China is reportedly revising its family planning policies with a controversial proposal to tax condoms and other contraceptives in an effort to address declining birth rates. As the country faces record-low fertility and demographic pressures, officials are exploring new incentives—and restrictions—to encourage families to have more children.

China Rewrites Family Planning Rules: Condom Tax To Boost Birth Rate 

In a significant development, Rwanda's lawmakers passed a revised healthcare services bill on Monday that lowers the minimum legal age for accessing contraceptives from 18 to 15 without the approval of parents. The move comes in response to reducing the country's high rate of teenage pregnancy. The decision has sparked a row in the largely conservative country.&nbsp;With nearly 40 per cent of Rwanda's 13 million population under the age of 15, concerns over rising teenage pregnancy have pushed the government to act, despite opposition to expanding access to birth control, according to a report by AFP.&nbsp;Although teenage birth rates have fallen globally, the decline has been slowest in sub-Saharan Africa, according to the World Health Organisation. The Health Ministry stated that the previous age limit had led to an increase in the rate of unwanted teenage pregnancies, which topped at more than 22,000 cases last year, according to the national data.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/who-is-daniel-jackson-australian-man-forms-new-country-with-nearly-400-citizens-on-unclaimed-land-1754542726150">Australian man forms new country with nearly 400 citizens on unclaimed land: Here's all we know</a>&nbsp;The proposed legislation has been under review by the parliament since last year and was initially rejected by the parliament. "It has been proven that Rwandan girls are sexually active even before 15 years," John Scarius, the programmes' director at NGO Great Lakes Initiative for Human Rights and Development in Rwanda, told AFP.&nbsp;"What the parliament has done is a good thing, it's good they looked at this from a progressive standpoint," Scarius added. Earlier, the law makers permitted teens to access the pill and implants, but later it asked to prioritised the condoms.<h3>Unwanted pregnancies led to school dropouts</h3>A report that was presented in parliament underscored that 100,000 teenage girls experienced unwanted pregnancies over the past five years, prompting the upsurge of school dropouts in Rwanda.&nbsp;"We expect this law to bring a decrease in teenage pregnancies; we expect to see minimal school dropouts, minimal illegal abortions, we expect less or no abortion related fatalities," Scarius said.&nbsp;Meanwhile, abortion is illegal in Rwanda unless it is the result of rape, incest, or forced marriage.

The lawmakers of Rwanda passed a healthcare bill on Monday that lowers the legal age to use contraceptives without parental consent from 18 to 15.

In a significant development, Rwanda's lawmakers passed a revised healthcare services bill on Monday that lowers the minimum legal age for accessing contraceptives from 18 to 15 without the approval of parents. The move comes in response to reducing the country's high rate of teenage pregnancy. The decision has sparked a row in the largely conservative country. With nearly 40 per cent of Rwanda's 13 million population under the age of 15, concerns over rising teenage pregnancy have pushed the government to act, despite opposition to expanding access to birth control, according to a report by AFP. Although teenage birth rates have fallen globally, the decline has been slowest in sub-Saharan Africa, according to the World Health Organisation. The Health Ministry stated that the previous age limit had led to an increase in the rate of unwanted teenage pregnancies, which topped at more than 22,000 cases last year, according to the national data. Also read: Australian man forms new country with nearly 400 citizens on unclaimed land: Here's all we know The proposed legislation has been under review by the parliament since last year and was initially rejected by the parliament. "It has been proven that Rwandan girls are sexually active even before 15 years," John Scarius, the programmes' director at NGO Great Lakes Initiative for Human Rights and Development in Rwanda, told AFP. "What the parliament has done is a good thing, it's good they looked at this from a progressive standpoint," Scarius added. Earlier, the law makers permitted teens to access the pill and implants, but later it asked to prioritised the condoms. Unwanted pregnancies led to school dropouts A report that was presented in parliament underscored that 100,000 teenage girls experienced unwanted pregnancies over the past five years, prompting the upsurge of school dropouts in Rwanda. "We expect this law to bring a decrease in teenage pregnancies; we expect to see minimal school dropouts, minimal illegal abortions, we expect less or no abortion related fatalities," Scarius said. Meanwhile, abortion is illegal in Rwanda unless it is the result of rape, incest, or forced marriage.

The lawmakers of Rwanda passed a healthcare bill on Monday that lowers the legal age to use contraceptives without parental consent from 18 to 15.

This country will allow kids aged 15 to buy condoms amid rising teen pregnancy

The Donald Trump administration's recent freeze on all foreign aid included a surprising cut, of $50 million in US funding for condoms in Gaza.
A White House official revealed that a memo from the Office of Management and Budget is set to temporarily suspend grants, loans, and federal assistance programmes while they undergo review, according to a Fox News report.&nbsp;
The official, while speaking to the media outlet, said, "If the activity is not in conflict with the President's priorities, it will continue with no issues. This is similar to how HHS (Department of Health and Human Services) stopped the flow of grant money to the World Health Organisation after President Trump announced the US withdrawal from the organisation. Or how the State Department halted several million dollars going to condoms in Gaza this past weekend."
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-opens-for-social-media-influencers-under-trump-20-8663906">Also read: White House opens for social media influencers under Trump 2.0</a>
<h2>Elon Musk reacts</h2>
Expressing doubts over the funding of condoms in Gaza by the previous government, Elon Musk, leader of the US Department of Government Efficiency, suggested that it might have ended up in the wrong hands, possibly with Hamas.
Musk took to his platform X and called the move the &ldquo;tip of the iceberg&rdquo;.
&ldquo;My guess is that a lot of that money ended up in the pockets of Hamas, not actually condoms.&rdquo;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6hqx50c-qoplspvl-4o11o5s0">
My guess is that a lot of that money ended up in the pockets Hamas, not actually condoms
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1884329088040722724?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2025</a></blockquote>
"Yes, even in the unlikely event that the money was actually spent on condoms, we should NOT be sending US taxpayer money to buy condoms for foreigners," he said in another post.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6hqxpnm-hhdf8z32-g1jroe3n">
Yes, even in the unlikely event that the money was actually spent on condoms, we should NOT be sending US taxpayer money to buy condoms for foreigners 🤦&zwj;♂️
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1884329854528807104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2025</a></blockquote>
One of the users claimed the condoms were being used to transport improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and incendiary materials, potentially harming Israeli citizens.
To this, Musk replied, saying, &ldquo;Explains why all the condom orders were magnum."
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6hqynkf-fnsd30e9-3b4hhn95">
Elon Musk chimes in: &lsquo;Explains why all condom orders were &ldquo;Magnum&rdquo; 😂&rsquo; When the absurdity meets policy: $50M of U.S. funds tied to &lsquo;condoms in Gaza&rsquo; goes far beyond satire. <a href="https://t.co/Rr97QvX6U7">https://t.co/Rr97QvX6U7</a>
&mdash; Entrepreneur (@WallSTQuon) <a href="https://twitter.com/WallSTQuon/status/1884419245381169236?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>US Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt calls it 'preposterous waste of money'</h2>
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, in her first briefing, deemed the move a &ldquo;preposterous waste of taxpayer money," stating that "there was about to be $50 million taxpayer dollars that went out the door to fund condoms in Gaza".
&ldquo;That's what this pause is focused on&mdash;being good stewards of tax dollars,&rdquo; she added.
The move to pause all foreign aid came as an effect of US President Donald Trump's executive order, "Reevaluating and Realigning United States Foreign Aid", which he signed after taking charge of the White House on January 20.
"No new funds shall be obligated for new awards or extensions of existing awards until each proposed new award or extension has been reviewed and approved," Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in an internal memo.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Expressing doubts over the funding of condoms in Gaza by the previous government, Elon Musk, leader of the US Department of Government Efficiency, suggested that it might have ended up in the wrong hands.

