PM Modi conferred Brazil's highest civilian award- Grand Collar of the National Order of the Southern Cross

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred with Brazil’s highest civilian honour — the Grand Collar of the National Order of the Southern Cross. This marks the 26th international award received by Prime Minister Modi since he assumed office in May 2014. The award was presented by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva in recognition of PM Modi’s contributions to strengthening bilateral ties and advancing India–Brazil cooperation across major global platforms.

Established in 1822 by Emperor Pedro I, the National Order of the Southern Cross (Ordem Nacional do Cruzeiro do Sul) is Brazil’s highest honor bestowed exclusively upon foreign nationals. It recognizes individuals who have rendered exceptional service to Brazil or made significant contributions to strengthening Brazil’s international relations. The Grand Collar is the most distinguished rank within the order.

Over the years, the Grand Collar has been awarded to numerous eminent global leaders, including former U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower, Queen Elizabeth II, Pope John Paul II, former French President Charles de Gaulle, former Argentine President Juan Perón, former Venezuelan President Hugo Chávez, former Spanish King Juan Carlos I, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

GenomeIndia

Government of India committed to fostering sustainable development through democratizing and disseminating this national genetic resource knowledge

The ‘GENOMEINDIA’, funded by the Department of Biotechnology of the Central Government has completed whole genome sequencing (WGS) database of over 10,000 individuals representing all major population groups, across the country. GenomeIndia data represents Government of India's commitment to scientific inquiry and is poised to reshape health and science in India and beyond, fostering sustainable development through democratizing and disseminating this national genetic resource knowledge.

The result oriented cumulative proactive actions taken by the Department towards setting up of IBDC, release of Biotech PRIDE Guidelines, formulation of FeED Protocols, transfer and storage of GenomeIndia Data in IBDC; followed by the announcements by the highest leaderships in the country indicate strong determination of the Government for sharing of this data with our researchers to analyze critical information, accelerating discoveries and advancements in biological sciences.

For the first time in the country, the department has established the Indian Biological Data Center (IBDC) in March 2020 with 96 TF computing capacity using 2912 CPUs, 39 TB of RAM, 865 TF computing capacity using 64 GPUs, 4 PB of parallel file system with the capability of writing 100GB of data every second and 1.5 PB of disk and tape to store backup copy of data. The Department has released the Biotech-PRIDE Guidelines, 2021 followed by formulation of ‘Framework for Exchange of Data (FeED) Protocols’ for responsible data sharing.

On 9th January 2025, during the ‘Genomics Data Conclave’, the 'GenomeIndia Data' was dedicated to the researchers by Shri Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India. The Prime Minister stated that this national database encapsulates the extraordinary genetic landscape of India and will serve as an invaluable scientific resource to boost genetic and medical research for human health. Further, during the address to the nation on the evening of 25th January, 2025, Her Excellency, Smt. Draupadi Murmu, President of India said that GenomeIndia project marks a significant chapter in the history of Indian Science.

The department also announced the ‘Call for Proposals’ from researchers to exploit the opportunities of translational research using GenomeIndia data. To address the queries of the researchers, the Department issued the addendum mentioning the types and category of data that will be available for research, also “associated phenotype data” will be shared. It is clarified that access to GenomeIndia data is not limited to the ‘Call’ but independent requests for data access are being received by IBDC, under the ambit of Biotech PRIDE Guidelines and FeED Protocols.

As on date, this National Resource generated under the GenomeIndia project comprises of Fastq files of 9772 samples (~700 TB), gvcfs: 9772 (~35 TB), phenotypic data from 9330 samples and Joint call files (~3.5 TB) and is archived at IBDC, the National Repository.

To brief about the issue of phenotype data as mentioned in one of the news articles in a leading newspaper, it is stated here that curation and cleaning up of phenotypic data was performed on 9772 samples which underwent WGS and were used in joint calling. Out of these 9772 samples, phenotypic data from 9330 samples could be used because the data available for the rest of the samples (numbering 442) was not usable. Many phenotypic parameters had very high levels of missingness, so the data for the top 27 variables for 9330 samples is available for research. These 27 variables are Albumin, Alkaline_Phosphatase, ALT_SGPT, AST_SGOT, Basophils, Cholesterol, Creatinine, Direct_Bilirubin, Eosinophils, FBS_Fasting_Blood_Glucose, HB_Haemoglobin, HbA1C_Glycosylated_Haemoglobin, HDL, Indirect_Bilirubin, LDL, Lymphocytes, MCH_Mean_Corpuscular_Hb, Monocytes, Neutrophils, Platelet_Count, Protein, RBC_Red_Blood_Cell_Count, RBS, Total_Bilirubin, Triglycerides, Urea, WBC_Total_White_Blood_Cell_Count. The anthropometry data such as: Age, Gender, Height, Weight, Body Fat is also available.

Further, some of the news articles have also raised concern about making ‘No Access’ for FASTQ files. It is pertinent to mention here that the total size of FASTQ files is approximately 700 TB. The logistical and technical challenges of transferring these files are enormous. It is difficult to ensure the completeness and sanctity of downloads by requesters. Analyzing raw sequencing files often demands two- to three-times more computational capacity, leading to redundant workflows and wasted infrastructure at the national level. By providing equitable access to gVCF files (which amounts to ~35 TB) instead, data can be shared more quickly and computational resources conserved. The international leading data banks established for more than 2 decades also does not allow the downloading of data; data is provided by their cloud platform. Hence, ‘No Access’ to FASTQ files in the department’s ‘Call’ means that these files will not be available for download at present. This policy is in line with other global consortia. As IBDC will grow and expand in future, similar provisions may be incorporated.

Source: pib.gov.in

PM Modi conferred Trinidad and Tobago’s highest honour

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred with ‘The Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago’—the nation’s highest civilian honour. 

The award was presented by Her Excellency Christine Carla Kangaloo, President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. PM Modi is the first foreign leader to receive this prestigious recognition. He was honoured for his statesmanship, his strong advocacy for the Global South, and for significantly strengthening the bilateral relationship between India and Trinidad and Tobago.

