Latest news with #Prabhakaran
Time of India
18 hours ago
- Business
- Time of India
Foundation stone for integrated steel plant soon at Konseri
Nagpur: The high court's decision to dismiss the public interest litigation (PIL) against the environmental clearance (EC) granted for Lloyds Metals and Energy Limited's (LMEL) iron ore mines clears the way for sourcing adequate raw material for the company's steel project at Konseri village in the same district, said managing director B Prabhakaran. The company will soon hold a foundation-laying event for its integrated steel plant at the site. This will be a facility producing a whole gamut of steel products. With a capacity of 4.5 million tonnes, it will be the biggest in Vidarbha, he said. The first phase pellet-making plant at the same site is also expected to become operational in the coming days. It has a capacity of 4 million tones. The slurry pipeline too will become operational along with it. The pipeline, which will transport iron ore in slurry form, will reduce the dependence on roads, he said. The second phase of the pellet making plant with a similar capacity is expected to get operational by December, said Prabhakaran. An integrated steel plant is akin to the facilities of Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) in Bhilai or Tata in Jamshedpur. Iron ore is the basic raw material for steel making. The clearance to expand the mining operation ensures a steady supply of ore, he said. The plant at Konseri is located around 100km away from the mines at Surjagarh. Currently, a direct reduced iron (DRI) plant is operational at the site.
Straits Times
5 days ago
- Straits Times
Man charged over stabbing at void deck in Yishun
Prabhakaran Vinayaka is accused of committing the offence at Block 467B Yishun Avenue 6 on June 13. PHOTO: ST FILE Man charged over stabbing at void deck in Yishun SINGAPORE – A man accused of stabbing another person at the void deck of Block 467B Yishun Avenue 6 was handed an assault charge on June 17. Court documents stated that Singaporean Prabhakaran Vinayaka, 31, allegedly used a 'sharp object' to stab the man's chest once, shortly before 7.50pm on June 13. In a statement, the police said that the 29-year-old victim was conscious when he was taken to hospital. Chinese-language news platform Shin Min Daily News earlier cited a resident as saying that the victim was her neighbour and that he was with his two children when the incident occurred. The man reportedly took his children home after he was injured. The children went to the woman's flat to ask for help. She rushed over to their home and saw that the man was bleeding. According to the woman, she applied pressure on the wound to staunch the bleeding and got the other neighbours to call an ambulance. Prabhakaran's case will be mentioned again in court on June 24. An offender convicted of using a weapon to commit assault can be jailed for up to seven years, fined, caned, or receive any combination of such punishments. Shaffiq Alkhatib is The Straits Times' court correspondent, covering mainly criminal cases heard at the State Courts. Join ST's WhatsApp Channel and get the latest news and must-reads.
The Hindu
07-06-2025
- Health
- The Hindu
Not all cognitive decline is dementia and not all dementia is Alzheimer's stress clinicians this brain awareness month
The estimated dementia prevalence in India is 7.4% among adults aged 60 and older. This translates to about 8.8 million Indians currently living with dementia. The prevalence is projected to increase significantly in the coming years, with estimates suggesting a rise to 1.7 crore (17 million) by 2036. And it is also increasingly recognised in India as a condition far more complex than memory loss. Dementia represents a progressive decline in cognitive abilities, including language, executive functioning, behaviour, and the capacity to perform daily tasks. Alzheimer's disease remains the most well-known form of dementia, but it is only one of many. Indian clinicians are now focusing on comprehensive evaluations to identify reversible causes, clarifying diagnoses using advanced biomarkers, and staying informed about global advances in therapy -- all while staying grounded in clinical realities and patient context. Identifying reversible causes -- a health priority in dementia care According to Prabash Prabhakaran, director and senior consultant- neurology, SIMS Hospital, Chennai, dementia is often misunderstood as only memory loss, whereas one of the earliest signs could be executive dysfunction --such as a person forgetting how to prepare a familiar dish . He also emphasises the importance of looking for apraxia, which is the loss of learned motor skills, along with changes in gait and bladder control. A distinctive pattern like 'magnetic gait,' where a person shuffles slowly and cannot lift their feet properly, may offer clues pointing to specific subtypes such as Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus. Even in patients with clear signs of cognitive decline, Dr. Prabhakaran warns against over-reliance on imaging or biomarker tests in isolation, stressing that without a robust clinical picture, these tools can mislead more than help. One of the most critical steps in dementia care in India is to rule out reversible causes before settling on a diagnosis like Alzheimer's. This clinical vigilance ensures that treatable conditions are not missed. For instance, vitamin B12 deficiency is a common cause of cognitive issues, especially among vegetarians, and can be easily corrected with supplements. Hypothyroidism is another frequently overlooked condition that can mimic dementia and is reversible with thyroid hormone replacement. Dr. Prabhakaran