The Donald Trump administration's recent freeze on all foreign aid included a surprising cut, of $50 million in US funding for condoms in Gaza. A White House official revealed that a memo from the Office of Management and Budget is set to temporarily suspend grants, loans, and federal assistance programmes while they undergo review, according to a Fox News report. The official, while speaking to the media outlet, said, "If the activity is not in conflict with the President's priorities, it will continue with no issues. This is similar to how HHS (Department of Health and Human Services) stopped the flow of grant money to the World Health Organisation after President Trump announced the US withdrawal from the organisation. Or how the State Department halted several million dollars going to condoms in Gaza this past weekend." Also read: White House opens for social media influencers under Trump 2.0 Elon Musk reacts Expressing doubts over the funding of condoms in Gaza by the previous government, Elon Musk, leader of the US Department of Government Efficiency, suggested that it might have ended up in the wrong hands, possibly with Hamas. Musk took to his platform X and called the move the “tip of the iceberg”. “My guess is that a lot of that money ended up in the pockets of Hamas, not actually condoms.” My guess is that a lot of that money ended up in the pockets Hamas, not actually condoms — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 28, 2025 "Yes, even in the unlikely event that the money was actually spent on condoms, we should NOT be sending US taxpayer money to buy condoms for foreigners," he said in another post. Yes, even in the unlikely event that the money was actually spent on condoms, we should NOT be sending US taxpayer money to buy condoms for foreigners 🤦‍♂️ — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 28, 2025 One of the users claimed the condoms were being used to transport improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and incendiary materials, potentially harming Israeli citizens. To this, Musk replied, saying, “Explains why all the condom orders were magnum." Elon Musk chimes in: ‘Explains why all condom orders were “Magnum” 😂’ When the absurdity meets policy: $50M of U.S. funds tied to ‘condoms in Gaza’ goes far beyond satire. https://t.co/Rr97QvX6U7 — Entrepreneur (@WallSTQuon) January 29, 2025 US Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt calls it 'preposterous waste of money' White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, in her first briefing, deemed the move a “preposterous waste of taxpayer money," stating that "there was about to be $50 million taxpayer dollars that went out the door to fund condoms in Gaza". “That's what this pause is focused on—being good stewards of tax dollars,” she added. The move to pause all foreign aid came as an effect of US President Donald Trump's executive order, "Reevaluating and Realigning United States Foreign Aid", which he signed after taking charge of the White House on January 20. "No new funds shall be obligated for new awards or extensions of existing awards until each proposed new award or extension has been reviewed and approved," Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in an internal memo. (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump administration pulls plug on 'funding condoms in Gaza', Elon Musk reacts

Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details in this report disturbing. Discretion is advised.

The world is shocked and horrified by the gruesome details emerging from the trial of Dominique Pelicot, who is accused of orchestrating the sexual assault on&nbsp;his wife by dozens of men after drugging her.&nbsp;

In the last two days, the court heard how 71-year-old Pelicot sent multiple messages to the men who were part of a sordid chatroom where he invited them to rape his wife Gisele P. and said, "You're like me - you like rape mode."&nbsp;

On Thursday (September 5),&nbsp;Gisele herself testified about the crimes committed against her as she said,&nbsp;“It’s unbearable. I have so much to say that I don’t always know where to start.”

Pelicot's daughter Caroline Darian has also spoken in detail about the heinous crime committed by her father.&nbsp;

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/disgraced-frenchman-who-recruited-strangers-to-rape-wife-kept-daughters-doctored-images-in-computer-755676">Disgraced Frenchman who recruited strangers to rape wife, kept daughter's doctored images in computer</a>

In her book titled, "And I Stopped Calling You Papa", Darian speaks about how her father abused her mother Gisele and destroyed her physical and mental health.

Darian, the brave daughter, has talked about her father "dressed Maman like a low-rent prostitute". She then goes on to give some shocking details about how his father stopped some men from wearing a condom and also allowed a man who tested positive for&nbsp;HIV to rape her mother.

<h2>Daughter accuses the man of committing crimes just for 'pleasure'</h2>

In the book, Darian has written about one incident when her brother visited their parents for a meal and saw his mother almost falling asleep at the dinner table.

"Only a few minutes after sitting down, Maman was swaying in her chair as though she was drunk. Suddenly her whole body was drained of energy, like a rag doll," Darian quoted her brother as saying.

When the wife complained that she was facing gynaecological issues and contracted a sexually transmitted disease, Pelicot accused her of having an affair, the daughter wrote in the book.

Darian said that when Gisele raised her need to get treatment for the unexplained illness, her father asked, "So, what are you doing with your days?"

Watch:&nbsp;France rape horror: 72-year-old woman in France seeks justice to 92 counts of rape

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/france-rape-horror-72-year-old-woman-in-france-seeks-justice-to-92-counts-of-rape-755639/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The daughter said that of the 72 men her father invited to rape her mother, never once did he demand any money or try to gain some profit from the horrific crime.

"Ultimate perversity... Father, who always had money problems, didn't profit from Maman. He did it purely for his pleasure," said Darian, in her book.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details in this report disturbing. Discretion is advised. The world is shocked and horrified by the gruesome details emerging from the trial of Dominique Pelicot, who is accused of orchestrating the sexual assault on his wife by dozens of men after drugging her.

Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details in this report disturbing. Discretion is advised. The world is shocked and horrified by the gruesome details emerging from the trial of Dominique Pelicot, who is accused of orchestrating the sexual assault on his wife by dozens of men after drugging her. In the last two days, the court heard how 71-year-old Pelicot sent multiple messages to the men who were part of a sordid chatroom where he invited them to rape his wife Gisele P. and said, "You're like me - you like rape mode." On Thursday (September 5), Gisele herself testified about the crimes committed against her as she said, “It’s unbearable. I have so much to say that I don’t always know where to start.” Pelicot's daughter Caroline Darian has also spoken in detail about the heinous crime committed by her father. Also Read: Disgraced Frenchman who recruited strangers to rape wife, kept daughter's doctored images in computer In her book titled, "And I Stopped Calling You Papa", Darian speaks about how her father abused her mother Gisele and destroyed her physical and mental health. Darian, the brave daughter, has talked about her father "dressed Maman like a low-rent prostitute". She then goes on to give some shocking details about how his father stopped some men from wearing a condom and also allowed a man who tested positive for HIV to rape her mother. Daughter accuses the man of committing crimes just for 'pleasure' In the book, Darian has written about one incident when her brother visited their parents for a meal and saw his mother almost falling asleep at the dinner table. "Only a few minutes after sitting down, Maman was swaying in her chair as though she was drunk. Suddenly her whole body was drained of energy, like a rag doll," Darian quoted her brother as saying. When the wife complained that she was facing gynaecological issues and contracted a sexually transmitted disease, Pelicot accused her of having an affair, the daughter wrote in the book. Darian said that when Gisele raised her need to get treatment for the unexplained illness, her father asked, "So, what are you doing with your days?" Watch: France rape horror: 72-year-old woman in France seeks justice to 92 counts of rape The daughter said that of the 72 men her father invited to rape her mother, never once did he demand any money or try to gain some profit from the horrific crime. "Ultimate perversity... Father, who always had money problems, didn't profit from Maman. He did it purely for his pleasure," said Darian, in her book. (With inputs from agencies)

French rape case: Among dozens of men invited by husband to rape his wife, one was an HIV patient

The authorities have lifted the intimacy ban for&nbsp;the 2024 Paris Olympics and the Olympic Village has been stocked with 300,000 condoms, confirmed Olympic Village's director Laurent Michaud, while speaking to Sky News.&nbsp;

Speaking about the upcoming games which will be hosted by Paris from July 26 to Aug&nbsp;11, Michaud said that they have been making preparations for 14,250 residents at the village and have been planning to store 300,000 condoms for the athletes.&nbsp;

The rules of intimacy were brought into effect in the 2020 Olympics which were held in Tokyo, Japan in 2021 because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

To ensure that there is no spread of the virus, the athletes were directed to limit their physical contact with each other and maintain a distance of around six and a half feet between them.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-government-must-neeraj-chopra-on-arshad-nadeems-struggles-to-acquire-new-javelin-701618">‘Pakistan government must’: Neeraj Chopra on Arshad Nadeem’s struggles to acquire new javelin</a>

Since the 1988 Seoul Olympics, it has been a tradition to provide condoms at the games with the aim of raising awareness about HIV and AIDS.&nbsp;

In Tokyo, even during the imposition of intimacy rules, the officials handed out 150,000 condoms.&nbsp;

"The distribution of condoms is not for use at the athletes' village, but to have athletes take them back to their home countries to raise awareness [of HIV and AIDS]," said the Olympic organisers, while speaking to Reuters.

<h2>What were the&nbsp;COVID-19 guidelines imposed on athletes?</h2>

According to the COVID-19 guidelines, the athletes were not permitted to leave their accommodations to meet their competitors and in some other circumstances.&nbsp;

The athletes were directed to avoid unnecessary forms of touch like hugs and handshakes and people watching the games were asked to only clap and not sing or chat.

The athletes weren't supposed to meet each other 14 days before their arrival and the next 14 days after they reached.&nbsp;The athletes also went through periodic health checks and had to wear masks and wash their hands often.

Watch:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: France to offer Russia a regime of silence during the Olympics

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-france-to-offer-russia-a-regime-of-silence-during-the-olympics-701193/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The global COVID-19 health emergency was ended by the World Health Organization in 2023 and the Centre for Disease Control this year amended its COVID-19 guidelines, which created a "unified, practical approach to addressing risk" from the virus along with respiratory syncytial virus and influenza and decreased the isolation period.&nbsp;

Michaud added that they wanted to provide the athletes with everything they required in the village and hence, had built a sports bar.&nbsp;

"But it's going to be a great place so they can share their moment and the environment here. No champagne in the village, of course, but they can have all the champagne they want to in Paris," he said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The authorities have lifted the intimacy ban for the 2024 Paris Olympics and the Olympic Village has been stocked with 300,000 condoms, confirmed Olympic Village's director Laurent Michaud, while speaking to Sky News.

