Latest news with #Illness
News18
4 days ago
- Health
- News18
India Reports Four Covid Deaths In Last 24 Hours, Active Cases Cross 5,000-Mark
Last Updated: Kerala remains the worst-hit state, followed by Gujarat, West Bengal, and Delhi India's active Covid-19 case count on Friday crossed above the 5,000 mark, with 5,364 ongoing infections reported across the country, according to the latest data from the Union Health Ministry. Additionally, four new Covid-related deaths were also recorded in the past 24 hours, taking the death toll to 55 since January this year. Kerala remains the worst-hit state, followed by Gujarat, West Bengal, and Delhi. Officials say that most of the new infections are mild and are being managed under home care. The rise in cases has also prompted the Centre to conduct nationwide mock drills to assess hospital and facility-level preparedness. States and Union Territories have been asked to ensure adequate availability of oxygen, isolation beds, ventilators, and essential medicines. A series of high-level technical meetings were held on 2 and 3 June, chaired by Dr Sunita Sharma, Director General of Health Services. These meetings included representatives from key health bodies such as the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), and the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP), along with officials from central government hospitals and state health departments. As part of ongoing surveillance efforts, the IDSP is closely monitoring cases of Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI). Authorities have advised that all hospitalised SARI cases, and 5% of ILI cases, should be tested for Covid. Positive samples are being sent for whole genome sequencing to identify any potential variants of concern. Meanwhile, Delhi reported 30 new infections on Friday, bringing the total number of active cases in the capital to 592. The number of fatalities since January 1 stands at seven, with no fresh deaths recorded since Thursday. First Published: June 06, 2025, 17:01 IST
Time of India
20-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
‘It's exorbitant', HC asks UT to reconsider Group Home security deposit
1 2 Chandigarh: Terming the security deposit of Rs 20 lakh for admission to the Group Home for mental health patients as "exorbitant," the Punjab and Haryana high court directed the Chandigarh administration to reconsider it. The bench of Chief Justice Sheel Nagu and Justice Sumeet Goel instructed the administration to "apply its mind on the aspect of the quantum of security amount of Rs 20 lakh, which deprives admission into the said Mental Illness Home even to deserving mental health patients merely because of a paucity of funds. " The court observed, "After hearing learned counsel for the rival parties, especially on the question of the quantum of security deposit of Rs 20 lakh required for admission of mental health patients in Group Utthaan Society and testing the same on the anvil of the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017, particularly Sections 18, 19, 20, and 21 of the Act, mandating every person suffering from mental illness to be treated with dignity, reasonableness, and without any discrimination, the quantum of security deposit of Rs 20 lakh is exorbitant. " The high court also termed the society as a State under Article 12 of the Constitution. "Since the governing body of the society, which manages the Mental Illness Home at Sector 31, Chandigarh, comprises 13 members and the majority of the members are functionaries of the UT administration, Chandigarh, it is obvious that this society is a State under Article 12 of the Constitution." The court directed the governing body to hold an emergent meeting to reconsider the aspect of the deposit of Rs 20 lakh as security, which is unaffordable for several genuine mental health patients. The parents and guardians of the patients approached the high court after the administration failed to respond to their demands for the reduction of the security quantum. The petitioners sought to quash the condition of depositing Rs 20 lakh as security for admission in the Group Home and further to reduce the security deposit to an amount equivalent to a one-year fee as per room type to be charged from the applicants of the Group Home, Chandigarh, at par with govt-run Senior Citizens Home, Chandigarh. The petitioners also sought a 50% concession in security deposit and monthly fees to applicants belonging to the economically weaker section (EWS) having an annual family income between Rs 1.5-8 lakh. Other relief sought included waiving off the requirement of a second and third guardian, making it optional rather than mandatory in the application form for admission, rationalising and simplifying the admission procedure, and making the Group Home operational at the earliest as the building is fully ready and furnished but locked since July 2024, as the deserving and needy candidates are desperately waiting for admission. BOX Parents and guardians of mental health patients have been taking up the cause of reducing the security deposit with the Chandigarh Administration for nearly 20 months. In 2018, the parents and guardians of mental health patients demanded the setting up of a Group Home for mental health patients. In 2022, the Chandigarh Administration finally decided to set up such a group home in Sector 31. The group home building was completed in 2024. In Oct 2024, in the first meeting of the governing body, the security deposit was fixed at Rs 40 lakh for a suite, Rs 30 lakh for a single room, and Rs 20 lakh for a double room. This was opposed by the parents and guardians. In June 2024, the administration set it at Rs 20 lakh for types of rooms. On May 8, The Punjab State and Chandigarh (UT) Human Rights Commission, in a letter to the Punjab Governor and UT Administrator, stated that the conditions of a Rs 20 lakh security deposit and legal waiver clause for admission to the 'Group Home for Persons with Intellectual Disabilities' in Sector 31 are exorbitant and coercive. These conditions potentially violate the rights of the applicants and deter genuine need-based applications. MSID:: 121273112 413 |
Mid East Info
25-03-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Continental celebrates 30-year legacy with 26% premium growth in 2024, expanding total active insurance coverage to $6.9 billion
