Another captive lion has succumbed to COVID-19 in a Chennai zoo, according to a statement from the Arignar Anna Zoological Park, near Chennai.

This time it was a 12-year old male lion and it succumbed to the virus on Wednesday morning. Authorities say that the lion had been under intensive treatment since it tested positive for SARS-Cov-2 on June 03. The samples of this lion had tested positive, as per the report from National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases (NIHSAD), Bhopal.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/semi-wild-elephants-undergo-covid-19-testing-after-9-lions-test-positive-in-indian-zoo-390139" hreflang="en">Semi-wild elephants undergo COVID-19 testing after 9 lions test positive in Indian zoo</a>

On June 4, the zoo had mentioned that nine of their eleven captive lions have tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 infection — SARS-CoV-2 is the virus that causes the disease COVID-19.

Back then, Neela, a nine-year-old lioness that was housed in the zoo had died, a day after showing some nasal discharge. Authorities maintained that the lion was provided treatment immediately after it showcased symptoms.&nbsp;

On May 26,&nbsp;five lions housed in the Animal House 1 of the Safari Park area of the zoo were reported to show loss of appetite (anorexia) and occasional coughing. Following this, an in-house veterinary team along with those from Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (TANUVAS) took immediate action and offered treatment.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lion-dies-of-coronavirus-in-chennai-zoo-9-of-11-lions-test-positive-389511" hreflang="en">Lion dies of coronavirus in Chennai zoo; 9 of 11 lions test positive</a>

The big cats’ blood samples and nasal swabs were sent to TANUVAS. Rectal swab and fecal samples of the 11 lions were sent to National Institute of High Security Diseases (NIHSAD) Bhopal, which is among the designated institutes to take up SARS COV-2 testing in captive animals. As per the test results, nine of the 11 lions tested positive.

It was after lions tested positive that the forest officials carried out precautionary testing for captive elephants at the Theppakadu camp in the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve. However, all 28 elephants tested negative as per results from the Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;

Another captive lion has succumbed to COVID-19 in a Chennai zoo, according to a statement from the Arignar Anna Zoological Park, near Chennai. This time it was a 12-year old male lion and it succumbed to the virus on Wednesday morning.

Another captive lion has succumbed to COVID-19 in a Chennai zoo, according to a statement from the Arignar Anna Zoological Park, near Chennai. This time it was a 12-year old male lion and it succumbed to the virus on Wednesday morning. Authorities say that the lion had been under intensive treatment since it tested positive for SARS-Cov-2 on June 03. The samples of this lion had tested positive, as per the report from National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases (NIHSAD), Bhopal. Also read | Semi-wild elephants undergo COVID-19 testing after 9 lions test positive in Indian zoo On June 4, the zoo had mentioned that nine of their eleven captive lions have tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 infection — SARS-CoV-2 is the virus that causes the disease COVID-19. Back then, Neela, a nine-year-old lioness that was housed in the zoo had died, a day after showing some nasal discharge. Authorities maintained that the lion was provided treatment immediately after it showcased symptoms. On May 26, five lions housed in the Animal House 1 of the Safari Park area of the zoo were reported to show loss of appetite (anorexia) and occasional coughing. Following this, an in-house veterinary team along with those from Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (TANUVAS) took immediate action and offered treatment. Also read | Lion dies of coronavirus in Chennai zoo; 9 of 11 lions test positive The big cats’ blood samples and nasal swabs were sent to TANUVAS. Rectal swab and fecal samples of the 11 lions were sent to National Institute of High Security Diseases (NIHSAD) Bhopal, which is among the designated institutes to take up SARS COV-2 testing in captive animals. As per the test results, nine of the 11 lions tested positive. It was after lions tested positive that the forest officials carried out precautionary testing for captive elephants at the Theppakadu camp in the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve. However, all 28 elephants tested negative as per results from the Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Uttar Pradesh.

After lioness, a lion succumbs to COVID-19 at Chennai zoo

Presenting their report that indicated massive underreporting of COVID-19 deaths in major Tamil Nadu Government Hospitals, NGO ‘Arappor Iyakkam’ urged the State Government to take corrective steps.

The recommendations urged that the Government must instruct hospitals to issue a medical certificate for cause of death (MCCD) as per ICMR guidelines.

The non-provision of such certificates denies the bereaved families their right to claim compensation from the Government, it added.&nbsp;

According to the NGO, their report was prepared by comparing the Jan-May death certificates data for the years 2019, 2020, 2021.

The six hospitals for which they found the requisite data were spread across the state - Madurai, Coimbatore, Trichy, Vellore, Karur, Tiruppur.&nbsp;

Their reasoning is that the death data (when comparing April-May for three consecutive years) would only remain the same or increase slightly owing to population increase.

The drastic increase they have observed can only be attributed to COVID-19, as there is no other major cause.&nbsp;

With regards to mortality data of April-May 2019, the figure is 4,437 and for the year 2020, it is 3,261. Whereas for the period Apri-May 2021, it is 11,699.

However, as per the daily Health department bulletin quoted by the NGO, the death figures in these hospitals only comes to 863.

In its state-wide estimation based on April-May deaths, the report says, “approximating the same underreporting factor for 8.4 to 8.8 times, the likely number of deaths in Tamil Nadu may be between 1.08-1.25lakh, as opposed to the reported number of 12,943.&nbsp; 
 
As a corrective step, the NGO recommended that the Government put out death certificates, mortality data and its consolidation for the hospital as well as home deaths for all three years - 2019, 2020 and 2021.

Presenting their report that indicated massive underreporting of COVID-19 deaths in major Tamil Nadu Government Hospitals, NGO ‘Arappor Iyakkam’ urged the State Government to take corrective steps.

Presenting their report that indicated massive underreporting of COVID-19 deaths in major Tamil Nadu Government Hospitals, NGO ‘Arappor Iyakkam’ urged the State Government to take corrective steps. The recommendations urged that the Government must instruct hospitals to issue a medical certificate for cause of death (MCCD) as per ICMR guidelines. The non-provision of such certificates denies the bereaved families their right to claim compensation from the Government, it added. According to the NGO, their report was prepared by comparing the Jan-May death certificates data for the years 2019, 2020, 2021. The six hospitals for which they found the requisite data were spread across the state - Madurai, Coimbatore, Trichy, Vellore, Karur, Tiruppur. Their reasoning is that the death data (when comparing April-May for three consecutive years) would only remain the same or increase slightly owing to population increase. The drastic increase they have observed can only be attributed to COVID-19, as there is no other major cause. With regards to mortality data of April-May 2019, the figure is 4,437 and for the year 2020, it is 3,261. Whereas for the period Apri-May 2021, it is 11,699. However, as per the daily Health department bulletin quoted by the NGO, the death figures in these hospitals only comes to 863. In its state-wide estimation based on April-May deaths, the report says, “approximating the same underreporting factor for 8.4 to 8.8 times, the likely number of deaths in Tamil Nadu may be between 1.08-1.25lakh, as opposed to the reported number of 12,943. As a corrective step, the NGO recommended that the Government put out death certificates, mortality data and its consolidation for the hospital as well as home deaths for all three years - 2019, 2020 and 2021.

