Best printers for Home

Best Mixer Grinder

Best wired Earphones

Best 43 Inch TV in India

Best Wi Fi Routers

Best Home Theatre in India

Smart Watch under 5000

Best Laptops for Education

Best Laptop for Students

Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], June 12 (ANI): The World Health Organisation has confirmed the human case of <keyword id="3653784" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="bird-flu-in-india" source="Orion">bird flu in India</keyword>, after the <keyword id="15897682" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="H9N2-virus" source="Orion">H9N2 virus</keyword> was detected in a four-year child in West Bengal. Overall, this is the second <keyword id="21166335" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="human-infection" source="keywords">human infection</keyword> of <keyword id="2663051" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Avian-Influenza-A" source="Orion">avian influenza A</keyword> (H9N2) notified to WHO from India, with the first being done in 2019. The child has recovered and was discharged from the hospital. WHO received a notification from the International Health Regulations (IHR) National Focal Point (NFP) for India, regarding a human case of avian influenza A(H9N2) virus infection in West Bengal, the health body said in a press release. "The patient is a 4-year-old child residing in West Bengal state. The case, previously diagnosed with hyperreactive airway disease, initially presented to the paediatrician with fever and abdominal pain on 26 January 2024. He developed seizures on January 29 after which he was brought to the same paediatrician. The patient was admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit (ICU) of a local hospital due to the persistence of severe respiratory distress, recurrent high-grade fever and abdominal cramps. The patient tested positive for influenza B and adenovirus. He was discharged from the hospital on February 28 but with a recurrence of severe respiratory distress, he was referred to another government hospital and was admitted to the pediatric ICU and intubated on March 3. His nasopharyngeal swab was sent to the Kolkata Virus Research and Diagnostic Laboratory and tested positive for influenza A (not sub-typed) and rhinovirus. On April 26, the sample was sub-typed as influenza A(H9N2) through a real-time polymerase chain reaction. The patient was discharged from the hospital with oxygen support on May 1. WHO said that the infected patient had exposure to poultry at home and in the surroundings. It, however, also affirmed there were no known persons reporting symptoms of respiratory illness in the family, the neighbourhood, or among healthcare workers at health facilities attended by the case at the time of reporting. The health body further warned that sporadic human cases could occur in the future as this virus is "one of the most prevalent avian influenza viruses circulating in poultry in different regions." Animal influenza viruses normally circulate in animals but can also infect humans. Infections in humans have primarily been acquired through direct contact with infected animals or through indirect contact with contaminated environments. Depending on the original host, influenza A viruses can be classified as avian influenza, swine influenza, or other types of animal influenza viruses, the WHO stated in the release. The health body further said that it is providing continued support to the government of India through technical advice, updates on risk assessment and updating contingency plans- both in the human and animal sectors in line with the global guidance.

WHO confirms human case of bird flu in India! H9N2 virus detected in a four-year child in West Bengal

