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India emerging as global hub for medical and wellness tourism

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India emerging as global hub for medical and wellness tourism

India is steadily emerging as a global centre for medical and wellness tourism, combining cutting-edge healthcare with centuries-old healing traditions.

According to the Press Information Bureau, rising global healthcare costs, long waiting periods, and increasing lifestyle diseases are pushing patients worldwide to seek treatment abroad, placing India firmly on the global medical travel map.

The global Medical Value Travel (MVT) market, valued at around USD 115.6 billion in 2022, is projected to nearly double to USD 286.1 billion by 2030, growing at a compound annual rate of 10.8%. Within this expanding landscape, India’s medical tourism sector is expected to grow to USD 16.2 billion by the end of the decade.

India’s strength lies in its integrated approach. The government’s flagship “Heal in India” initiative seeks to position the country as a destination that offers both advanced medical treatment and preventive wellness.

Medical tourism in India focuses on complex procedures such as cardiac surgery, organ transplants, cancer treatment and neurological care. At the same time, wellness tourism draws on traditional systems like Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy and other AYUSH practices, catering to global demand for all-inclusive health.

This dual framework has helped India secure a strong global standing. As per the Medical Tourism Index 2020–21, India ranks 10th among 46 destinations worldwide and is among the top five wellness destinations in the Asia-Pacific region.

Official data cited by the Press Information Bureau highlights the sector’s growing momentum: India recorded 9.15 million foreign tourist arrivals in 2025, of these, 507,244 visitors came specifically for medical treatment. Medical tourism now accounts for around 5.5% of total foreign arrivals. Neighbouring countries dominate the inflow. Bangladesh alone accounted for over 3.25 lakh medical tourists in 2025, followed by Iraq, Uzbekistan, Somalia, Turkmenistan, Oman and Kenya.

The broader tourism sector is also rebounding strongly. In FY24, travel and tourism contributed 5.22% to India’s GDP and supported approximately 8.46 crore jobs—around 13.3% of total employment.

India’s competitive edge, as outlined by the Press Information Bureau, rests on three pillars: scale, quality and cost. The country has over 69,000 hospitals, including more than 43,000 private facilities, supported by a workforce of about 1.2 million registered doctors. English as the primary language of medical education further enhances accessibility for international patients.

Quality assurance has also improved significantly. More than 1,299 hospitals are accredited by the National Accreditation Board for Hospitals and Healthcare Providers (NABH), adhering to over 600 safety parameters. Several institutions also hold international accreditations, placing them among globally recognised healthcare providers.

India’s cost advantage remains a major draw. Complex surgeries and treatments are often available at a fraction of the cost in Western countries, without compromising on quality, making it particularly attractive for patients from developing and middle-income nations.

India’s traditional systems of medicine the AYUSH sector comprising Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy, offers preventive and holistic healthcare solutions that are gaining global acceptance.

To facilitate this, the government introduced a dedicated AYUSH Visa in 2023, allowing foreign nationals to travel specifically for traditional treatments. Insurance coverage has also expanded, with around 27 insurers offering over 140 products covering AYUSH therapies.

Global outreach efforts, including international summits and collaborations, are further strengthening India’s position as a wellness destination. Events such as the WHO Global Traditional Medicine Summit and large-scale initiatives linked to yoga and Ayurveda have enhanced visibility.

The Union Budget 2026–27 has laid out an ambitious roadmap to cement India’s status as a global healthcare hub. Key proposals include the creation of five Regional Medical Hubs in partnership with states and the private sector. These hubs will integrate advanced medical facilities with AYUSH centres, research institutions and rehabilitation services.

In addition, three new All India Institutes of Ayurveda are planned to boost research and education in traditional medicine. The WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre in Jamnagar is also being upgraded to strengthen global collaboration.

Institutionally, the National Medical & Wellness Tourism Promotion Board continues to coordinate efforts across ministries, states and industry stakeholders, ensuring a cohesive policy framework.

