Updates

IHH Healthcare to Acquire Island Hospital in $901 Million Deal
IHH Healthcare will acquire Malaysia's Island Hospital for $901 million, solidifying its position in Penang and Malaysia’s healthcare sector. The deal is expected to generate over $200 million in synergies and expand medical tourism.

India Conducts First Pandemic Preparedness Mock Drill
India’s first mock drill, Vishanu Yuddh Abhyas, was conducted in Rajasthan to evaluate the nation’s pandemic preparedness, simulating a zoonotic disease outbreak and assessing the readiness of multiple health sectors.

States to Report Healthcare Security Measures by September 10
India's Health Secretary has instructed states and Union territories to submit action reports on security measures for healthcare professionals. This follows the Supreme Court's directive to ensure safety in healthcare institutions, emphasizing audits, CCTV, local police integration, and more.

Ignoring Virus Threats Could Lead to Disaster
Despite the rush to forget the pandemic, ignoring virus threats like Covid-19, Chandipura, and Mpox could have dire consequences for India. Experts urge stronger surveillance and pandemic preparedness to combat these ever-evolving dangers.

Urban Girls Face High Levels of Inactivity, Survey Reveals
A national survey shows over 20 crore Indians are inactive, with urban girls facing the worst impact due to limited access to physical activity and safety concerns. The survey highlights the importance of integrating physical activity into daily life to combat health risks.

GST Council's Potential Removal of 18% Tax on Term Life Insurance Premiums
The upcoming GST Council meeting might consider removing the 18% tax on term life insurance premiums, a long-standing demand from the industry. Experts say this could ease financial burdens on policyholders, particularly for term insurance plans focused on providing security rather than income.

Former Principal of RG Kar Medical College Remanded to Custody in Corruption Case
A Kolkata court has remanded Sandip Ghosh, former principal of RG Kar Medical College, to an eight-day custody. The CBI detained him on allegations of financial misconduct. The court emphasized the need for further investigation to uncover the full extent of the case.

UNFPA Calls on Private Sector to Invest in Women's Sexual and Reproductive Health
The UNFPA calls on Asia-Pacific businesses to invest in women's sexual and reproductive health, especially in labor-intensive industries like garment manufacturing, where better health outcomes lead to economic gains.

West Bengal's Proposed Anti-Rape Bill Calls for Capital Punishment
The West Bengal government is set to introduce a stringent anti-rape bill, proposing capital punishment for heinous crimes leading to death or vegetative state of the victim. The legislation aims to enhance protection for women and children, introducing stricter punishments and expediting legal processes.

CBI Probes Corruption Allegations Against RG Kar Medical College Former Principal
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has intensified its investigation into corruption allegations against Dr. Sandip Ghosh. The case, initiated following orders from the Calcutta High Court, involves alleged misuse of authority and financial irregularities.

Vulnerable Road Users Account for 66% of Traffic Deaths in Southeast Asia: WHO Report
A WHO report reveals that 66% of road traffic deaths in Southeast Asia involve pedestrians, cyclists, and two-wheeler riders, highlighting the urgent need for improved road safety measures in the region.

Delhi HC Directs AIIMS to Oversee Hospital Reforms Amid Health Department Turmoil
The Delhi High Court has tasked the AIIMS director with implementing crucial reforms in Delhi government hospitals, amid ongoing conflicts within the city's health department.