Cabinet approves Caste enumeration in the upcoming Census

Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has decided to include caste enumeration in the upcoming census. This demonstrates that the present government is committed to the holistic interests and values of the nation and society.

As per Article 246 of the Constitution of India, Census is a union subject listed at 69 in the Union List in the Seventh Schedule. While some states have conducted surveys to enumerate castes, these surveys have varied in transparency and intent, with some conducted purely from a political angle, creating doubts in society. Considering all these circumstances, and to ensure that our social fabric does not come under political pressure, it has been decided that caste enumeration should be included in the main census instead of being conducted as a separate survey.

This will ensure that society becomes stronger economically and socially, and the country’s progress continues without hindrance. It is noteworthy that when a provision of 10 percent reservation was made for the economically weaker sections of society, it did not create tension in any section of society.

Caste was excluded from all census operations conducted since independence. In 2010, then Prime Minister Late Dr. Manmohan Singh assured the Lok Sabha that the matter of caste census would be considered in the Cabinet. A Group of Ministers was formed to deliberate on this subject, and most political parties recommended conducting a caste census. Despite this, the previous government opted for a survey instead of a caste census, known as the Socio-Economic and Caste Census (SECC).

Dr. Mangi Lal Jat takes charge as Secretary, DARE and DG, ICAR

Dr. Mangi Lal Jat, a distinguished Agronomist, has assumed charge today as the Secretary, Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE) and Director General (DG) of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) in its notification last week, named Dr Jat as the new Secretary of DARE and Director General of ICAR, for period of three years. Prior to this he was serving as Deputy Director General (Research) and Director of the Global Research Program at International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), Hyderabad.

Dr. Jat, a globally respected figure in sustainable agriculture, brings over 25 years of rich experience in agronomy, climate-resilient farming, and conservation agriculture. His appointment is expected to catalyze a new era of innovation, sustainability, and farmer-first research within ICAR and the broader agricultural ecosystem. An alumnus of ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi, Dr. Jat holds a Ph.D. in Agronomy with a specialization in soil moisture conservation in rain-fed pearl millet—a critical area for food security in arid regions. His pioneering research has shaped sustainable intensification strategies for smallholder farmers across Asia and Africa, contributing to global efforts on food system resilience.

With an impressive portfolio of over 350 peer-reviewed publications, Dr. Jat has held key leadership positions at ICRISAT, International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT), International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), besides 12 years at ICAR as Systems Agronomist. He has championed climate-smart technologies, regenerative farming practices, and digital innovations in agriculture, influencing agricultural policies and practices across continents. Dr. Jat has held key roles with several prominent national and international organizations, including the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the International Society of Precision Agriculture (ISPA). A Fellow of the National Academy of Agricultural Sciences (NAAS), he has been honored with numerous accolades throughout his career, notably the Rafi Ahmed Kidwai Award, one of ICAR’s highest recognitions for excellence in agricultural research. As he steps into this dual leadership role, Dr. Jat is poised to guide ICAR in addressing pressing challenges such as climate change, soil degradation, and food system transformation. His vision aligns with India’s commitment to sustainable development, precision farming, and ensuring nutritional security for its vast population.

Mizoram Achieves Full Functional Literacy

Hon’ble Chief Minister of Mizoram, Shri Lalduhoma on Tuesday, 20th May 2025, officially declared Mizoram a fully literate state, marking a historic milestone in the state’s educational journey. With this achievement, Mizoram becomes the first state in India to attain full literacy.

The announcement was made during a special function held in Aizawl, the state capital, in the esteemed presence of Shri Jayant Chaudhary, Hon’ble Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship and Minister of State for Education, Government of India, Dr. Vanlalthlana, Hon’ble Minister of School Education, Higher & Technical Education, Mizoram, Shri Khilli Ram Meena, IAS, Chief Secretary to the Government of Mizoram, Shri David Lalthantluanga, Special Secretary, School Education Department, Government of Mizoram, State dignitaries, officials, and students of Mizoram University.

Mizoram, which attained statehood on 20th February 1987, spans a geographical area of 21,081 km² (8,139 sq mi). As per the 2011 Census, it recorded a literacy rate of 91.33%, ranking third in India. Building on this strong foundation, the ULLAS – Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram (New India Literacy Programme) was implemented to identify and educate the remaining non-literate individuals.

A door-to-door survey conducted by Cluster Resource Centre Coordinators (CRCCs) across the state in August–September 2023 identified 3,026 non-literates. Out of these, 1,692 learners were actively engaged in teaching-learning activities. By this account, Mizoram had crossed the full literacy mark, i.e., above 95% literacy rate (to be considered equivalent to Full literacy) as defined by Ministry of Education, Govt. of India. As per PFLS survey for 2023-24 also, the literacy rate of Mizoram is 98.20%.

In a remarkable display of community spirit, 292 volunteer teachers—including students, educators, resource persons, and CRCCs—came forward to lead this initiative. Guided by a profound sense of duty (Kartavya Bodh) and the Mizo cultural value, these volunteers played a crucial role in achieving full literacy.

The celebratory event, hosted at the Auditorium of Mizoram University in Aizawl, stands as a powerful testament to the collaborative efforts of the people and government of Mizoram in advancing inclusive education and empowering every citizen through literacy.

ULLAS - Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram or New India Literacy Programme (NILP) is a centrally sponsored scheme implemented from 2022-2027. The scheme, aligned with NEP 2020, targets adults (aged 15 years and above) who couldn’t go to school. The scheme has five components- Foundational Literacy and Numeracy, Critical Life Skills, Basic Education, Vocational Skills and Continuing Education. The vision of the ULLAS Scheme is to make Bharat - Jan Jan Saakshar and is based on the spirit of Kartavya Bodh and is being implemented on volunteerism. Under ULLAS scheme more than 1.77 crore learners (neo literates) have appeared in the Foundational Literacy and Numeracy Assessment Test (FLNAT) till now across the country. More than 2.37 crore learners and 40.84 lakh volunteer teachers have been registered on the ULLAS Mobile app. Earlier, on 24.06.2024, Ladakh became the first administrative unit to declare full literacy.