Death toll in major Tamil Nadu Govt hospitals is 13.7 times the reported figure claims report by NGO

A study by the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-M) has urged greater government investment in public healthcare to mitigate the impact of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> on the elderly.

The study suggests that the elderly are even bound to be adversely affected by COVID-19 norms such as physical distancing and isolation, which can lead to depression and other issues.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/home-grown-maritime-traffic-management-software-to-be-ready-in-2022-says-iit-madras-390652" hreflang="en">Home-grown Maritime Traffic Management software to be ready in 2022, says IIT Madras</a>

According to the study, diabetes, blood pressure and cardiovascular diseases are common in the elderly and those in the lower socio-economic strata suffer more.

Mobility issues, dependence on younger generation amid lockdown etc. affect their access to routine primary healthcare and essential care for other ailments.&nbsp;

"Only 18.9% of the elderly had health insurance and therefore may not be able to bear large expenditures on health. 27.5% of people aged 80 years or above are immobile and 70% of elders are partially or wholly financially dependent on others," the study revealed, based on the 75th round of the National Sample Survey (NSS) 2017-18.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-positive-liver-failure-patient-who-was-comatose-revived-successfully-after-transplant-390577" hreflang="en">COVID-19 positive liver-failure patient who was comatose revived successfully after transplant</a>

Undertaken by Prof. V.R. Muraleedharan, Dept of Humanities &amp; Social Sciences, IIT Madras, and Dr Alok Ranjan, Assistant Prof, Dept of Humanities &amp; Social Sciences at IIT Jodhpur, the NSS survey covered 113,823 households and 555,115 individuals.

The surveyed were randomly selected from 8077 villages and 6181 urban areas. The results of this study, published in the International journal Globalization and Health, showed that disparities exist in health status as well as healthcare access of elderly people across the country.

Factors such place of residence, gender, social group (caste), marital status, living arrangements, surviving children, and economic dependence are said to impact healthcare access among the elderly. Missed treatments and unavailability of drugs also pose a major health challenge.

Dr Alok Ranjan is of the opinion that lessons from the current pandemic are learnt to&nbsp;ensure that future adversities are less detrimental to the physical and mental well-being of the elderly. The researchers want to extend the result of this study to a policy. They plan to carry out detailed surveys among the elderly population particularly in Tamil Nadu, especially to design effective rehabilitative care which is almost absent in India's public healthcare system.

A study by the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-M) has urged greater government investment in public healthcare to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 on the elderly.

A study by the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-M) has urged greater government investment in public healthcare to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 on the elderly. The study suggests that the elderly are even bound to be adversely affected by COVID-19 norms such as physical distancing and isolation, which can lead to depression and other issues. Also read | Home-grown Maritime Traffic Management software to be ready in 2022, says IIT Madras According to the study, diabetes, blood pressure and cardiovascular diseases are common in the elderly and those in the lower socio-economic strata suffer more. Mobility issues, dependence on younger generation amid lockdown etc. affect their access to routine primary healthcare and essential care for other ailments. "Only 18.9% of the elderly had health insurance and therefore may not be able to bear large expenditures on health. 27.5% of people aged 80 years or above are immobile and 70% of elders are partially or wholly financially dependent on others," the study revealed, based on the 75th round of the National Sample Survey (NSS) 2017-18. Also read | COVID-19 positive liver-failure patient who was comatose revived successfully after transplant Undertaken by Prof. V.R. Muraleedharan, Dept of Humanities & Social Sciences, IIT Madras, and Dr Alok Ranjan, Assistant Prof, Dept of Humanities & Social Sciences at IIT Jodhpur, the NSS survey covered 113,823 households and 555,115 individuals. The surveyed were randomly selected from 8077 villages and 6181 urban areas. The results of this study, published in the International journal Globalization and Health, showed that disparities exist in health status as well as healthcare access of elderly people across the country. Factors such place of residence, gender, social group (caste), marital status, living arrangements, surviving children, and economic dependence are said to impact healthcare access among the elderly. Missed treatments and unavailability of drugs also pose a major health challenge. Dr Alok Ranjan is of the opinion that lessons from the current pandemic are learnt to ensure that future adversities are less detrimental to the physical and mental well-being of the elderly. The researchers want to extend the result of this study to a policy. They plan to carry out detailed surveys among the elderly population particularly in Tamil Nadu, especially to design effective rehabilitative care which is almost absent in India's public healthcare system.

Only 19% elderly have health insurance and can’t bear costs: IIT study

The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-M) will be developing an indigenous Vessel Traffic Management Software and hardware that is used in ports. Currently, Indian ports use foreign options for fulfilling the same purpose, thus leading to higher costs.

A Memorandum of Understanding between IIT-M and the VO Chidambaranar (VOC) Port Trust in Tuticorin was signed for this software development project.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/40-indian-cities-initiated-work-towards-3900-km-of-cycle-friendly-roads-in-2020-report-390326" hreflang="en">40 Indian cities initiated work towards 3900 km of cycle-friendly roads in 2020: Report</a>

Led by the National Technology Center for Ports Waterways and Coasts (NTCPWC), a centre of excellence at IIT Madras, this project is in line with Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) and Digital India. The present VTS at VOC Port has been operational for nearly seven years. Given the rapid increases in maritime traffic in India and abroad, a more VTS effective system would help create higher safety levels.

