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Hans India
5 hours ago
- Health
- Hans India
Cigarettes, bidis, chewable tobacco continue to silently raise cancer risks in youth: Experts
New Delhi: More than the new and trendy alternatives, traditional tobacco products like cigarettes, bidis, and chewable tobacco are posing a silent crisis for India's youth, significantly raising the risk of cancers like lung, mouth and throat, said health experts on Monday, calling out the need to step up the fight against these to push the fight against tobacco. According to the 2019 Global Youth Tobacco Survey, 8.5 per cent of students aged 13-15 use tobacco, contributing to 1.3 million deaths annually. With tobacco linked to 90 per cent of lung cancer cases, the experts warned that this overlooked epidemic demands immediate action beyond the vaping debate. 'Over 90 per cent of lung cancer cases in India are linked to combustible tobacco. In my clinical experience, I regularly treat patients as young as 17 for tobacco-induced complications. What we need is a calibrated approach that combines prevention, regulation, and public awareness -- not selective panic,' Dr. Narender Saini, Chairman, Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Standing Committee, at Indian Medical Association (IMA), told IANS. There is growing concern in the medical community that public discourse on youth addiction is missing the mark. While focus has been on new trends, the experts warned that the silent epidemic of oral and throat cancer among under-25s, linked to traditional tobacco products like gutkha and khaini, is a more urgent and dangerously overlooked crisis. 'The data points to a stark reality -- traditional tobacco's grip on our youth far outweighs other concerns, urging us to rethink our priorities. Our focus must expand from trendy alternatives to the proven killers: cigarettes, bidis, and chewable tobacco,' Dr Chandrakant S Pandav, Padma Shri Awardee, and former Prof and HoD, Community Medicine, AIIMS, New Delhi, told IANS. The global health expert noted that the traditional tobacco landscape remains largely unchallenged in schools and villages. Despite soaring concerns over vaping, combustible and smokeless tobacco products continue to thrive, fuelled by cultural acceptance and unchecked distribution. 'Tobacco use poses immediate and long-term risks to infection control. My clinical experience reveals a stark contrast: tobacco-related illnesses are rampant, while vaping-related lung issues are remarkably rare,' Saini said. The experts called for strengthening school-based interventions, community awareness campaigns, and stricter enforcement of existing laws. 'Bridging the gap between data and policy, stakeholders must now craft a unified strategy that tackles both supply and demand, ensuring young Indians are shielded from every form of tobacco harm,' Pandav added. Dr. Pawan Gupta, Senior Consultant, Pulmonary Medicine at a leading city-based hospital, told IANS that 'the damage inflicted by traditional tobacco begins early and lasts a lifetime". 'We witness its devastating consequences daily -- oral cancers, lung diseases, and heart conditions -- often in individuals who started using these products in their teenage years. With 1.35 million deaths annually, the science is clear: traditional tobacco is a proven killer, and our youth are its most vulnerable targets,' Gupta said.
Hans India
30-07-2025
- Politics
- Hans India
A Beacon of Justice: Ambedkar's Statue Inaugurated in Muchonipalli ,Gattu Mandal
Gadwal: A grand ceremony was held today at Muchhonipalli village in Gattu Mandal of Gadwal constituency to unveil a newly installed statue of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the architect of the Indian Constitution. The event witnessed the participation of several prominent leaders, social activists, and a large number of villagers. Among the chief guests at the program were: Padma Shri Awardee and MRPS Founder-President Mandakrishna Madiga Senior BRS Party Leader R. Kishore from Jogulamba Gadwal District. Both leaders garlanded the statue and paid rich tributes to the legacy of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. Tributes by Mandakrishna Madiga: In his address to the gathering, Mandakrishna Madiga hailed Dr. Ambedkar as: > "A walking encyclopedia, the embodiment of human progress, the soul of the Indian Constitution, and the gateway to progress through education." He further said: 'In his childhood, while society tried to belittle him, Ambedkar chose education as the path to upliftment. Books were his closest companions. Though ridiculed by society, he rose like a mountain peak and won their admiration. He dreamt of a new society untouched by caste and religious corruption and tirelessly worked to achieve it.' Highlighting Ambedkar's academic brilliance, Madiga added: 'He studied law to fight injustice and became a guiding light for generations. He travelled across nations, mastered numerous languages, and absorbed knowledge every moment. He stood tall as Bharat Ratna, a jewel of the Indian nation.' Honoring Mandakrishna Madiga: Former Zilla Parishad Chairperson and Congress Party Gadwal Constituency In-Charge Sarithamma, along with other Congress leaders, honored Mandakrishna Madiga in a respectful felicitation ceremony. She extended heartfelt greetings on behalf of the party. Sarithamma's Address: Participating in the statue unveiling, Sarithamma emphasized the timeless relevance of Ambedkar's teachings. She said: 'Dr. B.R. Ambedkar