The authorities have lifted the intimacy ban for the 2024 Paris Olympics and the Olympic Village has been stocked with 300,000 condoms, confirmed Olympic Village's director Laurent Michaud, while speaking to Sky News. Speaking about the upcoming games which will be hosted by Paris from July 26 to Aug 11, Michaud said that they have been making preparations for 14,250 residents at the village and have been planning to store 300,000 condoms for the athletes. The rules of intimacy were brought into effect in the 2020 Olympics which were held in Tokyo, Japan in 2021 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. To ensure that there is no spread of the virus, the athletes were directed to limit their physical contact with each other and maintain a distance of around six and a half feet between them. Also Read: ‘Pakistan government must’: Neeraj Chopra on Arshad Nadeem’s struggles to acquire new javelin Since the 1988 Seoul Olympics, it has been a tradition to provide condoms at the games with the aim of raising awareness about HIV and AIDS. In Tokyo, even during the imposition of intimacy rules, the officials handed out 150,000 condoms. "The distribution of condoms is not for use at the athletes' village, but to have athletes take them back to their home countries to raise awareness [of HIV and AIDS]," said the Olympic organisers, while speaking to Reuters. What were the COVID-19 guidelines imposed on athletes? According to the COVID-19 guidelines, the athletes were not permitted to leave their accommodations to meet their competitors and in some other circumstances. The athletes were directed to avoid unnecessary forms of touch like hugs and handshakes and people watching the games were asked to only clap and not sing or chat. The athletes weren't supposed to meet each other 14 days before their arrival and the next 14 days after they reached. The athletes also went through periodic health checks and had to wear masks and wash their hands often. Watch: Russia-Ukraine war: France to offer Russia a regime of silence during the Olympics The global COVID-19 health emergency was ended by the World Health Organization in 2023 and the Centre for Disease Control this year amended its COVID-19 guidelines, which created a "unified, practical approach to addressing risk" from the virus along with respiratory syncytial virus and influenza and decreased the isolation period. Michaud added that they wanted to provide the athletes with everything they required in the village and hence, had built a sports bar. "But it's going to be a great place so they can share their moment and the environment here. No champagne in the village, of course, but they can have all the champagne they want to in Paris," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Paris 2024 Olympics: Authorities lift intimacy ban, stock Olympic village with 300,000 condoms

As the year 2023 came to a close, India’s instant delivery service ‘Blinkit’ revealed some of the most intriguing sales patterns throughout the year. The data reflected the evolving purchasing habits of the consumers, while also shedding light on the increasing reliance on online delivery services.

One such astonishing revelation was the purchase of a mind-boggling 9,940 condoms by an individual from South Delhi in 2023. To put this into perspective, the person ordered 27 condoms every day and more than one per hour.

<h2>Another buys 81 condoms in a single order</h2>

Albinder Dhindsa, the founder of the delivery app, dropped another bombshell on social media platform X. One customer really had an action-packed New Year's Eve as he ended up ordering 81 condoms in a single order, leaving netizens as well Dhindsa himself surprised.

However, some users also pointed out that he must be owning a general store and there was nothing surprising at all.

<h2>Customer buys 38 pairs of underwear within a month</h2>

Another customer, also from South Delhi, amazed Dhindsa by ordering a staggering 38 pairs of underwear within a month from the delivery app.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/zomato-share-prices-dip-with-a-48-bn-tax-show-cause-notice-674616">Also read:&nbsp;Zomato share price dips after $4.8 bn tax show cause notice</a>

In 2023, people also bought more than 80,000 Gangajal bottles from the app, reflecting the changing pattern in consumers’ purchasing patterns. Notably, a staggering 30,02,080 Partysmart tablets were also delivered, shedding light on the prevalence of this particular commodity in the market.

<h2>Gurugram bought nearly 66,000 lighters</h2>

Folks in Gurugram brought 65,973 lighters throughout 2023, making headlines for their unique consumption trends. The mega city and IT hub also saw more consumption of tonic water than traditional soft drinks.&nbsp;

Unique World Festivals - World News

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Adding to the diversity of purchases, an impressive 3,51,033 printouts were delivered before 8 am, underlining the increasing reliance on printed materials in various sectors.

<h2>Details about Blinket’s finances</h2>

After transitioning to quick commerce, Blinkit experienced a substantial 207 per cent increase in operational revenue during its initial full financial year, reaching Rs 724 crore ($86.9 million).&nbsp;

However, this period also witnessed a widened net loss, totalling Rs 1,190 crore ($142.8 million) in FY23. These results represent the first comprehensive annual outcomes following Zomato's acquisition of the company in the previous year.&nbsp;

In contrast, during FY22, when Blinkit operated under the name Grofers, the company reported an operating revenue of Rs 236 crore ($28.32 million) and a net loss of Rs 1,021 crore ($122.5 million), as per data from PrivateCircle Research.

(With inputs from agencies)

As the year 2023 came to a close, India’s instant delivery service ‘Blinkit’ revealed some of the most intriguing sales patterns throughout the year. The data reflected the evolving purchasing habits of the consumers, while also shedding light on the increasing reliance on online delivery services.

As the year 2023 came to a close, India’s instant delivery service ‘Blinkit’ revealed some of the most intriguing sales patterns throughout the year. The data reflected the evolving purchasing habits of the consumers, while also shedding light on the increasing reliance on online delivery services. One such astonishing revelation was the purchase of a mind-boggling 9,940 condoms by an individual from South Delhi in 2023. To put this into perspective, the person ordered 27 condoms every day and more than one per hour. Another buys 81 condoms in a single order Albinder Dhindsa, the founder of the delivery app, dropped another bombshell on social media platform X. One customer really had an action-packed New Year's Eve as he ended up ordering 81 condoms in a single order, leaving netizens as well Dhindsa himself surprised. However, some users also pointed out that he must be owning a general store and there was nothing surprising at all. Customer buys 38 pairs of underwear within a month Another customer, also from South Delhi, amazed Dhindsa by ordering a staggering 38 pairs of underwear within a month from the delivery app. Also read: Zomato share price dips after $4.8 bn tax show cause notice In 2023, people also bought more than 80,000 Gangajal bottles from the app, reflecting the changing pattern in consumers’ purchasing patterns. Notably, a staggering 30,02,080 Partysmart tablets were also delivered, shedding light on the prevalence of this particular commodity in the market. Gurugram bought nearly 66,000 lighters Folks in Gurugram brought 65,973 lighters throughout 2023, making headlines for their unique consumption trends. The mega city and IT hub also saw more consumption of tonic water than traditional soft drinks. Unique World Festivals - World News × Adding to the diversity of purchases, an impressive 3,51,033 printouts were delivered before 8 am, underlining the increasing reliance on printed materials in various sectors. Details about Blinket’s finances After transitioning to quick commerce, Blinkit experienced a substantial 207 per cent increase in operational revenue during its initial full financial year, reaching Rs 724 crore ($86.9 million). However, this period also witnessed a widened net loss, totalling Rs 1,190 crore ($142.8 million) in FY23. These results represent the first comprehensive annual outcomes following Zomato's acquisition of the company in the previous year. In contrast, during FY22, when Blinkit operated under the name Grofers, the company reported an operating revenue of Rs 236 crore ($28.32 million) and a net loss of Rs 1,021 crore ($122.5 million), as per data from PrivateCircle Research. (With inputs from agencies)

India: South Delhi resident shocks internet by ordering 9,940 condoms in 2023

A mass wedding in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh grabbed headlines after condoms and contraceptive pills were found inside make-up boxes given to brides as gifts. Media reports have mentioned that the ceremony took place in Jhabua district on Monday.&nbsp;

As many as 296 couples tied the knot at the mass wedding organised under Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan's Mukhyamantri Kanya Vivah/Nikah Yojana. The scheme is basically for women who come from economically weaker sections.&nbsp;

When the controversy because of these items in the gift pack started snowballing, a senior district official Bhursingh Rawat laid the blame on the state health department.&nbsp;

As quoted by the Indian Express report, Rawat said that the health officials might have planned providing condoms and contraceptives to the new couples to raise awareness regarding family planning.

Rawat told The Indian Express: "We are not responsible for distributing condoms and contraceptive pills. There is no provision in the Mukhyamantri Kanya Vivah for the provision of such a kit."&nbsp;

"We have told the local administration officials to keep a check on this in future and conduct a door-to-door campaign instead of distributing condoms at the mass weddings. This is a tribal area with a low literacy rate. People don’t have a lot of scientific temperament, so keeping that in view we will make sure this doesn’t happen again," he added.&nbsp;

The news outlet quoted Dr Ashok Patel, a district family and welfare officer, as saying: "There was confusion at the event. We saw over 200 newlyweds at one place and thought we could target them. We had over 200 of our own health workers who educated them on the kit."&nbsp;

"But some people could not understand… there were couples who thought this was a part of dowry… It would take us over one month to track them all down and distribute these kits,” Patel added, divulging details about the 'Nai pahal' kit, which is provided to newly married couples by the local ASHA workers.