The government is also focusing on simplifying the patient journey. E-medical visas are now available to nationals from 172 countries, along with dedicated e-AYUSH visa categories. A revamped Medical Value Travel portal is being developed as a one-stop digital platform, enabling patients to explore treatment options, book services, and access post-treatment care. Plans are also underway to set up dedicated facilitation centres at major airports to assist international patients.

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Saudi Arabia lifts ban on under-15 pilgrims for Hajj, restores earlier policy

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Saudi Arabia lifts ban on under-15 pilgrims for Hajj, restores earlier policy

Saudi Arabia, May 03: Saudi Arabia has lifted its ban on pilgrims under 15 years of age for this year’s Hajj, restoring the earlier policy that allows children aged 12 and above to undertake the annual pilgrimage.

The restriction, introduced recently, had barred those below 15 from performing Hajj, impacting thousands of families planning to travel together. With the latest decision, pilgrims aged 12 and above are once again eligible and can apply afresh, including reprocessing visas that were earlier rejected under the age restriction.

The decision was communicated to all participating countries by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, which also instructed aviation authorities to permit travel for eligible pilgrims within the revised age bracket.

Officials said the move effectively reverses the earlier directive and reinstates the previous eligibility norms. “The previous policy — allowing children above 12 years — is now back in effect. However, visas rejected under the 15-year restriction will need to be reprocessed,” the ministry said, according to a report by Arab News.

The development is expected to bring relief to families, particularly those who had postponed or altered their travel plans due to the restriction. The Hajj pilgrimage, one of the five pillars of Islam, draws millions of Muslims from across the world to the holy cities of Mecca and Medina each year.

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Reviewing fresh Iran proposal, can resume strikes if they misbehave: Trump

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Reviewing fresh Iran proposal, can resume strikes if they misbehave: Trump

Washington, May 03: US President Donald Trump said military strikes against Iran could resume “if they misbehave” even as he said that he was reviewing a fresh proposal from Tehran to end the now paused war.

Trump, on his way to Miami from Palm Beach, said he was reviewing a fresh proposal from Iran to end the war, but was sceptical about reaching a deal, contending that Tehran had not yet paid a big enough price for what they have done to humanity and the world over the past 47 years.

“If they misbehave, if they do something bad, but right now, we will see. It’s a possibility that could happen, certainly,” Trump said at the Palm Beach airport after a round of golf and an appointment with his local dentist.

The US President said he was looking at the new proposal sent by Iran on the plane and would talk to the media in Miami.

“I’m looking at it (on the plane). I’ll let you know about it later… They told me about the concept of the deal. They’re going to give me the exact wording now,” Trump said.

Later, an aide to the president said there would be no press conference in Miami.

Trump posted on social media about the new proposal, saying he “can’t imagine that it would be acceptable in that they have not yet paid a big enough price for what they have done to Humanity, and the World, over the last 47 years”.

No details were immediately available about the new proposal that Trump was examining.

Axios reported quoting two sources that the proposal, sent on Thursday, set a one-month deadline for negotiations on a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, end the US naval blockade and permanently end the war in Iran and in Lebanon.

As per the Iranian proposal, only after such a deal is reached, another month of negotiations would be launched to try and reach a deal on the nuclear programme, Axios reported, quoting two sources.

Trump rejected a previous Iranian proposal this week, saying he was not satisfied with it. However, conversations have continued, and the three-week ceasefire appears to be holding.

Trump was also briefed on Thursday by CENTCOM commander Adm. Brad Cooper about new plans for military strikes against Iran. Cooper then left for the region and on Saturday met soldiers on the USS Tripoli in the Arabian Sea.

The US President is also facing pressure from the high gas prices that have shot up to USD 4.39 per gallon, an increase of 47 per cent since the war with Iran began on February 28.

This week, price pressures worsened as President Donald Trump said that he wants to maintain the blockade on Iranian ports, which the US Navy has been enforcing since April 13.

“Now gasoline is high. As soon as the war ends, the gasoline prices will come down,” Trump told reporters on Friday.

