A recent study has raised concerns regarding the treatment of keratoconus, revealing that, in some cases, the condition may worsen even after treatment. This has led to further exploration of its management, especially in the context of advanced therapeutic methods.

What is Keratoconus?

Keratoconus is a vision disorder in which the cornea, the clear, dome-shaped surface at the front of the eye, becomes thinner and irregularly shaped, often taking on a cone-like appearance. This abnormal corneal shape interferes with light entering the eye, preventing it from being properly focused on the retina. This leads to distorted vision.

Key Features of Keratoconus:

• Progressive Condition: Keratoconus usually begins in late teens or early 20s and progresses slowly over a span of 10 to 20 years.

• Bilateral Impact: While it often affects both eyes, the severity and progression may differ between the eyes, leading to significant variations in vision quality.

• Vision Symptoms: The condition can cause blurry vision, double vision, increased sensitivity to light, and distorted images.

• Gradual Deterioration: Vision symptoms can progressively worsen over time, with changes that are often non-symmetrical between the two eyes.

Treatment of Keratoconus

While there is no known prevention for keratoconus, there are several treatment options that aim to slow or halt the progression of the disease, or in more advanced cases, to restore vision.

1. Early Stage Treatment:

• Eyeglasses or Soft Contact Lenses: In the early stages of keratoconus, glasses or soft contact lenses may suffice to correct vision distortion.

• Rigid Gas Permeable Lenses: As the condition progresses, rigid gas permeable contact lenses can provide better visual clarity by compensating for the irregular shape of the cornea.

2. Corneal Collagen Cross-Linking (CXL):

• Corneal Collagen Cross-Linking is a non-invasive procedure that aims to halt the progression of keratoconus by strengthening the cornea. It involves applying riboflavin (a type of vitamin B) to the cornea, followed by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, which increases the bonding of the collagen fibers in the cornea, making it stiffer.

• This treatment is effective in early to moderate cases and helps prevent further deterioration of vision.

3. Advanced Treatments:

• Corneal Transplantation: In advanced stages, when the cornea becomes severely distorted and vision cannot be corrected with lenses or cross-linking, a corneal transplant (keratoplasty) may be necessary. This involves replacing the damaged cornea with a donor's healthy cornea.

The tragic incident involving Soudamini Mahala, a 59-year-old woman who was killed by a saltwater crocodile in the Kharasrota River in Odisha, has brought attention to the growing concerns over wildlife-human conflicts in the region.

About the Kharasrota River:

• Location: The Kharasrota River is situated in the state of Odisha, eastern India. It is a tributary of the Brahmani River, one of the major east-flowing rivers in the region.

• Course:

  • The river originates from the Eastern Ghats in the Keonjhar district.

  • It then flows through Jajpur and Kendrapara districts before joining the Brahmani River near the Dhamra Estuary, which is close to the Bay of Bengal.

  • The river passes through the ecologically significant Bhitarkanika region, a mangrove forest and wetland area, home to various species of wildlife, including the saltwater crocodile.

Significance of the Kharasrota River:

• Irrigation and Drinking Water:
  The river serves as a vital water source for irrigation and drinking water for parts of Jajpur and Kendrapara districts in Odisha.

• Ecological Importance:
  The river flows through the Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its rich biodiversity, including saltwater crocodiles, which are native to the area and are found in its estuaries and wetlands.

• Economic Role:
  The river plays a crucial role in sustaining local agriculture, providing water for farming activities. However, concerns have risen about the impact of projects like the Mega Drinking Water Project in Kendrapara, as they could reduce the water available for agriculture and other local uses, leading to protests by locals.

The Southern Right Whale (scientific name Eubalaena australis) has recently shown concerning signs of reduced calf production, suggesting that climate change may be disrupting their reproduction. These whales, once heavily hunted for their valuable body parts, have made a notable recovery, but now they face new threats, including the ongoing impacts of environmental disruptions.

About the Southern Right Whale:

• Scientific Classification: Eubalaena australis

• Common Name: Southern Right Whale

• Conservation Status: Classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Although they are not currently endangered, their reduced calf production signals potential threats to their population and ecosystem.

Physical Characteristics:

• Size:

  • Southern right whales can grow up to 60 feet (18 meters) long and weigh about 60 tons.

  • Their head is very large, making up about one-quarter of their total body length.

• Coloration:

  • These whales are mostly dark gray or black, with some individuals having lighter patches on their bodies.

• Unique Features:

  • Their heads have distinctive white calluses, which serve as a habitat for colonies of parasites.

  • Blubber, a thick layer of fat, helps them survive in cold waters and is a crucial adaptation for insulation.