<ul class="summary-list"><li>A new strain of bird flu, also known as avian influenza, is spreading across the US.</li><li>The H5N1 strain is causing a variety of new problems and has killed more than 58 million birds.</li></ul>The US is currently experiencing its <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/flu/avianflu/spotlights/2022-2023/nearing-record-number-avian-influenza.htm#:~:text=Since%20early%202022%2C%20more%20than,outbreak%20that%20occurred%20in%202015." target="_blank" rel="noopener">worst-ever outbreak of bird flu</a>, also known as avian influenza — and a new study has found that the strain could become endemic in the country.The outbreak is "wiping out everything in numbers we've never seen before," Jennifer Mullinax, an assistant professor of environmental science and technology at the University of Maryland, <a href="https://news.sky.com/story/us-bird-flu-outbreak-wiping-out-everything-in-numbers-weve-never-seen-before-scientists-warn-12860762" target="_blank" rel="noopener">told Sky News</a>. The new H5N1 strain has already killed over 58 million chickens, turkeys, and other birds, <a href="https://www.reuters.com/business/healthcare-pharmaceuticals/us-begins-testing-bird-flu-vaccines-poultry-after-record-outbreak-2023-04-14/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reuters reported</a>.The US is no stranger to the impact of the disease, with the H5N8 strain having led to the culling of 50 million birds in 2015. But the new, more contagious strain is particularly affecting wild birds, Sky News reported.<div type="image" title="Bill Powers with his flock of white turkeys, kept under shelter to prevent exposure to bird flu, on November 14, 2022 in Townsend, Delaware." height="1400" width="1866" msid="99707977" hostid="261"></div>"Unlike H5N8, this disease is heavily impacting wild birds," Johanna Harvey, a postdoctoral researcher and the lead author of the study published in Conservation Biology at the <a href="https://today.umd.edu/why-this-bird-flu-is-different" target="_blank" rel="noopener">University of Maryland</a>, <a href="https://today.umd.edu/why-this-bird-flu-is-different" target="_blank" rel="noopener">said</a>. "It's difficult to estimate how many birds are truly affected across wild populations, but we're seeing dramatic disease impacts in raptors, sea birds, and colonial nesting birds. And we now have the highest amount of poultry loss to avian influenza, so this is a worst-case scenario," she added.The researchers believe that bird flu will probably become endemic — a phenomenon where a disease is constantly present within an area or community in the US — which could affect food security and the economy.Last week, the US government started testing four new bird-flu vaccines to try and protect the poultry from this mass outbreak, Reuters reported.<h2>Are humans in danger? </h2>The disease can and does affect humans, but it's rare. The first case of H5N1 infection in a human in the US <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2022/s0428-avian-flu.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">was reported in April 2022</a>. A man was also diagnosed with the virus in Chile, <a href="https://www.who.int/emergencies/disease-outbreak-news/item/2023-DON453" target="_blank" rel="noopener">according to the World Health Organization</a>.Most cases of human infection have been in Southeast Asia, according to <a href="https://cdn.who.int/media/docs/default-source/global-influenza-programme/2023_march_tableh5n1.pdf?sfvrsn=&amp;download=true" target="_blank" rel="noopener">data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention</a>. There were only three cases of human infection in 2023, two in Cambodia, and one in China. One of the people infected in Cambodia, an 11-year-old girl, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/feb/24/bird-flu-11-year-old-girl-in-cambodia-dies-after-being-infected">died from the illness</a>. Speaking about this death to <a href="https://apnews.com/article/phnom-penh-cambodia-bird-flu-health-9499915a70e3d99c70d06d430a7c1d28" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AP</a>, James Wood, the head of the department of veterinary medicine at Cambridge University, said there is no reason to be unduly concerned about human infection with bird flu."Tragic though this case in Cambodia is, we expect there to be some cases of clinical disease with such a widespread infection. Clearly, the virus needs careful monitoring and surveillance to check that it has not mutated or recombined, but the limited numbers of cases of human disease have not increased markedly, and this one case in itself does not signal the global situation has suddenly changed," he said.<h2>Markets are in trouble</h2>Avian flu is ravaging farmers and the markets.In January, <a href="https://markets.businessinsider.com/news/commodities/egg-price-crisis-memes-why-are-eggs-so-expensive-inflation-2023-1">Insider's George Glover explained the egg crisis facing Americans as prices surged by almost 60% in 2022 due to the influenza outbreak</a>.The average cost of a dozen eggs rose by 59% last year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, with <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/these-states-have-seen-the-highest-increases-in-egg-prices-2023-1?utm_medium=ingest&amp;utm_source=markets">prices more than doubling</a> in West Virginia and six states in the upper Midwest.<div type="image" title="This new strain of bird flu has killed more than 58 million chickens, turkeys, and other birds." height="5259" width="7012" msid="99707979" hostid="261"></div>The unprecedented spread of disease and 2022's high inflation rates raising farmers' costs caused the jump — and it doesn't look like it will change soon.

The worst bird-flu outbreak in US history is 'wiping out everything in numbers we've never seen before.' Here's what you need to know.