According to T.K. Ramachandran, IAS, Chairman, VOC Port Trust, Tuticorin, theirs is the first major Indian port to sign an MoU with NTCPWC for indigenous software development. He said this home-grown alternative would be a game-changer in Indian Maritime Industry.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chennai-indias-detroit-rolls-out-cars-despite-covid-19-risk-and-ongoing-lockdown-389457" hreflang="en">Chennai: India’s Detroit rolls out cars despite COVID-19 risk and ongoing lockdown&nbsp;</a>

WION&nbsp;spoke to K. Murali, Professor In-charge, NTCPWC-IIT Madras, to understand the advantages of this project and&nbsp;its larger significance in comparison with foreign options.&nbsp;

According to him, when buying from foreign companies, they offer very expensive, complete hardware-software packages, whose internal workings are not known to the user. Whereas, in the case of indigenous development, the software can be developed here and upgrade of hardware can be done based on in-house experts recommendation. The hardware so required is meant to be directly procured by the ports, thus working out to be 50 per cent&nbsp;cheaper.&nbsp;

"Though ours is a maiden initiative, the software is expected to be ready in less than a year. Our software will be developed using open architecture. It will be flexible and interoperable, which means it can be integrated with other existing systems that ports use for daily operations," Prof. Murali told WION.&nbsp;

In a positive step for this home-grown initiative, it is said that talks are on with more Indian ports to adopt this software. There is also no limit to the number of vessels this indigenous software can manage, as this capability can be scaled up on the hardware side.&nbsp;

The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-M) will be developing an indigenous Vessel Traffic Management Software and hardware that is used in ports. Currently, Indian ports use foreign options for fulfilling the same purpose, thus leading to higher costs.

The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-M) will be developing an indigenous Vessel Traffic Management Software and hardware that is used in ports. Currently, Indian ports use foreign options for fulfilling the same purpose, thus leading to higher costs. A Memorandum of Understanding between IIT-M and the VO Chidambaranar (VOC) Port Trust in Tuticorin was signed for this software development project. Also read | 40 Indian cities initiated work towards 3900 km of cycle-friendly roads in 2020: Report Led by the National Technology Center for Ports Waterways and Coasts (NTCPWC), a centre of excellence at IIT Madras, this project is in line with Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) and Digital India. The present VTS at VOC Port has been operational for nearly seven years. Given the rapid increases in maritime traffic in India and abroad, a more VTS effective system would help create higher safety levels. According to T.K. Ramachandran, IAS, Chairman, VOC Port Trust, Tuticorin, theirs is the first major Indian port to sign an MoU with NTCPWC for indigenous software development. He said this home-grown alternative would be a game-changer in Indian Maritime Industry. Also read | Chennai: India’s Detroit rolls out cars despite COVID-19 risk and ongoing lockdown WION spoke to K. Murali, Professor In-charge, NTCPWC-IIT Madras, to understand the advantages of this project and its larger significance in comparison with foreign options. According to him, when buying from foreign companies, they offer very expensive, complete hardware-software packages, whose internal workings are not known to the user. Whereas, in the case of indigenous development, the software can be developed here and upgrade of hardware can be done based on in-house experts recommendation. The hardware so required is meant to be directly procured by the ports, thus working out to be 50 per cent cheaper. "Though ours is a maiden initiative, the software is expected to be ready in less than a year. Our software will be developed using open architecture. It will be flexible and interoperable, which means it can be integrated with other existing systems that ports use for daily operations," Prof. Murali told WION. In a positive step for this home-grown initiative, it is said that talks are on with more Indian ports to adopt this software. There is also no limit to the number of vessels this indigenous software can manage, as this capability can be scaled up on the hardware side.

Home-grown Maritime Traffic Management software to be ready in 2022, says IIT Madras

Even the most hardcore, popular Communist leaders in India have names that refer to Gods, but that’s not their fault. Their parents named them, after all! &nbsp;Most of these leaders’ children too have normal-sounding names. 
 
But, the Salem District Secretary of the Communist Party of India (CPI) has taken things to an all-new level. His three sons born after the 1990s have been named Communism, Leninism and Socialism, as a tribute to the erstwhile Soviet Union. 
 
The names of these men have shot to popularity thanks to the wedding invitation of their youngest brother - Socialism, who is a silversmith. The to-be bride's name has also caught people attention - as the invitation reads Socialism weds Mamata Banerjee. 
 
The bride’s family were Congress loyalists and hence on having a girl child about 20 years back, they named their daughter after the up and coming leader from West Bengal. Even though they are divergent by political ideology, the families of the bride and groom are closely related to each other.&nbsp; 
 
<img alt="Socialism weds Mamata Banerjee" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4fc9e749-3018-4ef2-b8a7-200fb78e7d2e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/IMG-20210611-WA0113.jpg" /> 
 
“Communism will be there till humanity is alive,” says Mohan, the proud father of three men. He says that such names might sound strange to the outside world, but their village had many people named after Soviet leaders and Socialist countries. How are Vietnam, Czechoslovakia, Russia, Romania etc. for a name? Their village AK Patti Kaattoor in Salem, Tamil Nadu has people that go by all of these names.&nbsp;

While Marx, Lenin and Stalin are names that are common to find, adding the ‘ism’ was the extra mile that Mohan travelled to prove his loyalty and admiration, but it was a costly choice. “Enrolling my boys in school was real trouble. Teachers were shell shocked and taken aback on hearing the names. As students, they were bullied by their peers and used to come back complaining to me. As they got into college, things got much better as the peers are fairly aware of the ideologies by then” the father recalls to Zee media.&nbsp;

Mohan recalls that a Doctor refused to write the name of his youngest son Communism when he had to be admitted to a hospital as a three-year-old child. The ever staunch Communist in Mohan didn’t relent and admitted in son to a different hospital.&nbsp;

The wedding that is to take place on Sunday, June 13th is expected to witness only about 50 persons in attendance, owing to Covid-19 restrictions on gatherings. CPI State Secretary is among the leaders expected to grace the occasion. And there’s a special young guest too - Marxism, Mohan’s grandson.&nbsp;

For Socialism, the bridegroom-to-be, it's an overwhelming experience that the brothers’ names have gotten so popular. “It's really surprising and fulfilling at the same time,” he tells Zee Media. When asked if his wife would follow the tradition of keeping his name as a suffix, he laughs - “Mamata Banerjee Socialism” it will be.

Even the most hardcore, popular Communist leaders in India have names that refer to Gods, but that’s not their fault. Their parents named them, after all! Most of these leaders’ children too have normal-sounding names.