Distribution and Habitat:

• Location:

  • Southern right whales are primarily found in the Southern Hemisphere. They inhabit waters off the coast of South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, and South America.

• Migration:

  • They are often found in sheltered bays during the breeding season. From May to November, these whales migrate to the South African coast for calving and breeding.

• Summer Habitats:

  • In the summer, they are typically found in the cold waters around Antarctica, where they feed and spend time in nutrient-rich waters.

Conservation Challenges and Climate Change:

• Climate Impact:

  • A troubling trend has emerged in recent years with fewer calves being born. Scientists suspect that climate change is influencing the whales' ability to reproduce, with changes in ocean temperatures and food availability possibly affecting their breeding cycles and the survival of young calves.

• Reproduction Issues:

  • Southern right whales have a long gestation period, and their reproduction is sensitive to environmental conditions. Disruptions in sea temperatures and marine ecosystems can lead to lower reproduction rates, putting additional strain on their population.

• Conservation Efforts:

  • While currently classified as Least Concern, the potential long-term effects of climate change and other human-driven factors (like shipping traffic and fishing activities) may change the whale's conservation outlook.

  • Continued monitoring of their population and environment is crucial, along with protecting their habitats and ensuring sustainable practices for marine ecosystems.

Right Whales Overview

Right whales are large baleen whales belonging to the genus Eubalaena. This genus includes several species, each with different conservation statuses:

1. Southern Right Whale (Eubalaena australis) - Least Concern

2. North Atlantic Right Whale (Eubalaena glacialis) - Critically Endangered

3. North Pacific Right Whale (Eubalaena japonica) - Endangered

These whales are slow swimmers and are known for their characteristic behaviors, such as floating at the water's surface after death, which historically made them easier targets for whalers. They are also famous for producing large amounts of baleen (the comb-like plates used to filter food from water) and oil, which led to their over-exploitation during the whaling era.

Historical Context:

• Whaling Impact:
  Right whales were heavily hunted for their oil, baleen, and other body parts, pushing many populations close to extinction. The North Atlantic Right Whale and North Pacific Right Whale were particularly impacted.

• Hunting Ban:
  Whaling for right whales was officially banned in 1935. Since then, the whaling industry is no longer a significant threat to their survival. However, recovery has been slow, and these whales still face numerous modern threats.

Species Breakdown:

• Southern Right Whale (Eubalaena australis):

  • Found in the Southern Hemisphere, particularly along the coasts of South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, and South America.

  • This species is classified as Least Concern due to its stable and recovering population. However, recent concerns about reduced calf production due to climate change are a growing issue.

• North Atlantic Right Whale (Eubalaena glacialis):

  • Found primarily in the North Atlantic Ocean, especially along the coasts of North America and Europe.

  • Classified as Critically Endangered, with an estimated population of less than 350 individuals. The North Atlantic Right Whale faces serious threats, including collisions with ships, entanglement in fishing gear, and habitat degradation.

• North Pacific Right Whale (Eubalaena japonica):

  • Inhabits the North Pacific Ocean, particularly off the coasts of Alaska and Russia.

  • Classified as Endangered, with fewer than 100 individuals remaining. This population is also threatened by human activities and environmental changes.

What is the H-1B Visa Program?

The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa designed to enable U.S. companies to hire foreign workers in specialized fields such as STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) and IT. Introduced in 1990, the program helps companies address skill shortages when qualified U.S. workers are not available. The visa is valid for up to six years, with the option to transition to permanent residency (Green Card).

Key Features:

• Share of Indians: Indians dominate the program, constituting over 70% of H-1B approvals since 2015.

• Quota: The annual cap is 65,000 new visas, with an additional 20,000 available for those with a U.S. Master's degree.

• Exemptions: Applicants continuing employment or working with educational institutions, nonprofits, or government entities are exempt from the cap.

Benefits for Indian Professionals:

• Dominance in IT & STEM: Indians make up more than 80% of computer-related jobs through the H-1B program, which is crucial for U.S. tech companies.

• Medical & Healthcare: Indians represent 22% of international medical graduates in the U.S., contributing significantly to healthcare staffing.

• Career Pathways: Many Indian students use H-1B to enhance career prospects and gain global exposure.

Impact of H-1B Visa Fee Hike on India

1. Impact on Indian Professionals:

• Limited Opportunities: The USD 100,000 fee per employee will make it harder for Indian tech professionals to secure H-1B visas, especially for mid and early-career talent. Opportunities may be limited to senior, specialized roles.

• Job Insecurity: Existing visa holders could face renewal difficulties, as high fees may discourage employers from sponsoring visas, potentially leading to job losses or relocation.

