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News18
17-07-2025
- Politics
- News18
Why 123rd Episode Of Mann Ki Baat Is Special
The episode covered several themes, including India's health achievements, reflections on Emergency, religious pilgrimages, youth empowerment, and social initiatives. The 123rd episode of Mann Ki Baat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's monthly radio program, was broadcast on June 29, 2025, across various platforms. As a key initiative to connect directly with Indian citizens, this apolitical program addresses diverse issues of national importance, celebrates collective achievements, and promotes public participation in governance. The episode covered several themes, including India's health achievements, reflections on the Emergency period, the significance of religious pilgrimages, youth empowerment, and social initiatives. Mann Ki Baat is broadcast in multiple languages, reaching an estimated 90 per cent of India's population, particularly in rural and remote areas, through radio and television. The 123rd episode continued this tradition, blending inspirational stories, policy updates, and calls for public involvement. The 123rd episode was notable for its diverse topics, reflecting Modi's focus on unity, progress and cultural heritage. A significant highlight was the announcement that the World Health Organization (WHO) declared India free of trachoma, a bacterial eye infection caused by Chlamydia trachomatis that can lead to preventable blindness. Modi emphasised this as a major public health achievement, particularly for underserved communities with limited access to clean water and sanitation. He noted that this milestone reflects India's commitment to improving healthcare access and infrastructure. Additionally, Modi highlighted that over 95 crore Indians now benefit from social security schemes, a significant increase from less than 25 crore in 2015. He cited the International Labour Organisation (ILO), stating that over 64% of India's population is covered by some form of social protection, showcasing progress in social welfare. In the 123rd episode Modi also addressed the dark period of the Emergency (1975–1977), describing it as a time when democracy was 'murdered" and the judiciary was pressured to act as a 'puppet" under the draconian Maintenance of Internal Security Act (MISA). Quoting Morarji Desai, Modi underscored the resilience of India's democratic spirit, stating that those who imposed the Emergency ultimately lost. This reflection served as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding constitutional values and democratic institutions. The mention of the Emergency was a significant moment, as it connected historical lessons to contemporary governance, urging citizens to value democratic freedoms. PM Modi's remarks also highlighted the judiciary's role in upholding justice and reinforcing trust in India's institutional framework. A central theme of the 123rd episode was the spiritual significance of religious yatras (pilgrimages). Modi extended heartfelt wishes to devotees embarking on journeys like the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, which had recently resumed, and the Amarnath Yatra, beginning on July 3, 2025. He described pilgrimages as a means of 'disciplining the body, purifying the heart, fostering mutual love and brotherhood, and connecting with God." The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, revered by Hindus, Jains, and Buddhists, was highlighted as a symbol of India's cultural unity. Modi also referenced the recently concluded Jagannath Rath Yatra, noting that such pilgrimages reflect the ethos of ' Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat" (One India, Supreme India). PM Modi praised the selfless contributions of individuals and organisations ensuring the safety and success of these yatras, emphasising the spirit of service (seva). He noted that the emotional pull of pilgrimages – 'the call has come" – captures their spiritual essence, inspiring millions to participate. This segment resonated deeply with listeners, reinforcing India's rich spiritual heritage and collective goodwill. The PM also highlighted stories of youth empowerment, particularly in regions previously marked by conflict. He spoke of Bodoland, where the identity of struggle has transformed into one of aspiration. Young people in Bodoland, once limited by opportunities, now pursue dreams with courage and self-reliance, particularly in sports like football. Modi praised football players from the region, noting their contributions to India's sporting landscape. This focus on youth underscores the Modi government's efforts to create opportunities in education, sports, and entrepreneurship, especially in areas affected by insurgency or underdevelopment. Modi's narrative of transformation through self-reliance aligns with broader initiatives like Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India). The 123rd episode of Mann Ki Baat also highlighted the global reverence of Lord Buddha's teachings, noting an instance where