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LG Manoj Sinha to inaugurate All India Inter-University Wushu Championship: KU

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LG Manoj Sinha to inaugurate All India Inter-University Wushu Championship: KU

The University of Kashmir (KU) is set to host the All India Inter-University Wushu Championship 2026 (Men & Women) from May 04 to 09 under the aegis of the Association of Indian Universities.

The championship, as per a KU statement issued on Saturday will be inaugurated on May 4 at the University’s Synthetic Athletic Track by Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir and Chancellor of the University, Manoj Sinha.

Organised by the University’s Directorate of Physical Education and Sports (DPES), the championship will bring together nearly 1,500 athletes and around 300 technical officials from about 195 universities across the country.

Vice-Chancellor KU, Prof. Nilofer Khan, said, “Hosting the All India Inter-University Wushu Championship is an important opportunity for the University to bring young athletes from different parts of the country together through sports. Such events encourage discipline, teamwork, and healthy competition while giving students a platform to learn from one another.”

She added that the University has made extensive preparations to ensure the smooth conduct of the championship and a comfortable experience for athletes and officials visiting Srinagar for the event.

The week-long championship, scheduled to be held at the SKISC Srinagar, is expected to witness high-level competition across various Wushu categories and formats. With athletes arriving from universities across India, the event will also create opportunities for interaction and cultural exchange among students from different regions of the country.

The championship is being organised in line with the broader objective of promoting youth engagement, fitness, and positive social participation under the ongoing Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyaan. Organisers said the event will also give local students and sports enthusiasts an opportunity to witness national-level university competition at close quarters.

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SKUAST-K flags disease risk after hailstorms, advises preventive action

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SKUAST-K flags disease risk after hailstorms, advises preventive action

In the wake of recent hailstorms that have caused widespread concern across Kashmir Valley, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Kashmir (SKUAST-K) has issued a comprehensive advisory urging farmers to take immediate remedial measures to minimise crop losses and prevent long-term damage to orchards and field crops.

As per the advisory issued by the Directorate of Extension, SKUAST-Kashmir, the recent hailstorm incidents have heightened the risk of crop injury, waterlogging, and outbreak of fungal and bacterial diseases, necessitating urgent intervention at the field level.

The advisory places primary emphasis on ensuring proper drainage of excess water, warning that water stagnation can lead to root suffocation and create favourable conditions for disease development. Farmers have been advised to create effective drainage channels to quickly remove standing water from orchards and agricultural fields.

To prevent further damage, growers have been instructed to gently remove hail deposits and debris from trees, which otherwise can cause bark injuries and increase the chances of branch breakage due to excess load. Immediate pruning of damaged branches has also been recommended, with clean cuts to be made 2–3 inches below the affected area. The advisory stresses the application of protective pastes such as Bordeaux paste or Chaubatia paste on cut surfaces to prevent pathogen entry.

Highlighting the heightened vulnerability of crops to infections post-hailstorm, SKUAST-K has recommended the timely application of protective fungicide sprays after weather conditions stabilise. Specific formulations have been suggested for apple at the fruitlet stage, as well as for other fruit crops, including cherry, peach, plum, apricot, grapes, and pear. Vegetable growers have also been advised to undertake similar protective measures in nurseries and main fields.

The advisory further recommends a follow-up nutritional spray, particularly a 0.2 per cent urea solution to be applied three days after fungicide treatment, to aid recovery and stimulate new growth in apple trees. Additional micronutrient sprays may be required after 10 to 15 days to support tissue repair.

Farmers have been cautioned to carry out spraying during cool and dry periods, preferably in the early morning or evening hours, using fine mist sprayers for uniform coverage. In cases where systemic fungicides were applied shortly before the hailstorm, a gap of four to five days before reapplication has been advised.

Emphasis has also been laid on maintaining orchard sanitation. Farmers have been directed to collect and safely dispose of fallen leaves, fruits, blossoms, and twigs through burial or composting to minimise disease spread. Proper ventilation and soil aeration have been identified as key factors in accelerating orchard recovery.