India Celebrates Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics Awarded to Large Hadron Collider Experiments

The 2025 Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics is awarded to co-authors of publications based on CERN’s Large Hadron Collider Run-2 data released between 2015 and July 15, 2024, at the experimental collaborations ATLAS, CMS, ALICE and LHCb. The $3 million prize is allocated to these four experiments at CERN and will be used by the collaborations to offer grants for doctoral students from member institutes to spend research time at CERN, giving the students experience working at the forefront of science and new expertise to bring back to their home countries and regions. 5,345 researchers were involved in ATLAS; while 4,550 researchers in CMS; 1,869 researchers in ALICE; and 1,744 researchers were involved in LHCb.

Indian scientists and researchers have played a significant role in the international collaboration for the ALICE (A Large Ion Collider Experiment) and the CMS (Compact Muon Solenoid) experiments. Several Indian institutes, universities, and scientists have contributed both intellectually and technically to the experiment’s success. From detector development to data analysis, various teams of Indian researchers have been actively involved at every stage of the experiments, right from their inception. These contributions underscore India's commitment to global scientific collaboration and its pivotal role in the success of the LHC experiments.

This prestigious award honours the collaborative and transformative research efforts that deepened our understanding of the Higgs boson, the quark-gluon plasma, matter-antimatter asymmetry, and physics beyond the Standard Model. Scientific teams belonging to several institutes from across the world have been working in a collaborative manner to achieve the objectives of the CERN experiments. India, a committed and active partner in the LHC program, proudly acknowledges this international recognition and celebrates its significant contributions to the experiments and the LHC infrastructure.

About the Large Hadron Collider(LHC)

Operated by CERN, the Large Hadron Collider is the world’s most powerful particle accelerator, enabling high-energy proton and heavy-ion collisions to explore the structure of matter at the smallest scales.

India’s involvement with CERN dates back to the 1960s, when scientists from the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) visited CERN to expose emulsion stacks to pion, kaon and proton beams utilizing the CERN Proton Synchrotron. Later, during the 1980s there was contribution towards hardware and core-software for the L3 – one of the four large experiments in the Large Electron Positron Collider (LEP) and significant contributions in the areas of Z-line shape (related to Neutron, Proton ratio in nuclei) and new particle searches. In the 1990s, the collaboration expanded into heavy ion physics, with Indian groups contributing a scintillator-pad-based photon multiplicity detector. Indian teams played key roles in the WA93 and WA98 experiments at CERN-SPS, achieving early measurements of collective flow and exploring disoriented chiral condensates.

In 1991, India (DAE) signed a cooperation agreement with CERN for development of Scientific and Technical Cooperation in the Research Projects of CERN, with a formal cooperation agreement signed in 1991. This was further strengthened by a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed in 2009, laying the groundwork for expanded collaboration in accelerator technology, detector R&D, computing infrastructure, and human resource training. The agreement also facilitates joint research and greater Indian participation in CERN’s long-term projects.

In recognition of the significant Indian contributions towards the LHC project, India was awarded the “Observer” status in 2002 and finally, India became an Associate Member State of CERN in 2017. India has been a committed and active partner in the LHC program of CERN and proudly acknowledges this international recognition while celebrating its significant contributions to the experiments and the LHC infrastructure.

As a testament to the long-standing scientific collaboration between India and CERN, in June 2004, India gifted a 2m tall statue of the Indian deity Shiva Nataraja, the Lord of Dance to CERN. In choosing the image of Shiva Nataraja, the Indian government acknowledged the profound significance of the metaphor of Shiva’s dance, drawn by Carl Sagan for the cosmic dance of subatomic particles, which is observed and analysed by CERN’s physicists. This statue is a standing example of the fusion of technology with cultural traditions. A quote of the world-renowned physicist, Fritj of Capra is inscribed on a plaque alongside the statue which reads as, “Hundreds of years ago, Indian artists created visual images of dancing Shivas in a beautiful series of bronzes. In our time, physicists have used the most advanced technology to portray the patterns of the cosmic dance. The metaphor of the cosmic dance thus unifies ancient mythology, religious art and modern physics.”

India's involvement in Large Hadron Collider(LHC)

India’s involvement spans all layers of the LHC program—from accelerator technology to major physics experiments—through national support from the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) and the Department of Science and Technology (DST). India actively participates in the governance and decision-making processes for various experiments being conducted and planned at CERN. Indian scientists and institutions are also represented on prominent CERN boards and committees, including Research and Resources Board (RRB), Advisory Committee of CERN Users (ACCU) and Scientific Council.

The ALICE collaboration in India includes VECC-Kolkata, SINP-Kolkata, IOP-Bhubaneswar, Aligarh Muslim University, IIT-Mumbai, Panjab University, University of Jammu, University of Rajasthan (till 2021), Bose Institute, Guwahati University, Jadavpur University, NISER-Bhubaneswar, IIT-Indore, Coochbehar Panchanan Barma University, IISER-Berhampur and University of Kashmir.

The CMS collaboration in India includes Delhi University, Institute of Physics, IISc Bengaluru, IISER-Pune, Panjab University, UIET- Panjab, IIT-Bhubaneswar, IIT-Chennai, BARC-Mumbai, NISER-Bhubaneswar, PAU-Ludhiana, SINP-Kolkata, TIFR-Mumbai, IIT-Hyderabad, IIT-Kanpur, IIT-Mandi, IISER-Mohali, Visva-Bharati University, UoH-Hyderabad, BIT-Mesra, Amity University and BN Mondal University- Madhepura, Bihar.

Indian teams from BARC, Mumbai and RRCAT, Indore have contributed significantly to the construction of LHC that includes high-precision components for cryogenics, superconducting magnets, and beam instrumentation, design and fabrication of collimators, vacuum chambers, and radio-frequency systems. These contributions enabled stable and high-energy collisions essential for the discoveries recognized by the Breakthrough Prize.