Even the most hardcore, popular Communist leaders in India have names that refer to Gods, but that’s not their fault. Their parents named them, after all! Most of these leaders’ children too have normal-sounding names. But, the Salem District Secretary of the Communist Party of India (CPI) has taken things to an all-new level. His three sons born after the 1990s have been named Communism, Leninism and Socialism, as a tribute to the erstwhile Soviet Union. The names of these men have shot to popularity thanks to the wedding invitation of their youngest brother - Socialism, who is a silversmith. The to-be bride's name has also caught people attention - as the invitation reads Socialism weds Mamata Banerjee. The bride’s family were Congress loyalists and hence on having a girl child about 20 years back, they named their daughter after the up and coming leader from West Bengal. Even though they are divergent by political ideology, the families of the bride and groom are closely related to each other. “Communism will be there till humanity is alive,” says Mohan, the proud father of three men. He says that such names might sound strange to the outside world, but their village had many people named after Soviet leaders and Socialist countries. How are Vietnam, Czechoslovakia, Russia, Romania etc. for a name? Their village AK Patti Kaattoor in Salem, Tamil Nadu has people that go by all of these names. While Marx, Lenin and Stalin are names that are common to find, adding the ‘ism’ was the extra mile that Mohan travelled to prove his loyalty and admiration, but it was a costly choice. “Enrolling my boys in school was real trouble. Teachers were shell shocked and taken aback on hearing the names. As students, they were bullied by their peers and used to come back complaining to me. As they got into college, things got much better as the peers are fairly aware of the ideologies by then” the father recalls to Zee media. Mohan recalls that a Doctor refused to write the name of his youngest son Communism when he had to be admitted to a hospital as a three-year-old child. The ever staunch Communist in Mohan didn’t relent and admitted in son to a different hospital. The wedding that is to take place on Sunday, June 13th is expected to witness only about 50 persons in attendance, owing to Covid-19 restrictions on gatherings. CPI State Secretary is among the leaders expected to grace the occasion. And there’s a special young guest too - Marxism, Mohan’s grandson. For Socialism, the bridegroom-to-be, it's an overwhelming experience that the brothers’ names have gotten so popular. “It's really surprising and fulfilling at the same time,” he tells Zee Media. When asked if his wife would follow the tradition of keeping his name as a suffix, he laughs - “Mamata Banerjee Socialism” it will be.

Socialism weds Mamata Banerjee, with Communism, Leninism, and Marxism as special guests

Doctors in the Southern Indian City of Chennai successfully performed a live-donor liver transplant on a 26-year old, who was comatose after suffering acute liver failure. What made this medical procedure even more complicated for the patient and the operating doctors was the fact that he had tested COVID-19 positive. This meant heightened the risk for Doctors and healthcare staff of the MGM Hospital, who were to attend to this patient and perform surgery and related procedures.

The patient Ragul Gandhi was physically fit and a Kabaddi Player but had lapsed into a comatose state, two days after his liver failed. Once he tested COVID-19 positive, it was also clear to medical professionals that he had only about 48 hours to live, without an emergency liver transplant.

Luckily for the patient, his own brother had agreed to be the live donor, at a time (COVID-19 pandemic) when there are hardly any cadavers available for giving a lease of life. The donor was brought to the Chennai hospital and found suitable for the procedure.&nbsp;

Clad in full-body PPE suits, two teams with a total of 50 (fully vaccinated) medical professionals performed the 12-hour procedure in two separate Operation Theaters - one for the COVID-19 positive patient and another for the donor. Special filters and technology were used to ensure that the doctors don’t get infected with Covid-19, owing to the long duration of exposure. According to the hospital, none of the doctors or healthcare staff tested positive, after this procedure.

The patient has been discharged after surgery and is recuperating from home, he has also defeated COVID-19. Doctors of MGM healthcare said that he would be able to live a normal life post-transplant and could even resume playing Kabaddi in about a year’s time.

When asked about the causes of such sudden acute liver failure in a young and fit sportsman, Senior Transplant surgeon Dr Thaigarajan Srinivasan of MGM Healthcare said that liver failure suddenly happens in previously normal patients. “In our part of the world, the commonest causes of acute liver failure are overdose of anti-tubercular drugs. It could be the overdose of drugs meant for Hepatitis A, E, B or even some Ayurvedic medicines. In this case, it was an accidental overdose” he told Zee media.&nbsp;

Doctors also advised those with existing liver complications to stay safe at home, get vaccinated and strictly follow the COVID-19 norms. In case of such individuals getting infected by Covid-19, Doctors urged them to go ahead and seek immediate medical attention to prevent further deterioration. 
&nbsp;

Doctors in the Southern Indian City of Chennai successfully performed a live-donor liver transplant on a 26-year old, who was comatose after suffering acute liver failure.

Doctors in the Southern Indian City of Chennai successfully performed a live-donor liver transplant on a 26-year old, who was comatose after suffering acute liver failure. What made this medical procedure even more complicated for the patient and the operating doctors was the fact that he had tested COVID-19 positive. This meant heightened the risk for Doctors and healthcare staff of the MGM Hospital, who were to attend to this patient and perform surgery and related procedures. The patient Ragul Gandhi was physically fit and a Kabaddi Player but had lapsed into a comatose state, two days after his liver failed. Once he tested COVID-19 positive, it was also clear to medical professionals that he had only about 48 hours to live, without an emergency liver transplant. Luckily for the patient, his own brother had agreed to be the live donor, at a time (COVID-19 pandemic) when there are hardly any cadavers available for giving a lease of life. The donor was brought to the Chennai hospital and found suitable for the procedure. Clad in full-body PPE suits, two teams with a total of 50 (fully vaccinated) medical professionals performed the 12-hour procedure in two separate Operation Theaters - one for the COVID-19 positive patient and another for the donor. Special filters and technology were used to ensure that the doctors don’t get infected with Covid-19, owing to the long duration of exposure. According to the hospital, none of the doctors or healthcare staff tested positive, after this procedure. The patient has been discharged after surgery and is recuperating from home, he has also defeated COVID-19. Doctors of MGM healthcare said that he would be able to live a normal life post-transplant and could even resume playing Kabaddi in about a year’s time. When asked about the causes of such sudden acute liver failure in a young and fit sportsman, Senior Transplant surgeon Dr Thaigarajan Srinivasan of MGM Healthcare said that liver failure suddenly happens in previously normal patients. “In our part of the world, the commonest causes of acute liver failure are overdose of anti-tubercular drugs. It could be the overdose of drugs meant for Hepatitis A, E, B or even some Ayurvedic medicines. In this case, it was an accidental overdose” he told Zee media. Doctors also advised those with existing liver complications to stay safe at home, get vaccinated and strictly follow the COVID-19 norms. In case of such individuals getting infected by Covid-19, Doctors urged them to go ahead and seek immediate medical attention to prevent further deterioration.

COVID-19 positive liver-failure patient who was comatose revived successfully after transplant 

In a case pertaining to alleged forest encroachment by a private resort in the Nilgiris district, Chief Justice Sanjib Banerjee and Justice Senthilkumar Ramamuoorthy of the Maras High Court firmly said that not even an inch of forest land must be encroached.