The university has reiterated that timely adoption of these measures can significantly reduce losses and help restore crop health, urging farmers across the Valley to act promptly in accordance with the advisory.

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SKUAST-K launches Student Rural Exploration in 300 villages across Kashmir

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SKUAST-K launches Student Rural Exploration in 300 villages across Kashmir

In a landmark move to redefine the landscape of agricultural education and extension in India, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir today launched the Student Rural Exploration Program (SREP) under the framework of the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP-20).

This pioneering initiative, launched under the leadership of Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-K, Prof Nazir Ahmad Ganai, saw a massive grassroots outreach this weekend as more than 3000 students ventured into more than 300 university-adapted villages across the Kashmir Valley.

By transitioning from the traditional classroom setting to immersive field experiences, the university is bridging the critical gap between advanced scientific techniques and traditional indigenous practices, ensuring that the next generation of agricultural professionals is deeply rooted in the realities of rural livelihoods.

Speaking at the occasion, Prof Ganai said: “The Student Rural Exploration Program is not just an academic initiative—it is a transformational movement. By placing our students directly in villages for sustained engagement, we are creating a living bridge between science and society. This program will generate real-time rural intelligence, empower communities with knowledge, and shape a new generation of socially committed professionals.”

The programme is structured as a sophisticated, multidisciplinary engagement where students from various faculties, including Agriculture, Horticulture, Veterinary Sciences, Fisheries, Sericulture, Forestry, and Agriculture Engineering, work in specialised cohorts. Each group typically consists of four undergraduate students, two postgraduate students, and one PhD scholar, all operating under the direct guidance of a scientist mentor.

This collaborative model allows for a tiered level of learning and field execution, marking a historic first in the country as a university-led effort to engage with the farming community at the panchayat level on such a significant scale. These teams are conducting Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA)-cum-survey exercises, providing students with hands-on exposure to the complexities of the rural economy in diverse terrains.

The impact of the initiative is designed to be mutually beneficial for both the academic and farming communities. While students collect vital data and gain a firsthand understanding of grassroots challenges, farmers receive expert technical advisories, diagnostic services, and updated information regarding various government schemes and agricultural interventions.

With this program, SKUAST-K shall strengthen the bonds with the farming community by gaining their trust and enlightening them with the latest technologies, whether in the form of high-quality seeds, improved varieties, resilient rootstocks, or superior breeds.

Furthermore, the initiative acts as a catalyst for entrepreneurship, startups, and innovation within the rural sector. The Vice Chancellor, alongside the university’s Deans, Directors, and Associate Deans, actively monitored the rollout across multiple districts, interacting with students to ensure the internship provides real-time field exposure that translates academic theory into practical solutions.

Hailed as a game-changer for the national agricultural landscape, the Student Rural Exploration Program is now set to become a permanent fixture of the university’s academic calendar, with exploration visits scheduled to take place every fortnight.

This strategic outreach transforms students into empathetic innovators who can advocate for sustainable and climate-resilient practices. 

By documenting local issues and assessing needs as they arise, SKUAST-K is creating a robust feedback loop that ensures university research remains relevant and impactful for the people it serves. B

y fostering a profound sense of responsibility toward the farming community, SKUAST-K is not only empowering local growers but also equipping its graduates with the practical skills and field exposure necessary to lead the global shift toward sustainable rural development. 

The initiative underscores a future where scientific intervention meets the wisdom of the land, ultimately strengthening the bond between the laboratory and the farm.

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Supreme Court says ECI must follow its own rules for vote counting staff in Bengal, no further orders

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Supreme Court says ECI must follow its own rules for vote counting staff in Bengal, no further orders

Supreme Court on Saturday recorded an assurance from the Election Commission of India (ECI) that it will follow its circular on the appointment of vote counting supervisors for the West Bengal Assembly elections, and declined to pass further orders in the matter, reports Bar & Bench.

