Trailblazers on Wheels

NOTABLE INDIAN WOMEN IN MOTORSPORT 

Motorsport has long been a male-dominated field—but over the years, several Indian women have broken barriers, refusing to be left behind. From rally racing to karting to circuit racing, these women are making their mark. Here’s a look at some of the most inspiring names in Indian motorsport.

1. Diana Pundole

Why she’s famous: Recently, Diana made history as the first Indian woman to race a Ferrari internationally, competing in the Ferrari Club Challenge Middle East in a Ferrari 296 Challenge. 

In 2024, she became the first Indian woman to win a national car racing championship — she clinched the MRF Saloon Cars title at the Madras International Circuit. 

Her racing journey began in 2018 through the JK Tyre Women in Motorsport talent hunt. 

She has raced on international tracks like Monza, Mugello, and the Dubai Autodrome, showing that Indian women can compete on the global stage. 

Diana balances her life as a mother of two with her passion for racing — a true role model for ambition and resilience. 

2. Aishwarya Pissay

Why she’s inspiring: Aishwarya is a two-wheeler racer—specialising in circuit racing, off-road, and rally—and holds multiple national and international titles. 

She won the FIM Bajas World Cup in the women’s category, making her the first Indian motorsports athlete to win a world title. 

On the national scene, she has seven FMSCI National titles, including six consecutive rally championship wins (INRC) from 2017 onwards. 

She’s not just dominating on Indian terrain — she was the first Indian woman to compete in Baja Aragón, a tough rally held in Spain. 

3. Bani Yadav

Why she stands out: Dr. Bani Yadav is one of India’s most experienced female rally drivers. 

She’s won major cross-country rally titles in India, even when competing in women-only categories, and has been a strong advocate for gender equality in motorsport. 

Notably, she is among the first Indian women to drive Formula 4 cars outside India, at the Abu Dhabi Yas Marina Circuit. 

Her story is even more inspiring because she started rallying seriously later in life and overcame a serious back injury to come back strong. 

4. Sneha Sharma

Her claim to fame: Sneha is both a racing driver and an airline pilot — quite a combination! 

She started karting very young, and by her late teens, she was racing in national-level championships like the JK Tyre National Racing Championship. 

Beyond racing, she’s known for breaking stereotypes — showing that women can thrive in high-speed motorsport as well as in the skies.

5. Atiqa Mir

Youngest rising star: Atiqa Mir (born in 2014 in Srinagar) is a kart racer who’s already making big waves. 

She became the first Indian and Asian female racer selected for the Formula 1 Academy’s “Discover Your Drive” development programme. 

In karting, she’s not just participating — she’s winning: she took vice-champion in the UAE IAME National Championship and podium finishes in international kart events. 

Why their stories matter

These women are more than just racers — they are icons of change. Here’s why their journeys are powerful:

Breaking Barriers: From circuit racing to rallying and karting, they show that motorsport is not just a “men’s game.”

Inspiring the Next Generation: Young girls looking at them see possibilities. If Diana can race a Ferrari internationally, why can’t they?

Building Ecosystems: Their success helps create more visibility, support, sponsorship, and infrastructure for women in Indian motorsport.

Changing Mindsets: In a country where motorsports is still niche, each win, each milestone challenges gender stereotypes.

Final Thoughts

From Diana Pundole’s historic Ferrari race to Aishwarya Pissay’s world titles and Atiqa Mir’s karting brilliance, Indian women in motorsport are writing a new chapter. Their stories teach us about passion, perseverance, and the courage to race against the odds.

Motorsport in India is changing — fast — and these women are in the driver’s seat.

The NASA–ISRO Mission That Will Watch Earth Like Never Before

NISAR

The Earth is constantly changing—mountains shift, forests grow or shrink, glaciers melt, and coastlines reshape. But much of this change happens quietly and slowly, often going unnoticed. To understand these hidden transformations, scientists need sharp, reliable eyes in space.

Enter NISAR, the NASA–ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar mission—one of the most ambitious Earth-monitoring satellites ever created.

Launched jointly by NASA (United States) and ISRO (India), NISAR is designed to study our planet in extraordinary detail. It will map almost the entire Earth every 12 days, capturing changes as small as a few millimeters!

What Exactly Is NISAR?

NISAR is an advanced Earth-observation satellite equipped with Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR)—a special kind of radar that can take extremely detailed images of Earth’s surface.

