PIPAL: People’s Initiative for Participatory Action for food Labelling

In a significant development, numerous private practitioners and physicians in Varanasi have begun discussing Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) and their detrimental effects, marking a positive shift in healthcare discourse. This change comes as a result of persistent efforts by organizations such as PVCHR, JanMitra Nays, and PIPAL, which have been actively advocating for increased awareness and action on NCDs within the community. Notably, these efforts have culminated in a recently published article shedding light on the issue of obesity, a prevalent NCD, and its associated health risks. This publication serves as a testament to the collaborative endeavors of various stakeholders in Varanasi to address the pressing health challenges posed by NCDs. The engagement of private practitioners in discussions surrounding NCDs signifies a crucial step forward in promoting preventive healthcare measures and improving health outcomes in the region. It reflects a growing recognition of the import...

 A SURVEY STUDY IN UTTAR PRADESH AND BIHAR Navigating the Nutrition Paradox: Insights from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh Introduction India, with its vast and diverse population, presents a unique set of nutritional challenges. Notably, the country is experiencing a dual burden of malnutrition: undernutrition and a rising trend of obesity. A recent study conducted by the Peoples’ Vigilance Committee on Human Rights (PVCHR) in association with the People’s Initiative for Participatory Action on Food Labeling (PIPAL) sheds light on the worrying trend of ultra-processed food consumption in rural areas of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. Spearheaded by Dr. Mohanlal Panda and Prof. Archana Kaushik from the Delhi School of Social Work, Delhi University, this study provides critical insights into how socio-economic factors influence dietary choices. The Double Burden of Malnutrition India's nutritional landscape is marked by stark contrasts. On one side, over one-third of children under age five are...

  The recent CTFK-GHAI India National Strategy Meeting held in Kolkata from March 11th to 13th, 2024, emerged as a pivotal moment in fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange within the health sector. Amidst the plethora of participants, one figure stood out for his exceptional dedication and commitment – Lenin Raghuvanshi. From the very onset, the presence of People's Vigilance Committee on Human Rights (PVCHR), represented by Lenin, Shabana and Abhimanyu left an indelible mark on the meeting. Engaging actively in networking activities on the first day, Lenin's insightful contributions resonated profoundly, advocating for solidarity across various ecosystems and sharing invaluable experiences from grassroots efforts. As the meeting transitioned into collaborative learning sessions on the second day, Lenin's pivotal role as a panelist in the stimulating discussion on "India Today and Tomorrow" highlighted his profound understanding of India's health lands...

Dear Readers, I hope this message finds you well. Today, I want to address a critical issue that impacts the health and well-being of individuals across our nation: the accessibility of blood pressure monitoring facilities in public spaces. As a human rights advocate and a survivor of hypertension, I have experienced firsthand the challenges of managing my health condition while traveling across the country. Regular monitoring of blood pressure is essential for individuals like me, who rely on medication to maintain normal levels. Unfortunately, finding a nearby facility for a quick check-up can be a daunting task, as I discovered recently during a health scare in the city. My concerns were further heightened when I came across a news article in the esteemed English daily, Times of India, dated January 16, 2024, titled "Silent killer: Stroke, once common among old, now stalks young, reveals AIIMS-Delhi data". The article highlighted the alarming increase in strokes among the ...

  The proliferation of packaged foods high in salt, sugar, and saturated fats has contributed to a rise in Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) across various demographics. According to recent data from The National Family Health Survey (NFHS), NCDs account for a staggering 63% of deaths in India. To address this alarming trend, there's a growing call for Warning Label Front of Package Labeling (FOPL) regulations. FOPL aims to empower consumers by providing clear warnings about the nutritional content of packaged foods, enabling them to make informed choices. Advocates emphasize the urgency of implementing FOPL to mitigate the health risks associated with excessive consumption of unhealthy packaged foods and combat the escalating burden of NCDs. Addressing Malnutrition and NCDs Among the Musahar Community in Varanasi Post-Covid" The Musahar community in Annai village, Badagaon block of Varanasi faces grave challenges in the aftermath of Covid-19, notably in child health and nu...