The Court also instructed the concerned collector and the forest department officials to visit the spot and ensure that every bit of forest land is returned to its pristine status.&nbsp;

Prabhakaran, the petitioner, approached the court citing encroachment of forest land by an under-construction private resort. The said property is situated in the Naduvattom town, in the ecologically sensitive Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/semi-wild-elephants-undergo-covid-19-testing-after-9-lions-test-positive-in-indian-zoo-390139" hreflang="en">Semi-wild elephants undergo COVID-19 testing after 9 lions test positive in Indian zoo</a>

As per the petitioner, such encroachment has led to habitat destruction, damage to ecosystem, flora and fauna, deforestation and disruption in the natural flow of water. He also added that this brought with it the long-term risk of landslides.

According to Prabhakaran, no action was taken in this regard, despite the wrongdoings being brought to the notice of the forest authorities. He was, thus, only left with the option of approaching the court. His petition sought disconnection of power line to the alleged erring resort and also wanted the court to prohibit amassing of construction material in the forest area. He also urged that a survey be carried out in the area to demarcate the forest land.&nbsp;

The court instructed the Nilgiris District Collector and Forest department officials to visit the spot, insect it and retrieve the encroached land. The officials were also instructed to provide a report on this matter and ensure that water from the forest is not diverted to private resorts. The case has been adjourned for three weeks.

In a case pertaining to alleged forest encroachment by a private resort in the Nilgiris district, Chief Justice Sanjib Banerjee and Justice Senthilkumar Ramamuoorthy of the Maras High Court firmly said that not even an inch of forest land must be encroached.

In a case pertaining to alleged forest encroachment by a private resort in the Nilgiris district, Chief Justice Sanjib Banerjee and Justice Senthilkumar Ramamuoorthy of the Maras High Court firmly said that not even an inch of forest land must be encroached. The Court also instructed the concerned collector and the forest department officials to visit the spot and ensure that every bit of forest land is returned to its pristine status. Prabhakaran, the petitioner, approached the court citing encroachment of forest land by an under-construction private resort. The said property is situated in the Naduvattom town, in the ecologically sensitive Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu. Also read | Semi-wild elephants undergo COVID-19 testing after 9 lions test positive in Indian zoo As per the petitioner, such encroachment has led to habitat destruction, damage to ecosystem, flora and fauna, deforestation and disruption in the natural flow of water. He also added that this brought with it the long-term risk of landslides. According to Prabhakaran, no action was taken in this regard, despite the wrongdoings being brought to the notice of the forest authorities. He was, thus, only left with the option of approaching the court. His petition sought disconnection of power line to the alleged erring resort and also wanted the court to prohibit amassing of construction material in the forest area. He also urged that a survey be carried out in the area to demarcate the forest land. The court instructed the Nilgiris District Collector and Forest department officials to visit the spot, insect it and retrieve the encroached land. The officials were also instructed to provide a report on this matter and ensure that water from the forest is not diverted to private resorts. The case has been adjourned for three weeks.

Not one inch of forest should be encroached upon, says Madras High Court

India witnessed a cycling revolution during the pandemic year, with over 40 cities learning and testing ideas to promoting cycling in the country, according to the Institute for Transportation and Development Policy (ITDP).

A report by the global organisation said these Indian cities collectively initiated work on 400 km&nbsp; of arterial and 3500 km&nbsp;of neighbourhood streets.

This was achieved under the first phase of the India Cycles4Change Challenge, where the Smart Cities Mission trained and guided cities on implementing various cycling-related initiatives.

Lockdown restrictions in India since March 2020, the need to stay physically and mentally fit are among the reasons that caused the increased enthusiasm in cycling. With public transport virtually suspended, cycling proved to be a personal, Covid-safe alternative for short and medium distance trips.

According to Kunal Kumar IAS, Joint Secretary and Mission Director Smart Cities Mission, 2020 ignited India’s cycling revolution as cities and citizens joined hands to test, learn and scale up ideas to make cities a cycling haven. “The results have been resounding more people are cycling now, city officials and public representatives are leasing by example by cycling to work, whereas states are backing this with investments,” he said, urging more cities to join the movement.

The efforts towards making Indian cities cycling-friendly began with perception surveys to understand the needs of citizens. Nearly 60,000 persons from across India were surveyed in this regard, it included postmen, women, children etc. Cities then went on to create dedicated cycle lanes, which are separated from vehicular traffic. Bhubaneswar, Surat, Kochi, Greater Warangal used traffic cones, paints to test out the new lane system, whereas Chandigarh installed coyly signals at traffic junctions. New Delhi creates a cycle plaza for children in the Lodhi Garden Colony, by rerouting vehicular traffic.

Nashik, Bengaluru and New Town Kolkata encouraged older and younger women to cycle, thus giving them an easy and cost-effective means for commuting. In Rajkot and Jabalpur, senior officials pedalled to work, to lead by example and set a trend. Some firms even distributed cycles to employees. Cities are now developing cycling plans to scale up these initiatives a ross their cities to achieve the goal set out in the policy. These are aimed at making cities into safe, attractive, comfortable spaces for walking and cycling.

At the International level, Barcelona and London are testing cycling infrastructure, as a part of their Covid-19 recovery plan. Not only does it offer a sustainable and equitable mode of transport, but it also reduces carbon emissions increases safety and liveability.

The report states that in 2020, cycle sales in India hit a decadal high of 20%. It also adds that Investment in cycling infrastructure has economic benefits of up to 5.5 times the initial sum. Cycling for short distances can result in an annual benefit of Rs.1.8 trillion to the Indian Economy, while also being a credible solution to tackle pollution and resultant climate change.

India witnessed a cycling revolution during the pandemic year, with over 40 cities learning and testing ideas to promoting cycling in the country, according to the Institute for Transportation and Development Policy (ITDP).

