US deports Indian migrants, Pune's GBS outbreak, and Biryani over Upma
Feb 5, 2025
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Shubhajit Roy, Diplomatic Affairs Editor at The Indian Express, discusses the US's crackdown on illegal Indian migrants, highlighting its effects on diplomatic relations. Anonna Dutt, a health reporter, delves into the alarming outbreak of Guillain-Barré Syndrome in Pune, connecting it to sanitation issues and potential viral infections. The chat also veers into a fun culinary debate between biryani and upma, reflecting on cultural identity through food while addressing pressing social concerns in India.
The US's aggressive crackdown on illegal immigration has led to the unprecedented deportation of thousands of Indian migrants amidst rising diplomatic tensions.
Pune's alarming outbreak of Guillain-Barré Syndrome underscores the critical need for improved sanitation and public health education to prevent further infections.
Deep dives
US Crackdown on Illegal Immigration
The recent crackdown on illegal immigration announced by President Trump highlights a major shift in U.S. policy, focusing on deporting undocumented migrants, including about 20,000 Indians currently facing removal orders. This decision has sparked concerns in India, as many of these undocumented immigrants have exhausted their legal options and are now in detention centers. The dialogue between Prime Minister Modi and Trump signifies a diplomatic effort to address these issues, with India stressing the importance of distinguishing between legal and illegal immigration. The deportation of Indian migrants raises the stakes for India, which has successfully sent back a military aircraft carrying these individuals, further amplifying the urgency of this humanitarian issue.
Outbreak of Guillain-Barré Syndrome in Pune
Pune is currently facing an outbreak of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), a rare neurological disorder impacting the immune system, with over 150 suspected cases and several fatalities linked to inadequate sanitation in the affected areas. Authorities are investigating the outbreak, suspecting it may be connected to the Campylobacter jejuni bacteria, which can be transmitted via contaminated food or water. Health officials are focusing on preventive measures, like improving sanitation and educating the public on hygiene practices, to curb the spread of infections that could trigger GBS. While GBS isn't contagious, it raises public health concerns, particularly regarding the conditions that allow such outbreaks to occur.
Kerala's Anganwadi Meal Program Discussion
A viral video featuring a young boy from Kerala requesting biryani instead of the standard Upma for his Anganwadi meal has sparked renewed discussions about the adequacy of the meals provided under the Integrated Child Development Scheme. In response to the video's popularity, the Minister for Women and Child Development indicated that the government is open to modifying the menu to better serve the children. Kerala has also been implementing initiatives to enhance Anganwadi centers, transforming them into smart environments that support holistic childhood development. The state's commitment to improving meal quality and nutritional standards signifies an important step towards meeting the dietary needs of young children.
First, we talk to The Indian Express’ Diplomatic Affairs Editor, Shubhajit Roy, about the US' massive crackdown on illegal migrants and the first-of-its-kind deportation of Indian migrants since US President Donald Trump returned to the White House.
Next, The Indian Express’ Anonna Dutt talks about the Guillain-Barré Syndrome, whose spread has intensified in Pune, with over 150 suspected cases and five suspected deaths.
Finally, we talk about a child from Kerala who sparked discussions about anganwadi meal programs in the state, attracting attention from Kerala’s Minister for Women and Child Development, Veena George.
Hosted by Ichha Sharma Produced and written by Ichha Sharma and Shashank Bhargava Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar
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