<h2>Was it a well-intended move?&nbsp;</h2>

UN's World Population Prospects 2022 had projected India to surpass China as the world's most populous country in the mid of 2023 and the nation will have now more population than China. UN report estimated that India's population is 1.4286 billion while China's stood at 1.4257 billion.&nbsp;

While the population also generates infinite possibilities, experts have called for reforms and policies to control the growth in order to provide a better quality of life to all individuals and sustainable development.&nbsp;

And such a move, aimed at spreading awareness shouldn't become an issue.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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A mass wedding in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh grabbed headlines after condoms and contraceptive pills were found inside make-up boxes given to brides as gifts.

A mass wedding in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh grabbed headlines after condoms and contraceptive pills were found inside make-up boxes given to brides as gifts. Media reports have mentioned that the ceremony took place in Jhabua district on Monday. As many as 296 couples tied the knot at the mass wedding organised under Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan's Mukhyamantri Kanya Vivah/Nikah Yojana. The scheme is basically for women who come from economically weaker sections. When the controversy because of these items in the gift pack started snowballing, a senior district official Bhursingh Rawat laid the blame on the state health department. As quoted by the Indian Express report, Rawat said that the health officials might have planned providing condoms and contraceptives to the new couples to raise awareness regarding family planning. Rawat told The Indian Express: "We are not responsible for distributing condoms and contraceptive pills. There is no provision in the Mukhyamantri Kanya Vivah for the provision of such a kit." "We have told the local administration officials to keep a check on this in future and conduct a door-to-door campaign instead of distributing condoms at the mass weddings. This is a tribal area with a low literacy rate. People don’t have a lot of scientific temperament, so keeping that in view we will make sure this doesn’t happen again," he added. The news outlet quoted Dr Ashok Patel, a district family and welfare officer, as saying: "There was confusion at the event. We saw over 200 newlyweds at one place and thought we could target them. We had over 200 of our own health workers who educated them on the kit." "But some people could not understand… there were couples who thought this was a part of dowry… It would take us over one month to track them all down and distribute these kits,” Patel added, divulging details about the 'Nai pahal' kit, which is provided to newly married couples by the local ASHA workers. Was it a well-intended move? UN's World Population Prospects 2022 had projected India to surpass China as the world's most populous country in the mid of 2023 and the nation will have now more population than China. UN report estimated that India's population is 1.4286 billion while China's stood at 1.4257 billion. While the population also generates infinite possibilities, experts have called for reforms and policies to control the growth in order to provide a better quality of life to all individuals and sustainable development. And such a move, aimed at spreading awareness shouldn't become an issue. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Madhya Pradesh: Condoms, birth control pills part of ‘vanity kit’ at mass wedding event

Police in Australia are investigating a case where 65 women received used condoms in their mails along with handwritten messages. The letters were dispatched by an anonymous sender to addresses across Melbourne’s east and southeast. All of the incidents have happened over the past three months. Police believe all the victims are linked and part of a targeted attack.&nbsp;

Interestingly, all of them attended the city's Kilbreda College private girls' school in 1999, which indicates that their addresses must have been obtained from an old school yearbook.

<h2>Key points</h2>

<ol>
	<li>65 women received letters with used condoms in Australia.</li>
	<li>Police say the victims are linked to a “targeted attack”.</li>
	<li>All the women attended Melbourne’s Kilbreda College private girls' school in 1999.</li>
	<li>The Bayside Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Team is investigating the case.</li>
	<li>Police are supposed to hold a press conference on Wednesday.</li>
</ol>

<h2>Some women received multiple letters</h2>

"It is believed that most of those who reported the material have received multiple letters, all with the suspected used item included," Police said in a statement. "Officers believe the victims are linked and are part of a targeted attack," the statement added.

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One victim was quoted by Australia’s Herald Sun as saying that she received a letter with “very graphic (handwritten) messages”, following which she tried to contact her friends. “I didn’t sleep the night I received the letter, it really creeped me out,” the woman said, adding that this was extremely unnerving and some of the women have even received four letters.&nbsp;

<h2>Investigation going on&nbsp;</h2>

The Australian reported that the Bayside Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Team was investigating the case. Police officials have also urged people having any information related to the case to come forward and help authorities find the culprit.

The authorities are supposed to hold a press conference later on Wednesday to brief the public about the case.

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Police in Australia are investigating a case where 65 women received used condoms in their mails along with handwritten messages. The letters were dispatched by an anonymous sender to addresses across Melbourne’s east and southeast.

Police in Australia are investigating a case where 65 women received used condoms in their mails along with handwritten messages. The letters were dispatched by an anonymous sender to addresses across Melbourne’s east and southeast. All of the incidents have happened over the past three months. Police believe all the victims are linked and part of a targeted attack. Interestingly, all of them attended the city's Kilbreda College private girls' school in 1999, which indicates that their addresses must have been obtained from an old school yearbook. Key points 65 women received letters with used condoms in Australia. Police say the victims are linked to a “targeted attack”. All the women attended Melbourne’s Kilbreda College private girls' school in 1999. The Bayside Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Team is investigating the case. Police are supposed to hold a press conference on Wednesday. Some women received multiple letters "It is believed that most of those who reported the material have received multiple letters, all with the suspected used item included," Police said in a statement. "Officers believe the victims are linked and are part of a targeted attack," the statement added. Watch: Trending on WION: Australia wants to make cigarettes 'ugly' and 'tasteless' × One victim was quoted by Australia’s Herald Sun as saying that she received a letter with “very graphic (handwritten) messages”, following which she tried to contact her friends. “I didn’t sleep the night I received the letter, it really creeped me out,” the woman said, adding that this was extremely unnerving and some of the women have even received four letters. Investigation going on The Australian reported that the Bayside Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Team was investigating the case. Police officials have also urged people having any information related to the case to come forward and help authorities find the culprit. The authorities are supposed to hold a press conference later on Wednesday to brief the public about the case. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Who is mailing used condoms to Australian women? Police open investigation 

Taliban 2.0 promised t be different when it overtook Afghanistan, they promised they would be more considerate and would be more inclusive on issues like women's rights. But the new rulers of Afghanistan have methodically trampled all such rights but now they have done something different. Watch the video to know more.

Taliban against birth control medicines as they ban condoms

The United States has registered a significant rise in the use of Plan B emergency contraception, also known as the “morning-after” pill over the past five years while demand for other forms of contraception like birth control pills and condoms has reduced, according to an analysis of market research data by the Financial Times.&nbsp;

Over 15 million units of Plan B medication were sold last year, according to a Financial Times research, an increase of roughly 59 per cent&nbsp;from 2018. According to Symphony Health, a data supplier, during that time period, sale of condoms decreased by around 18 per cent while new prescriptions for oral contraceptive pills decreased by almost 15 per cent.

The data, which are estimates based on commercial insurance claims, retail sales, and other parameters,&nbsp;were cited by health experts as showing significant changes in how Americans access reproductive health services in light of the growing restrictions on abortion rights, following the Supreme Court's decision of overturning Roe v. Wade last year.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-the-quest-for-male-birth-control-from-condoms-to-vasectomy-to-the-pill-562617">The quest for male birth control: from vasectomy to condoms to ‘the pill’</a>

In addition, there has been a drop in in-person doctor visits as a result of greater over-the-counter availability to Plan B emergency contraception at pharmacies.

<h2>What is the Plan B, single-dose medication?</h2>

With the help of the hormone levonorgestrel, the single-dose drug Plan B delays ovulation. It works best when taken three days after unprotected intercourse and can reduce the likelihood of becoming pregnant by 75 per cent&nbsp;to 89 per cent.&nbsp;According to a healthcare provider, Planned Parenthood, who spoke to the Finacial Times,&nbsp;it is less effective than typical birth control pills, which when taken correctly may be up to 98 per cent&nbsp;effective.

Plan B is not recommended for normal contraception, although the US Food and Drug Administration has not said that there are any additional health concerns connected with using the drug than there are with taking conventional birth control tablets.

Rising dependence on emergency contraception rather than more conventional methods, particularly among young individuals, according to many health experts, should be combated by boosting education and outreach efforts as well as eliminating barriers to all types of birth control. They note the rising prevalence of STDs in the US and claim that Plan B is less effective than other methods of birth control.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Male contraceptive pill gets closer to reality

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Yet, they contend that at a time when abortion facilities are expanding, requests from some conservative groups to restrict access to Plan B should be rejected.

“The answer is not to restrict Plan B but to open up the doors to other types of contraception and make it easier for people to access information,” said Dr Kate White, a gynecologist and associate professor at Boston University Chobanian &amp; Avedisian School of Medicine, who spoke to the Financial Times.&nbsp;

Young people are no longer willing to habitually trust medical advice, according to White, especially when friends or family have had negative experiences with intrauterine device discomfort or adverse effects from contraceptive pills, she said.

<h2>Where do other methods of contraception stand?</h2>

Standard birth control pills and IUDs, which are small devices placed into a woman's uterus to prevent conception, are only accessible in the US with a prescription, usually following a doctor's visit. Plan B, on the other hand, may normally be purchased over the counter for between $40 and $50, as reported by the Financial Times.&nbsp;

Fewer women are obtaining yearly gynaecological check-ups,&nbsp;which is another factor contributing to the rising dependence on Plan B.