2. Impact on Indian IT Companies:

• Cost Increase: Indian IT giants like Infosys, TCS, and Wipro, which rely heavily on H-1B visas for deploying talent to the U.S., will face significant revenue losses due to the high per-employee fee.

• Adaptation: To counter this, Indian firms may focus on local hiring in the U.S., greater offshoring, and leveraging automation and AI technologies to replace the need for H-1B labor.

3. Impact on Indian Economy:

• Reduced Remittances: The reduction in the number of H-1B visa holders will likely lead to a drop in remittances, which could amount to USD 400 million annually, putting pressure on the Indian rupee and exacerbating its vulnerabilities.

• Skill Drain: With fewer opportunities for Indian professionals, there may be an increase in migration to countries like Canada, Australia, and Europe.

4. Impact on India-US Relations:

• Strategic Strain: The fee hike could strain the India-U.S. relationship, which has been bolstered by trade, innovation, and the tech sector. Many Indian professionals and IT firms have become vital partners in U.S. tech growth, and restrictions on them could harm economic and strategic ties.

• Shift in Migration Patterns: Indian professionals may increasingly look for opportunities in other countries like Canada and Australia where immigration policies are more favorable.

5. Impact on U.S. Companies:

• Talent Shortages: U.S. companies such as Amazon, Microsoft, and Google may face a shortage of skilled STEM talent, particularly in IT and healthcare, which could drive up wages and operational costs.

• Increased Competition: With fewer skilled workers available, competition for domestic labor would intensify, further escalating labor costs and operational challenges for U.S. firms.

What Strategies Can India Adopt to Address the H-1B Visa Fee Hike?

1. Diplomatic & Government-Led Measures:

• Engage in Diplomatic Talks: India can leverage platforms such as the India-U.S. Trade Policy Forum and the 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue to highlight how the fee hike negatively impacts U.S. innovation and the broader strategic relationship between the two countries.

• WTO Dispute: India could explore filing a dispute at the World Trade Organization (WTO), arguing that the fee increase constitutes protectionism and violates the General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS).

2. Strategic Shift for Indian IT Companies:

• Localization of Workforce: Indian firms can increase local hiring in the U.S. to reduce reliance on H-1B visas. This also aligns with global shifts toward offshoring and cloud-based solutions, reducing the need for physical presence.

• Diversification: Expanding into global markets such as Europe, Australia, and the Middle East will help reduce dependency on the U.S. and diversify revenue streams.

3. Skill Development:

• Upskilling Professionals: India can focus on developing expertise in emerging technologies like AI, cybersecurity, and quantum computing. These high-value skills can justify higher visa costs for U.S. employers and keep Indian professionals in demand.

• Promote Reverse Migration: India can capitalize on its burgeoning tech ecosystem by encouraging reverse migration, offering skilled workers attractive opportunities at home.

4. Strengthen Advocacy:

• Leverage the Indian Diaspora: The large and influential Indian diaspora in the U.S. can be mobilized to advocate for rational immigration reforms, showcasing how Indian talent has contributed significantly to the U.S. economy and innovation.

Conclusion

The H-1B visa fee hike represents a significant protectionist shift in U.S. immigration policy that threatens to disrupt a crucial aspect of India-U.S. economic relations. Indian tech professionals, especially in the IT sector, are at the heart of this relationship, and their restricted access to U.S. labor markets could lead to reduced career opportunities, strained diplomatic ties, and an economic setback for India.

The AI for Good Summit at the India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2025 marks an important step in harnessing the power of artificial intelligence (AI) for global development and technological collaboration. The summit, hosted by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), is an excellent platform to discuss the evolving role of AI in shaping the future of connectivity, digital transformation, and sustainability.

Key Points on the International Telecommunication Union (ITU):

• Background:

  • The ITU, established in 1865 as the International Telegraph Union, has been a pivotal player in coordinating global telecommunication standards and policies. It became a specialized agency of the United Nations in 1947.

  • The organization works on global telecommunication and ICT services and aims to improve access to information and communication technologies (ICTs) across the world, especially in underserved regions.

  • With 194 member countries and over 1,000 partners, the ITU plays a critical role in shaping global telecommunications policies, allocating radio spectrum and satellite orbits, and ensuring technical standardization.

• India and ITU: India has had a long history with the ITU, being a member since 1869 and a regular member of the ITU Council since 1952. India’s active participation has been central in driving ICT development, fostering innovation, and advancing digital policy.

India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2025:

• Asia's Largest Technology Forum:

  • IMC is an annual event that gathers the best minds from the ICT and digital ecosystem to discuss the most pressing issues in telecommunications, digital transformation, and the role of emerging technologies like AI and 5G.

  • The event features industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators who shape the future of digital connectivity and technological advancements.