India witnessed a cycling revolution during the pandemic year, with over 40 cities learning and testing ideas to promoting cycling in the country, according to the Institute for Transportation and Development Policy (ITDP). A report by the global organisation said these Indian cities collectively initiated work on 400 km of arterial and 3500 km of neighbourhood streets. This was achieved under the first phase of the India Cycles4Change Challenge, where the Smart Cities Mission trained and guided cities on implementing various cycling-related initiatives. Lockdown restrictions in India since March 2020, the need to stay physically and mentally fit are among the reasons that caused the increased enthusiasm in cycling. With public transport virtually suspended, cycling proved to be a personal, Covid-safe alternative for short and medium distance trips. According to Kunal Kumar IAS, Joint Secretary and Mission Director Smart Cities Mission, 2020 ignited India’s cycling revolution as cities and citizens joined hands to test, learn and scale up ideas to make cities a cycling haven. “The results have been resounding more people are cycling now, city officials and public representatives are leasing by example by cycling to work, whereas states are backing this with investments,” he said, urging more cities to join the movement. The efforts towards making Indian cities cycling-friendly began with perception surveys to understand the needs of citizens. Nearly 60,000 persons from across India were surveyed in this regard, it included postmen, women, children etc. Cities then went on to create dedicated cycle lanes, which are separated from vehicular traffic. Bhubaneswar, Surat, Kochi, Greater Warangal used traffic cones, paints to test out the new lane system, whereas Chandigarh installed coyly signals at traffic junctions. New Delhi creates a cycle plaza for children in the Lodhi Garden Colony, by rerouting vehicular traffic. Nashik, Bengaluru and New Town Kolkata encouraged older and younger women to cycle, thus giving them an easy and cost-effective means for commuting. In Rajkot and Jabalpur, senior officials pedalled to work, to lead by example and set a trend. Some firms even distributed cycles to employees. Cities are now developing cycling plans to scale up these initiatives a ross their cities to achieve the goal set out in the policy. These are aimed at making cities into safe, attractive, comfortable spaces for walking and cycling. At the International level, Barcelona and London are testing cycling infrastructure, as a part of their Covid-19 recovery plan. Not only does it offer a sustainable and equitable mode of transport, but it also reduces carbon emissions increases safety and liveability. The report states that in 2020, cycle sales in India hit a decadal high of 20%. It also adds that Investment in cycling infrastructure has economic benefits of up to 5.5 times the initial sum. Cycling for short distances can result in an annual benefit of Rs.1.8 trillion to the Indian Economy, while also being a credible solution to tackle pollution and resultant climate change.

40 Indian cities initiated work towards 3900 km of cycle-friendly roads in 2020: Report

Captive elephants including semi-wild ones at the Theppakadu Elephant Camp in Mudumalai Tiger reserve have undergone precautionary tests for COVID-19, as per instructions from the Tamil Nadu Forest Minister. Theppakadu elephant camp is among the oldest in the country and was established in 1927. The camp and the Mudumalai Tiger reserve are run by the Tamil Nadu Forest Department.&nbsp;

Testing of the captive, semi-wild elephants comes few days after nine of 11 lions at the Arignar Anna Zoological Park (AAZP) near Chennai tested positive for COVID-19. A lioness among the pack of 11 captive lions had also succumbed to the virus at the zoo in Vandalur, near Chennai.&nbsp;

According to officials at the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve and the elephant camp, nasal and anal samples of 28(2 calf and 26 adults) jumbos were taken. These samples are meant to be sent to to a Government-run veterinary testing facility in Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;

When asked if the captive elephants showed any symptoms, the official told Zee Media that there were no symptoms so far and that this was a precautionary test. Even in the case of wild animals at the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, Officials and their watchers have been observing them and have not seen any symptoms so far.&nbsp;

Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, located in the Nilgiris district in Tamil Nadu, but is close to the tri-junction of Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Karnataka. It is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. Animals such as tiger, leopard, elephant, Indian Gaur (bison), sloth bear can be seen here. Owing to the ongoing lockdown in Tamil Nadu, all tourist destinations including Mudumalai are closed.

Captive elephants including semi-wild ones at the Theppakadu Elephant Camp in Mudumalai Tiger reserve have undergone precautionary tests for COVID-19, as per instructions from the Tamil Nadu Forest Minister.

Captive elephants including semi-wild ones at the Theppakadu Elephant Camp in Mudumalai Tiger reserve have undergone precautionary tests for COVID-19, as per instructions from the Tamil Nadu Forest Minister. Theppakadu elephant camp is among the oldest in the country and was established in 1927. The camp and the Mudumalai Tiger reserve are run by the Tamil Nadu Forest Department. Testing of the captive, semi-wild elephants comes few days after nine of 11 lions at the Arignar Anna Zoological Park (AAZP) near Chennai tested positive for COVID-19. A lioness among the pack of 11 captive lions had also succumbed to the virus at the zoo in Vandalur, near Chennai. According to officials at the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve and the elephant camp, nasal and anal samples of 28(2 calf and 26 adults) jumbos were taken. These samples are meant to be sent to to a Government-run veterinary testing facility in Uttar Pradesh. When asked if the captive elephants showed any symptoms, the official told Zee Media that there were no symptoms so far and that this was a precautionary test. Even in the case of wild animals at the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, Officials and their watchers have been observing them and have not seen any symptoms so far. Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, located in the Nilgiris district in Tamil Nadu, but is close to the tri-junction of Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Karnataka. It is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. Animals such as tiger, leopard, elephant, Indian Gaur (bison), sloth bear can be seen here. Owing to the ongoing lockdown in Tamil Nadu, all tourist destinations including Mudumalai are closed.

Semi-wild elephants undergo COVID-19 testing after 9 lions test positive in Indian zoo

Vedanta’s Sterlite Copper Smelter in Tuticorin that has been operational since May 2021&nbsp;under special permission from Tamil Nadu government&nbsp;has despatched over 542.92 metric tonnes&nbsp;of liquid medical oxygen to help the country deal with Covid.

This is in addition to 265 oxygen gas cylinders to meet the needs of Covid patients and hospitals.&nbsp;

According to the company, they have provided the critical resource to over 16 districts across Tamil Nadu and are focused on ramping up facilities to aid those in need.&nbsp;

The plant has so far produced and dispatched medical oxygen to southern and western districts of Tamil Nadu.

Besides the home district of Tuticorin where the plant is located, Sterlite has supplied to Tirunelveli, Madurai, Thanjavur, Sivagangai, Namakkalm Kanyakumari, Theni, Virudhunagar, Tenkasi, Dharmapuri, Ranipet, Krishnagiri, Ramanathapuram, Karur, Salemand Dindigul.&nbsp;

It was in late April that the once-shuttered Vedanta Sterlite Copper Smelter Plant was permitted to function by the Tamil Nadu government&nbsp;for the production of medical oxygen alone.