Unlike normal cameras, radar can:

● See through clouds

● Work day and night

● Capture precise measurements in all weather conditions

This makes NISAR incredibly reliable, especially in regions that are cloudy, remote, or difficult to access.

🛰️ A Historic Partnership

NISAR is the first mission where NASA and ISRO have built major satellite components together.

NASA built the L–band radar, communication systems, and data processing equipment.

ISRO built the S–band radar, the spacecraft body, and launched the mission using the GSLV rocket.

This collaboration marks a milestone in global space cooperation.

How Does NISAR Help Us?

NISAR’s radar senses tiny movements and changes on Earth’s surface. This data will help scientists understand and respond to:

1. Natural Disasters

● Earthquakes

● Volcanoes

● Landslides

● Floods and cyclones

2. Climate Change

● Melting glaciers

● Changes in ice sheets

● Sea-level rise

● Forest carbon storage

3. Agriculture & Water

● Crop monitoring

● Soil moisture detection

● Surface and groundwater studies

4. Forests and Ecosystems

● Deforestation

● Wetland mapping

● Biodiversity monitoring

🚀 The Technology Behind NISAR

NISAR carries two powerful radar systems:

● L-band radar (NASA) – penetrates deeper into forests and soil

● S-band radar (ISRO) – ideal for monitoring crops, vegetation, and disasters

Together, they provide a complete, highly accurate picture of Earth’s changing surface.

A highlight of the mission is the 12-meter-wide radar antenna, one of the largest ever sent to space!

Do You Know?

● NISAR’s antenna is 12 meters wide—almost the size of a school bus.

● It can detect ground movement as small as 1–4 mm from 747 km above Earth.

● It will map the entire Earth in just 12 days.

● The mission will produce huge amounts of data every day, all freely available to the public.

● SAR can take clear pictures during storms, floods, and at night.

● NISAR is the world’s first mission to use both L-band and S-band radar together.

● It is a $1.5-billion collaboration, one of the costliest Earth-observation missions ever.

● It can help predict landslides and volcanic eruptions by tracking tiny surface movements.

● Scientists will be able to monitor glacier movement and melting every few days.

● The mission is a symbol of friendship and scientific partnership between India and the United States.

Why NISAR Matters

Earth is changing faster than ever. Climate change, urban growth, melting ice, droughts, and natural hazards affect millions of lives. NISAR provides early warnings, scientific insight, and a deeper understanding of our planet.

More importantly, it proves that international collaboration can lead to extraordinary achievements.

In Simple Words…

NISAR is a super-detailed, all-weather, day-night radar satellite that will help us monitor, understand, and protect our planet.

NISAR is now in the process of becoming fully operational — here’s the current status:

✅ What’s the Current Status of NISAR

1. First Radar Images Are Already Here

On Aug 21, 2025, NISAR’s L-band radar captured its first image of Mount Desert Island, Maine. 

On Aug 23, 2025, it imaged wetlands and farmland in North Dakota, showing forests, circular irrigation fields, and more. 

These images were taken during the commissioning phase, not full science operations yet. 

2. Commissioning / Check-Out Phase

After launch on July 30, NISAR spent about 90 days in a commissioning phase. 

During this time, engineers tested and calibrated both radars (L-band and S-band), and raised the satellite to its operational orbit. 

The large 12-meter antenna reflector successfully deployed in orbit. 

3. Science Operations Starting Soon

According to NASA, full science operations are expected to begin ~ 90 days after launch. 

NASA and ISRO are targeting early November 2025 for the mission to be officially declared “operational.” 

NISAR has already started collecting some data (test / commissioning images).

Not yet in full science mission mode — that should begin around November 2025, once commissioning is fully completed.

When the sky opens up

CLOUDBURSTS

Cloudbursts are among the most sudden and destructive weather events in the world. Within minutes, they can turn calm landscapes into roaring streams, triggering flash floods, landslides, and large-scale damage—especially in mountainous regions like the Himalayas. Understanding how they form and how we can stay safe is essential in today’s changing climate.

What Is a Cloudburst?

A cloudburst is an extreme and sudden rainfall event, where a huge amount of precipitation falls over a small area in a very short time. It may also be accompanied by thunder, lightning, or hail.

Such intense rainfall overwhelms the ground’s ability to absorb water, leading to instant flooding.

Do You Know?

The term “cloudburst” comes from the old belief that clouds burst like water-filled balloons. Although this idea is scientifically incorrect, the name still continues to be used.