According to Symphony Health statistics, the number of women with commercial insurance who saw a gynaecologist for a preventative yearly appointment last year decreased to 3.7 million in the 11 months leading up to the end of November from 5.9 million for the entire year.

COVID-19 and updated cervical cancer screening recommendations that increased the suggested age to begin Pap tests.

Plan B, which was approved for over-the-counter access in 2013, has experienced a massive increase in public awareness as a result of the Supreme Court decision last year, which prompted a rush of Republican-led states to restrict abortion access.&nbsp;

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The United States has registered a significant rise in the use of Plan B emergency contraception, also known as the “morning-after” pill over the past five years while demand for other forms of contraception like birth control pills and condoms has reduced, according to an analysis of market research data by the Financial Times.

The United States has registered a significant rise in the use of Plan B emergency contraception, also known as the “morning-after” pill over the past five years while demand for other forms of contraception like birth control pills and condoms has reduced, according to an analysis of market research data by the Financial Times. Over 15 million units of Plan B medication were sold last year, according to a Financial Times research, an increase of roughly 59 per cent from 2018. According to Symphony Health, a data supplier, during that time period, sale of condoms decreased by around 18 per cent while new prescriptions for oral contraceptive pills decreased by almost 15 per cent. The data, which are estimates based on commercial insurance claims, retail sales, and other parameters, were cited by health experts as showing significant changes in how Americans access reproductive health services in light of the growing restrictions on abortion rights, following the Supreme Court's decision of overturning Roe v. Wade last year. ALSO READ | The quest for male birth control: from vasectomy to condoms to ‘the pill’ In addition, there has been a drop in in-person doctor visits as a result of greater over-the-counter availability to Plan B emergency contraception at pharmacies. What is the Plan B, single-dose medication? With the help of the hormone levonorgestrel, the single-dose drug Plan B delays ovulation. It works best when taken three days after unprotected intercourse and can reduce the likelihood of becoming pregnant by 75 per cent to 89 per cent. According to a healthcare provider, Planned Parenthood, who spoke to the Finacial Times, it is less effective than typical birth control pills, which when taken correctly may be up to 98 per cent effective. Plan B is not recommended for normal contraception, although the US Food and Drug Administration has not said that there are any additional health concerns connected with using the drug than there are with taking conventional birth control tablets. Rising dependence on emergency contraception rather than more conventional methods, particularly among young individuals, according to many health experts, should be combated by boosting education and outreach efforts as well as eliminating barriers to all types of birth control. They note the rising prevalence of STDs in the US and claim that Plan B is less effective than other methods of birth control. ALSO WATCH | Gravitas: Male contraceptive pill gets closer to reality Yet, they contend that at a time when abortion facilities are expanding, requests from some conservative groups to restrict access to Plan B should be rejected. “The answer is not to restrict Plan B but to open up the doors to other types of contraception and make it easier for people to access information,” said Dr Kate White, a gynecologist and associate professor at Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, who spoke to the Financial Times. Young people are no longer willing to habitually trust medical advice, according to White, especially when friends or family have had negative experiences with intrauterine device discomfort or adverse effects from contraceptive pills, she said. Where do other methods of contraception stand? Standard birth control pills and IUDs, which are small devices placed into a woman's uterus to prevent conception, are only accessible in the US with a prescription, usually following a doctor's visit. Plan B, on the other hand, may normally be purchased over the counter for between $40 and $50, as reported by the Financial Times. Fewer women are obtaining yearly gynaecological check-ups, which is another factor contributing to the rising dependence on Plan B. According to Symphony Health statistics, the number of women with commercial insurance who saw a gynaecologist for a preventative yearly appointment last year decreased to 3.7 million in the 11 months leading up to the end of November from 5.9 million for the entire year. COVID-19 and updated cervical cancer screening recommendations that increased the suggested age to begin Pap tests. Plan B, which was approved for over-the-counter access in 2013, has experienced a massive increase in public awareness as a result of the Supreme Court decision last year, which prompted a rush of Republican-led states to restrict abortion access. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US: Upsurge in demand for morning-after pill as abortion restrictions persist

On the occasion of Valentine's day, let us tell you about a groundbreaking male contraceptive pill that in preclinical models proved its might and successfully stopped sperm in its track. While it may not seem like such a big deal to many of us, it, in fact, is. This study goes a long way to prove that on-demand male contraceptives are possible. The discovery has been touted as a "game-changer" for contraceptives. The results of the study have been published in the journal Nature Communications today (February 14th).

In a report published on the Weill Cornell Medicine, the study’s co-senior authors Dr Jochen Buck and Dr Lonny Levin, who are both professors of pharmacology at the institute, say that this discovery is a game-changer.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;China trains six squirrels to search for drugs

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They say that currently vasectomies and condoms, which by the way have existed for over 2000 years, are the only methods of contraception for men.&nbsp;While in the past&nbsp;there has been research on oral contraceptives for men, it has been to no end. Levin credits this partly to the demand for these potential contraceptives to "clear a much higher bar for safety and side effects."&nbsp;

In his opinion, this is due to the fact that " men don't bear the risks associated with carrying a pregnancy." Due to this, he says that the "field assumes men will have a low tolerance for potential contraceptive side effects."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/ai-comes-up-with-40000-toxic-chemicals-in-6-hours-scientists-warn-could-be-used-to-make-biological-weapons-561636">AI comes up with 40,000 toxic chemicals in 6 hours; scientists warn could be used to make biological weapons</a>

The next step would be preclinical experiments, which could lay the groundwork for human clinical trials, which Levin hopes would end with men being able to walk into pharmacies and ask for a "male pill".

The drug, when tested on lab mice, showed the capability to inactivate sperm for up to two and a half hours. Its effects were also found to persist in the female&nbsp;reproductive tract. While after a period of three hours, "some sperm begin regaining motility; by 24 hours, nearly all sperm have recovered normal movement."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-discover-fossil-of-giant-150kg-penguin-that-walked-the-earth-57-million-years-ago-561978">Scientists discover fossil of giant 150kg penguin that walked the Earth 57 million years ago</a>

It did not impact the mice's mating behaviour at all. These observations are based on 52 different mating attempts. Another group of subjects who were dosed with an inactive control substance impregnated their mates in almost one-third of matings.

According to Dr Melanie Balbach, a postdoctoral associate who worked with the two authors, the contraceptive starts working within 30 to 60 minutes of ingestion. In comparison, she claimed that "every other experimental hormonal or nonhormonal male contraceptive takes weeks to bring sperm count down or render them unable to fertilize eggs". It also wears off within hours, while the other drugs took weeks.

(With inputs from agencies)

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On the occasion of Valentine's day, let us tell you about a groundbreaking male contraceptive pill that in preclinical models proved its might and successfully stopped sperm in its track.

On the occasion of Valentine's day, let us tell you about a groundbreaking male contraceptive pill that in preclinical models proved its might and successfully stopped sperm in its track. While it may not seem like such a big deal to many of us, it, in fact, is. This study goes a long way to prove that on-demand male contraceptives are possible. The discovery has been touted as a "game-changer" for contraceptives. The results of the study have been published in the journal Nature Communications today (February 14th). In a report published on the Weill Cornell Medicine, the study’s co-senior authors Dr Jochen Buck and Dr Lonny Levin, who are both professors of pharmacology at the institute, say that this discovery is a game-changer. Watch | China trains six squirrels to search for drugs They say that currently vasectomies and condoms, which by the way have existed for over 2000 years, are the only methods of contraception for men. While in the past there has been research on oral contraceptives for men, it has been to no end. Levin credits this partly to the demand for these potential contraceptives to "clear a much higher bar for safety and side effects." In his opinion, this is due to the fact that " men don't bear the risks associated with carrying a pregnancy." Due to this, he says that the "field assumes men will have a low tolerance for potential contraceptive side effects." Also read | AI comes up with 40,000 toxic chemicals in 6 hours; scientists warn could be used to make biological weapons The next step would be preclinical experiments, which could lay the groundwork for human clinical trials, which Levin hopes would end with men being able to walk into pharmacies and ask for a "male pill". The drug, when tested on lab mice, showed the capability to inactivate sperm for up to two and a half hours. Its effects were also found to persist in the female reproductive tract. While after a period of three hours, "some sperm begin regaining motility; by 24 hours, nearly all sperm have recovered normal movement." Also read | Scientists discover fossil of giant 150kg penguin that walked the Earth 57 million years ago It did not impact the mice's mating behaviour at all. These observations are based on 52 different mating attempts. Another group of subjects who were dosed with an inactive control substance impregnated their mates in almost one-third of matings. According to Dr Melanie Balbach, a postdoctoral associate who worked with the two authors, the contraceptive starts working within 30 to 60 minutes of ingestion. In comparison, she claimed that "every other experimental hormonal or nonhormonal male contraceptive takes weeks to bring sperm count down or render them unable to fertilize eggs". It also wears off within hours, while the other drugs took weeks. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Researchers develop 'male pill', an oral contraceptive that successfully stops sperm in its track

French President Emmanuel Macron said on Thursday (December 8) that condoms would soon be made available for free for people aged between 18 and 25 years. The step is being taken to reduce unwanted pregnancies and spread of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Macron was talking during a health debate with youngsters in Fontaine-le-Comte, a suburb of Poitiers in western France.