With the consensus of major political parties in the state, Sterlite had been permitted to service and operate their oxygen plant for four&nbsp;months, using electricity provided by the state government. The parties also added that based on the COVID-19 situation and the requirement of oxygen, this time period may be extended.&nbsp;

This decision to permit the plant’s operation comes with several conditions - no other unit within the plant will be allowed to operate, electricity will be suspended after the stipulated period and copper or other products cannot be manufactured during these four months. In addition, Sterlite will not be permitted to use its power generation unit.&nbsp;

In terms of security arrangements and confidence building among the local population, the government had said that a team under the leadership of the district collector and police officials, along with government experts in oxygen manufacturing, local people, anti-Sterlite protestors, NGOs, and environmental experts will be deciding and monitoring oxygen production at the plant.&nbsp;

At the start of the medical oxygen crisis is India, it was Sterlite which made an offer in the Supreme Court to provide for free nearly 1000 metric tonnes&nbsp;oxygen from the Tuticorin plant. However, the state government had then objected to it, much to the chagrin of the Chief justice who pointed out the dire situation of oxygen shortage in parts of the country.

The 4,00,000 tonne per annum Sterlite copper smelter plant has been operating in Tuticorin for over 25 years with a cumulative investment of about Rs 3,000 crore. However, from the very start, the Sterlite copper smelter plant has been facing protests from the local people who allege that it pollutes the environment and affects their life.

The state government ordered the closure of the copper smelter plant in 2018, following a violent protest that led to the death of 13 persons in police firing. The Supreme Court is hearing the an appeal filed by the company against the Madras High Court's refusal to reopen the plant.&nbsp;

Vedanta’s Sterlite Copper Smelter in Tuticorin that has been operational since May 2021 under special permission from Tamil Nadu government has despatched over 542.

Vedanta’s Sterlite Copper Smelter in Tuticorin that has been operational since May 2021 under special permission from Tamil Nadu government has despatched over 542.92 metric tonnes of liquid medical oxygen to help the country deal with Covid. This is in addition to 265 oxygen gas cylinders to meet the needs of Covid patients and hospitals. According to the company, they have provided the critical resource to over 16 districts across Tamil Nadu and are focused on ramping up facilities to aid those in need. The plant has so far produced and dispatched medical oxygen to southern and western districts of Tamil Nadu. Besides the home district of Tuticorin where the plant is located, Sterlite has supplied to Tirunelveli, Madurai, Thanjavur, Sivagangai, Namakkalm Kanyakumari, Theni, Virudhunagar, Tenkasi, Dharmapuri, Ranipet, Krishnagiri, Ramanathapuram, Karur, Salemand Dindigul. It was in late April that the once-shuttered Vedanta Sterlite Copper Smelter Plant was permitted to function by the Tamil Nadu government for the production of medical oxygen alone. With the consensus of major political parties in the state, Sterlite had been permitted to service and operate their oxygen plant for four months, using electricity provided by the state government. The parties also added that based on the COVID-19 situation and the requirement of oxygen, this time period may be extended. This decision to permit the plant’s operation comes with several conditions - no other unit within the plant will be allowed to operate, electricity will be suspended after the stipulated period and copper or other products cannot be manufactured during these four months. In addition, Sterlite will not be permitted to use its power generation unit. In terms of security arrangements and confidence building among the local population, the government had said that a team under the leadership of the district collector and police officials, along with government experts in oxygen manufacturing, local people, anti-Sterlite protestors, NGOs, and environmental experts will be deciding and monitoring oxygen production at the plant. At the start of the medical oxygen crisis is India, it was Sterlite which made an offer in the Supreme Court to provide for free nearly 1000 metric tonnes oxygen from the Tuticorin plant. However, the state government had then objected to it, much to the chagrin of the Chief justice who pointed out the dire situation of oxygen shortage in parts of the country. The 4,00,000 tonne per annum Sterlite copper smelter plant has been operating in Tuticorin for over 25 years with a cumulative investment of about Rs 3,000 crore. However, from the very start, the Sterlite copper smelter plant has been facing protests from the local people who allege that it pollutes the environment and affects their life. The state government ordered the closure of the copper smelter plant in 2018, following a violent protest that led to the death of 13 persons in police firing. The Supreme Court is hearing the an appeal filed by the company against the Madras High Court's refusal to reopen the plant.

COVID-19: Sterlite claims to have produced over 542MT of liquid medical oxygen for Tamil Nadu

In a significant outcome for the LGBTQIA (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and/or Questioning, Intersex, and Asexual and/or Ally) community, the Madras High Court on Monday issued directions to protect them from harassment by authorities and other major stakeholders in society.

According to the court, society was even now grappling to come to terms with same-sex orientation.

The case pertained to a Madurai-based lesbian couple whose relationship was being opposed by their parents, following which the couple fled to Chennai, to seek NGO support and sustain themselves.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/key-takeaways-of-pm-modis-speech-free-vaccine-for-people-above-18-years-80-crore-poor-to-be-provided-free-ration-till-diwali-389975" hreflang="en">Key takeaways of PM Modi's speech: Free vaccine for people above 18 years</a>

As their respective daughters fled their homes, the parents filed missing complaints with the local police, which led to filing of FIRs. The couple approached the court after having faced police interrogation at the residential premises in Chennai. They also feared for their safety and security from police harassment and that of their parents.&nbsp;

In a detailed order, Justice N Anand Venkatesh has outlined the sensitisation programmes that need to be undertaken by police, legal authorities, judiciary, education institutions, workplaces and parents in issues pertaining to the LGBTQIA community.

Some of the significant interim guidelines issued by the Madras High Court include measures to create awareness about the community by conducting sensitisation programmes by respective governments, to eliminate prejudices against the community and channelise them into the mainstream.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vaccine-supply-will-be-increasing-in-the-coming-days-says-pm-modi-389960">Vaccine supply will be increasing in the coming days, says PM Modi</a>

According to Manuraj Sundaram, who represented the Petitioners (Lesbian couple), this order by the Madras High Court stands out for its unprecedented width and scope. "Such a detailed order for the LGBTQIA+ community is unheard of from any court, including the Supreme Court of India. No high court has issued such extensive guidelines, but of course, this development builds upon the SC judgement to annul Section 377 of the IPC," Manuraj told WION.

The court has said that in missing complaints pertaining to the LGBTQIA+ community (in case of consenting adults) —&nbsp;based on statements of the involved persons —&nbsp;the complaint must be closed without harassing the couple. Persons belonging to the community can approach the enlisted NGOs for protecting their rights. Such a list of NGOs and their contact details must be furnished by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MSJE) on their official website and will be updated regularly. Such NGOs are required to maintain data of the individuals approaching them in a confidential manner and share the records to the Ministry twice a year.

In terms of addressing the issues, the court said that it should be via&nbsp;counselling, monetary support, legal assistance with the support of the District Legal Services Authority, or by co-ordinating with the law enforcement agencies about offenses committed against any person belonging to the LGBTQIA+ community.&nbsp;

The court said, regarding the issue of accommodation, suitable changes are to be made in existing short stay homes, Anganwadi shelters, and "garima greh" (a shelter home for transgender persons, that offers basic amenities like shelter, food, medical care and recreational facilities and skill development for dignified life).