is not just a leader of one community or caste. He is a national figure who drafted a Constitution for all Indians. His greatness lies in his ability to fight oppression with knowledge, not violence. While many fought with weapons, he used the pen and intellect to achieve what others could not.' She highlighted that: 'Ambedkar's journey from facing social discrimination to becoming the chief architect of the Constitution is a lesson for all. Despite severe odds, he studied at the highest institutions abroad and returned to give India its Constitution, earning respect from every section of society.' Sarithamma further criticized the lack of proper implementation of the Constitution today, warning that such negligence is leading to dangerous irregularities in the system. She reminded everyone that: > 'All human relations are fundamentally economic, and the marginalized must never feel inferior but instead stay committed to gaining knowledge. Ambedkar's life is a guiding lesson for every citizen in this country, not just for one group.' Participants: The event saw participation from several Congress Party leaders and local villagers, including: Shetty Atmakur Lakshman Jammiched Anand Balakrishna Naidu Balgere Krishna Reddy Kondapalli Raghavendra Reddy Patel Srinivasulu Balgere Bajanna Narsimhulu, Shekhar Goud, R.K. Narsimhulu, Suresh, Philip, Ambedkar, Vasanth, Bheemanna and other local Congress leaders and villagers. The unveiling of Dr. Ambedkar's statue was not just a ceremonial event but a moment of reflection on his vision for a just and inclusive society. The powerful speeches delivered during the event echoed a common sentiment – that every section of society must draw inspiration from Ambedkar's life and teachings.
Business Standard
28-07-2025
- Business
- Business Standard
RSB Group Celebrates 3rd Edition of EK Pahal Annual Day - Championing Purpose-Driven Change Through Collective Action
NewsVoir Jamshedpur (Jharkhand) [India], July 28: EK Pahal, the brainchild of Ms. Nirmala Behera was launched three years ago and has since grown into a transformative movement within RSB. Built on four pillars - Health & Hygiene, Learning & Development, Safety, and Community Service - the initiative has empowered employees to drive meaningful impact both within the organization and in the communities they serve. The evening featured inspiring speeches by esteemed guests and leaders along with vibrant performances by employees, reflecting creativity, emotion, and strong storytelling. The EK Pahal Annual Day not only celebrated past achievements but also set the stage for future impact, with the announcement of newly elected pillar leaders inspired to take the baton forward. With every edition, RSB reaffirms its commitment to fostering an inclusive and purpose-driven workplace culture -- where every step counts, and every dream matters. Nirmala Behera, Executive Director, Group HR, RSB Group expressed heartfelt gratitude and pride in the collective efforts of the teams, "This year's theme is a reminder of how a single step can ignite a chain of dreams. What began as a small internal initiative has today become a powerful testimony of passion, purpose, and progress." The efforts and dedication of all pillar leaders were applauded for their passion, innovation, and collaborative spirit, which shaped the year's success. Their collective contributions brought each pillar to life, creating a meaningful impact across the organization and the community. Special recognition was extended to Bindiya Khandka and Monika Paira from the Community Service Initiative Pillar for their exceptional work, and other pillar leaders Sunita Bhattamishra, Arundhati Pandey and Bhawna Joshi were also recognised for their remarkable contribution. Addressing the audience Dr. Poornima Dore, Economist, Author, and Impact Leader and Founder & CEO-Dorian Scale, said "Staying in the game is the biggest challenge--and the biggest strength. As India's next wave of growth emerges from Tier 2 and 3 cities, women must believe in themselves, support one another, and stay in the game to lead this change. She also emphasised three important aspects for any woman to succeed - Access to Skill, Technology and Finance." Purnima Mahato, Padma Shri Awardee & Indian Archery Legend, said, "Pursuing a career in sports, especially in a male-dominated field, was never easy. But with focus and inner strength, women can overcome challenges, lead by example, and succeed. Be your own role model and keep going." Kumari Swarnalata Dalai, Youngest Female Mountaineer from Odisha to Summit Everest, said, "From a small town in Odisha to the peak of Mount Everest, my journey was all about finding purpose through struggle. I faced many challenges, but I kept dreaming--and that made all the difference. Until we dream, we cannot succeed. Struggles will always be part of the climb." "As we move forward, let us continue to dream big, work harder, and reach farther. May EK Pahal continue to grow in strength, scale, and soul -- becoming a model for many to follow," concludes Nirmala Behera. RSB Global is a leading global engineering company specialising in designing and manufacturing aggregates and systems for the automotive, construction, and off-highway equipment sectors. Founded in 1973, RSB has grown into a trusted partner for global OEMs and continues to expand its global presence with 16 manufacturing facilities across India and Mexico. The company is driven by a commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction.