Indian team in ALICE have played pivotal leadership roles in the ALICE collaboration, particularly in the areas of detector design and data analysis. Indian scientists designed and constructed and commissioned ingeniously the Photon Multiplicity Detector (PMD) and Muon Spectrometer, vital for studies of quark gluon plasma. They led key analyses on event –by-event fluctuations, resonance production, collective flow, and heavy-flavour production.

The CMS Indian team contributed significantly to design the trigger and data acquisition systems, and provided critical components such as Resistive Plate Chambers (RPCs), Silicon Preshower Detector, and Hadron Outer (HO) Calorimeter. The team led important studies in Higgs boson searches, top-quark, flavor physics, electroweak measurements, supersymmetry, and other BSM (beyond Standard Model) searches, while supporting Tier-2 data processing for global collaboration.

India has also played a vital role in the Worldwide LHC Computing Grid (WLCG)—a global network that processes and analyses the vast data generated by LHC experiments. Indian Tier-2 centres, notably at TIFR Mumbai and VECC Kolkata, have been central to providing computing and storage resources: WLCG-India hosts 17400 cores computing and 12 PB of storage having supported over 17.5 million ALICE jobs in 15 years. Indian scientists also contributed to software and tools used across the grid, such as GRIDVIEW (monitoring) and SHIVA (problem tracking), contributing over 1,000 person-months of effort during key development phases.

Large number of Indian students are trained annually through active participation in ALICE and CMS experiments, including on-site work at CERN. They gain exposure to advanced instrumentation, scientific computing, international collaboration, and frontier of physics research. India’s engagement during LHC Run 2 has led to more than 110 Ph.D. theses and more than 130 publications in peer-reviewed journal papers based on ALICE and CMS data. Indian Scientists plays important leadership in physics analysis, detector R&D, and machine learning applications.

“This recognition from the Breakthrough Prize Foundation is a tribute to decades of scientific perseverance and international unity. India’s researchers, students, and engineers have been proud partners in this discovery journey,” said, Dr. A.K. Mohanty, Chairman Atomic Energy Commission and Secretary, Dept. of Atomic Energy.

Prof. Abhay Karandikar, Secretary, Department of Science and Technology noted that the Indian researchers have contributed profoundly towards LHC experiments. While congratulating the team, he mentioned that “the Breakthrough Science Award 2025 for these experiments establishes the prominence of Indian S&T contribution and their role in furthering the fundamental research”.

India is now gearing up to contribute to the p-type Silicon based Forward Calorimeter (FoCal) detector in ALICE—that will enable precision measurements of direct photons and neutral pions at forward rapidities, unlocking new windows to know the structure of protons and nuclei. Indian team is contributing significantly to the CMS Phase-2 upgrade in four subdetector components, namely, Outer Tracker (OT), Gas Electron Multiplier (GEM), High Granular Calorimeter (HGCAL), and Trigger system. These upgraded detectors are essential for high-luminosity LHC (HL-LHC) experimental running conditions, which is aimed at achieving precision physics results and looking for physics beyond Standard Model.

The Breakthrough Science Award 2025 is a shared honour—celebrating not just the ALICE and CMS collaboration but the spirit of international science, powered by dedicated individuals and visionary support systems. As ALICE and CMS enters a new era, India stands proudly as both a contributor and a beneficiary—fuelling discoveries that may forever reshape our understanding of the universe.

Source: pib.gov.in

BIMSTEC: Summits and Priority Areas

The First BIMSTEC Summit was held on July 31, 2004 in Bangkok. The grouping then got its name BIMSTEC or the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation. Nepal and Bhutan also joined the group. The Second Summit of BIMSTEC was held in 2008 in New Delhi, India. The Third summit was held in Naypyidaw, Myanmar in 2014 and the fourth summit was held in 2018 in Kathmandu, Nepal. The BIMSTEC has concentrated on the areas like connectivity, environment protection and blue economy.

The Fifth Summit was held in Colombo on 30 March, 2022. The Fifth Summit was significant in the sense that the member states adopted the BIMSTEC Charter which lists its objectives and principles. This summit also decided to reduce the interval between summits from four year.

BIMSTEC was decided to be located in Dhaka, Bangladesh. In fact, the Sixth Summit was to be held in 2024, but due to domestic problems in Thailand it was held in April 2025.

The Priority Areas : The main purpose of the BIMSTEC is to enhance socio-economic development, economic sustainability, and cooperation and collaboration in the region through joint efforts. In order to realize its objectives, the BIMSTEC has identified 14 priority areas for collaboration and cooperation among member states: trade and investment, energy, tourism, transport and communication, public health, counter-terrorism and trans-national crime, environment and disaster management, technology, fisheries, agriculture, poverty alleviation, cultural cooperation, people- to-people contacts and climate change. However, in order to make the organization effective, the priority areas have been reduced to 7 during the 5th Summit at Colombo in 2022 and each member state has been given the leadership role in one area in the following manner :

• Trade, Investment and Development - Bangladesh
• Environment and Climate Change - Bhutan
• Security and Energy - India
• Agriculture and Food Security - Myanmar
• People-to-People Contact - Nepal
• Science, Technology and Innovation - Sri Lanka
• Connectivity - Thailand

National Food Security Mission

During 2024-25, the National Food Security Mission (NFSM) has been renamed as National Food Security & Nutrition Mission (NFSNM) and the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (DA&FW) is implementing NFSNM for increasing production of pulses, nutri cereals, rice, wheat and coarse cereals in the country. Under NFSNM, the incentives are provided to the farmers, through the States/UTs, on crop production and protection technologies, cropping system based demonstrations, production & distribution of certified seeds of newly released varieties/hybrids, integrated nutrient and pest management techniques, capacity building of farmers through trainings during cropping season etc.

Further, the Government of India also provides flexibility to the states for state specific needs/priorities under Pradhan Mantri-Rashtirya Krishi Vikas Yojana (PM-RKVY). The states may promote coarse cereals and millets (Shree Anna) under PM-RKVY with approval of State Level Sanctioning Committee (SLSC) headed by Chief Secretary of the State.

