GoK To Conduct Food Safety Drive For Street Vendors: U T. Khader, Minister For Health

* Karnataka to also host national-level Food Safety Officers and Commissioners Conclave in October, bringing together officials from across India

The Karnataka Government will expand its food-safety initiatives to street-food vendors, with a greater focus on hygiene, awareness and safe food-handling practices, Minister for Health and Family Welfare U.T. Khader said at an Interactive Session on Food Safety, organised by the Bangalore Chamber of Industry and Commerce (BCIC) in Bengaluru.

Addressing the gathering, Khader said that after strengthening food-safety enforcement across hotels, restaurants and other establishments, the Government would now focus on creating greater awareness among street-food vendors. The initiative will cover hygiene during food preparation and serving, cleanliness, safe handling of ingredients and responsible use of cooking oil.

Welcoming the Government’s continued focus on food safety, CA K. Ravi, President, BCIC, said industry and government need to work together to strengthen standards and build greater consumer confidence. “Food safety is not merely a regulatory requirement; it is a fundamental pillar of public health, consumer confidence and economic development. Government–industry collaboration is essential to ensure the well-being of citizens and strengthen food-safety standards across the sector,” Mr. Ravi said.

BCIC also expressed its intent to join hands with the Government of Karnataka in taking forward the food-safety initiatives suggested by the Minister, through industry participation, awareness-building and collaborative programmes.

Street-food vendors cater to a significant section of the population and are an important part of the food ecosystem, he said, adding that food safety cannot be achieved through inspections alone. Greater education and awareness among vendors, food handlers, businesses and consumers are equally critical to improving standards.

Karnataka has intensified food-safety inspections across the State in recent weeks, with the Government stating that the objective is to protect public health and improve compliance rather than disrupt legitimate businesses. Khader has also said establishments are expected to follow prescribed standards relating to purity, quality, hygiene and food handling. Mr. Khader also announced that Karnataka plans to host a national-level conclave of Food Safety Officers and Commissioners in October, bringing together officials from different states to deliberate on strengthening the country’s food-safety framework.

The conclave is expected to facilitate the exchange of best practices followed by different states, identify gaps in existing food-safety systems and examine areas where rules or regulations may require strengthening. The discussions are also expected to help formulate recommendations that can be taken up with the Central Government where necessary. Recent reporting has also indicated that Karnataka is planning an all-India health conclave in Bengaluru in the third week of October involving state officials, FSSAI representatives and other stakeholders.

Khader also highlighted the need to address the repeated reuse of cooking oil by food establishments. He said the Government is looking at mechanisms through which used cooking oil can be collected and diverted for alternative use instead of being repeatedly used for preparing food.

One option being explored is collaboration with biodiesel companies, which can procure used cooking oil from hotels and other food establishments and use it as raw material for biodiesel production. Such a mechanism could give establishments an alternative channel for disposal while discouraging unsafe reuse.

Mr. Khader emphasised that strengthening food safety requires coordinated action from government agencies, businesses, street vendors and consumers. Alongside enforcement, sustained awareness and practical education will be essential to building a stronger food-safety culture across Karnataka.

Food Safety is a Management Responsibility

Delivering a special address, Dr. V. Pasupathy, National Advisor, FHRAI and National Award recipient for Food Safety, said responsibility for food safety must extend beyond kitchen operations and involve senior management.

“Food safety is not merely a kitchen responsibility instead it is a management responsibility. In the last 90 days, across the country, 11,216 food-safety raids have resulted in 172 suspension notices, 519 criminal cases and 926 improvement notices with fines,” Dr. Pasupathy said.

He said FSSAI assesses hotels on 51 questions carrying 126 marks, while 44 marks directly concern the owner and General Manager, highlighting the importance of leadership oversight. He also pointed out that 46% of recent suspension notices were related to raw-material management.