Hans India
14-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Hans India
Union Ministers, Governors condole Kota Srinivasa Rao's demise
Hyderabad: Union Ministers, State Governors and Ministers from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana have condoled the death of veteran actor Kota Srinivasa Rao on Sunday. Union Minister Kishan Reddy said, 'I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of the distinguished actor, former MLA, and senior BJP leader, Kota Srinivasa Rao Garu. He possessed a profound understanding of many issues, and I had a close connection with him. He worked tirelessly to create awareness in society, especially among the youth, on topics such as Sanatana Dharma, social values, and language preservation. Throughout his remarkable four-decade film career, he portrayed diverse roles in over 750 films, leaving a significant mark on the Telugu film industry. In 1999, he was elected as the MLA for Vijayawada East. In recognition of his contributions, the Central Government honored him with the Padma Shri award in 2015. His death is a tremendous loss for both the film industry and Telugu society. I pray for his soul to rest in peace and express my deepest condolences to his family members and fans,' he added. Union Minister Bandi Sanjay Kumar said the death of Kota Srinivasa Rao is a profound tragedy. 'Kota Srinivasa Rao was a distinguished actor who made indelible contributions to the film industry with his unforgettable performances across various roles. He received numerous national and Nandi awards throughout his career. As an MLA in the united Andhra Pradesh, he was instrumental in addressing public issues and provided me with invaluable suggestions during my padayatra. Kota frequently encouraged me during my struggles with public problems, always praising my efforts and motivating me to engage more with the people,' he said. 'He was also proactive in bringing film industry-related issues to the attention of the Assembly. The loss of Kota Srinivasa Rao is significant for both the BJP and the film industry. I extend my deepest condolences to his family members and fans and pray for his soul to find eternal peace,' Bandi Sanjay added. Tripura Governor Nallu Indrasena Reddy has expressed his condolences to the family members of veteran actor Kota Srinivasa Rao. In his statement, he expressed shock and sadness at the loss of the renowned actor, known for his versatile roles that won the hearts of audiences. He noted that Kota's artistic contributions in film and theatre over more than four decades and the memorable characters he portrayed, especially as a villain and character artist, will forever hold a place in the hearts of the Telugu audience. The Governor also highlighted Kota's commitment to public service, having won the MLA seat from Vijayawada in 1999, and expressed his deepest sympathies to Kota's family. Telangana Governor Jishnu Dev Varma has expressed profound sorrow over the demise of veteran Telugu actor and politician, Kota Srinivasa Rao, a Padma Shri Awardee. The Governor said the passing of Kota Srinivasa Rao marks an irreparable loss to the Telugu film industry. 'He was a legendary actor who left an indelible imprint on Indian cinema with his distinctive style and remarkable acting prowess,' the Governor noted. Praising his unparalleled contributions to Telugu cinema, the Governor described Rao's legacy as unforgettable and enduring. Governor Varma extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and countless admirers of the acclaimed actor. Haryana Governor Bandaru Dattatreya has expressed his deep condolences on the demise of veteran actor and former MLA Kota Srinivasa Rao. Bandaru Dattatreya said that he was deeply shocked to hear the news of the demise of Kota Srinivasa Rao. He recalled his closeness with Kota Srinivasa Rao, who, when he represented the state as a Union Minister, brought many public issues to his attention as a legislator and resolved them, rendered many services in public life, and contributed to many development programs in Vijayawada city and Krishna district. He praised Kota Srinivasa Rao as an embodiment of nationalism, patriotism, and commitment, and as a leader who worked well with the people. 'Kota Srinivasa Rao's death is a huge loss not only for the film industry but also for organizations with national sentiments, said Bandaru Dattatreya, adding that he prayed to God to grant peace to his soul and give courage to his family members to bear this pain in this difficult time.