Shri Ashok Singh Thakur elected as Chairman of INTACH

The AGM of Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) was held on 22nd March 2025 at the Head Office in New Delhi. The Elections were held successfully for the post of Chairman and Governing Council members. After following due procedure the results were declared and Shri. Ashok Singh Thakur was elected as Chairman for a period of 3 years.

INTACH is India’s premier heritage conservation organisation formally constituted on 27th January, 1984. It is a national registered Society under the Societies Registration Act (1860). Our mandate is to preserve and conserve the environment, to revitalise intangible heritage and to foster awareness and appreciation of our immense heritage. It also acts as a cultural bank for providing financial and technical expertise towards the preservation of cultural, natural resources and heritage as also of cultural and innovative activities. The INTACH Charter was adopted in 2004 which serves as a foundation document guiding heritage conservation in India. Recognizing the evolving nature of heritage, we are currently working on revising the Charter to make it interdisciplinary, ensuring it encompasses all aspects of heritage from tangible and intangible to natural and cultural dimensions.

Jan Aushadhi Diwas 2025

Every year, March 7th is celebrated as 'Jan Aushadhi Diwas' to raise awareness about the scheme and promote the use of generic medicines. Week-long events are organized across the country from March 1st to 7th to support this initiative. This year, the celebration was flagged off on March 1 to disseminate information about PMBJP in the National Capital Region (NCR). The "Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP)" was launched in November 2008 by the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers, in collaboration with Central Pharma Public Sector Undertakings. The initiative aims to provide quality medicines at affordable prices to the public through dedicated outlets called Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJK).

Key Activities of the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana

With an objective of making quality generic medicines available at affordable prices to all, Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) aims to make quality generic medicines available at affordable prices. Some of the activities under this initiative include:

• Raising Awareness: One of the primary goals is to educate the public about the benefits of generic medicines, emphasizing that affordability does not compromise quality. The initiative aims to dispel the misconception that higher prices indicate better quality.
• Encouraging Prescriptions of Generic Drugs: PMBJP aims to inspire healthcare professionals, particularly those in government hospitals, to prescribe generic alternatives, thereby promoting cost-effective treatment options.
• Enhancing Accessibility: The initiative seeks to provide a wide range of commonly used generic medicines across various therapeutic categories, ensuring that essential healthcare products are available to everyone, especially the marginalized.

Despite the country being one of the leading exporters of generic medicines to the world, the majority of Indians lack sufficient access to affordable medicines. Branded medicines are sold at significantly higher prices than their unbranded generic equivalents, though they are identical in their therapeutic value.

Major Initiatives under PMBJP

Suvidha Sanitary Napkins- As an important step in ensuring the health security for Indian women, Jan Aushadhi Suvidha Oxo-biodegradable Sanitary Napkins were launched on 27th August 2019 to be made available at Rs.1/- per pad only. Jan Aushadhi Suvidha Napkins are being made available for sale in more than 15000 PMBJP Kendras across the country. The cumulative sales of Suvidha Napkins as on 31.01.2025 is 72 Crores.

The Jan Aushadhi SUGAM mobile application was launched the month of August 2019. The App has various user-friendly features like - to locate nearby Jan Aushadhi Kendra through Google map, search Jan Aushadhi generic medicines, compare prices of Generic v/s Branded medicines in terms of MRP, overall savings, etc.

Features of PMBJP

A unique feature of the scheme is that it is operated by government agencies as well as by private entrepreneurs.

• Prices of the Jan Aushadhi medicines are 50%-80% less than those of branded medicines available in the open market.
• Medicines are procured only from World Health Organization – Good Manufacturing Practices (WHO-GMP) certified manufacturers to ensure the quality of the products.
• Each batch of the drug is tested at laboratories accredited by the ‘National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories’ (NABL) to ensure the best quality.
• The incentive up to Rs. 20,000/- per month is given @ 20% of monthly purchases made and subject to the stocking mandate.
• A one-time incentive of Rs. 2.00 lakh is provided to PMBJP Kendras opened in North-Eastern States, Himalayan areas, Island territories, and backward areas mentioned as aspirational district by NITI Aayog or opened by women entrepreneurs, Ex-servicemen,n Divyang, SC & ST.

Source: pib.gov.in

Shri Ajay Bhadoo Appointed as CEO of Government e Marketplace

The Government of India has appointed Additional Secretary in the Department of Commerce Shri Ajay Bhadoo, as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Government e Marketplace (GeM) with effect from March 3, 2025. He will assume this role in addition to his existing responsibilities in the Department of Commerce.

His appointment as CEO of GeM, India’s largest e-marketplace for government procurement, comes at a pivotal time as the platform transitions to a next-generation digital marketplace powered by Tata Consultancy Services (TCS). Currently, GeM has recorded a Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) of ₹4.58 lakh crore, reflecting a 28.65% year-on-year growth.

An Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the 1999 batch from the Gujarat cadre, Shri Bhadoo brings over two decades of experience in policy formulation and implementation across diverse sectors, including urban infrastructure development.

In August 2024, Shri Bhadoo was appointed as Additional Secretary in the Department of Commerce. Previously, he served as the Deputy Election Commissioner at the Election Commission of India. His extensive career also includes a tenure as Joint Secretary to the former President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind, and leadership roles such as CEO of the Gujarat Maritime Board and Commissioner of Rajkot and Vadodara Municipal Corporations. Shri Bhadoo holds a degree in Civil Engineering and a Master’s in Business Law from the prestigious National Law School of India University, Bengaluru.

Cabinet approves development of Ropeway Project from Sonprayag to Kedarnath

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved the construction of 12.9 km ropeway project from Sonprayag to Kedarnath (12.9 km) in Uttarakhand. The project will be developed on Design, Build, Finance, Operate and Transfer (DBFOT) mode at a total capital cost of Rs. 4,081.28 crore.