The session focused on food-safety and hygiene standards, compliance and enforcement updates, industry best practices and building consumer confidence and was organised under the aegis of BCIC’s Hospitality, Tourism & Travel Expert Committee.

motorola Signature 27, First Snapdragon® 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6 Smartphones, Makes First Appearance At Snapdragon Summit

* With next-generation AI experiences

* motorola signature 27 is among the world's first smartphones powered by the Snapdragon® 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6 Mobile Platform, delivering advanced AI capabilities, next-era 5G, and professional-quality imaging, all wrapped in Motorola’s most refined design language yet

* The smartphone unlocks a new generation of AI experiences with Google Gemini, helping users create, express themselves and get things done in new ways. With Gemini Omni for creating and editing videos through natural conversation and Gemini Lyria for generating original music and custom soundtracks, motorola signature 27 unlocks new creative possibilities

* Motorola's AI-powered Video Enhancement Engine automatically reads scenes before and during recording to adjust colour tones, helping users capture their favourite moments exactly as they remember them with natural, true-to-life colours. Combined with Qualcomm's Electronic Image Stabilization and 3.5 OIS hardware, it delivers smoother and more stable handheld video capture

* The smartphone redefines mobile imaging with an advanced camera system featuring a 50MP Sony LYTIA™ 910 main camera and a 200MP periscope telephoto lens, delivering professional-quality results with exceptional clarity, rich colour, deep contrast and long-range photography capabilities

* As the first smartphone ever to feature Audio by B&O, motorola signature 27 combines Motorola's premium mobile innovation with Bang & Olufsen's expertise in sound, design and craftsmanship to deliver an audio experience designed to be felt, not just heard

* Available in PANTONE™ Capulet Olive in textile-inspired finish and PANTONE™ Coal Smoke in Tactical Weave, the motorola signature 27 combines luxury-inspired craftsmanship with modern functionality

* It represents the apex of mobile innovation, seamlessly blending premium design, next-gen performance and intelligent camera experiences in Motorola's most refined flagship smartphone yet.

Motorola, a global leader in mobile technology and innovation and India’s leading~ AI smartphone brand, today showcased the First Appearance of the motorola signature 27 at Snapdragon Summit, offering a glimpse of its next-generation ultra-premium flagship and positioning itself among the world's first smartphones to feature the newly announced Snapdragon® 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6 Mobile Platform.

For decades, Motorola has moulded design and technology together to create products that reflect the people who use them - bold, luxurious, and elegant. As the future approaches, Motorola is setting a new standard for world-class refinement with the motorola signature family. The motorola signature family is unmistakably design-forward, experience-centered, and performance-driven, bringing together skilfully crafted finishes, curated colourways, exclusive experiences, and Motorola's most advanced innovations.

At the apex of this vision is the motorola signature 27, seamlessly blending premium design, next-generation performance, and intelligent camera experiences. Among the first smartphones powered by the Snapdragon® 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6 Mobile Platform, the device delivers advanced AI capabilities, next-era connectivity, and professional-quality imaging in Motorola's most refined flagship experience yet.

Whether navigating daily tasks, creating content, or unlocking new AI experiences, the motorola signature 27 is engineered to deliver premium performance that feels fast, fluid, and reliable over time. At its core is the Snapdragon® 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6 Mobile Platform, powering advanced AI capabilities, enhanced camera performance, smooth gaming, and dependable connectivity across 5G and Wi-Fi. Designed to keep pace with evolving user needs, the platform helps ensure the device remains responsive as applications, AI tools and experiences continue to advance, delivering a premium experience over time.

To help maintain peak performance, the motorola signature 27 features Motorola's new ArcticMesh cooling system, which combines a diamond-infused thermal gel, liquid metal, copper mesh architecture and a redesigned 3D vapor chamber to efficiently manage heat during sustained AI workloads, gaming sessions, and video creation. The system is 40% larger than the previous generation, helping sustain peak performance when it matters most. Complementing this long-term performance approach, the smartphone also comes with seven years of OS upgrades, helping ensure the experience remains reliable and up to date well into the future. ¹

Beyond delivering premium performance, the Snapdragon® Elite Mobile Platform also unlocks a new generation of AI experiences with Google Gemini ². Designed to do more than feel uniquely personal, the device introduces new ways for users to create, express themselves and get things done. Through Gemini Omni, users can create and edit videos using natural conversation, while Gemini Lyria enables the generation of original music and custom soundtracks directly from the device. As Gemini integrates across more apps and services that people use every day, it can help move seamlessly from intention into action, whether planning an outing, booking dinner, finding event tickets, or managing daily activities, while keeping users in control of the experience.