• Focus on AI and Digital Transformation:

  • The AI for Good Summit at IMC 2025 focuses on how artificial intelligence can be used to tackle some of the world’s most pressing challenges. This includes improving digital infrastructure, bridging the digital divide, and promoting sustainable development through innovation in ICT.

• Key Themes:

  • AI in Connectivity: How AI can optimize and manage the growing demands on telecom networks and provide smarter, more efficient connectivity solutions.

  • AI for Social Good: Exploring how AI can be leveraged to improve healthcare, education, agriculture, and other sectors in underserved and remote communities.

  • AI in Digital Transformation: The role of AI in accelerating digital transformation across sectors like banking, retail, and governance.

AI's Role in Shaping the Future:

• AI for Connectivity: One of the key goals discussed at the summit was how AI can optimize telecommunication infrastructure, improving network efficiency and providing faster, more reliable internet services, especially in rural or underserved regions.

• AI for Social Impact: AI has immense potential for social good—from using AI to predict and respond to climate change effects, to improving access to healthcare and education. Through strategic partnerships and initiatives, AI can help reduce inequalities in access to information and services.

• Collaboration Between Private Sector and Governments: The summit also highlighted the need for greater collaboration between governments, the private sector, and international organizations like the ITU to drive the adoption of AI and create a more inclusive, digitally connected world.

What Does This Mean for India?

India, with its rapidly growing digital ecosystem and expanding AI capabilities, is positioned as a key player in global ICT discussions. The IMC 2025, by hosting global dialogues like the AI for Good Summit, reinforces India’s role as a digital powerhouse and an influential voice in shaping future technology standards.

The AI for Good Summit and IMC 2025 are opportunities for India to showcase its tech innovations, explore AI’s potential in solving real-world problems, and lead the conversation on how emerging technologies can contribute to the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

On World Mental Health Day 2025, the Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare launched several new initiatives to further enhance the National Tele Mental Health Programme (Tele MANAS). This initiative has gained significant traction as an essential part of India's efforts to provide universal, equitable, and accessible mental health care across the country.

What is Tele MANAS?

Tele MANAS stands for Tele Mental Health Assistance and Networking Across States. It is a nationwide mental health initiative started by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) in 2022. The goal is to address the growing need for mental health support in India, offering a 24x7 tele-mental health service that is part of the National Mental Health Programme (NMHP).

Key Features of Tele MANAS:

• Universal Access: Tele MANAS is available across all states and union territories in India, ensuring equitable access to mental health care.

• Affordability and Quality: The program offers affordable mental health services, helping bridge gaps in mental health infrastructure and support, especially in remote and underserved areas.

Tele MANAS Structure: Two-Tier System

The Tele MANAS program operates through a two-tier system to ensure effective care delivery and support at different levels:

Tier 1:

• State Tele MANAS Cells: These cells are staffed with trained counselors and mental health specialists who provide immediate support.

  • Tele-Counseling: Offers direct psychological support to individuals.

  • Tele-Consultation: Enables mental health professionals to conduct initial consultations via phone or digital platforms.

Tier 2:

• Specialist Support: Tier 2 involves a more advanced support system through District Mental Health Programme (DMHP) facilities and medical colleges.

  • This tier offers access to specialized consultations, including audiovisual consultations via the e-Sanjeevani platform for in-depth care.

  • It provides additional resources for physical consultations when needed, ensuring holistic care for complex cases.

Key Features and Enhancements in 2025:

• Mobile App Launch: Tele MANAS launched a mobile app that serves as a comprehensive platform for accessing mental health resources. The app includes:

  • Self-care tips and stress management strategies.

  • Tools for recognizing early distress signals.

  • A Chatbot feature (Asmi), which provides immediate support and information.

  • Emergency Module to guide individuals during critical moments of mental distress.

• Multi-Lingual Interface: To ensure wider reach and accessibility, the app now supports 10 regional languages in addition to English and Hindi. These languages include:

  • Assamese, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Tamil, Telugu, Odia, Punjabi.

  • This multilingual support ensures that the service is accessible to a broader population, addressing language barriers that often hinder access to mental health care.

Importance of Tele MANAS for India:

• Increasing Demand for Mental Health Services: The pandemic and increasing societal pressures have resulted in a surge in mental health concerns. Tele MANAS seeks to address these rising challenges by providing immediate, affordable, and accessible services.

• Bridging the Mental Health Gap: Mental health services have traditionally been underdeveloped in many regions of India, especially in rural and underserved areas. Tele MANAS helps to overcome these barriers by utilizing telecommunication technologies to provide services where physical infrastructure may be lacking.

• Support for Mental Health Awareness: The app and initiatives are also aimed at promoting awareness about mental health issues, helping people understand and manage stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges proactively.