"It's a small revolution for contraception," he said.

The plan to make condoms available for free follows the one that began to offer free birth control to all women under 25 years of age. In doing this, a scheme targeting under-18s was expanded to ensure that young women did not stop taking contraception just because they could not afford it.

In France, condoms are already reimbursed by national healthcare system if they are prescribed by a doctor or midwife.

On sexual education overall, "we are not very good on this subject. The reality is very, very different from the theory. It's an area where we need to much better educate our teachers", Macron said.

Macron wore a face mask at the conference, saying he was following "health ministry guidelines", as the government weighs its response to a rise in Covid cases ahead of the holidays, though so far no mask mandates have been reintroduced.

"Faced with the new spread of the epidemic... I think it's good to set an example because we don't necessarily want to return to overall mandates," he said.

Officials are urging people to wear masks in crowded venues and to get Covid vaccine booster shots as winter approaches.

(With inputs from agencies)

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French President Emmanuel Macron said on Thursday (December 8) that condoms would soon be made available for free for people aged between 18 and 25 years. The step is being taken to reduce unwanted pregnancies and spread of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

French President Emmanuel Macron said on Thursday (December 8) that condoms would soon be made available for free for people aged between 18 and 25 years. The step is being taken to reduce unwanted pregnancies and spread of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Macron was talking during a health debate with youngsters in Fontaine-le-Comte, a suburb of Poitiers in western France. "It's a small revolution for contraception," he said. The plan to make condoms available for free follows the one that began to offer free birth control to all women under 25 years of age. In doing this, a scheme targeting under-18s was expanded to ensure that young women did not stop taking contraception just because they could not afford it. In France, condoms are already reimbursed by national healthcare system if they are prescribed by a doctor or midwife. On sexual education overall, "we are not very good on this subject. The reality is very, very different from the theory. It's an area where we need to much better educate our teachers", Macron said. Macron wore a face mask at the conference, saying he was following "health ministry guidelines", as the government weighs its response to a rise in Covid cases ahead of the holidays, though so far no mask mandates have been reintroduced. "Faced with the new spread of the epidemic... I think it's good to set an example because we don't necessarily want to return to overall mandates," he said. Officials are urging people to wear masks in crowded venues and to get Covid vaccine booster shots as winter approaches. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

France to soon make condoms free for people aged 18 to 25, says Macron

To curb the population’s rise and keep a check on sexually transmitted diseases, condoms are distributed for free or at very cheap rates. But this is not the case with all the countries in the world. Some also charge exorbitantly for this essential commodity. Well, in one country of the world, the cost of a packet of condoms is around Rs 60,000. Want to know which country it is? The right answer is Venezuela. This price is also more than the cost of a television set. &nbsp;&nbsp;

This cost is the price of a regular condom. What is unique to note here is that although there are many renowned and expensive condom brands in the world, you may not have heard about such an expensive condom ever. &nbsp;

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This hefty price tag on condoms has led to an uproar in the country. The news of the development has gone viral on social media. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Not just this, the abortion is also prohibited in Venezuela. There is also a severe punishment for getting it done illegally. Venezuela also seems to have the highest number of teenage pregnancy cases, as per the UN's State of World Population Report 2015. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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To curb the population’s rise and keep a check on sexually transmitted diseases, condoms are distributed for free or at very cheap rates. But this is not the case with all the countries in the world.

To curb the population’s rise and keep a check on sexually transmitted diseases, condoms are distributed for free or at very cheap rates. But this is not the case with all the countries in the world. Some also charge exorbitantly for this essential commodity. Well, in one country of the world, the cost of a packet of condoms is around Rs 60,000. Want to know which country it is? The right answer is Venezuela. This price is also more than the cost of a television set. This cost is the price of a regular condom. What is unique to note here is that although there are many renowned and expensive condom brands in the world, you may not have heard about such an expensive condom ever. WATCH WION LIVE HERE This hefty price tag on condoms has led to an uproar in the country. The news of the development has gone viral on social media. Not just this, the abortion is also prohibited in Venezuela. There is also a severe punishment for getting it done illegally. Venezuela also seems to have the highest number of teenage pregnancy cases, as per the UN's State of World Population Report 2015. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

This is the country where a packet of condoms costs more than a TV

Pakistan Peoples Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has said that he did not anticipate "player" Imran Khan taxing contraceptives.

In a speech to the Pakistan National Assembly, he slammed the administration for proposing higher taxes on condoms in the mini budget.

"I didn't expect Imran Khan, the player, to tax contraception," Bilawal said.

According to Bilawal, contraceptives are critical for population control in Pakistan, and the current government should reconsider pricing them.&nbsp;

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Bilawal Bhutto didn't expect a ‘khiladi’ like Imran Khan will tax condoms. <a href="https://t.co/waqxcMtrH8">pic.twitter.com/waqxcMtrH8</a>
— Naila Inayat (@nailainayat) <a href="https://twitter.com/nailainayat/status/1481314359175520261?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2022</a></blockquote>
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He also said that baby food and formula milk are also subject to levies, which will disproportionately affect the lowest members of society, according to the research.

These tariffs would have a negative impact on women's empowerment and exacerbate malnutrition.

Bilawal speculated that Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan would arrive at his office on a bicycle, like he did at his campaign rallies.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan Peoples Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has said that he did not anticipate "player" Imran Khan taxing contraceptives. In a speech to the Pakistan National Assembly, he slammed the administration for proposing higher taxes on condoms in the mini budget.

Pakistan Peoples Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has said that he did not anticipate "player" Imran Khan taxing contraceptives. In a speech to the Pakistan National Assembly, he slammed the administration for proposing higher taxes on condoms in the mini budget. "I didn't expect Imran Khan, the player, to tax contraception," Bilawal said. According to Bilawal, contraceptives are critical for population control in Pakistan, and the current government should reconsider pricing them. Bilawal Bhutto didn't expect a ‘khiladi’ like Imran Khan will tax condoms. pic.twitter.com/waqxcMtrH8 — Naila Inayat (@nailainayat) January 12, 2022 × He also said that baby food and formula milk are also subject to levies, which will disproportionately affect the lowest members of society, according to the research. These tariffs would have a negative impact on women's empowerment and exacerbate malnutrition. Bilawal speculated that Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan would arrive at his office on a bicycle, like he did at his campaign rallies. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch | Didn’t expect ‘player’ Imran Khan to tax condoms: Bilawal Bhutto

The world is having far less sex using condoms during the coronavirus pandemic as per Nikkei Asia.

The novel virus, which has adversely affected almost every industry,&nbsp;has not spared the world's largest condom maker.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/condom-helps-an-australian-athlete-win-gold-at-the-tokyo-olympics-watch-401663">Also read |&nbsp;Condom helps an Australian athlete win gold at the Tokyo Olympics</a>

Its sales have dropped approximately 40 per cent&nbsp;in the last two years as the contraceptive was not used by several people who stayed at home during the pandemic.

Citing Karex Bhd.' Chief Executive Officer Goh Miah Kait, Nikkei Asia reported the drastic fall in sales as non-essential clinics such as sexual wellness centres were mostly closed ever during the pandemic.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/california-becomes-first-state-to-ban-secret-removal-of-condom-during-sex-419611">Also read |&nbsp;California becomes first state to ban secret removal of condom during sex</a>

Goh said in a report that the Malaysia-based company is now moving into the booming medical glove business that will start its production in Thailand by mid year.

Earlier, it used to make one of every five condoms produced all across the globe. The company was poised grow at ''double digits'' before lockdowns were imposed worldwide.

The company, that exports condom to more than 140 countries produces like Durex along with Durian-flavoured.

In the last two years, its shares have dropped 18 per cent. During this period, the benchmark of Malaysia's stock index has dropped 3.1 per cent.

A research had revealed that six million unwanted pregnancies and two million unsafe abortions could be avoided each year by helping teenage girls in developing countries to get reliable contraception.

(With inputs from agencies)

The world is having far less sex using condoms during the coronavirus pandemic as per Nikkei Asia. The novel virus, which has adversely affected almost every industry, has not spared the world's largest condom maker.