The motorola signature 27 is also built for the next era of connectivity. With next generation 5G, the device is designed to deliver faster, stronger, and more reliable connections. Faster download speeds, combined with six antennas working together to enable faster cloud AI app experiences, help users seamlessly navigate daily tasks, create content, and access AI-powered capabilities. The result is a connectivity experience designed to keep pace with how people work, create, and stay connected.

The camera experience on the motorola signature 27 is redefined, bringing together breakthrough hardware, cinematic video capabilities, and effortless photography into one powerful system. At the heart of the experience is Motorola's AI-powered Video Enhancement Engine, which creates a real-time intelligence layer that automatically reads scenes before and during recording to adjust colour tones. This allows users to capture their favourite moments exactly as they remember them, whether filming a concert, recording after dark or taking in a sunset, with footage that stays sharp in challenging conditions and delivers natural, true-to-life colours. The experience is further enhanced through Qualcomm's Electronic Image Stabilization combined with 3.5 OIS hardware, making panning, walking and handheld recording appear smoother and more stable.

Supporting these intelligent imaging experiences is an advanced camera system designed to deliver professional-quality results across a wide range of scenarios. The smartphone features a 50MP Sony LYTIA™ 910 main camera capable of capturing exceptional clarity, rich colour, and deep contrast, alongside a 200MP periscope telephoto lens that enables detailed long-range photography, architectural capture, and expansive landscape imaging.

Just as the camera system is redefining smartphone photography, audio is setting a new standard on the motorola signature 27. As the first smartphone ever to feature Audio by B&O, following Motorola's recently announced partnership with Bang & Olufsen, the device combines Motorola's premium mobile innovation with B&O's renowned expertise in sound, design, and craftsmanship. Together, they deliver an immersive audio experience designed to be felt, not just heard.

The motorola signature 27 also introduces the next evolution of Motorola's premium design philosophy. Continuing the development of the signature family design language, the smartphone balances aesthetic expression with practical performance to create a cohesive visual identity, tactile refinement, and everyday usability. Crafted with a ceramic and glass construction and elevated material finishes, the motorola signature 27 represents Motorola's most refined expression of craftsmanship to date. Every material and finish has been carefully selected to reinforce a sense of luxury, sophistication, and attention to detail.

The smartphone will be available in PANTONE™ Capulet Olive in textile-inspired finish, inspired by premium fashion and interior design, creating a softer tactile experience and visual depth that brings a sense of craftsmanship, sophistication, and quiet elegance to the device. It will also be available in PANTONE™ Coal Smoke in Tactical Weave, inspired by automotive engineering and performance materials. Engineered for durability yet elevated in execution, it makes performance visible and tangible, enhancing grip while reinforcing strength and quality.

"The motorola signature 27 showcases Motorola's vision for the future of premium smartphones, combining the industry's most advanced mobile platform with breakthrough AI experiences, professional-grade imaging, iconic design, and immersive audio. As one of the world's first Snapdragon® 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6 smartphones, it represents a significant leap forward for our flagship portfolio and reinforces our commitment to delivering meaningful innovation for consumers," said TM Narasimhan, Managing Director, Motorola India.

As Motorola celebrates 98 years of innovation, the first appearance of motorola signature 27 marks another significant milestone in the company's journey. From creating some of the world's earliest communications devices and pioneering mobile technology breakthroughs to shaping the future of AI-powered smartphones, Motorola has consistently pushed the boundaries of what is possible.

The preview at Snapdragon Summit is just a glimpse into our newest motorola signature device. We look forward to sharing all the features, innovations, and experiences that make the motorola signature 27 our most advanced flagship smartphone to date.

Availability

motorola signature 27 is expected to come to markets worldwide in 2026, and we will have more details to share as we get closer to availability.

About Lenovo & Motorola

Lenovo is a US$62 billion revenue global technology powerhouse, ranked #217 in the Fortune Global 500, employing 77,000 people around the world, and serving millions of customers every day in 180 markets. Focused on a bold vision to deliver Smarter Technology for All, Lenovo has built on its success as the world’s largest PC company by further expanding into growth areas that fuel the advancement of ‘New IT’ technologies (client, edge, cloud, network, and intelligence) including server, storage, mobile, software, solutions, and services. This transformation together with Lenovo’s world-changing innovation is building a more inclusive, trustworthy, and smarter future for everyone, everywhere. Lenovo is listed on the Hong Kong stock exchange under Lenovo Group Limited (HKSE: 992)(ADR: LNVGY). Motorola Mobility LLC was acquired by Lenovo Group Holdings in 2014. Motorola Mobility is a wholly owned subsidiary of Lenovo and is responsible for designing and manufacturing all Moto and Motorola branded mobile handsets and solutions.