A Bench of Justices PS Narasimha and Joymalya Bagchi was hearing a plea filed by the All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) challenging the decision of the Chief Electoral Officer to deploy only Central government employees as counting supervisors.

Senior Advocate Dama Sheshadri Naidu, appearing for the ECI, told the Court that the poll body would comply with its circular “in letter and spirit” and ensure the presence of a State government nominee during the counting process scheduled for May 4.

“We are saying that State government nominee will be there. That will be followed even before all this,” Naidu submitted.

Recording this assurance, the Court said, “No further orders are needed in the SLP. We record the submission… that the circular of ECI be followed in letter and spirit,” and disposed of the appeal.

The matter was taken up urgently in view of the counting scheduled in two days. The petition had challenged an earlier order of the Calcutta High Court, which dismissed TMC’s plea and upheld the ECI’s authority to appoint counting personnel from either Central or State government services.

The High Court had observed that there was no illegality in appointing Central government or PSU employees as counting supervisors, adding that any grievances regarding bias could be addressed through election petitions after the results.

Before the Supreme Court, Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for TMC, argued that excluding State government officials was contrary to Article 324 of the Constitution and amounted to casting aspersions on the State administration.

However, the Bench noted that counting would take place in the presence of agents from all political parties, and that the ECI had discretion in such appointments. Justice Bagchi remarked that selecting personnel from one pool alone could not be termed illegal.

The Court also addressed concerns raised over transparency, with Sibal seeking preservation of CCTV footage of the counting process. Naidu responded that such footage is retained for 45 days. With the ECI assuring compliance with its own guidelines, the Court closed the matter without issuing additional directions.

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Dept of Psychiatry, SKIMS MC Bemina launches awareness drive under NMBA

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Dept of Psychiatry, SKIMS MC Bemina launches awareness drive under NMBA

Organized in collaboration with the Directorate of School Education Kashmir, the programme is the first in a planned series aimed at equipping frontline stakeholders—particularly school teachers and counsellors—with the knowledge and skills required for early detection and intervention.

At its core, the initiative confronts a pressing reality: drug addiction in Jammu and Kashmir is no longer a hidden issue but an expanding public health concern with deep social consequences. The programme emphasizes early warning signs that often go unnoticed—declining academic or work performance, behavioural changes, disproportionate aggression, neglect of self-care, sleep and appetite disturbances, absenteeism, and increasing involvement in risky or unlawful activities.

Through structured sessions involving lectures, interactive discussions, and role-play, participants are being trained to identify these early indicators and respond with timely referrals to appropriate healthcare facilities. Beyond identification, the programme seeks to build confidence among educators to initiate informed conversations with students and peers, promoting healthier coping strategies and discouraging pathways that lead to substance dependence.

Addressing the gathering, Prof. Abdul Maajid, Professor & Head, Department of Psychiatry and Sub-Dean, underscored the importance of collective responsibility in combating addiction. He highlighted that meaningful change requires coordinated action across institutions, adding that such initiatives have the potential not only to save individuals but to restore families and stabilize communities.

Dr. NizamUd Din, Associate Professor of Psychiatry, delivered a key session on “Introduction to Substance Use Disorders,” providing a clinical and social perspective on addiction. He was joined by a multidisciplinary team of resource persons including Dr. Syed Mehvish, Dr. GulzarMuzaffar,  Kousar, Dr. Masood, Sameer Khan, and Rayees Ahmad, who contributed to the training modules. The department acknowledged the proactive engagement of the Directorate of School Education Kashmir, led by Naseer Ahmad Wani, in ensuring the success of the programme. Gratitude was also extended to Prof. FazlulQadirParray, Principal, and Dr. Shafa A. Deva, Medical Superintendent, for their continued institutional support. Notably, the Department of Psychiatry is also collaborating with GK Communications to expand outreach under the campaign, strengthening public awareness on prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation.