How Do Cloudbursts Occur?

Cloudbursts happen due to a combination of atmospheric conditions:

1. Sudden Condensation

A large amount of moisture rapidly condenses in the atmosphere.

2. Strong Upward Air Currents

Powerful vertical winds hold the condensed water droplets at high altitudes for some time.

When these upward currents suddenly weaken, the accumulated water falls all at once—causing a cloudburst.

3. Orographic Effect

They are most common in hilly regions when moisture-laden winds hit mountain slopes, rise rapidly, cool, and condense suddenly.

4. Mixing of Air Masses

Sometimes, warm moist air collides with cooler air, triggering rapid condensation that leads to intense rainfall.

Why Are Cloudbursts Increasing?

● Strong Updrafts

Vertical air currents can trap huge amounts of water which fall suddenly when the wind weakens.

● Climate Change

A warmer atmosphere holds more moisture. As global temperatures rise, cloudbursts are becoming more frequent and more intense.

Recent Cloudburst Incidents (2025)

● Several cloudbursts have hit the Himalayan foothills in recent months, causing flash floods and heavy loss of life and property:

● Uttarakhand (August 5, 2025) – Cloudburst over the Kheer Ganga River triggered floods in Dharali village.

● Kullu, Himachal Pradesh (August 9, 2025) – A cloudburst in the Sharod Nala area caused water levels in Barogi Nala to rise sharply.

● Kishtwar, J&K (August 14, 2025) – A massive cloudburst struck Chashoti village, killing more than 46 people.

● Kathua, J&K (August 17, 2025) – Cloudburst and landslides in Jodh Ghati and Bagra villages claimed seven lives.

These incidents highlight the urgent need for better forecasting and preparedness.

Government Initiatives

India has taken several steps to improve disaster preparedness and response:

● Mausam App (IMD)

Provides quick weather updates and warnings.

● Disaster Management Act, 2005

Offers a legal framework for managing disasters.

● National Disaster Response Force (NDRF)

A trained force dedicated to disaster rescue and relief.

● National Policy on Disaster Management (2009)

Aims to manage disasters through prevention, mitigation, and preparedness.

● Sendai Framework

India has committed to reducing disaster risks under this global framework.

● National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC)

Guides states in preparing climate action plans; all 34 States/UTs have developed their SAPCCs.

Way Forward

1. Improve Forecasting Systems

Investment in advanced radars, satellites, and ground sensors is essential for accurate, hyperlocal warnings.

2. Restore Ecosystems

Afforestation, watershed development, and strict land-use regulation help slopes absorb rainfall naturally.

3. Build Disaster-Resilient Infrastructure

Roads, bridges, and buildings must be designed to withstand extreme weather.

4. Promote Research

More studies on cloudburst formation, climate impact, and local vulnerability will help predict them better.

5. Strengthen Community Preparedness

Regular drills, school training, and awareness programmes can save lives during sudden disasters.

Conclusion: Cloudbursts are natural events, but their increasing frequency is linked to climate change and environmental degradation. By improving forecasting, planning responsibly, and strengthening community awareness, we can reduce the damage they cause. Understanding cloudbursts is an important step in creating safer and more resilient communities—especially in the fragile Himalayan region.

A Wooden Masterpiece and its Epic Journey

KIRUNA CHURCH 

The Kiruna Church in northern Sweden is one of the country’s most admired wooden buildings. Famous for its distinctive architecture and deep cultural roots, the church has recently become world-famous for another reason—it went on a historic journey, travelling several kilometres to a new location to ensure its safety. This remarkable event has made Kiruna Church a symbol of heritage, engineering, and preservation.

A Glimpse into History: Built between 1909 and 1912, Kiruna Church stands as one of Sweden’s largest wooden structures. It was commissioned by the mining company LKAB during the early development of Kiruna as a mining town.

Designed by architect Gustav Wickman, the church honours Scandinavian traditions and reflects the lifestyle of the Indigenous Sami people.

A Unique Wooden Structure

Kiruna Church is celebrated for:

1. Its All-Wood Construction

The warm wooden interiors and carved details make it very different from the stone churches seen across Europe.

2. Sami-Inspired Architecture

Its shape resembles a Sami goahti, the tent-like home of the Sami community, showing deep respect for local culture.

3. Deep Red Exterior

The church’s traditional Swedish red colour looks stunning against the snowy Arctic landscape.