The world is having far less sex using condoms during the coronavirus pandemic as per Nikkei Asia. The novel virus, which has adversely affected almost every industry, has not spared the world's largest condom maker. Also read | Condom helps an Australian athlete win gold at the Tokyo Olympics Its sales have dropped approximately 40 per cent in the last two years as the contraceptive was not used by several people who stayed at home during the pandemic. Citing Karex Bhd.' Chief Executive Officer Goh Miah Kait, Nikkei Asia reported the drastic fall in sales as non-essential clinics such as sexual wellness centres were mostly closed ever during the pandemic. Also read | California becomes first state to ban secret removal of condom during sex Goh said in a report that the Malaysia-based company is now moving into the booming medical glove business that will start its production in Thailand by mid year. Earlier, it used to make one of every five condoms produced all across the globe. The company was poised grow at ''double digits'' before lockdowns were imposed worldwide. The company, that exports condom to more than 140 countries produces like Durex along with Durian-flavoured. In the last two years, its shares have dropped 18 per cent. During this period, the benchmark of Malaysia's stock index has dropped 3.1 per cent. A research had revealed that six million unwanted pregnancies and two million unsafe abortions could be avoided each year by helping teenage girls in developing countries to get reliable contraception. (With inputs from agencies)

Sales of world's largest condom maker down by almost 40% in last two years

Over 11,000 athletes are participating in Tokyo Olympics 2020. The 11,091 athletes are competing in 41 different sports and 339 events at the Olympics. However, they are spending two weeks in close proximity, and mutual attraction cannot be ruled out. &nbsp;Given the possibility of intimacy, condoms have been introduced by the organisers.&nbsp;

IN PICS|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/sports/condoms-and-sex-at-tokyo-olympics-awareness-creation-restrictions-and-pushback-400698" hreflang="en">Condoms and sex at Olympics: Awareness creation, restrictions and pushback</a>

Condoms have been distributed since the 1988 Olympics, which was to raise awareness about HIV, this marked a start of a tradition that would be followed in the years to come.

The tradition of handing out condoms to athletes began in the 1988 Seoul Olympics. The organisers distributed 8,500 condoms in the competition which was held in a decade where the world witnessed an alarming surge in HIV AIDS cases. However, several hundreds of condoms were found on the roofs of the athletes’ quarters in the Olympic Village, due to which a ban was placed on outdoor sex.&nbsp;

<img alt="ss" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="739cd934-0f8c-403c-9ace-9f4909c3984a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20image%20%2862%29.jpg" />

Athletes having sex during the Olympics became an open secret by the time the 2000 Sydney Olympics arrived. The organisers planned to distribute 70,000 condoms to the athletes participating in the mega tournament. However, they were forced to send an extra 20,000 condoms, realising that they were underestimating the actual figures.&nbsp;

The 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City witnessed protests after the conservatives found out that over 100,000 condoms were distributed among the athletes.

<img alt="ss" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8d9100fe-577f-45bd-830b-fdceb542b035" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20image%20%2855%29.jpg" />

2012 London Olympics is considered to be the raunchiest of all. The organisers distributed 150,000 condoms during the games and a website called Grindr (which is now also an app) crashed when athletes began arriving.

Brazil broke an Olympic record, not in the games, but as Games organisers as they decided to distribute a record 450,000 condoms to the athletes.&nbsp;

In the times of COVID-19, the organisers of the Tokyo Olympics promoted the idea of social distancing. However, the organisers made a deal with four condom companies in order to hand out 160,000 condoms for the athletes in the village.&nbsp;

“The distribution of condoms is not for use at the athletes’ village, but to have athletes take them back to their home countries to raise awareness (of HIV and AIDS),” organisers had told Reuters.

Over 11,000 athletes are participating in Tokyo Olympics 2020. The 11,091 athletes are competing in 41 different sports and 339 events at the Olympics. However, they are spending two weeks in close proximity, and mutual attraction cannot be ruled out.

Over 11,000 athletes are participating in Tokyo Olympics 2020. The 11,091 athletes are competing in 41 different sports and 339 events at the Olympics. However, they are spending two weeks in close proximity, and mutual attraction cannot be ruled out. Given the possibility of intimacy, condoms have been introduced by the organisers. IN PICS| Condoms and sex at Olympics: Awareness creation, restrictions and pushback Condoms have been distributed since the 1988 Olympics, which was to raise awareness about HIV, this marked a start of a tradition that would be followed in the years to come. The tradition of handing out condoms to athletes began in the 1988 Seoul Olympics. The organisers distributed 8,500 condoms in the competition which was held in a decade where the world witnessed an alarming surge in HIV AIDS cases. However, several hundreds of condoms were found on the roofs of the athletes’ quarters in the Olympic Village, due to which a ban was placed on outdoor sex. Athletes having sex during the Olympics became an open secret by the time the 2000 Sydney Olympics arrived. The organisers planned to distribute 70,000 condoms to the athletes participating in the mega tournament. However, they were forced to send an extra 20,000 condoms, realising that they were underestimating the actual figures. The 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City witnessed protests after the conservatives found out that over 100,000 condoms were distributed among the athletes. 2012 London Olympics is considered to be the raunchiest of all. The organisers distributed 150,000 condoms during the games and a website called Grindr (which is now also an app) crashed when athletes began arriving. Brazil broke an Olympic record, not in the games, but as Games organisers as they decided to distribute a record 450,000 condoms to the athletes. In the times of COVID-19, the organisers of the Tokyo Olympics promoted the idea of social distancing. However, the organisers made a deal with four condom companies in order to hand out 160,000 condoms for the athletes in the village. “The distribution of condoms is not for use at the athletes’ village, but to have athletes take them back to their home countries to raise awareness (of HIV and AIDS),” organisers had told Reuters.

Condoms and sex at Olympics: Awareness creation, restrictions and pushback

Organisers of the Tokyo Olympics are promoting the idea of maintaining social distancing due to the surge in COVID-19 cases in Japan. They have decided to hand out condoms to athletes only once they leave the village and they have come up with an 'anti-sex' bed that will discourage athletes to get intimate.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-olympic-cluster-scare-as-athletes-test-positive-in-games-village-398826" hreflang="en">Tokyo 2020: Olympic cluster scare as athletes test positive in Games Village</a>

These 'anti-sex' beds are made from cardboard and are designed to only be able to withstand the weight of one person.&nbsp;

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Beds to be installed in Tokyo Olympic Village will be made of cardboard, this is aimed at avoiding intimacy among athletes 
 
Beds will be able to withstand the weight of a single person to avoid situations beyond sports. 
 
I see no problem for distance runners,even 4 of us can do😂 <a href="https://t.co/J45wlxgtSo">pic.twitter.com/J45wlxgtSo</a>
— Paul Chelimo🇺🇸🥈🥉 (@Paulchelimo) <a href="https://twitter.com/Paulchelimo/status/1416240846039523331?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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American sprinter Paul Chelimo took to social media to share the pictures of the bed and wrote: "Beds to be installed in Tokyo Olympic Village will be made of cardboard, this is aimed at avoiding intimacy among athletes. "Beds will be able to withstand the weight of a single person to avoid situations beyond sports. I see no problem for distance runners, even 4 of us can do"

"I can’t fly business polaris then sleep on a carton box. Now economy is very perfecto!" he added.&nbsp;

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At this point I will have to start practicing how to sleep on the floor; cause If my bed collapses and I have no training on sleeping on the floor i’m done😂 
 
More added stress heading into Tokyo!
— Paul Chelimo🇺🇸🥈🥉 (@Paulchelimo) <a href="https://twitter.com/Paulchelimo/status/1416244958609121280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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He went on to say that he would have to start practicing sleeping on the floor if the bed collapses. He tweeted: "At this point I will have to start practicing how to sleep on the floor; cause If my bed collapses &nbsp;and I have no training on sleeping on the floor i’m done. More added stress heading into Tokyo!"

The organisers of Tokyo 2020 also made a deal with four condom companies in order to hand out 160,000 condoms for the athletes in the village.&nbsp;

“The distribution of condoms is not for use at the athletes’ village, but to have athletes take them back to their home countries to raise awareness (of HIV and AIDS),” organisers had told Reuters.

Organisers of the Tokyo Olympics are promoting the idea of maintaining social distancing due to the surge in COVID-19 cases in Japan. They have decided to hand out condoms to athletes only once they leave the village and they have come up with an 'anti-sex' bed that will discourage athletes to get intimate.

Organisers of the Tokyo Olympics are promoting the idea of maintaining social distancing due to the surge in COVID-19 cases in Japan. They have decided to hand out condoms to athletes only once they leave the village and they have come up with an 'anti-sex' bed that will discourage athletes to get intimate. ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020: Olympic cluster scare as athletes test positive in Games Village These 'anti-sex' beds are made from cardboard and are designed to only be able to withstand the weight of one person. Beds to be installed in Tokyo Olympic Village will be made of cardboard, this is aimed at avoiding intimacy among athletes Beds will be able to withstand the weight of a single person to avoid situations beyond sports. I see no problem for distance runners,even 4 of us can do😂 pic.twitter.com/J45wlxgtSo — Paul Chelimo🇺🇸🥈🥉 (@Paulchelimo) July 17, 2021 × American sprinter Paul Chelimo took to social media to share the pictures of the bed and wrote: "Beds to be installed in Tokyo Olympic Village will be made of cardboard, this is aimed at avoiding intimacy among athletes. "Beds will be able to withstand the weight of a single person to avoid situations beyond sports. I see no problem for distance runners, even 4 of us can do" "I can’t fly business polaris then sleep on a carton box. Now economy is very perfecto!" he added. At this point I will have to start practicing how to sleep on the floor; cause If my bed collapses and I have no training on sleeping on the floor i’m done😂 More added stress heading into Tokyo! — Paul Chelimo🇺🇸🥈🥉 (@Paulchelimo) July 17, 2021 × He went on to say that he would have to start practicing sleeping on the floor if the bed collapses. He tweeted: "At this point I will have to start practicing how to sleep on the floor; cause If my bed collapses and I have no training on sleeping on the floor i’m done. More added stress heading into Tokyo!" The organisers of Tokyo 2020 also made a deal with four condom companies in order to hand out 160,000 condoms for the athletes in the village. “The distribution of condoms is not for use at the athletes’ village, but to have athletes take them back to their home countries to raise awareness (of HIV and AIDS),” organisers had told Reuters.