DIFC-licensed firm strengthens its market position amid rising demand for wealth and succession planning March 25, Dubai, UAE: Continental Group, a leading insurance intermediary and financial services provider, entered its 30th year of operations with significant growth across key metrics in 2024, reinforcing its position as a trusted partner in wealth management and insurance solutions in the Middle East. The company recorded a 26% increase in premiums, reaching $124 million from $98 million. Continental's total coverage for life clients grew by 5% in 2024, adding $800 million to the existing coverage. The firm now has nearly $6.9 billion in active life coverage under management, which has resulted in greater financial security for thousands of families and businesses, ensuring they have the support needed to navigate life's uncertainties with confidence. 'Continental Group's legacy is a story of thousands of families safeguarded, aspirations turned into reality, and three decades of trust garnered in the Middle East,' said Ashok Sardana, Founder & Managing Director , Continental Group. 'Since 1994, our mission has been to provide not just financial solutions, but peace of mind and long-term stability for families and businesses. That principle will continue to guide us as we move into the next phase of Continental's growth.' The firm's role in securing financial stability was underscored by $7.4 million in claims processed in 2024, including $3.2 million in non-motor claims and $2.4 million in motor claims and $1.7 million life and critical insurance claims ensuring clients receive timely support when they need it most. These payouts have provided crucial financial relief during unexpected crises, helping clients focus on recovery instead of financial strain. Continental's growth was driven by a sharper focus on personalized financial strategies, cross-border wealth structuring, and an evolving approach to lifetime client relationships. As the firm expanded, it strengthened its advisory framework in multi-jurisdictional wealth management, offering solutions such as Universal Life Insurance and Critical Illness coverage through its DIFC-licensed entity, CFS DIFC Limited. Continental's sustained momentum was recognized with the Top Producer Award by one of its partners, highlighting its ability to deliver results for clients and partners. Continental also continued its longstanding tradition of giving back in 2024, distributing 500 Iftar meals to workers in Jebel Ali during Ramadan and taking part in the Dubai Charity Association's 3.5-kilometer walk to raise awareness about diabetes. Beyond financial success, Continental remains dedicated to social impact. A larger mission in the region for the Continental Group has also been to empower people, especially women, to achieve financial literacy and inclusion. Through its events, webinars and podcasts, the Continental Group has long aligned with several apex bodies that have flown the flag for a more inclusive economy in the region. The firm hosted two financial education seminars in 2024 and will expand this initiative in 2025 with quarterly sessions, making wealth management education more accessible. With three decades of experience behind it, Continental Group's next phase of growth will see it integrating technology-driven solutions and deepening client engagement. The firm plans to expand its team size by 20%, strengthening its advisory division with specialist Wealth Managers and Financial Advisors, while also creating pathways for new entrants to the industry through structured training and development programs. It will also accelerate its digital transformation by introducing AI-driven advancements in cybersecurity, automation, and portfolio management to enhance security and provide real-time insights for clients and advisors. 'This 30th anniversary celebrates the relationships we've built and lives we've touched. Our commitment goes beyond just offering solutions. We have been building a framework that ensures financial security across generations. As we move forward, transparency, and a client-first approach will remain at the core of everything we do,' said Akshay Sardana, SEO, Executive Director, CFS DIFC Limited. About Continental Group The Continental Group is a leading insurance intermediary and financial services solutions provider in the GCC region. Licensed by the Insurance Authority, the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) of the UAE, and DFSA (CFS DIFC Limited DIFC Limited from The Continental Group is regulated by the DFSA), the group represents reputed multinational and local insurance and financial institutions. Founded in 1994, Continental is the brainchild of Ashok Sardana, who built the company on three pillars: Integrity, insight and innovation. Continental's unparalleled industry experience, embodied by a team of over 250 highly-qualified professionals, has enabled its expansion across Europe, Middle East and Asia. Its stellar track record of fostering life-time, meaningful relationships with customers is rooted in its ability to provide tailor-made, personalized solutions. It is a household name for all financial and insurance solutions at any stage of one's life: Investments, savings, wealth creation, legacy, succession and protection planning, life, health, employee benefits, auto, home, and travel. The Continental Group has also been actively advocating for financial freedom & independence, financial inclusion, ESG investing, and wellbeing, through its popular podcast 'Dollars, Dirhams and Our Two Financial Cents'. For more information or interviews, please contact: Your Wordsmiths – Content & PR Neha Kaul 0504507068 neha@
Yahoo
20-03-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Gloucestershire hospitals issue urgent Nororvirus warning
Two hospitals in Gloucestershire have warned the public to avoid visiting certain wards to protect vulnerable patients, and prevent the spread of highly contagious winter illnesses such as Norovirus. The temporary restrictions have been put in place at Cheltenham General Hospital and Gloucestershire Royal Hospital, in an effort to reduce the number of people moving in and out of affected wards. Patients are also advised to only attend A&E at these hospitals if their condition is serious of life-threatening. As the situation is evolving, visitors are urged to check with relatives or ward staff before visiting these hospitals, to ensure access is permitted. Exceptions will be made for carers and those visiting on compassionate grounds, who are being permitted to visit but are asked to call ahead or speak to a member of staff upon arrival. READ MORE: 'I visited UK's most expensive farm shop – this is what £40 got me' READ MORE: A38 crash caused heavy traffic near M5 in Gloucestershire Gloucestershire Royal Hospital and Cheltenham General Hospital have issued the following important health advice: Do not visit hospitals if you have had diarrhoea, vomiting, cold or flu-like symptoms. If you are scheduled for a planned hospital stay and develop diarrhoea or vomiting beforehand, please contact the relevant ward or department for advice on whether you should attend. Our A&Es are under significant pressure. Please only call 999 or visit Emergency Departments in Gloucester or Cheltenham for life-threatening conditions or serious injuries. If you need urgent care, please consider alternatives like Minor Injuries and Illness Units (MIIUs), which are open into the evening. These often have shorter waiting times and available parking. You can find your nearest MIIU here. For more advice on the right service for your needs, visit here.