Vietnam requested a 12-day extension for an Indian cultural event due to overwhelming public response. PM Modi emphasised that Buddha's thoughts continue to inspire peace and unity worldwide, showcasing India's soft power and cultural diplomacy, reinforcing India's role as a global cultural leader. The 123rd episode was also shaped by interesting public inputs. For instance, Vijaya Kumar Moka, an artist from Visakhapatnam, shared his story of creating over 350 millet paintings to promote India's millet culture, hoping for national recognition through Mann Ki Baat. Another citizen proposed an organization to employ unemployed individuals in nature conservation efforts, aligning with Modi's focus on sustainability. These inputs reflect the program's participatory nature, where citizens' voices shape the narrative. Modi's acknowledgment of such stories fosters a sense of inclusion and motivates grassroots innovation. The 123rd episode of Mann Ki Baat continued the program's tradition of addressing diverse themes while celebrating India's collective achievements. With over 23 crore regular listeners and more than a billion having tuned in at least once since Mann Ki Baat started on October 3, 2014, the program's reach is unparalleled. Its apolitical nature ensures it remains a platform for dialogue rather than political rhetoric. The trachoma-free announcement highlighted India's progress in public health, complementing campaigns like Swachh Bharat and Ayushman Bharat. The expansion of social security to 95 crore people reflects a decade of inclusive growth, addressing disparities that once limited access to welfare. These achievements resonate with listeners as tangible outcomes of governance. The 1975 Emergency related discussion served as a historical reminder, reinforcing the value of democracy and judicial independence. By invoking Morarji Desai, Modi connected past struggles to present resilience, appealing to citizens' sense of national pride and vigilance. The emphasis on pilgrimages underscored India's cultural diversity and unity. By highlighting yatras revered across religious traditions, Modi reinforced the idea of a shared national identity. The focus on service during these pilgrimages aligns with his call for collective responsibility. The Bodoland narrative showcased the transformative power of opportunity in conflict-affected areas. By spotlighting sports and self-reliance, Modi inspired young listeners to pursue their dreams while acknowledging government efforts in fostering development. The mention of Buddha's legacy and Vietnam's response highlighted India's growing cultural influence. Mann Ki Baat, undoubtedly, serves as a platform to project this soft power, strengthening India's global image. The program's interactive nature was evident in the diverse suggestions received. From millet art to environmental initiatives, citizens' inputs reflect the program's role in amplifying grassroots stories. The 123rd episode of Mann Ki Baat was a microcosm of Modi's vision for India–a nation rooted in its cultural heritage, advancing in health and welfare, and empowering its youth while learning from its past. By addressing trachoma elimination, the Emergency, pilgrimages, youth aspirations, and global cultural influence, PM Modi wove a highly effective narrative of progress and unity. The program's participatory model, amplified by platforms like MyGov, ensures it remains an engagingly stirring dialogue with the people, not a monologue. As India approaches its 75th year of the Constitution in 2025, in a few months from now, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's resoundingly successful Mann Ki Baat continues to be a vital tool for fostering national pride and collective action. Sanju Verma is an Economist, National Spokesperson for BJP and Bestselling Author of 'The Modi Gambit". Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18's views. tags : mann ki baat pm narendra modi view comments Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: July 03, 2025, 12:03 IST News opinion Opinion | Why 123rd Episode Of Mann Ki Baat Is Special Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
The Hindu
29-06-2025
- Health
- The Hindu
‘Mann ki Baat': WHO declares India free of Trachoma, says PM Modi
In his monthly 'Mann Ki Baat' programme, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (June 29, 2025) said that India has been declared free of Trachoma — an eye disease. In the 123rd episode, Mr. Modi said, 'I am delighted to share with you that World Health Organisation [WHO] had declared India free of Trachoma, an eye disease.' Trachoma is a bacterial infection of the eyes caused by Chlamydia trachomatis. It's a leading cause of preventable blindness worldwide, particularly in impoverished areas with poor access to clean water and sanitation. 'International Labour Organisation has said over 64% of Indian population is getting some form of social protection benefit,' PM Modi noted. 'Over 95 crore Indians now benefitting from some social security scheme, govt schemes reached less than 25 crore people in 2015,' he added.