The ropeway is planned to be developed in a public-private partnership and will be based on the most advanced Tri-cable Detachable Gondola (3S) technology with a design capacity of 1,800 passengers per hour per direction (PPHPD) carrying 18,000 passengers per day. The ropeway project will be a boon to the pilgrims visiting Kedarnath as it would provide an environment-friendly, comfortable and fast connectivity and reduce travel time in one direction from about 8 to 9 hours to about 36 minutes. The ropeway project will also generate substantial employment opportunities during construction and operations as well as in allied tourism industries like hospitality, travel, foods & beverages (F&B) and tourism throughout the year.

The development of the ropeway project is a significant step towards fostering balanced socio-economic development, enhancing last - mile connectivity in hilly regions and fostering rapid economic growth. The journey to the Kedarnath temple is a challenging 16-km uphill trek from Gaurikund and is currently covered on foot or by ponies, palanquins and helicopter. The proposed ropeway is planned to provide convenience to pilgrims visiting the temple and ensure all-weather connectivity between Sonprayag and Kedarnath.

Kedarnath is one of the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas situated at an elevation of 3,583 m (11968 ft) in the Rudraprayag district of the State of Uttarakhand. The temple is open for pilgrims for about 6 to 7 months in a year, from Akshaya Tritiya (April-May) to Diwali (October-November), and is visited by about 20 lakh pilgrims annually during the season.

Cabinet approves development of ropeway project from Govindghat to Hemkund Sahib Ji

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved the construction of a 12.4 km ropeway project from Govindghat to Hemkund Sahib Ji in Uttarakhand. The project will be developed on Design, Build, Finance, Operate and Transfer (DBFOT) mode at a total capital cost of Rs. 2,730.13 crore.

Currently, the journey to the Hemkund Sahib Ji is a challenging 21-km uphill trek from Govindghat and is covered on foot or by ponies or palanquins. The proposed ropeway is planned to provide convenience to pilgrims visiting the Hemkund Sahib Ji and the tourists visiting the Valley of Flowers and will ensure all-weather last mile connectivity between Govindghat and Hemkund Sahib Ji.

The ropeway is planned to be developed in public-private partnership and will be based on Monocable Detachable Gondola (MDG) from Govindghat to Ghangaria (10.55 km), seamlessly integrated with the most advanced Tricable Detachable Gondola (3S) technology from Ghangaria to Hemkund Sahib Ji (1.85 km) with a design capacity of 1,100 passengers per hour per direction (PPHPD) carrying 11,000 passengers per day. The ropeway project will also generate substantial employment opportunities during construction and operations, as well as in allied tourism industries like hospitality, travel, food & beverage (F&B), and tourism throughout the year.

The development of the ropeway project is a significant step towards fostering balanced socio-economic development, enhancing last-mile connectivity for pilgrims and fostering rapid economic growth of the region. Hemkund Sahib Ji is a highly revered pilgrimage site situated at an elevation of 15,000 ft in Chamoli district of the State of Uttarakhand. The Gurudwara established at the holy site is open for about 5 months in a year, between May and September and is visited by about 1.5 to 2 lakh pilgrims annually. The trek to Hemkund Sahib Ji also serves as the gateway to the famous Valley of Flowers, a national park recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, located in the pristine Garhwal Himalayas.

Tuhin Kanta Pandey assumes charge as 11th chairman of Sebi

Tuhin Kanta Pandey assumed charge as the 11th chairman of capital markets regulator SEBI. He replaces Madhabi Puri Buch, whose three-year tenure ended on 28th February 2025. Pandey, a career bureaucrat who was serving as the Finance Secretary till now, was appointed chairman of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) by the government on 27th February 2025. 

His appointment comes at a crucial time for SEBI, the regulatory body responsible for overseeing India's securities and capital markets. As Sebi Chairman, Pandey will play a key role in strengthening market regulations, ensuring investor protection, and overseeing reforms in the capital markets. His extensive experience in finance and economic policy is expected to aid in the effective functioning of the regulatory body.

Nano Bubble Technology: Revolutionizing Industries with Microscopic Marvels

Nano bubble technology is an emerging field that has the potential to revolutionize various industries, from water treatment and agriculture to healthcare and energy. Nano bubbles, which are tiny gas-filled cavities with diameters on the nanometer scale (typically less than 200 nanometers), exhibit unique physical and chemical properties that make them highly effective in a wide range of applications. This article delves into the science behind nano bubbles, their unique characteristics, and the transformative impact they are having across multiple sectors.

What Are Nano Bubbles?

Nano bubbles are ultrafine gas bubbles that are typically less than 200 nanometers in diameter. They are so small that they remain suspended in liquid for extended periods, sometimes for months or even years. Unlike larger bubbles, which rise to the surface and burst quickly, nano bubbles are stable and can remain in solution due to their small size and high internal pressure.

Key Characteristics of Nano Bubbles

• Size and Stability: Nano bubbles are extremely small, with diameters ranging from 70 to 200 nanometers. Their small size allows them to remain suspended in liquid for long periods, making them highly stable.
• High Internal Pressure: Due to their small size, nano bubbles have extremely high internal pressure, which can be several times greater than atmospheric pressure. This high pressure enhances their ability to dissolve gases in liquids.
• Large Surface Area to Volume Ratio: Nano bubbles have a very large surface area relative to their volume. This property makes them highly efficient in gas transfer and chemical reactions.
• Longevity: Nano bubbles can remain stable in liquid for extended periods, sometimes for months or even years, due to their small size and high internal pressure.
• Zeta Potential: Nano bubbles often carry a negative charge, known as zeta potential, which helps prevent them from coalescing and enhances their stability in solution.

Generation of Nano Bubbles

Nanobubbles can be generated using various methods, including:

• Pressurization-Depressurization: This method involves pressurizing a gas-liquid mixture and then rapidly depressurizing it, causing the formation of nano bubbles.
• Ultrasonic Cavitation: High-frequency ultrasonic waves are used to create cavitation bubbles in a liquid, which then collapse and form nano bubbles.
• Electrolysis:Passing an electric current through a liquid can generate nano bubbles of hydrogen and oxygen gases.
• Membrane Diffusion: Gas is forced through a porous membrane into a liquid, creating nano bubbles as the gas exits the pores.