shares that cases of Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus -- where dementia presents alongside gait instability and bladder dysfunction -- can sometimes be reversed almost miraculously by draining around 30 ml of cerebrospinal fluid. There are also rarer possibilities like autoimmune dementia, which constitutes about two to three percent of cases. In such instances, antibody testing for approximately 23 known markers is now available in India. Familial dementia and vasculitis-related cognitive disorders also fall into this category of conditions where early detection can dramatically change outcomes. As Dr. Prabhakaran puts it, 'Even if just one patient benefits from identifying a reversible cause, the clinical effort is worth it.' Clinical evaluations to rule out health risks Imaging continues to be a helpful tool, not for confirmation but for exclusion. MRI scans are used to rule out brain masses, hydrocephalus, and vascular insults. While certain patterns of brain atrophy, particularly in the temporal and parietal lobes, may suggest Alzheimer's disease, these findings are supportive rather than definitive. FDG-PET scans, which measure glucose metabolism, can reveal hypometabolism in specific brain regions, often correlating with suspected Alzheimer's pathology. However, PET scans are advised only when there is already a strong clinical suspicion -- they are not used as screening tools. A major advancement in recent years is the use of blood-based biomarkers that measure levels of tau protein and beta-amyloid -- proteins central to Alzheimer's disease pathology. These are available in India but remain expensive and are not part of routine diagnostics. Dr. Prabhakaran explains that these tests are best used in specific scenarios: when the clinical presentation is ambiguous, when there is mild cognitive impairment, or in cases of early-onset or rapidly progressing dementia. He cautions against using biomarkers indiscriminately, underscoring that their role should always be hypothesis-driven. Srividhya S, associate consultant, department of neurology, Rela Hospital, Chennai notes that biomarker changes can occur nearly 20 years before symptoms appear. She highlights the usefulness of these tests in ruling out Alzheimer's, pointing to their strong negative predictive value. A negative result can give both doctors and families confidence to pursue alternative explanations and care pathways. The role of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) testing also deserves attention. U. Meenakshisundaram, director & senior consultant, neurology, MGM Healthcare, Chennai, notes that Indian labs now offer CSF analysis for beta-amyloid and phosphorylated tau at a cost of around ₹20,000–₹25,000. Although it requires a lumbar puncture and is thus more invasive, many patients and families opt for it if it provides diagnostic clarity. He also mentions that newer, less invasive serum-based tests for Alzheimer's biomarkers have recently been approved in the United States, though these are not yet available in India. Post-diagnosis medical care and management In terms of treatment, there is growing global excitement about novel therapies. Dr. Meenakshisundaram emphasis that two monoclonal antibodies -- lecanemab and aducanumab -- have been approved in the United States in recent months. These therapies target amyloid plaques and aim to slow disease progression. Though not yet available in India, their approval marks a turning point in how the medical community thinks about Alzheimer's care. Aditya Gupta, director, neurosurgery & cyberknife, Artemis Hospital, Gurugram, stresses that we are now in an era where the goal is not just to manage symptoms but to attempt to modify disease progression. He says that early diagnosis paired with these emerging therapies may finally allow patients and caregivers to move from despair to hope. However, across all experts, there is consensus on several guiding principles. First, dementia is not synonymous with Alzheimer's disease. Diagnosing someone with Alzheimer's prematurely, especially without ruling out other causes, risks missing treatable conditions. Second, investigations must be pragmatically chosen. Dr. Prabhakaran insists that tests should only be performed if their results will influence clinical management. There is no merit in subjecting patients to expensive tests that do not offer actionable insights. Third, biomarkers are tools -- not solutions. They should only be used when the clinical context supports their necessity. Finally, there is a strong push to empower caregivers with knowledge. Early, accurate diagnosis, even if it confirms an irreversible condition, helps families prepare and cope more effectively with behavioural changes and caregiving needs. Cautious hope Experts say that the outlook for dementia care in India is cautiously hopeful. Clinicians are well-informed and increasingly equipped with both traditional tools and cutting-edge diagnostics. Public awareness is growing, particularly among caregivers who seek clarity and early intervention. The next challenge lies in making diagnostics and future therapies more accessible and affordable. With global trials progressing and India's healthcare ecosystem adapting rapidly, dementia care may soon offer more definitive pathways for diagnosis, management, and even therapeutic intervention. Dr. Prabhakaran adds, 'We are on the cusp of a change. A decade from now, early detection may not just offer clarity -- but treatment.' For now, the focus must remain on early clinical evaluation, ruling out reversible causes, and empowering caregivers with the knowledge and resources they need to navigate this complex condition.