4. Beautiful Art Inside

The altarpiece created by Prince Eugen, along with wooden arches and soft lighting, gives the church a peaceful and artistic charm.

Why Did Kiruna Church Need to Move?

Kiruna is home to one of the world’s largest iron ore mines. Over time, mining activity caused ground movements and fissures (cracks in the earth), putting the old church at risk.

To protect this historic treasure, Sweden decided to relocate the entire church to a safer area—a major engineering challenge.

A Historic Journey: Moving a 670-Tonne Church

In the summer of 2024, the world watched as Kiruna Church began an incredible three-mile (around 5 km) journey to its new home.

“Holy Roller” – A Once-in-a-Lifetime Move

● The church weighs over 670 tonnes—as heavy as 100+ elephants.

● Engineers placed the massive church on steel beams for support.

● The whole structure was lifted carefully onto motorised transporters.

● The trailers moved slowly at 500 metres per hour, ensuring safety.

● The church was so wide that workers had to temporarily remove signs, lamp posts, and even a bridge to clear the path.

● The entire journey took two days, with crowds gathering to witness this extraordinary event.

This relocation is now considered one of the most impressive building moves in history. It ensured the church will stand strong for generations to come.

Why Kiruna Church Matters

● It is a national heritage building of Sweden.

● It beautifully blends modern engineering, traditional architecture, and Indigenous culture.

● Its preservation through relocation is a global example of how precious historical structures can be protected.

● The church is also a spiritual and cultural symbol in Sweden’s Arctic region.

Do You Know?

● Kiruna Church has been voted one of Sweden’s most beautiful buildings.

● It is one of the northernmost churches in the world, located above the Arctic Circle.

● Visitors often see the Northern Lights shining above the church in winter.

● Its separate bell tower is also inspired by Sami traditions.

● The relocation of Kiruna Church is the largest wooden-building move ever attempted in Sweden.

Celebrating Cinema, Culture and Creativity

INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL OF INDIA (IFFI)

The International Film Festival of India (IFFI) is one of Asia’s most prestigious film festivals. Held every year, it brings together filmmakers, actors, writers, and cinema lovers from all over the world. IFFI is not just a festival of movies—it is a celebration of creativity, cultural exchange, and the power of storytelling.

A Glimpse into Its History: IFFI was first held in 1952, making it one of the oldest film festivals in Asia. The Government of India organised it with the aim of showcasing the best films from India and abroad, and helping Indian cinema grow on the global stage.

In 2004, IFFI found a permanent home in Goa, which has hosted the festival every year since then. The beautiful beaches, vibrant culture and festive atmosphere make Goa the perfect venue.

What Happens at IFFI?

IFFI is more than just film screenings. It is a week-long cinematic celebration that includes:

1. Film Screenings

Films from different countries are shown in various categories—feature films, documentaries, short films, children’s films, and many more.

2. Indian Panorama

This is a special section dedicated to the best of Indian cinema in various languages, showcasing the diversity of filmmaking in India.

3. Masterclasses and Workshops

Renowned filmmakers, actors and technicians conduct sessions where students and film lovers can learn about cinematography, acting, editing, music, and direction.

4. Red-Carpet Events and Award Ceremonies

Celebrities attend premieres, interact with fans, and the best films and artists are honoured with prestigious awards.

Why Is IFFI Important?

● It promotes Indian cinema globally.

● It brings world cinema to Indian audiences.

● It encourages young filmmakers and gives them a platform.

● It strengthens cultural ties between countries.

● It supports creativity, innovation, and exchange of new ideas.

Awards Presented at IFFI

Some major awards include:

● Golden Peacock Award – Best Film

● Silver Peacock Award – Best Director, Best Actor/Actress

● ICFT UNESCO Gandhi Medal – Film promoting peace and harmony

● Special Jury Award – For outstanding artistic contribution

These awards recognise excellence in both Indian and international cinema.

IFFI and India’s Growing Film Culture: India is one of the world’s biggest film-producing countries. IFFI helps showcase this talent to a global audience. It also allows Indian filmmakers to learn from international trends and experiment with new styles.

Every year, IFFI brings fresh energy, new stories, and global attention to Indian cinema. It reflects India’s belief that films can inspire, inform, entertain, and unite people.

Do You Know? (IFFI Facts)

● IFFI is often called “India’s Cannes” because of its global importance.

● The first IFFI travelled to different cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Madras (Chennai), and Kolkata before settling in Goa.

