalised advice. This feedback loop is crucial for optimal diabetes management. Also read | Benefits of 'methi' water: Helps in blood sugar control, weight loss and more