Legal Disclaimers

MOTOROLA, the Stylized M Logo, MOTO and the MOTO family of marks are trademarks of Motorola Trademark Holdings, LLC. Google and Gemini are trademarks of Google LLC. Setup required. Compatibility and availability varies. Snapdragon is a trademark or registered trademark of Qualcomm Incorporated. Snapdragon is a product of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries. "LYTIA" is a registered trademark or trademark of Sony Group Corporation. Bang & Olufsen is a registered trademark of Bang & Olufsen A/S. The Pantone color reference and the PANTONE Chip Design are used with the permission of Pantone LLC. © Pantone LLC, 2026. All rights reserved. This is an authorized Pantone-licensed product manufactured by Motorola. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. © 2026 Motorola Mobility LLC. All rights reserved.

Includes 7 OS updates and up to 7 years of security updates starting from the global launch date. May vary by market, network provider and/or model. See https://support.motorola.com/app/software-upgrade for details.

Gemini mobile app available on select devices, languages, and countries. Internet connection required. Check responses for accuracy.

*T&C Apply. Including all offers. Offers subject to change at the discretion of the brand. 

Axis Bank’s MOVES 2026 Sees 43,000 Students Reimagine The Future Of Banking For 2035

Axis Bank announced the winners of its flagship campus engagement programme, MOVES 2026. Bringing together over 43,000 students from 110+ institutions, including leading management and engineering schools across India, MOVES 2026 emerged as one of the most widely participated initiatives on campuses. The programme challenged students to reimagine the future of banking under the theme, "Organization of the Future: Design for 2035.”

Designed as a platform for enterprise transformation, MOVES 2026 invited students to develop innovative solutions across customer experience, operations, risk management, workforce design and AI-enabled ecosystems. It strengthened industry-academia collaboration by providing future leaders with an opportunity to solve real-world business challenges and contribute ideas that can help shape the future of financial services.

Commenting on the initiative, Rajkamal Vempati, Group Head - Human Resources, Axis Bank, said, “MOVES encourages students to address the opportunities and challenges that will shape the future of banking. The quality and originality of ideas presented this year reflect the immense potential of India's emerging talent.”

The competition culminated in a Grand Finale in Mumbai, where finalist teams presented their ideas before a jury comprising senior leaders from the Axis Group. Winning teams were recognized with cash rewards and career opportunities at Axis Bank.

 

Winners of MOVES 2026:

Rank	Campus	Team
Winner	SJMSOM, IIT Bombay	Aayush Mehta & Aabhas Kumar
First Runner-up	IIM Bangalore	Ishan Marwadya & Sakshi Malu
Second Runner-up	Indian School of Business (ISB), Mohali	Kirti Giyamalani & Tanya Gupta

 

About Axis Bank:

Axis Bank is one of the largest private sector banks in India. Axis Bank offers the entire spectrum of services to customer segments covering Large and Mid-Corporates, SME, Agriculture, and Retail Businesses. It has 6,295 domestic branches (including extension counters) and 12,564 ATMs and cash recyclers spread across the country as on 30th June 2026. The Bank’s Axis Virtual Centre is present across eight centres with 1,700 Virtual Relationship Managers as on 30th June 2026. The Axis Group includes Axis Mutual Fund, Axis Securities Ltd., Axis Finance, Axis Trustee, Axis Capital, A.TReDS Ltd., Freecharge, Axis Pension Fund and Axis Bank Foundation. 

For more information, visit the website: https://www.axis.bank.in

Wildlife Photography Essentials To Pack For Your Next Outdoor Adventure

As winter’s approaching soon, cooler mornings and comfortable days make it an ideal time to step outdoors with a camera and explore the nature around us. From planning a jungle safari and joining a bird walk to exploring nature trails or simply heading out for a weekend photo walk, the season brings plenty of opportunities to observe wildlife and capture moments in their natural surroundings.

Wildlife photography often calls for patience, flexibility, and equipment that can keep up when a fleeting moment suddenly unfolds. Whether you are photographing a bird taking flight, an animal emerging from the foliage, or smaller details along a nature trail, having the right combination of reach, speed, portability, and image quality can make the experience more rewarding. Here are some Sony imaging essentials to consider for your next outdoor photography adventure.