'Anti-sex' beds in Tokyo Olympics? American sprinter shares images

A pandemic not only slows down supply, but disrupts even the chain of production.

Now, the virus has triggered an unusual shortage: of condoms!

The world’s largest condom producer recently told Reuters that it was forced to halt production operations.

The maker of the world’s one out of five condoms, Karex Bhd in Malaysia has not produced a single condom in the last week as the factories remain shut under a government imposed lockdown.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-ozone-layer-is-healing-289054" hreflang="en">The ozone layer is healing!</a>

The condoms are usually sent to international brands like Durex, who then market the item.&nbsp;

As of now, the predicted shortage of condoms is 100 million!

However, the company was allowed to resume production yesterday but with only 50 per cent of its usual workforce, to prevent a global condom shortage.

"It will take time to jumpstart factories and we will struggle to keep up with demand at half capacity," Chief Executive Goh Miah Kiat told Reuters.

"We are going to see a global shortage of condoms everywhere, which is going to be scary,” he said. "My concern is that for a lot of humanitarian programmes deep down in Africa, the shortage will not just be two weeks or a month. That shortage can run into months."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-cities-facing-major-coronavirus-equipment-shortages-285-million-masks-needed-289072" hreflang="en">US cities facing major coronavirus equipment shortages, 28.5 million masks needed</a>

Southeast Asia witnessed a spike in infections last month. As of now, Malaysia is the most affected country in the region, with over 2,161 infections and 26 deaths.&nbsp;

Other condom-producing countries like China, India, and Thailand have also witnessed abrupt halts to economic and business activity owing to the coronavirus.

Malaysia’s medical gloves are also facing the brunt of the lockdown.

"For our consumers, many of whom will be unable to access shops, our Durex online stores remain open for business”, Durex told Reuters.

(With inputs from agencies)

A pandemic not only slows down supply, but disrupts even the chain of production. Now, the virus has triggered an unusual shortage: of condoms! The world’s largest condom producer recently told Reuters that it was forced to halt production operations.

A pandemic not only slows down supply, but disrupts even the chain of production. Now, the virus has triggered an unusual shortage: of condoms! The world’s largest condom producer recently told Reuters that it was forced to halt production operations. The maker of the world’s one out of five condoms, Karex Bhd in Malaysia has not produced a single condom in the last week as the factories remain shut under a government imposed lockdown. Also read: The ozone layer is healing! The condoms are usually sent to international brands like Durex, who then market the item. As of now, the predicted shortage of condoms is 100 million! However, the company was allowed to resume production yesterday but with only 50 per cent of its usual workforce, to prevent a global condom shortage. "It will take time to jumpstart factories and we will struggle to keep up with demand at half capacity," Chief Executive Goh Miah Kiat told Reuters. "We are going to see a global shortage of condoms everywhere, which is going to be scary,” he said. "My concern is that for a lot of humanitarian programmes deep down in Africa, the shortage will not just be two weeks or a month. That shortage can run into months." Also read: US cities facing major coronavirus equipment shortages, 28.5 million masks needed Southeast Asia witnessed a spike in infections last month. As of now, Malaysia is the most affected country in the region, with over 2,161 infections and 26 deaths. Other condom-producing countries like China, India, and Thailand have also witnessed abrupt halts to economic and business activity owing to the coronavirus. Malaysia’s medical gloves are also facing the brunt of the lockdown. "For our consumers, many of whom will be unable to access shops, our Durex online stores remain open for business”, Durex told Reuters. (With inputs from agencies)

Is coronavirus triggering a shortage of condoms?

Just in time for the international day of love. 100,000 condoms are being given out in Mexico City on Thursday (February 13) as part of the city's new safe sex campaign ahead of Valentine's Day. The free condoms were handed out at the capital's bustling metro stations in a bid to raise awareness on sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Safe sex this Valentine's Day as Mexico City gives out free condoms

This month&#39;s Winter Olympics in South Korea will set a record even before the first athlete comes out of a starting gate, organisers said Thursday -- for the largest number of free condoms handed out at a Winter Games.

Over little more than two weeks from the opening of the Olympiad next Friday, a total of 110,000 contraceptive sheaths will be distributed, 10,000 more than at Vancouver in 2010 or Sochi in 2014.

With 2,925 athletes taking part, it equates to an average of 37.6 condoms per sportsman and sportswoman.

But they will be made available to all participants.

&quot;Baskets with condoms will be placed at both men&#39;s and women&#39;s toilets&quot; at athletes&#39; villages in Pyeongchang and Gangneung, the main press centre, the media village as well as medical centres, the organisers said.

Rubber manufacturer Convenience Co has donated 100,000 of the condoms, saying it did so for &quot;a successful hosting of the Winter Olympics and the prevention of the spread of the HIV virus&quot;.

But spokesman Chung Geun-Sik said many of them would be taken home unopened as souvenirs.

&quot;We don&#39;t expect the athletes to use them all,&quot; he added.

&nbsp;

Rubber manufacturer Convenience Co has donated 100,000 of the condoms or a successful hosting of the Winter Olympics and the prevention of the spread of the HIV virus

This month's Winter Olympics in South Korea will set a record even before the first athlete comes out of a starting gate, organisers said Thursday -- for the largest number of free condoms handed out at a Winter Games. Over little more than two weeks from the opening of the Olympiad next Friday, a total of 110,000 contraceptive sheaths will be distributed, 10,000 more than at Vancouver in 2010 or Sochi in 2014. With 2,925 athletes taking part, it equates to an average of 37.6 condoms per sportsman and sportswoman. But they will be made available to all participants. "Baskets with condoms will be placed at both men's and women's toilets" at athletes' villages in Pyeongchang and Gangneung, the main press centre, the media village as well as medical centres, the organisers said. Rubber manufacturer Convenience Co has donated 100,000 of the condoms, saying it did so for "a successful hosting of the Winter Olympics and the prevention of the spread of the HIV virus". But spokesman Chung Geun-Sik said many of them would be taken home unopened as souvenirs. "We don't expect the athletes to use them all," he added.

Pyeongchang sets Winter Olympic record - for condoms

Worried about your local chemist&rsquo;s judgemental looks every time you ask for a condom? Well, here&rsquo;s some good news for you. You can now get condoms home delivered, that too for free.

Yes, you heard that right. No, this isn&rsquo;t a joke.

On Wednesday, AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) launched &lsquo;Love Condoms&rsquo; as a measure to reduce new cases of HIV/AIDS in India. According to the United Nations, 2.1 million people in India are infected with HIV.&nbsp;

AHF said the initiative was the first of its kind.

The global charity has posted a video on YouTube titled India&rsquo;s first &lsquo;Free Condom Store&rsquo; in which they tell you how to get your hands on &lsquo;Love Condoms&rsquo;. It says you can either call on 1800 102 8102 (toll-free) or drop an email at <meta charset="utf-8" /><a href="mailto:freecondomstoreahf@gmail.com">freecondomstoreahf@gmail.com</a>&nbsp;to get a supply delivered to their doorstep.

&ldquo;We encourage individuals and organisations to send in a request of minimum one box (144 pieces). Delivery will be made within a week to any major city of India,&rdquo; said Dr V Sam Prasad, AHF&rsquo;s programme director for India.

So what are you waiting for? Go on, place your order now!

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/m3Bi1jvm7r8" width="560"></iframe>

(WION)

On Wednesday, AHF launched ?Love Condoms? as a measure to reduce new cases of HIV/AIDS in the country

Worried about your local chemist’s judgemental looks every time you ask for a condom? Well, here’s some good news for you. You can now get condoms home delivered, that too for free. Yes, you heard that right. No, this isn’t a joke. On Wednesday, AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) launched ‘Love Condoms’ as a measure to reduce new cases of HIV/AIDS in India. According to the United Nations, 2.1 million people in India are infected with HIV. AHF said the initiative was the first of its kind. The global charity has posted a video on YouTube titled India’s first ‘Free Condom Store’ in which they tell you how to get your hands on ‘Love Condoms’. It says you can either call on 1800 102 8102 (toll-free) or drop an email at freecondomstoreahf@gmail.com to get a supply delivered to their doorstep. “We encourage individuals and organisations to send in a request of minimum one box (144 pieces). Delivery will be made within a week to any major city of India,” said Dr V Sam Prasad, AHF’s programme director for India. So what are you waiting for? Go on, place your order now! (WION)

Want free condoms delivered at your doorstep? Find out how

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