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Officials in the UK are becoming increasingly concerned about the spread of avian influenza in the country after reports of some <keyword id="1249458" type="COMPANY" weightage="60" keywordseo="swans">swans</keyword> dying gruesome, bloody deaths.</li><li>Swans have been reported to spin in circles and bleed from their nostrils before dying in some regions of the UK.</li><li>The deaths come amid an outbreak of a new strain of <keyword id="3777227" type="PERSON" weightage="60" keywordseo="avian-flu">avian flu</keyword>, H5N8, which has already led to the culling of thousands of birds across Europe.</li><li>The disease is not believed to pose a threat to humans, and there is currently no suggestion it could impact poultry supply chains.</li></ul>Officials in the UK are becoming increasingly concerned about the spread of avian influenza in the country after reports of a number of swans dying gruesome, bloody deaths.<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/nov/27/bird-flu-fears-grow-after-spate-of-mysterious-uk-swan-deaths">According to a report from the Guardian newspaper,</a> a number of swans in Cumbria, in north west England, were seen spinning in circles and bleeding from their nostrils before dying. The incidences of this happening were reported in Ulverston canal, the Guardian said."Many of them started to spin on their axis in one direction. It was terrible to see. Some of them were discharging from their nostrils and some of it was bloody," said Caroline Sim, who volunteers with Flying Free, a group that works to preserve Ulverston's swan population, according to the Guardian.Although the cases of swan deaths in Cumbria have not been directly linked to avian flu at this point, a number of dead swans in Dawlish, Devon — around 250 miles south of Ulverston — were confirmed to have contracted H5N8, the latest strain of avian flu. Cases of the virus have been seen across Europe, with France, Germany, Belgium, Norway and others reporting instances of H5N8."Wild geese near Stroud in Gloucestershire and swans near Dawlish in Devon have tested positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N8," <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/news/avian-influenza-identified-in-wild-birds-in-south-west-of-england">the Department for Environment, Food &amp; Rural Affairs (DEFRA) said in a statement on November 11.</a>On November 22, DEFRA issued guidance for bird owners, and <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/news/avian-influenza-bird-flu-national-prevention-zone-declared">created a new Avian Influenza Prevention Zone.</a>Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, <a href="https://news.sky.com/story/bird-flu-swan-deaths-in-uk-investigated-for-link-to-european-outbreak-reports-12144681">told Sky News this weekend that the rise in avian flu infections must be taken seriously. </a>"My concern level is really high," she said. "We potentially have a lot of risk out there," because of the "sheer volume of infections," she added.Officials, however, have made clear that the risk to humans from this new strain is low."To date, there have been no human cases of infection with influenza A(H5N8) confirmed by the WHO and the risk to public health is very low," Dr Gavin Dabrera, a consultant in acute respiratory infections for <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/news/avian-influenza-identified-in-wild-birds-in-south-west-of-england">Public Health England said.</a>Food standards authorities added that the chance of contracting the disease by eating infected poultry is low."Properly cooked poultry and poultry products, including eggs, remain safe to eat," the UK's Food Standards Agency said.Regardless of the low threat to humans, authorities across Europe have begun culling thousands of birds in an attempt to stop the spread. <a href="https://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-health-birdflu-germany/germany-culls-16100-turkeys-after-bird-flu-found-on-farm-idUKKBN27W1SE">According to Reuters,</a> 16,000 turkeys in Germany were culled this week, while 48,000 chickens were killed in the Netherlands, and 13,000 killed at a farm in northwest England.On Sunday, <a href="https://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-health-birdflu-britain/uk-confirms-h5n8-bird-flu-on-english-turkey-farm-idUKKBN2890CT?il=0">it was reported that over 10,000 turkeys at a farm in Yorkshire</a> would be culled after the virus was discovered in some birds.It is currently unclear whether the culling of birds has the potential to threaten poultry supply chains ahead of Christmas.<ul class="read-more-links"><li>Read more:<a href="https://www.insider.com/strange-metal-monolith-found-in-utah-desert-has-mysteriously-vanished-2020-11">The strange, metal monolith recently found in the remote Utah desert has mysteriously vanished</a><a href="https://www.insider.com/12-year-old-boy-shot-answering-door-philadelphia-police-say-2020-11">A 12-year-old Philadelphia boy was shot dead after he answered the door at his home, police say</a><a href="https://www.insider.com/video-sarah-fuller-first-woman-college-football-kicker-vandy-2020-11">Women's soccer star Sarah Fuller makes college football history with kickoff for Vanderbilt</a></li></ul>