● Internationally acclaimed filmmakers such as Akira Kurosawa, Satyajit Ray, and Vittorio De Sica have been associated with IFFI.

● IFFI showcases films in over 40 languages every year.

Celebrating Men, Supporting Well-Being

INTERNATIONAL MEN'S DAY 

International Men’s Day, observed every year on 19 November, is a special occasion dedicated to appreciating the positive roles that men play in our families, communities, and society. Though it may not be as widely rrecognised as other international observances, its message is powerful and relevant. This day is not a response to International Women’s Day; instead, it is a reminder that every gender has unique strengths, challenges, and needs that deserve attention.

Why Do We Celebrate International Men’s Day? 

International Men’s Day focuses on six important objectives that help build a healthier and more inclusive society:

1. Promoting Positive Male Role Models

This day highlights men who inspire others through kindness, leadership, service, and responsibility. These role models go beyond stereotypes and show that strength also comes from compassion, humility, and courage.

2. Celebrating Men’s Contributions

From fathers and brothers to teachers, mentors, and community helpers—men contribute to the world in countless ways. Many of their efforts may be quiet or unnoticed, but they have a deep impact on families, workplaces, and society.

3. Focusing on Men’s Health and Well-being

Men often face health issues like heart disease, prostate cancer, and higher suicide rates. Unfortunately, many hesitate to talk about mental health or seek medical help due to social expectations of “being strong.” International Men’s Day encourages men to prioritise their physical and emotional well-being.

4. Addressing Discrimination Against Men

In some areas—such as family courts, education, or access to social support—men may experience challenges or biases. This day helps bring those issues into discussion so solutions can be created.

5. Improving Gender Relations

Healthy societies thrive when all genders understand and support each other. International Men’s Day strengthens conversations about respect, equality, and cooperation between men and women.

6. Creating a Safer, Better World

By promoting fairness, well-being, and meaningful dialogue, this day works toward building a world where everyone can live with dignity and opportunity.

Understanding Men’s Silent Struggles: One of the most important themes of International Men’s Day is men’s mental health. Studies show that many men find it difficult to express their emotions or ask for help due to fear of judgement or perceived weakness. This can lead to loneliness, stress, or depression.

International Men’s Day encourages:

● open conversations

● breaking harmful stereotypes

● reminding everyone that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness

● A society that listens to its men is a society that grows stronger.

Moving Beyond Stereotypes: Masculinity is diverse. Men today are caregivers, artists, teachers, homemakers, leaders, and changemakers. International Men’s Day celebrates this rich variety of roles, breaking the old idea that men must fit into one mould. Every man’s contribution—whether big or small—adds value to the world.

How We Can Take Action: 

On International Men’s Day, each of us can play a role by:

✔ Listening and Understanding

Give space for men and boys to talk about their thoughts and challenges.

✔ Supporting Men’s Health

Encourage regular check-ups, fitness, healthy habits, and mental health awareness.

✔ Challenging Stereotypes

Promote positive messages about modern masculinity—strong, kind, supportive, and responsible.

✔ Appreciating the Men in Our Lives

A simple “thank you” can mean a lot—especially to fathers, brothers, teachers, friends, and mentors.

✨ Do You Know? – International Men’s Day

● International Men’s Day began in 1999, first celebrated in Trinidad and Tobago, and is now observed in over 80 countries.

● The official theme changes every year, focusing on issues like mental health, positive masculinity, or gender relations.

● The date 19 November was chosen in honour of the birthday of the father of Dr. Jerome Teelucksingh, the man who revived and popularised the celebration.

● International Men’s Day also complements Movember, a global campaign in November where men grow moustaches to raise awareness about prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and men’s mental health.

● Boys’ issues are included too—this day highlights education challenges, bullying, peer pressure, and mental health concerns among boys.

● Many countries use this day to honour teachers, fathers, frontline workers, and community helpers who work silently but tirelessly.

● The goal is not to compare genders, but to encourage balance, understanding, and support for men and boys.

● In some places, schools and organisations hold activities like awareness sessions, health check-ups, gratitude letters, and role model talks.

● The symbol of International Men’s Day is a combination of the Mars symbol (♂) and a plus sign, representing positive male identity.

● The long-term vision of International Men’s Day is to create a world where everyone—regardless of gender—can live safely, happily, and equally.

Conclusion: International Men’s Day is not about comparing genders—it is about recognising that men, too, deserve care, support, and appreciation. When men are healthy, valued, and empowered, families become stronger and societies flourish.