Los Angeles Times
12-06-2025
- Health
- Los Angeles Times
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease: Diagnosis and Treatment Strategies
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) is a sneaky infection that affects the upper female reproductive tract – uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries – and is classified as an upper genital tract infection. Often linked to untreated sexually transmitted infections (STIs), most cases of PID are caused by sexually transmitted bacteria. PID can have serious reproductive consequences such as chronic pelvic pain, ectopic pregnancy and infertility. If left untreated PID can cause permanent damage to reproductive organs which can impact fertility and overall reproductive health. The challenge for clinicians is not only the subtle or non specific symptoms but also the expanding list of causative pathogens and shifting resistance patterns. Risk factors for PID are unprotected sex and having multiple partners which increases the risk of PID especially in young women. Fortunately recent research is changing how we approach diagnosis, treatment and prevention – offering hope for better outcomes with early comprehensive care. Diagnosing a PID isn't as simple as ordering one test. Most clinicians rely on a combination of clinical signs: lower abdominal pain, cervical motion tenderness and uterine or adnexal tenderness. Clinical diagnosis is key with pelvic examination playing a big role in evaluating cervical discharge, uterine tenderness and lower genital tract inflammation. The classic 2008 study on PID management advises to have a 'low threshold' for diagnosis especially since delayed treatment can cause permanent reproductive damage [1]. Early diagnosis is essential to prevent complications and long term sequelae. But the microbial picture is more complicated than that. While Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae are still the well known culprits, they're not the only ones. A 2021 review in The Journal of Infectious Diseases points to pathogens like Mycoplasma genitalium as emerging players in PID [7]. These atypical bacteria often evade traditional STI tests making diagnosis harder and highlighting the need for broader microbial screening. Subclinical PID often resulting from less symptomatic infections like chlamydia can still cause long term consequences even in the absence of symptoms. Another 2021 study 'Etiology and Diagnosis of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease' goes even further by suggesting diagnostic strategies that go beyond gonorrhea and chlamydia [8]. This broader approach reduces misdiagnosis and ensures treatment addresses the full range of potential infections – a key to better long term outcomes. When evaluating severe pain in the pelvic region or lower abdomen, clinicians must consider alternative diagnoses like ovarian torsion and tubo ovarian abscess. Diagnostic tools may include pelvic ultrasound and in uncertain cases endometrial biopsy to clarify the diagnosis. Comprehensive evaluation is key and clinicians must diagnose PID accurately to avoid missing cases with atypical presentations. When PID is suspected the standard advice is to treat immediately before test results confirm a specific pathogen. That's because empiric therapy which uses broad spectrum antibiotics covers the wide range of bacteria associated with PID. Empiric treatment and prompt treatment is crucial to prevent complications like chronic pelvic pain, infertility and ectopic pregnancy. The 2019 American Family Physician review outlines best practices for outpatient and inpatient settings and emphasizes early treatment especially in high risk women [2]. Outpatient treatment is an option for most patients with mild to moderate symptoms and allows them to manage the infection without hospitalization. Emergency medicine literature reinforces this point. Studies in Emergency Medicine Practice (2016 and 2022) stress the importance of prompt intervention especially in emergency departments where many PID cases present first [5] [6]. These papers also emphasize clear discharge instructions and the need for close follow up especially for women whose symptoms don't resolve fully within the first few days. It's essential to treat PID promptly and make sure patients receive treatment to avoid long term complications from pelvic infection. Choosing the right antibiotic combination matters too. A 2013 BMJ review using GRADE scoring to assess evidence strength suggests regimens with doxycycline, cefoxitin or ceftriaxone and metronidazole are most effective [9]. The same review also highlights the benefit of prophylactic antibiotics before IUD insertion especially in high risk patients. Birth control methods like IUDs can increase the