Sony Alpha ILCE-7RM6: Wildlife photography often comes down to a single moment, whether it is a bird taking flight, an animal turning towards the camera, or a brief interaction that lasts only a few seconds. The Sony Alpha ILCE-7RM6 combines a 66.8MP full-frame fully stacked Exmor RS CMOS sensor with high-speed performance, giving photographers the resolution and responsiveness needed to capture detailed images when the action unfolds unexpectedly

Powered by the BIONZ XR2 image processing engine with an integrated AI processing unit, the camera can shoot at up to 30fps with full-resolution images and AF/AE tracking, while supporting up to 60 AF/AE calculations per second. Sony also provides specific shooting guidance for wild birds, including Pre-Capture, which can help record the moments immediately before the shutter is fully pressed when the timing of movement is difficult to predict.

Price: INR 4,19,990

Sony FE 100–400mm F5.6–8 OSS: A morning bird walk or wildlife trail can quickly turn into a search for subjects at different distances, making a versatile telephoto lens particularly useful. The Sony FE 100–400mm F5.6–8 OSS offers a 100–400mm focal range in a compact and lightweight design, allowing photographers to follow distant birds and wildlife without carrying a particularly heavy setup throughout the day. Weighing just 654g, the lens is designed for handheld shooting and can be a practical companion for longer outdoor photography sessions.

Fast, precise autofocus and Optical SteadyShot image stabilisation help when photographing active subjects, while its dust and moisture resistant design adds reliability when shooting outdoors. The lens also offers a minimum focusing distance of 0.86m at the telephoto end and up to 0.41x magnification, making it useful for photographing smaller subjects such as birds, insects and flowers encountered along a nature trail. An optional teleconverter can further extend its reach up to 800mm.

Price: INR 94,990

Sony RX10V: Not every outdoor photography outing comes with a fixed plan, and photographers may find themselves moving from wide landscape views to distant birds and wildlife within the same walk. The Sony RX10 V offers an all-in-one solution with a ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T* 24–600mm F2.4–4.0 zoom lens, allowing photographers to move between wide-angle and super-telephoto perspectives without changing lenses.

The camera combines a 1.0-type stacked Exmor RS CMOS sensor with 20.1 megapixels, a BIONZ XR image processing engine, and an AI processing unit that supports Real-time Recognition AF for different subjects. With blackout-free continuous shooting at up to 30fps and up to 575 phase-detection AF points, the RX10 V is equipped to capture unpredictable moments, whether it is a bird taking flight, an animal moving through the frame, or a fleeting moment during an outdoor walk.

Price: INR 2,45,645

Sony FE 50–150mm F2 GM: Early mornings and late afternoons can offer some of the most interesting conditions for outdoor photography, when softer light adds depth to landscapes and wildlife images. The Sony FE 50–150mm F2 GM combines a versatile telephoto range with a constant F2 aperture, giving photographers greater flexibility to capture subjects against their surroundings while creating a smooth, defocused background.

The lens is particularly suited to situations where photographers want to capture more than just a distant subject, whether that means an animal within its habitat, a bird perched against a textured background, or details emerging as the light changes. Its internal zoom design maintains a consistent lens length while zooming, while the combination of telephoto compression and F2 aperture gives photographers greater creative control over how subjects stand out within the frame.

Price: INR 3,32,490

The appeal of outdoor photography lies in the fact that no two outings unfold in quite the same way. A quiet bird walk can turn into an opportunity to capture a bird in flight, while a planned safari can offer everything from distant wildlife and dramatic landscapes to smaller details hidden along the trail.

With winter bringing more comfortable conditions for exploring the outdoors, it is a good time to plan photography adventures around the subjects and environments you enjoy most. From lightweight telephoto lenses and versatile all-in-one cameras to fast lenses and high-resolution camera bodies, Sony's imaging lineup offers options that can help photographers stay ready for the moments that make every outdoor adventure worth capturing.  