Time of India
04-06-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Lloyds' Surjagarh mine set to be the first ‘green mine' of India
Gadchiroli: The Surjagarh iron ore mine (SIOM) of Lloyds Metals and Energy Ltd (LMEL) in Maharashra's Gadchiroli district is set to become the first 'green mine' in India, thanks to environment-friendly initiatives and strong focus on reducing carbon footprint in mining operations. SIOM has already achieved an annual reduction of 32,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions, said top company sources. Once the company transitions to renewable energy, this saving is likely to increase to around 50,000 tonnes annually through innovation, green technology in mining operations from drilling to dispatch. LMEL's decarbonisation of Surjagarh mine encompasses every aspect of mining operations, from drilling and loading to hauling and logistics. "Our core philosophy revolves around adopting green technology, improving efficiency, fostering innovation, and engaging employees and the local community in pursuit of 'green steel' production. This aligns perfectly with India's 'Net Zero' commitment. We are committed to the global goal of securing a 'green future for all' while striking a balance between development and sustainability," said B Prabhakaran, managing director of LMEL. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch vàng CFDs với sàn môi giới tin cậy IC Markets Tìm hiểu thêm Undo After decarbonising operations, LMEL is focussing on green logistics in Gadchiroli district, which is an emerging steel manufacturing hub. It has reduced carbon footprint in iron ore transportation by introducing an 87km-long slurry pipeline from the grinding plant at Hedri to the pellet plant at Konsari. The laying and testing of the pipeline from the grinding plant at Surjagarh iron ore mines to Konsari has been completed. The slurry pipeline represents green logistics adopted by LMEL in its commitment to environment, sustainability, and responsible industrial operations. "The commissioning of the slurry pipeline marks the first such project in India after 11 years. This will be the fourth operational iron ore slurry pipeline in the nation and a first in Maharashtra," said Prabhakaran. The pipeline has a dual advantage -- lower freight cost and reduced carbon footprint. Under LMEL's 'Mission Green' initiative, inspired by the vision of producing 'green steel', over 3 lakh trees have been planted at various locations, and thousands of saplings have been distributed to people. In line with forest clearance conditions, LMEL allocated 377.58 hectares of private land in Arvi and Karanja talukas of Wardha district for compensatory afforestation, in lieu of 374.90 hectares diverted for Surjagarh iron ore mine. LMEL deposited Rs 2.49 crore with the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority and 3lakh native saplings were planted by the State Forest Department in Arvi taluka. Also, Surjagarh is poised to become the largest green fleet mining operation in the country, with its own electric vehicle charging station, said a top company official. Building upon the success in non-fossil fuel operations at its Surjagarh Iron Ore Mine, LMEL is now focusing on Banded Hematite Quartzite, which was historically considered a waste in iron ore mining. The initiative will transform waste into a valuable resource, thus contributing to national waste reduction and wealth creation.
Time of India
20-05-2025
- Climate
- Time of India
Coimbatore district readies to tackle monsoon challenges
Coimbatore: With the southwest monsoon expected to set in early this year, the official machinery in Coimbatore has stepped up its preparedness to tackle overflowing of drains, water stagnation and other rain-related issues. While the city corporation is focussing on identifying vulnerable areas and implementing preventive measures, fire service personnel are gearing up for rescue work. The district administration, while coordinating all departments, has also identified temporary shelters in case people need to be evacuated. City corporation commissioner M Sivaguru Prabhakaran said around 4,500 sanitary workers were placed on alert and instructed to remain on standby round the clock during heavy rain. Every monsoon, subways and underpasses at the old Avinashi flyover, Kaleeswara Mill, ARC Junction, North Coimbatore and Lanka Corner face severe waterlogging, disrupting connectivity for hours. To mitigate this, the corporation has installed high-capacity motors at key points to pump out stagnant water. In spite of the measures, challenges persist at Kaleeswara Mill, old Avinashi flyover and Lanka Corner. "Redesigning the gravity flow requires significant capital, which isn't feasible at the moment. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Trade Bitcoin & Ethereum – No Wallet Needed! IC Markets Undo We have installed three 100 HP motors - two at Avinashi flyover and one at Kaleeswara Mill. The drain at Lanka Corner is narrow, causing frequent clogs. A proposal to enhance its capacity is currently awaiting approval," Prabhakaran said. High-risk drains, such as the one on Good Shed Road, are being desilted. A senior corporation official said vegetation had been cleared and five loads of debris, washed in during recent rains, were removed. "These were the primary reason for overflowing of the drain on that road. We are also clearing culverts on Good Shed and Trichy roads," the official said. So far, around 60% of desilting work is complete. The corporation is clearing 250 kilometres of small drains across its limits to prevent flooding in residential areas, prioritising canals and culverts that intersect roads. "Twenty-three railway crossings have been identified for waste removal, and we are working in coordination with railway officials," the corporation commissioner added. Tree trimming is also underway across all the five zones of the city corporation to reduce damage caused by branches breaking off during heavy wind. A total of 47 teams equipped with 65 tree-cutting machines have been deployed. The civic body has also stocked 5000 sandbags - 1,000 per zone - to plug breaches of canals. Meanwhile, disaster management teams and the fire and rescue services are also preparing for monsoon challenges. A District Disaster Management Authority official said control rooms were set up at each taluk office. "We are readying first responders from all local bodies. We have a list of 2,026 volunteers and are verifying the same," the official said. The district has identified 24 vulnerable areas within the city corporation limits and 15 in rural areas. A total of 94 relief centres have been arranged to accommodate residents in case of flooding. According to P Pulugandi, district fire and rescue officer, Coimbatore has 14 fire stations staffed by 300 personnel. "Our teams will be fully mobilized during the monsoon. We have conducted mock drills at local water bodies to raise public awareness on flood survival techniques."