risk of pelvic infection especially in the presence of bacterial vaginosis which disrupts the vaginal flora and may contribute to ascending infections. While most PID can be managed with outpatient antibiotics some scenarios require more intensive management. Hospitalization is recommended for patients who are pregnant, have severe symptoms, have an abscess or aren't responding to oral medications. Infections of the upper female genital tract and pelvic organs can cause long term complications including damage to the reproductive organs like the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries. A 2023 article in Therapeutics and Clinical Risk Management advises clinicians to stratify care based on illness severity and risk factors [3]. This includes considering polymicrobial infections and resistance trends when choosing treatment regimens. Presence of anaerobes or treatment resistant bacteria may require intravenous antibiotics or surgical intervention. There is also potential for scar tissue formation in the fallopian tube and other reproductive organs which can cause chronic pain and infertility. A 2010 review in Obstetrics and Gynecology echoes this message. It states most women recover well with outpatient care but clinicians must be aware of microbial diversity especially in populations where STI prevalence is high or access to care is limited [4]. As our understanding of PID evolves so do the tools to diagnose and treat it. Traditional STI panels may miss important pathogens which is why there's growing interest in non-invasive tests and molecular diagnostics. These technologies including nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) can detect low abundance microbes like Mycoplasma genitalium that traditional methods miss [3] [7]. Looking ahead experts recommend a multipronged approach: Some public health campaigns are already incorporating these principles. For example the CDC's updated STI guidelines now include emerging pathogens and detailed follow up protocols. Planned Parenthood's PID awareness campaign stresses education, partner treatment and timely care – all key to stopping the cycle of reinfection. Comprehensive testing for other STIs like HIV and syphilis is also recommended for sexually active individuals. When discussing partner notification and public health education all sexual partners should be treated and advised to abstain from sexual intercourse or sexual contact until treatment is complete to prevent reinfection and further spread among sexually active individuals. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease is one of the most common and most misunderstood gynecological emergencies. The infection's polymicrobial nature, subtle presentation and potential for long term harm make it a unique challenge in women's health. But the tide is turning. With growing awareness, better diagnostic tools and research based treatment strategies there is a clear path forward. Clinicians must stay up to date with evolving recommendations especially as we discover new pathogens and confront antibiotic resistance. The goal is no longer just treatment – it's prevention, precision and protecting reproductive futures. [1] Haggerty, C. L., & Ness, R. B. (2008). Diagnosis and treatment of pelvic inflammatory disease. Women's health (London, England), 4(4), 383–397. [2] Curry, A., Williams, T., & Penny, M. L. (2019). Pelvic Inflammatory Disease: Diagnosis, Management, and Prevention. American family physician, 100(6), 357–364. [3] Yusuf, H., & Trent, M. (2023). Management of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease in Clinical Practice. Therapeutics and clinical risk management, 19, 183–192. [4] Soper D. E. (2010). Pelvic inflammatory disease. Obstetrics and gynecology, 116(2 Pt 1), 419–428. [5] Bugg, C. W., & Taira, T. (2016). Pelvic Inflammatory Disease: Diagnosis And Treatment In The Emergency Department. Emergency medicine practice, 18(12), 1–24. [6] Taira, T., Broussard, N., & Bugg, C. (2022). Pelvic inflammatory disease: diagnosis and treatment in the emergency department. Emergency medicine practice, 24(12), 1–24. [7] Hillier, S. L., Bernstein, K. T., & Aral, S. (2021). A Review of the Challenges and Complexities in the Diagnosis, Etiology, Epidemiology, and Pathogenesis of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease. The Journal of infectious diseases, 224(12 Suppl 2), S23–S28. [8] Mitchell, C. M., Anyalechi, G. E., Cohen, C. R., Haggerty, C. L., Manhart, L. E., & Hillier, S. L. (2021). Etiology and Diagnosis of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease: Looking Beyond Gonorrhea and Chlamydia. The Journal of infectious diseases, 224(12 Suppl 2), S29–S35. [9] Ross J. D. (2013). Pelvic inflammatory disease. BMJ clinical evidence, 2013, 1606.