Pidilite-Trained Candidates Set To Represent India At WorldSkills Shanghai 2026

* Two Pidilite-trained candidates advance to the global stage following strong performances at IndiaSkills 2026

Pidilite Industries Limited, India's leading manufacturer of adhesives, sealants, and construction chemicals, is proud to support two candidates, Prakash Suthar and Pankaj Jangra, at the WorldSkills International Competition 2026 in Shanghai. Trained at the Pidilite Woodworking and Plumbing Centre for Advanced Skills (PWP), both candidates are preparing to represent India at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 following their outstanding performances at the IndiaSkills 2026 National Competition.

Commenting on the achievement, Mr. Sudhanshu Vats, Managing Director, Pidilite Industries Limited, said, "India's Viksit Bharat vision requires not only scale and infrastructure but also a skilled workforce equipped to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving economy. At Pidilite, we believe industry has an important role to play in strengthening the skills ecosystem and creating pathways for talent to excel. The achievements of our PWP-trained candidates at IndiaSkills 2026 and their progression to the global stage at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 reflect the potential of focused, industry-aligned training. We are proud to support these young professionals as they showcase India's skilled craftsmanship to the world."

The candidates will now take their skills to WorldSkills Shanghai 2026, the 48th WorldSkills Competition, which will be held from 22 to 27 September 2026 in Shanghai, China. The event is expected to bring together more than 1,400 young skilled professionals from over 70 countries and regions, competing across 64 skill categories.

The Pidilite Woodworking and Plumbing Centre for Advanced Skills (PWP), established in partnership with Kaushalya - The Skill University, Ahmedabad, focuses on bridging the gap between traditional craftsmanship and evolving industry requirements through advanced, hands-on training in woodworking and plumbing.

Pidilite's continued investment in skill development reflects its long-term commitment to building a future-ready, industry-aligned workforce. Through initiatives such as PWP, the company seeks to strengthen capabilities across the woodworking and plumbing ecosystems, support professional excellence, and create greater opportunities for skilled talent to participate on national and international platforms.

By combining hands-on training with exposure to global standards and competitions, Pidilite aims to contribute to the advancement of skilled craftsmanship in India and support the country's aspiration of becoming a globally competitive hub for skilled talent.

Indian Medical Association (IMA) And Abbott Launch Indian Immunization Week To Advance Influenza Protection

The Indian Medical Association (IMA), in collaboration with Abbott in India, has announced 21 September to 27 September as Indian Immunization Week to reinforce the importance of preventive healthcare and immunization during the week. The nationwide initiative aims to raise awareness about the importance of annual influenza vaccination and equip healthcare professionals with practical guidance on vaccine administration especially if they are recovering from an illness or have had a fever (acute febrile illness).

Influenza, or flu, is more than just a seasonal illness. It can sometimes cause serious health problems and lead to hospitalization, particularly in people at higher risk. An annual flu vaccine can help reduce the risk of illness and offer protection for children, elderly, pregnant women, people with chronic conditions, and healthcare professionals. [[1]] India's first nationwide snapshot of adult immunization, captured by the National Sample Survey (NSS), underscores the scale of the challenge ahead. The survey found that only 1.98% of adults aged 18 years and above have received adult vaccines, while coverage among those 60 years and older is just 0.40% [[2]]. Low awareness continues to be a key barrier to adult immunization in India. According to a 2026 multi-city study, only 19.7% of adults aged 60 years and above were aware of influenza, while just 1.4% had ever been vaccinated against the infection. [[3]]

Adding to the challenge, many people remain uncertain about whether they can be vaccinated while experiencing a fever or shortly after recovering from one. This confusion often leads to unnecessary delays, missed vaccinations, and reduced protection against vaccine-preventable diseases such as influenza. To address this knowledge gap, an expert committee convened by the Indian Medical Association (IMA) reviewed available scientific evidence, as well as national and international immunization recommendations, to develop practical evidence informed guidance on vaccination in the context of fever.

In a first-of-its-kind initiative in India, the IMA has issued expert-reviewed clinical recommendations to help healthcare professionals determine when vaccination can be safely administered to individuals who are experiencing or recovering from a fever. The guidance has been released as part of the inaugural Indian Immunization Week, launched by the IMA with support from Abbott, and aims to dispel a common misconception that frequently results in delayed or missed annual flu vaccinations.

The recommendations emphasize that vaccination should not be postponed indefinitely and encourage healthcare professionals to provide patients with a specific follow-up or vaccination date whenever temporary deferral is necessary. Importantly, the guidance notes that a mild fever, in most cases, should not be a reason to delay vaccination. However, in cases of moderate to severe illness, vaccination may be deferred until the individual has recovered, helping ensure appropriate care and avoid confusion between illness symptoms and any post-vaccination reactions.