Parents have been advised that they must be understanding and accept children of diverse gender expressions, sexual orientation, gender identities and gender presentation while providing peer support for parents of such children.

Most importantly, the court has called for a change in curricula of schools and universities to educate students on understanding the LGBTQIA+ community. This includes conducting outreach programs involving the community and NGOs and sensitising parents via PTA meetings to be supportive of gender nonconforming students. Some additional steps include adding third gender in application forms, change of gender and name for transgender persons, ensure availability of gender-neutral restrooms.&nbsp;

For workplaces, the court has said that suitable changes must be made in hiring policies for inclusivity, provide support in case of grievances, extend benefits such as insurance, ensure policies to prevent discrimination etc.&nbsp;

In a significant outcome for the LGBTQIA (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and/or Questioning, Intersex, and Asexual and/or Ally) community, the Madras High Court on Monday issued directions to protect them from harassment by authorities and other major stakeholders in society.

In a significant outcome for the LGBTQIA (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and/or Questioning, Intersex, and Asexual and/or Ally) community, the Madras High Court on Monday issued directions to protect them from harassment by authorities and other major stakeholders in society. According to the court, society was even now grappling to come to terms with same-sex orientation. The case pertained to a Madurai-based lesbian couple whose relationship was being opposed by their parents, following which the couple fled to Chennai, to seek NGO support and sustain themselves. Also read | Key takeaways of PM Modi's speech: Free vaccine for people above 18 years As their respective daughters fled their homes, the parents filed missing complaints with the local police, which led to filing of FIRs. The couple approached the court after having faced police interrogation at the residential premises in Chennai. They also feared for their safety and security from police harassment and that of their parents. In a detailed order, Justice N Anand Venkatesh has outlined the sensitisation programmes that need to be undertaken by police, legal authorities, judiciary, education institutions, workplaces and parents in issues pertaining to the LGBTQIA community. Some of the significant interim guidelines issued by the Madras High Court include measures to create awareness about the community by conducting sensitisation programmes by respective governments, to eliminate prejudices against the community and channelise them into the mainstream. Also read | Vaccine supply will be increasing in the coming days, says PM Modi According to Manuraj Sundaram, who represented the Petitioners (Lesbian couple), this order by the Madras High Court stands out for its unprecedented width and scope. "Such a detailed order for the LGBTQIA+ community is unheard of from any court, including the Supreme Court of India. No high court has issued such extensive guidelines, but of course, this development builds upon the SC judgement to annul Section 377 of the IPC," Manuraj told WION. The court has said that in missing complaints pertaining to the LGBTQIA+ community (in case of consenting adults) — based on statements of the involved persons — the complaint must be closed without harassing the couple. Persons belonging to the community can approach the enlisted NGOs for protecting their rights. Such a list of NGOs and their contact details must be furnished by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MSJE) on their official website and will be updated regularly. Such NGOs are required to maintain data of the individuals approaching them in a confidential manner and share the records to the Ministry twice a year. In terms of addressing the issues, the court said that it should be via counselling, monetary support, legal assistance with the support of the District Legal Services Authority, or by co-ordinating with the law enforcement agencies about offenses committed against any person belonging to the LGBTQIA+ community. The court said, regarding the issue of accommodation, suitable changes are to be made in existing short stay homes, Anganwadi shelters, and "garima greh" (a shelter home for transgender persons, that offers basic amenities like shelter, food, medical care and recreational facilities and skill development for dignified life). Parents have been advised that they must be understanding and accept children of diverse gender expressions, sexual orientation, gender identities and gender presentation while providing peer support for parents of such children. Most importantly, the court has called for a change in curricula of schools and universities to educate students on understanding the LGBTQIA+ community. This includes conducting outreach programs involving the community and NGOs and sensitising parents via PTA meetings to be supportive of gender nonconforming students. Some additional steps include adding third gender in application forms, change of gender and name for transgender persons, ensure availability of gender-neutral restrooms. For workplaces, the court has said that suitable changes must be made in hiring policies for inclusivity, provide support in case of grievances, extend benefits such as insurance, ensure policies to prevent discrimination etc.

Madras High Court issues detailed guidelines for more inclusivity for LGBTQIA+ community

According to the Institute of Technology Madras, their alumni based out of India and abroad have donated over $2 million (nearly Rs.14.56cr) towards Covid-19 relief efforts in India.

According to the Institute of Technology Madras, their alumni based out of India and abroad have donated over $2 million (nearly Rs.14.56cr) towards Covid-19 relief efforts in India. The fundraising was coordinated by the office Of Alumni and Corporate Relations (ACR), IIT Madras, in association with IIT Madras Alumni Association of North America and IITM Foundation in the US. In line with this effort, Prof. Bhaskar Ramamurthi, Director, IIT Madras and other officials handed over 200 Oxygen concentrators of 10 litres capacity each and handed them over to the Chennai Civic body. In addition to this, representatives of the institute handed over 74 BiPAP machines to Chennai Corporation Officials recently. IIT Madras Alumni have also donated 200 Oxygen Concentrators of 5 litres capacity each to the Telangana Government. Anand Rajaraman, an IIT alumnus and partner at a Silicon Valley-based Venture Capital firm said that it was a duty of the Indian diaspora to help the country get through these darkest hours. According to the institute, IIT Madras alumni working as senior executives with reputed MNCs were actively involved in evaluating and finalising the options available at various stages throughout the process. IIT Madras will continue to contribute to the Covid relief measures in the months to come, as the social commitment has always been a topmost priority for the Institute. “It has been an amazing experience to contribute to this campaign with fellow alumni from IIT Madras. So many people stepped forward to source equipment, raise funds and ensure delivery of the equipment” It is gratifying to know that we could make a difference at a very challenging time in India, said Kamal Duggirala, Chairman IITM Foundation-US. Besides these efforts to aid the Government, IIT Madras has formed a Covid Relief Fund to support students and faculty who are in distress due to pandemic related medical issues. In the last financial year, IIT Madras raised Rs 9.6 million to cater to the Covid relief requirements of students and employees of IIT Madras. There is also a proposal to upgrade the medical infrastructure within the campus. This is meant to cater to any potential requirements that may arise when the campus re-opens and receives students when the lockdown restrictions are relaxed.

IIT Madras alumni contribute $2 million for COVID-19 relief efforts in India

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