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Clamour grows for Vande Bharat train halt at Anantnag

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Clamour grows for Vande Bharat train halt at Anantnag

Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced Udhampur as a halt, but the long-pending demand to include Anantnag remains unaddressed.

The Group of Concerned Citizens (GCC), J&K, welcomed the launch of the Vande Bharat service between Jammu and Srinagar but urged authorities to add the station.

“By excluding Anantnag, passengers from Anantnag, Kulgam, Shopian and parts of Pulwama are forced into avoidable travel to Srinagar and back,” the group said.

“We will continue to take up the issue and approach the Union Railway Ministry if needed,” said Khurshid Ahmad Ganai, a former bureaucrat and GCC member.

Lateef-uz-Zaman Deva, also a former bureaucrat and GCC member, said, “We have already raised the matter with the Chief Secretary and Railway Authorities in Jammu.””

Traders also backed the demand.

 “A strong and united voice has emerged across south Kashmir,” said Hakeem Sajad Ahmad Shah, chairman of the Traders and Manufacturers Federation, Anantnag.

“A halt at Anantnag will improve connectivity, promote tourism and ease travel for patients, students and traders,” Shah said. “Anantnag, being a major commercial centre, deserves due consideration.”

Member of Parliament (MP) for Anantnag-Rajouri, MianAltaf, had written to the Railways before and after the service launch.

“Providing a stoppage at Anantnag would ensure equitable access to premium rail services for south Kashmir, which has a larger catchment area,” he said.

The Katra–Srinagar service was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on June 6, 2025.

Banihal was initially the only halt on the Kashmir side, with Reasi added later.

Senior Congress leader and Dooru legislator Ghulam Ahmad Mir has also sought a stop in Anantnag. “The absence of a halt is affecting a large population, including students, traders, employees, tourists and patients,” he said in a letter addressed to the Union Railway Minister.

“Anantnag serves as a commercial and tourism hub and a gateway to Pahalgam, Verinag, Daksum and Kokernag,” Mir said.

 “A stoppage would ensure balanced regional access, ease pressure on nearby stations and support local trade.”

According to Northern Railway, the train runs from Jammu Tawi to Srinagar with stops at Martyr Captain Tushar Mahajan station, Udhampur; Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra; Reasi; and Banihal before terminating at Srinagar.

The Jammu-Srinagar route spans about 267 km and includes 27 stations- 15 in the Jammu region and 12 in the Kashmir Valley.

The distance from Jammu to Banihal is about 189 km, while the Banihal–Srinagar stretch covers around 78 km without any halt.

Anantnag, the largest station between Banihal and Srinagar, serves the south Kashmir districts including Anantnag, Kulgam, Shopian and parts of Pulwama.

It is also a gateway to tourist destinations such as- Pahalgam and lies on the route of the AmarnathYatra.

The Jammu–Srinagar Vande Bharat service- is seen as a major boost to connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir. Freight trains are already operating regularly- on the corridor.

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Test alert shows up on mobile phones in J&K

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Test alert shows up on mobile phones in J&K

Mobile phone users in the Union territory were surprised on Saturday morning as their phones buzzed loudly and received a flash message, the officials said.

They said the alert, sent out at 11.42 am, was a part of the emergency alert system testing.

“This is part of the testing of the Emergency Alert System, so that accurate information can be received on time during disasters,” they said.

They said this message may appear repeatedly and asked people to not do anything.

“India launches Cell Broadcast using indigenous technology, for instant disaster alerting service for its citizens. Alert citizens, safe nation. No action is required by the public upon receipt of this message. This is a test message. – Government of India,” the flash message read.

Mehraj Ahmad, a mobile phone user here, expressed surprise when his phone made a loud beep.

“I was surprised when the message came. I did not know about it. I was startled when my phone made a loud noise. Then I read the message and understood,” Ahmad said.

He said it was a good move to alert people if there was any eventuality.

The government had already warned that they would be conducting trials of mobile-based disaster alert systems across the country, urging citizens to ignore the test messages.

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