By addressing one of the most common causes of vaccine hesitancy and missed vaccination opportunities, the recommendations seek to support more timely and informed immunization decisions across the country. “Many people miss or postpone influenza vaccination because of uncertainty about whether it is safe to get vaccinated during or after a fever,” said Dr. Anilkumar J. Nayak, National President, Indian Medical Association. “These recommendations offer a practical roadmap for healthcare professionals, helping ensure that vaccinations are given at the right time, particularly for those at higher risk of flu-related complications.”

The guidance is particularly important for people who are more likely to experience serious flu-related complications, including young children, older adults, pregnant women, people with long-term health conditions, those with weakened immune systems, and healthcare workers. Influenza vaccination is recommended at any stage of pregnancy and can help protect both the mother and baby.[i]

Dr. Parag Sheth, Regional Medical Director, Abbott in India, said, “Prevention is one of the most effective ways to reduce the impact of seasonal influenza, particularly among those at higher risk of complications. Greater awareness and clear communication by doctors can help ensure that concerns around fever do not become a barrier to vaccination. By supporting this initiative, we aim to help doctors and patients make informed decisions that enable timely protection against influenza.”

Through India Immunization Week, the Indian Medical Association (IMA), in collaboration with Abbott, aims to address misconceptions that contribute to vaccination delays and reinforce annual flu vaccination as an important step in protecting vulnerable populations and strengthening community health. Envisioned as an annual national platform, the initiative seeks to advance adult immunization awareness, promote preventive healthcare, and foster greater understanding of the role vaccination plays in preventing disease and improving public health outcomes.

[1] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11927814/

[2] https://www.orfonline.org/expert-speak/adult-immunisation-in-india-what-the-latest-data-tell-us

[3] https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12889-026-29284-y 

"True Tribute To Raja Ravi Varma Is To Build An Ecosystem Where New Creators Can Flourish:" Dr. L. Murugan

* Minister says Creator Labs will come up in 15,000 schools and 500 colleges, as India targets 30 lakh creative economy jobs by 2030

Dr. L. Murugan, Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs, said the best way to honour Raja Ravi Varma is to give young artists the space and support to create with confidence. He was speaking at "Raja Ravi Varma – Chitranjali: Bridging the Divide", held today at Dr. Ambedkar International Centre to mark the painter's 120th death anniversary and 10 years of Chitranjali.

"The true tribute to Raja Ravi Varma is not merely to admire his masterpieces, but to create an ecosystem where countless new creators can flourish with the same confidence and imagination," Dr. Murugan said. "Today we are living in the age of creators."

He said Ravi Varma changed how India saw its own heritage by bringing epics and deities out of palaces and into ordinary homes. Linking this to today's creative economy, he said India will need about 30 lakh jobs in the sector by 2030. He pointed to the Indian Institute of Creative Technology in Mumbai, WaveX for creative startups and Waves Bazaar for connecting creators with global buyers. He also said Creator Labs will be set up in 15,000 schools and 500 colleges, with Rs 250 crore for creator development.

Sushri Vimlesh Brijwall, Secretary, Megh Mandal Sansthan, said the evening was about more than remembering a painter. "Today, we are not just remembering Raja Ravi Varma as a great painter. We are remembering him as an artist who brought Indian life, Indian beauty and Indian stories to the forefront of time," she said. "Art unites time, art unites generations and art unites people."

Shri G. C. Murmu, former Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir and former Comptroller and Auditor General of India, was Guest of Honour. Film critic and trade analyst Shri Komal Nahta was Special Guest. Artists, art lovers and researchers from several states attended, including Gujarat-based visual artist Shri Vrindavan Solanki. The evening included the unveiling of a copy of a Raja Ravi Varma painting, presented by the Chief Guest.

About Megh Mandal Sansthan

Megh Mandal Sansthan is a New Delhi-based institution working to research, celebrate and promote India's art and cultural heritage, with a focus on the legacy of Raja Ravi Varma. Through Chitranjali, it has spent 10 years creating a platform for artists, scholars and young audiences under the idea of "Preserving Heritage, Empowering Artists, Inspiring Generations."