Swans are spinning in circles, bleeding from their nostrils, and collapsing dead amid an outbreak of avian flu in Europe

The year 2014 is just two days old, marking the beginning of yet another <keyword id="89477" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Gregorian-calendar">Gregorian calendar</keyword> year. But revellers who painted the town red and want more party time need not lose heart. Officially, the year has taken off on January 1, but the regional variants of the New Year’s Day still prevail in a country like India – home to a colourful mélange of cultures and traditions. So we are yet to experience a spate of <keyword id="471694" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="New-Year-festivities">New Year festivities</keyword>, celebrated from <keyword id="6354495" type="CITY" weightage="100" keywordseo="kashmir">Kashmir</keyword> to Kanyakumari, from the <keyword id="53478" type="CITY" weightage="100" keywordseo="North-East">north-east</keyword> to the western coast. 
 Interestingly, both the Gregorian calendar (introduced by Pope Gregory XIII in 1582) and the previous <keyword id="89476" type="PERSON" weightage="100" keywordseo="Julian-calendar">Julian calendar</keyword> (first implemented by Julius Caesar in 46 BC) kick off on the same day – January 1. The Romans originally dedicated the first day of the year to Janus, the god of gates, doors and beginnings, and January, the first month of the year, was named after him. Later on, most nations in Western Europe officially started the New Year from January 1. The UK was a late adopter, though, and observed New Year’s Day on <keyword id="47282" type="ENTERTAINMENT" weightage="100" keywordseo="march">March</keyword> 25, popularly known as Lady Day since it celebrated Virgin Mary and the Feast of the Annunciation. This practice stayed in England up to 1752. 
 Closer home, we have many time-reckoning systems but the most significant among them is the <keyword id="1998432" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Sakabda">Sakabda</keyword> or the <keyword id="1998433" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Saka-calendar">Saka calendar</keyword>. It was introduced in 78 AD, most probably by the Kushan ruler Kanishka, and was even used in other countries such as Kampuchea and Indonesia. Another one is the popular <keyword id="1998435" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Bangabda">Bangabda</keyword> or the <keyword id="1282409" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Bengali-calendar">Bengali Calendar</keyword>, a <keyword id="1998436" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Solar-calendar">solar calendar</keyword> started by Mughal emperor <keyword id="6363995" type="PERSON" weightage="80" keywordseo="Akbar">Akbar</keyword> in 1584 AD. Then there is the <keyword id="1998437" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Hijri-New-Year">Hijri New Year</keyword>, also known as the <keyword id="1926173" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Islamic-new-year">Islamic New Year</keyword>, which started in 610 AD when <keyword id="6358086" type="PERSON" weightage="80" keywordseo="Prophet-Muhammad">Prophet Muhammad</keyword> migrated from Mecca to <keyword id="89362" type="CITY" weightage="80" keywordseo="Medina">Medina</keyword>. 
 With so many calendars around and so many regional New Year’s Days to celebrate, it’s time to soak in the traditional rituals once more, mostly observed during the months of <keyword id="368788" type="PERSON" weightage="100" keywordseo="Chaitra">Chaitra</keyword> and <keyword id="1998439" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Baishakh">Baishakh</keyword> (March-April). Here’s a quick look at the key events. 
 