Daily News Egypt
27-04-2025
- Health
- Daily News Egypt
Egypt's Ministry of Health launches trachoma elimination campaign in 7 governorates
Egypt's Ministry of Health and Population has launched a campaign during April to prevent and treat the infectious eye disease trachoma (Chlamydia trachomatis) in seven governorates, according to a ministry statement. The initiative follows directives from Khaled Abdel Ghaffar, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Health and Population, and is part of a national plan aiming to declare Egypt free of the disease by 2027. Hossam Abdel Ghaffar, the official spokesperson for the Ministry of Health and Population, stated that the campaign reflects Egypt's commitment to improving citizens' health. He noted the campaign is part of a comprehensive national strategy implemented by the ministry in cooperation with the World Health Organization (WHO), aligning with global efforts to eliminate a major cause of preventable blindness. Trachoma is recognised as an infectious disease. Amr Kandil, Deputy Minister of Health and Population, explained that the first phase of a rapid national assessment of trachoma prevalence began in the governorates of Gharbia, Menoufia, Beni Suef, and New Valley. These four were selected based on scientific criteria to ensure the assessment comprehensively represents various living conditions and health circumstances across Egypt, covering 15 diverse health districts. Kandil added that a second phase, encompassing the governorates of Sharqia, Minya, and Qena, is underway and scheduled to conclude by the end of April. Rady Hammad, Head of the Preventive Medicine Sector, said the assessment targets the screening of more than 2,550 children aged between one and nine years, the group most vulnerable to active trachoma. He stated that specialised teams are conducting the screenings. Hammad added that examinations also include adults to identify cases of trichiasis (eyelid inversion), a serious complication of chronic trachoma infection that can lead to vision loss if not treated promptly. Regarding transmission, Hammad explained that flies play a key role by carrying contaminated secretions from eye to eye. He also cited the use of contaminated personal items, such as towels and cosmetics, belonging to infected individuals as a mode of transmission. He stressed the importance of personal and environmental hygiene – including handwashing with soap and water, avoiding touching the face, proper waste disposal, and personal care – to effectively prevent the disease and limit its spread. Amani El Habashi, Head of the Central Administration for Tropical Diseases and Disease Vectors, stated that the field assessment of prevalence is an integral part of a multi-faceted health plan. She said the plan fundamentally seeks to enhance trachoma prevention, with a particular focus on building sustained community awareness, especially in villages and remote areas potentially more susceptible to the disease's spread.
Yahoo
04-04-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
FDA approves at-home chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis test for women
(NewsNation) — The Food and Drug Administration last week gave approval for an at-home chlamydia, gonorrhea and trichomoniasis test for women. Visby Medical Women's Sexual Health Test can be taken by those with or without symptoms,and delivers results in about 30 minutes, the FDA said in a news release. This is the first diagnostic test for chlamydia, gonorrhea and trichomoniasis that can be bought without a prescription and done entirely at home. Last year, the FDA also authorized an at-home syphilis test. 'Home tests can give people information about their health from the privacy of their home. This can be particularly important for sexual health tests for which patients may experience fear or anxiety, possibly resulting in delayed diagnosis or treatment,'Courtney Lias, Ph.D., director of the Office of In Vitro Diagnostic Devices in the FDA's Center for Devices and Radiological Health, said in a statement. 'Expanding access to tests for sexually transmitted infections is an important step toward earlier and increased diagnosis, which can result in increased treatment and reduced spread of infection.' Tariffs will drive up prices of everyday goods from coffee to toys The Visby Medical Women's Sexual Health Test, according to the FDA, correctly identified 98.8% of negative and 97.2% of positive Chlamydia trachomatis samples; 99.1% of negative and 100% of positive Neisseria gonorrhoeae samples; and 98.5% of negative and 97.8% of positive Trichomonas vaginalis samples, according to the FDA. Adam de la Zerda, the founder and CEO of Visby Medical, said the test was in development for 12 years. 'This approval is not just a milestone for Visby Medical but marks a transformative moment in medical diagnostics,' de la Zerda said in a statement. 'We've achieved something incredible; our palm-sized, single-use PCR test is simple to use and replaces a bulky, large, expensive laboratory instrument.' The test is single-use and includes a collection kit and powered testing device. Once the test is complete, results are shown on the Visby Medical App. The Visby Medical Women's Sexual Health Test is a single use, at home test, that includes a collection kit (self-collected vaginal swab) and a powered testing device, which communicates securely to the Visby Medical App, which displays results when the test is complete. More than 600,000 cases of gonorrhea and over 1.6 million cases of chlamydia were reported in the U.S. in 2023, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) Surveillance Report states. Trichomoniasis affected about 2.6 million people in 2021, per the CDC. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