Applications of Nano Bubble Technology

Water Treatment

Nano bubble technology is transforming water treatment processes by improving the efficiency of oxygenation, disinfection, and pollutant removal.

• Oxygenation: Nano bubbles can significantly enhance the oxygen content in water, which is crucial for aerobic biological processes in wastewater treatment. The high solubility and stability of nano bubbles ensure that oxygen is delivered more efficiently to microorganisms, improving the breakdown of organic matter.
• Disinfection: Nano bubbles of ozone or hydrogen peroxide can be used for water disinfection. The high reactivity of these gases in nano bubble form enhances their ability to kill bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens.
• Pollutant Removal: Nano bubbles can be used to remove pollutants such as heavy metals and organic compounds from water. The high surface area and reactivity of nano bubbles facilitate the adsorption and breakdown of contaminants.

Agriculture

In agriculture, nano bubble technology is being used to enhance crop growth, improve soil health, and reduce the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides.

• Improved Oxygenation: Nano bubbles can increase the oxygen levels in irrigation water, promoting healthier root systems and more robust plant growth. This is particularly beneficial in hydroponic and aquaponic systems.
• Nutrient Delivery: Nano bubbles can be used to deliver nutrients more effectively to plants. The small size and high stability of nano bubbles ensure that nutrients are evenly distributed and readily absorbed by plant roots.
• Pest Control: Nano bubbles of ozone or other gases can be used to control pests and diseases in crops. The high reactivity of these gases in nano bubble form makes them effective at killing pathogens without the need for chemical pesticides.

Healthcare

Nano bubble technology is finding applications in healthcare, particularly in drug delivery, imaging, and cancer treatment.

• Drug Delivery: Nano bubbles can be used as carriers for targeted drug delivery. The small size and stability of nano bubbles allow them to penetrate tissues and deliver drugs directly to specific cells or organs, reducing side effects and improving therapeutic outcomes.
• Ultrasound Imaging: Nano bubbles can enhance the contrast in ultrasound imaging, making it easier to visualize tissues and organs. This is particularly useful in diagnosing conditions such as cancer and cardiovascular diseases.
• Cancer Treatment: Nano bubbles can be used in conjunction with ultrasound to enhance the delivery of chemotherapy drugs to cancer cells. The ultrasound causes the nano bubbles to oscillate and collapse, creating micro-jets that can disrupt cancer cell membranes and improve drug uptake.

Energy

In the energy sector, nano bubble technology is being explored for applications in hydrogen production, fuel cells, and carbon capture.

• Hydrogen Production: Nano bubbles can enhance the efficiency of electrolysis, a process used to produce hydrogen gas from water. The high surface area and reactivity of nano bubbles improve the rate of gas evolution, making hydrogen production more efficient.
• Fuel Cells: Nano bubbles can be used to improve the performance of fuel cells by enhancing the transport of reactants and products within the cell. This can lead to higher efficiency and longer-lasting fuel cells.
• Carbon Capture: Nano bubbles can be used to capture and store carbon dioxide from industrial emissions. The high solubility and stability of nano bubbles make them effective at absorbing CO2, which can then be stored or converted into useful products.

Environmental Remediation

Nano bubble technology is being used to clean up contaminated soil and water, offering a more efficient and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional methods.

• Soil Remediation: Nano bubbles can be used to deliver oxygen and nutrients to contaminated soil, promoting the growth of microorganisms that break down pollutants. This can accelerate the remediation process and reduce the need for chemical treatments.
• Water Remediation: Nano bubbles can be used to remove pollutants such as heavy metals, organic compounds, and pathogens from contaminated water. The high reactivity and stability of nano bubbles make them effective at breaking down and removing contaminants.

Challenges and Future Directions

While nano bubble technology holds great promise, there are still challenges that need to be addressed to fully realize its potential.

• Scalability: One of the main challenges is scaling up the production of nano bubbles for industrial applications. Current methods of generating nano bubbles are often energy-intensive and may not be suitable for large-scale use.
• Cost: The cost of generating and maintaining nano bubbles can be high, particularly for applications that require large volumes of nano bubble-infused liquids. Reducing the cost of production will be crucial for widespread adoption.
• Regulatory Hurdles: As with any new technology, regulatory approval can be a significant barrier. Ensuring that nano bubble technology meets safety and environmental standards will be essential for its adoption in industries such as healthcare and agriculture.
• Understanding Mechanisms: While the benefits of nano bubbles are well-documented, the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. Further research is needed to elucidate how nano bubbles interact with different materials and biological systems.

Despite these challenges, the future of nano bubble technology looks promising. Ongoing research and development are likely to lead to new applications and improved methods of production, making nano bubbles a key technology in the 21st century.

Conclusion

Nano bubble technology is a groundbreaking innovation with the potential to transform a wide range of industries. From improving water treatment and agricultural practices to advancing healthcare and energy production, nano bubbles offer a versatile and efficient solution to many of the challenges we face today. As research continues and the technology matures, we can expect to see even more innovative applications of nano bubbles, paving the way for a more sustainable and efficient future.

Pravasi Bharatiya Divas

The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) celebrated once in two years on 9th January is a significant event that honors the contributions of the Indian diaspora to their homeland. The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention was first established in 2003 under the government of then Prime Minister Late Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee, as a platform to recognize and engage with the overseas Indian community.

The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is the flagship event of the Ministry of External Affairs. It is held in different cities, to showcase the diversity and progress of different regions of India. Since 2015, it has evolved into a biennale event, with theme-based conferences held in the intervening years. This format allows for more focused discussions on specific areas of interest and provides opportunities for networking among the global Indian diaspora.

Nano-formulation of darkness hormone could be therapeutic solution for Parkinson's disease

Scientists have proved that nano-formulation of Melatonin, the hormone produced by the brain in response to darkness, showed improved antioxidative and neuroprotective properties and could be a potential therapeutic solution for Parkinson's disease (PD). Parkinson's disease (PD) is one of the most common neurological disorders caused by the death of dopamine-secreting neurons in the brain due to aggregation of synuclein protein inside it. Available medications can only minimize the symptoms but cannot cure the disease and this underlines the need to develop better therapeutic solutions for the disease.