 
 
<keyword id="4349969" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Navreh">Navreh</keyword> – Kashmir: Let us start with Navreh, the New Year’s Day in the <keyword id="911185" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Lunar-calendar">lunar calendar</keyword> and observed on the <keyword id="1998440" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Shukla-Pratipada">Shukla Pratipada</keyword> (first day of the waxing moon) in the month of Chaitra (March-April). It is the <keyword id="1998441" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Oldest-New-Year-celebration">oldest New Year celebration</keyword>, and finds mention in historical works such as Nilamat Purana, <keyword id="1998443" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Kalhana">Kalhana</keyword>’s <keyword id="1998442" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Rajtarangini">Rajtarangini</keyword> and Persian scholar <keyword id="1792427" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="80" keywordseo="Al-Biruni">Al-Biruni</keyword>’s writing. Each household prepares the ‘<keyword id="1998444" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Holi-thali">holi thali</keyword>’ with great care, containing food, flower and other essentials, and it is viewed at the dawn of Navreh while family members pray for <keyword id="6383453" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="100" keywordseo="Wealth">wealth</keyword>, knowledge and <keyword id="23119" type="ENTERTAINMENT" weightage="100" keywordseo="good-luck">good luck</keyword>. From this day, <keyword id="1998445" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Nav-Durga-Puja">Nav Durga Puja</keyword> or <keyword id="31525" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Navratra">Navratra</keyword> also begins in Kashmir and continues for 9 days. 
 
<keyword id="1296432" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Chaitti">Chaitti</keyword> – <keyword id="6358126" type="CITY" weightage="100" keywordseo="Himachal-Pradesh">Himachal Pradesh</keyword>: In this hill state, the New Year’s Day is celebrated on the first day of Chaitra according to the <keyword id="1998446" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Vikrami-calendar">Vikrami calendar</keyword> and festivals such as <keyword id="48284" type="CITY" weightage="100" keywordseo="navratri">Navratri</keyword> and <keyword id="1998448" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Ralli-Puja">Ralli Puja</keyword> are held throughout the month in honour of Goddess Durga/Bhagwati. The month-long Ralli Puja ends in the marriage of Lord Shiva and the goddess as spinsters seek blessings of the divine duo for a spouse like Lord Shiva. 
 
<keyword id="42862" type="PERSON" weightage="100" keywordseo="Ugadi">Ugadi</keyword> – <keyword id="37102" type="COMPANY" weightage="100" keywordseo="Andhra-Pradesh">Andhra Pradesh</keyword> &amp; <keyword id="6354780" type="ENTERTAINMENT" weightage="100" keywordseo="Karnataka">Karnataka</keyword>: It is celebrated on the same day as Navreh, in the month of Chaitra, and marks the beginning of the South Indian lunar year. People of these southern states believe that Lord Brahma began the creation of the universe on this auspicious day. Houses are decorated with mango leaves and <keyword id="202308" type="PERSON" weightage="100" keywordseo="Rangoli">rangoli</keyword> designs; Panchanga or the <keyword id="1998452" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Religious-almanac">religious almanac</keyword> is recited and puja offerings are made for a prosperous New Year. Ugadi <keyword id="758269" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="pachadi">pachadi</keyword>, the traditional dish of six flavours made of <keyword id="6441002" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="neem">neem</keyword>, <keyword id="137842" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="jaggery">jaggery</keyword> &amp; banana, salt, green chilli/pepper, tamarind juice and unripe mango, is also relished on this occasion to acknowledge six different aspects of life. 
 
<keyword id="608876" type="PERSON" weightage="100" keywordseo="Gudhi-Padva">Gudhi Padva</keyword> – <keyword id="13126" type="COMPANY" weightage="100" keywordseo="Maharashtra">Maharashtra</keyword> &amp; <keyword id="826" type="CITY" weightage="100" keywordseo="Goa">Goa</keyword>: Observed on the same day as Navreh and Ugadi (Chaitra Shukla Pratipada), the New Year festivities in these states celebrate the bounty of Nature. Houses are decked up with rangoli and colourful gudhi – a bright-hued, embellished silk banner tied to a decorated <keyword id="1808323" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="bamboo-pole">bamboo pole</keyword> and an upside down brass/silver pot fitted on the top. A day after Gudhi Padva, <keyword id="127745" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Cheti-Chand">Cheti Chand</keyword> or the <keyword id="610532" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Sindhi-New-Year">Sindhi New Year</keyword> is observed to celebrate the birth anniversary of <keyword id="1998458" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Ishtadeva-Uderolal">Ishtadeva Uderolal</keyword> or <keyword id="987886" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Jhulelal">Jhulelal</keyword>, the patron saint of the Sindhis. Lord Varuna, the water god, is also worshipped on this day, followed by <keyword id="6771793" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="feasting">feasting</keyword> and <keyword id="240265" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="devotional-music">devotional music</keyword>. 
 