Celebrating men is a step toward creating a more compassionate, balanced world for everyone.

A Growing Global Health Concern

DENGUE 

Dengue, often called “break-bone fever”, is a mosquito-borne viral infection that continues to threaten millions of people around the world. Countries like India have been especially affected. 

What Is Dengue?

Dengue is caused by the dengue virus, which spreads to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes. It is more common in tropical and subtropical regions where warm temperatures and urban environments help mosquitoes breed easily.

How Dengue Spreads

1. Mosquito-to-Human Transmission

The infection is mainly transmitted through the bite of infected Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. These mosquitoes are active during the day, especially early morning and late afternoon.

Another species, Aedes albopictus, can also spread the virus but contributes less to transmission.

2. Human-to-Mosquito Transmission

A mosquito can become infected when it bites a person who already has dengue virus in their bloodstream.

3. Human-to-Human Transmission

Direct human-to-human spread is uncommon. However, maternal transmission (mother to baby) has been reported.

4. Other Rare Modes

Rare cases of dengue have occurred through blood transfusions, organ donations and transovarial transmission (virus passed from an infected female mosquito to its eggs)

Symptoms of Dengue

Common Symptoms: Most people experience mild or no symptoms and recover within 1–2 weeks. Typical symptoms include high fever, severe headache, body aches and joint pain, nausea and skin rash

Severe Dengue: Severe dengue can be life-threatening. It usually appears once the fever reduces. Warning signs include intense abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, rapid breathing, bleeding from gums or nose, blood in vomit or stool. 

Immediate medical attention is necessary.

Who is at risk?

1. Previous Dengue Infection

People who have had dengue before are at a higher risk of severe dengue, due to a phenomenon called antibody-dependent enhancement.

2. Unplanned Urbanisation 

Uncontrolled population growth and environmental conditions increase mosquito breeding. Risk factors include high population density, water storage practices, human mobility and irregular water supply. 

Global Situation: Dengue has now become one of the top 10 global health threats, as identified by WHO in 2019.

Key Facts

● Around half of the world’s population is at risk.

● An estimated 100–400 million infections occur every year.

● Since many cases are mild or misdiagnosed, the actual number is likely much higher.

Where Is Dengue Most Common?

Dengue is widespread in:

● The Americas

● South-East Asia

● Western Pacific

Asia alone accounts for nearly 70% of the global disease burden.

Europe, too, has begun reporting local transmission—first noted in France in 2010.

Dengue in India

According to ICMR, 2 to 2.5 lakh cases are reported annually across the country.

Prevention: The Best Protection

● There is no complete cure for dengue yet. Preventing mosquito bites is the safest approach.

● Protect Yourself From Mosquito Bites

● Wear clothes that cover the arms and legs

● Use mosquito nets

● Apply repellents containing DEET, Picaridin, or IR3535

● Keep surroundings clean and free of still water

Treatment

For Mild Dengue

● Drink plenty of fluids

● Use paracetamol (acetaminophen) for fever

● Avoid ibuprofen and aspirin, as they increase the risk of bleeding

For Severe Dengue

Hospitalisation is required for close monitoring, hydration, and supportive care.

Vaccines

Currently, Dengvaxia is the only licensed vaccine in some countries, but it is effective only for people who have had dengue before.

Ideal Characteristics of a Dengue Vaccine

Scientists aim to develop a vaccine that:

● Is safe in both the short and long term

● Protects against all four dengue virus serotypes

● Reduces risk of severe disease and death

● Works regardless of the person’s age or previous infection

● Provides sustained immunity

India’s upcoming vaccine project is a major step toward meeting these goals.

Steps Taken to Control Dengue

WHO’s Response

WHO supports countries through:

● Global Vector Control Response (2017–2030)

● Strengthening monitoring and prevention strategies

India’s Measures

India implements control through the National Vector Borne Diseases Control Programme (NVBDCP).

It covers six diseases: Malaria, Kala-azar, Lymphatic filariasis, Dengue, Chikungunya and Japanese encephalitis

The programme focuses on mosquito control, disease surveillance, public awareness, and early diagnosis.

Conclusion: Dengue remains a serious public health challenge in many parts of the world, including India. With rising cases and expanding geographical spread, prevention and awareness have become more important than ever. The development of India’s dengue vaccine offers hope for stronger protection in the coming years. Controlling mosquito breeding and seeking timely medical care remain the most powerful tools against this disease.