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NHRC Presses FSSAI for Answers: Is India's Food Environment Fueling a Public Health Crisis?

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  Case No.: 4227/90/0/2021 Diary No.: 15413/IN/2021 Complainants: Shruti Nagvanshi and Shirin Shabana Khan Authority Concerned: Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) Latest NHRC Action: Additional Information Called For (20 January 2026) Four Years Later, NHRC Still Awaits Answers The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) continues to pursue a landmark complaint concerning the impact of unhealthy food consumption on the health rights of youth, women, and children across India. In a significant development, the Commission has once again sought information from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), expressing concern that despite repeated notices and reminders, crucial information regarding expert committee findings and action taken has not been submitted. The case, originally filed in September 2021 by Shruti Nagvanshi and Shirin Shabana Khan, raises a fundamental question: Can the growing burden of diabetes, obesity, and non-communicable dise...
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Building a Tobacco-Free India Requires Public Health Champions: PVCHR’s Call for Action on NCDs

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Building a Tobacco-Free India Requires Public Health Champions: PVCHR’s Call for Action on NCDs By PVCHR | World No Tobacco Day On World No Tobacco Day, the People's Vigilance Committee on Human Rights (PVCHR) reiterates that the fight against tobacco is not only a public health issue but also a human rights issue. Across India, millions of people continue to suffer from preventable Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, chronic respiratory illnesses, stroke, and diabetes—many of which are directly linked to tobacco consumption and exposure. India carries one of the world's largest burdens of NCDs. These diseases not only claim lives prematurely but also push vulnerable families into poverty due to catastrophic healthcare expenses. The impact is especially severe among marginalized communities, where access to healthcare, awareness, and preventive services remains limited. For PVCHR, the issue of NCDs is deeply connected to dignity, equality, ...
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🚨 New Op-Ed | Front-of-Pack Food Warnings in India: A Test Case for the Global Right to Health

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 🚨 New Op-Ed | Front-of-Pack Food Warnings in India: A Test Case for the Global Right to Health Across the world, ultra-processed foods are fueling a silent public health crisis. In India, the rising burden of non-communicable diseases demands urgent, preventive action — and transparent front-of-pack warning labels can be a transformative step toward protecting the right to health. My latest Op-Ed examines how India stands at a pivotal moment. With ongoing proceedings before the National Human Rights Commission (Case No. 4227/90/0/2021) and the Supreme Court emphasizing the need to prioritize citizens’ health, the country has a historic opportunity not just to follow global standards — but to leapfrog into leadership . India’s decision will influence global food governance, strengthen consumer rights, and help build healthier futures for millions, especially children and vulnerable communities. The world does not need another hesitant regulator. It needs a champion — and India can...
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Participating in a National Dialogue on Gender Equity in Death Registration

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Reflections from the AIIMS Jodhpur Webinar On 22 January 2026 , I had the opportunity to participate in a national-level webinar titled “Closing the Gender Gap in Death Registration: Strengthening CRVS System for Equity & Accountability in Rajasthan.” The webinar was jointly organized by the School of Public Health, AIIMS Jodhpur and the Global Health Advocacy Incubator , bringing together public health professionals, researchers, civil society actors, and human rights advocates. Why Death Registration and CRVS Matter Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (CRVS) systems are foundational to public health planning, social justice, and governance . Yet, gender disparities in death registration—particularly affecting women, marginalized communities, and rural populations—continue to undermine equity and accountability. The webinar highlighted: Structural and social barriers to death registration Gendered gaps in access to civil registration systems The link between C...
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Law Enforcement and Lifestyle Awareness Can Reduce Cancer and Diabetes Risks

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 Recent reports published in Hindustan (Varanasi edition, January 17, 2026) highlight two critical but often overlooked aspects of public health in India: the role of law enforcement and regulation in reducing cancer cases, and the importance of dietary awareness for people living with diabetes. Together, these reports underline how policy, prevention, and everyday lifestyle choices can significantly improve health outcomes. Strong Law Enforcement Can Help Reduce Cancer Risk One of the reports emphasizes that effective implementation of laws and regulations can play a major role in reducing cancer incidence. Experts point out that many cancer-causing factors—such as tobacco use, unsafe food products, environmental pollution, and unregulated chemicals—can be controlled only when laws are strictly enforced. Health professionals stress that: Bans and regulations on tobacco, gutkha, and other carcinogenic substances must be implemented seriously. Monitoring of ...
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Methi Saag: A Natural Remedy for Better Digestion and Overall Health

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 Traditional Indian food is deeply connected to health, and methi saag (fenugreek leaves) is a perfect example of this wisdom. Widely used in Indian kitchens, methi saag is not just flavorful—it is a powerhouse of nutrition that supports digestion, heart health, skin, hair, and overall immunity. Rich in Essential Nutrients Methi leaves are packed with essential nutrients such as: Potassium Iron Nitrogen-rich compounds Fiber Vitamins A, C, and K Antioxidants These nutrients help strengthen the body from within and protect against many lifestyle-related illnesses. Improves Digestion Naturally One of the most important benefits of methi saag is its role in improving digestion. The high fiber content helps: Regulate bowel movements Reduce gas, acidity, and indigestion Improve metabolism For people suffering from digestive discomfort, including constipation or bloating, methi saag works like a natural digestive tonic. Supports Heart Health and Co...
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Workshop on “FCRA and Nation Building"

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  Strengthening NGO Capacity on FCRA Compliance for Nation Building Implementing Organization Jan Mitra Nyas Supporting Partner CTFK / GHAI Date & Location 12-13 December 2025 Background and Rationale Civil society organizations play a crucial role in social development and nation building. However, many grassroots organizations face challenges in understanding and complying with the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA), which often limits their ability to access and effectively utilize foreign funding. Complex legal language, fear of non-compliance, and lack of technical guidance further discourage transparent engagement with foreign contributions. To address these challenges, Jan Mitra Nyas organized a capacity-building workshop on “FCRA and Nation Building” with the support of CTFK/GHAI. The workshop aimed to simplify FCRA provisions and empower organizations with practical knowledge for lawful, transparent, and effective use of foreign contributions. Object...
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