Studies over the last decade have shown the implications of PD-related genes in governing a quality control mechanism called "Mitophagy", which identifies and removes dysfunctional mitochondria and reduces oxidative stress. Among many antioxidants, melatonin, a neurohormone secreted from the pineal gland, an endocrine gland present in the brain, that regulates the sleep-wake cycle and is used to treat insomnia could be a potential inducer of mitophagy to mitigate PD.

The molecular pathways melatonin follows as a PD antagonist, remain poorly elucidated, despite being a safe and a potential neurotherapeutic drug with a few limitations like less bioavailability, premature oxidation, brain delivery, etc. A group of researchers from the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST) Mohali, an autonomous institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DST) used human serum albumin nano-formulation to deliver the drug to the brain and studied the molecular mechanism behind melatonin-mediated oxidative stress regulation. Using a biocompatible protein (HSA) nanocarrier for the delivery of melatonin to the brain, Dr. Surajit Karmakar and his team have proved that the nano-melatonin resulted in a sustained release of melatonin and improved bioavailability.

They found that the nano-melatonin demonstrated enhanced antioxidative and neuroprotective properties. It not only improved mitophagy to remove unhealthy mitochondria but also improved mitochondrial biogenesis to counteract a pesticide (rotenone) induced toxicity in an in vitro PD model. The improvement is attributed to the sustained release of melatonin and targeted delivery to the brain resulting in increased therapeutic efficacy compared to bare melatonin. The increased antioxidative effect is a result of mitophagy induction through the upregulation of a crucial epigenetic regulator called BMI1 that controls gene expression. The reduction in oxidative stress contributes to alleviating the symptoms of Parkinson's disease.

Their findings published in the journal ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces highlighted the significantly better in vitro and in vivo neuroprotective effect of nano-melatonin as well as the molecular/cellular dynamics it influences to regulate mitophagy. The experiments showed that the nano-formulation of melatonin also protected TH-positive neurons in the brains of rats against rotenone-mediated toxicity. Additionally, the study revealed for the first time that BMI1, a member of the Polycomb Repressive Complex 1, the most essential family of proteins responsible for epigenetic regulation, was overexpressed following nano-formulation treatment. This overexpression-induced mitophagy could help in protecting neurons from degeneration.

The study unfurls the molecular mechanism behind melatonin-mediated mitophagy regulation. Enhanced mitophagy was crucial to reduce oxidative stress in the Parkinson's disease model. Melatonin-mediated BMI1 regulation and the latter's role in inducing mitophagy to curb oxidative stress could set a path for establishing melatonin as a therapeutic candidate for Parkinson’s Disease. It can also be used to treat other diseases where dysregulated mitophagy is critical for pathological outcomes. With continued exploration, this could be established as a safer drug to improve the lives of patients.

National Sports Awards 2024

National Sports Awards are given every year to recognize and reward excellence in sports. Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award is given for the spectacular and most outstanding performance in the field of sports by a sportsperson over the period of the previous four years. Arjuna Award for outstanding performance in Sports and Games is given for good performance over a period of the previous four years and for showing qualities of leadership, sportsmanship and a sense of discipline. Arjuna Award (Lifetime) is given to honour and motivate those sportspersons who have contributed to sports by their performance and continue to contribute to promotion of sports even after their retirement from active sporting career. Dronacharya Award for Outstanding Coaches in Sports and Games is given to coaches for doing outstanding and meritorious work on a consistent basis and for enabling sportspersons to excel in International events. The overall top performing university in Khelo India University Games is given the Maulana Abul Kalam Azad (MAKA) Trophy.

Click Here to Read the Complete Winner List

What is HMPV Virus Currently Spreading in China?

Introduction

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) has recently been making headlines in China due to a sudden rise in infections. While not as well-known as other respiratory viruses like the flu or COVID-19, HMPV can have serious implications, especially for the elderly, children, and those with weakened immune systems. As concerns grow about its spread, understanding this virus and how to prevent it becomes essential.

In this article, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about HMPV, its symptoms, the current situation in China, and, most importantly, how you can protect yourself and your loved ones.

Understanding the HMPV Virus

What is HMPV (Human Metapneumovirus)?

HMPV is a respiratory virus first identified in 2001. It belongs to the Paramyxoviridae family, which also includes other well-known viruses like measles and mumps. HMPV primarily affects the respiratory tract, causing symptoms that range from mild to severe.

Despite being relatively new to the spotlight, studies suggest that HMPV has been circulating in humans for decades. It is a leading cause of respiratory illness, especially during late winter and early spring.

How is HMPV Transmitted?

HMPV spreads much like the common cold or flu. The primary modes of transmission include:

• Direct contact: Shaking hands or touching contaminated surfaces.
• Respiratory droplets: Coughing, sneezing, or talking close to others.
• Touching the face: Transferring the virus from the hands to the eyes, nose, or mouth.

Risk factors for transmission are similar to other respiratory viruses, including crowded environments, poor ventilation, and weakened immune systems.

Symptoms of HMPV Infection

HMPV symptoms often mimic those of the flu or other respiratory infections. Common signs include:

• Coughing
• Nasal congestion
• Fever
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue

In severe cases, HMPV can lead to complications like bronchitis or pneumonia, particularly in vulnerable groups such as infants, older adults, and people with chronic health conditions.

Preventive Measures for HMPV

Hygiene Practices

Basic hygiene is your first line of defense:

• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Use hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol when soap isn’t available.
• Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth.

Social Distancing and Mask Usage

Face masks and social distancing, proven effective during the COVID-19 pandemic, remain valuable tools in controlling HMPV’s spread. Masks can block respiratory droplets while maintaining physical distance reduces the risk of direct transmission.

Strengthening Immunity

A robust immune system can help fend off HMPV. Focus on:

• A balanced diet: Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Regular exercise: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days.
• Adequate sleep: Poor sleep can weaken immune defenses.
• Supplements: Vitamins C and D, along with zinc, may provide added protection.