Time of India
13-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Kota Srinivasa Rao net worth: How rich was he? Know his education, career, movies, awards & more
Kota Srinivasa Rao net worth: Legendary Telugu actor Kota Srinivasa Rao, best known for his powerful performances and versatile acting across Indian cinema, sadly died on 13 July 2025 at the age of 83. The veteran actor passed away peacefully at his residence in Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad, just days after celebrating his 83rd birthday on 10 July. His career in cinema spanned over five decades, during which he acted in more than 750 movies and gained immense love and respect. Padma Shri Awardee and Political Leader In 2015, Kota Srinivasa Rao was honoured with the Padma Shri, India's fourth-highest civilian award, for his contribution to Indian cinema. Apart from his film career, he also made a mark in politics. He served as a BJP MLA from Vijayawada East between 1999 and 2004. Despite stepping away from the limelight in recent years due to health concerns, he remained a respected figure in the film and political circles. Personal Life and Early Background Born on 10 July 1942 in Kankipadu, Andhra Pradesh, Kota Srinivasa Rao came from a well-educated family. His father, Seetha Rama Anjaneyulu, was a doctor. Before venturing into acting, Rao completed his Bachelor of Science degree and worked at the State Bank. He was married to Rukmini, and the couple had three children – two daughters and a son. His son, Kota Venkata Anjaneya Prasad, tragically died in a road accident in 2010. Prasad had acted in films like Siddham and Gaayam 2, and was appreciated for his performances. His daughters are named Pavani and Pallavi Srinivasa Rao. Rao also had two brothers and four sisters, with whom he shared a close bond. Kota Srinivasa Rao's Film Career: A Legacy That Spanned Generations Kota Srinivasa Rao's career began in 1978 with the film Pranam Khareedu, which also marked Chiranjeevi's debut. Over the next 47 years, he became a household name, acting in over 750 movies across Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, and Hindi cinema. He played a wide range of characters – from villains to comic roles and character parts – leaving an indelible mark with his screen presence. He starred alongside superstars like Chiranjeevi, Pawan Kalyan, Balakrishna, Prabhas, Mahesh Babu, Ram Charan, and Allu Arjun. Some of his recent films included Kondapolam, Hero, and Suvarna Sundari, showcasing his ability to adapt even in the later years of his life. Kota Srinivasa Rao's Net Worth: How Wealthy Was He? Despite being a legend in the film industry, Kota Srinivasa Rao's net worth remains a topic of intrigue. Over his long career, he earned substantial wealth. According to Filmibeat Telugu, his total net worth is estimated to be close to Rs 80 crore, thanks to his successful movies and popularity across South Indian cinema. However, it is interesting to note that during his time in politics, his election affidavit showed assets worth just Rs 10 lakh in his name. This contrast led many to admire his humility and simple lifestyle, despite his financial success. Famous Movies of Kota Srinivasa Rao Throughout his career, Kota Srinivasa Rao starred in many blockbuster and critically acclaimed movies. Some of his most memorable films include: Pratighatana (1985) Gaayam (1993) Teerpu (1994) Little Soldiers (1996) Ganesh (1998) Chinna (2001) Prudhvi Narayana (2002) Aa Naluguru (2004) Pellaina Kothalo (2006) S/O Satyamurthy (2015) Attarintiki Daredi (2013) Rakta Charitra (2010) Bommarillu, Ready, Leader, Chatrapathi, Athadu, Sarkar, Malliswari, Idiot, Siva, and Aha Naa Pellanta. He also ventured into Tamil cinema in 2003 with Saamy, where his role as a villain gained him recognition among Tamil-speaking audiences. Tributes Pour in After Kota Srinivasa Rao Died The film industry was left in shock after news broke that Kota Srinivasa Rao died. For the past couple of years, he had been suffering from health problems and was mostly confined to his home. His condition worsened in early July, and he passed away in the early hours of 13 July 2025. Many Tollywood celebrities, film producers, directors, and political leaders expressed their condolences and shared fond memories of working with the legendary actor. His contribution to Indian cinema, especially the Telugu film industry, remains unmatched and unforgettable. Kota Srinivasa Rao was not only a celebrated actor but also a respected leader and a humble human being. His movies, achievements, and long-standing career will always be remembered. Even after he died, his legacy continues through his timeless performances and the love of millions of fans. For the latest and more interesting financial news, keep reading Indiatimes Worth. Click here.