Varuda Pirappu/Puthandu – <keyword id="20154" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="100" keywordseo="tamil-nadu">Tamil Nadu</keyword>: Held in mid-April, the <keyword id="6407830" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Tamil-New-Year">Tamil New Year</keyword>’s Day is celebrated on the first day of Chithirai, which is the first month of the traditional <keyword id="525554" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Tamil-calendar">Tamil calendar</keyword>. Just like Navreh, the day begins with <keyword id="1998464" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Auspicious-sighting">auspicious sighting</keyword> or <keyword id="1009356" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="kanni">Kanni</keyword>, as people <keyword id="1873" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Worship">worship</keyword> <keyword id="13726" type="PERSON" weightage="100" keywordseo="rice">rice</keyword> &amp; farm products, <keyword id="119992" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="100" keywordseo="precious-metals">precious metals</keyword> and <keyword id="1246513" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="new-clothes">new clothes</keyword>. Ritualistic patterns called kolams are drawn; traditional lamps or kuthu vilakkus are lighted and placed in the centre, and brass bowls known as niraikudums are filled with water to usher in <keyword id="73094" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="prosperity">prosperity</keyword> and <keyword id="800742" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="fulfillment">fulfillment</keyword>. It is followed by the <keyword id="1998469" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Almanac-worship">almanac worship</keyword> called <keyword id="1998471" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Panchanga-Puja">Panchanga Puja</keyword>. And the festive meal features pachadi, fruits and payasam or dessert. 
 
<keyword id="345699" type="PERSON" weightage="100" keywordseo="Vishu">Vishu</keyword> – <keyword id="28504" type="CITY" weightage="100" keywordseo="Kerala">Kerala</keyword>: Vishu is the <keyword id="1010370" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Malayalam-New-Year">Malayalam New Year</keyword>’s Day, observed in Kerala on the first day of the Malayalam month of Medam. As in other South Indian states, auspicious sighting and other rituals are observed as part of the celebration; <keyword id="51941" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="firecrackers">firecrackers</keyword> are burst and an elaborate <keyword id="1998461" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Festive-lunch">festive lunch</keyword> called <keyword id="1998473" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Sadya">sadya</keyword> is served. 
 
 
 
<keyword id="1334751" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Poila-Baishakh">Poila Baishakh</keyword> – <keyword id="6357783" type="CITY" weightage="100" keywordseo="West-Bengal">West Bengal</keyword>: The Bengali New Year’s Day is celebrated in the month of Baishakh (mostly on <keyword id="6364510" type="PERSON" weightage="100" keywordseo="april">April</keyword> 14). Also known as <keyword id="989326" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Naba-Barsha">Naba Barsha</keyword>, <keyword id="27928" type="PERSON" weightage="100" keywordseo="Lord-Ganesha">Lord Ganesha</keyword> and <keyword id="462664" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="100" keywordseo="Goddess-Lakshmi">Goddess Lakshmi</keyword>, deities of wealth, are worshipped on this day while businesses open fresh ledgers known as <keyword id="1998474" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Haal-Khata">Haal Khata</keyword>. Feasting, festivities and <keyword id="6409104" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="cultural-programmes">cultural programmes</keyword> are the main attractions here. <keyword id="1998475" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Maithili-New-Year">Maithili New Year</keyword> <keyword id="1998426" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Juri-Sheetal">Juri Sheetal</keyword> is also celebrated on this day. 
 
<keyword id="1998425" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Maha-Vishuva-Sankranti">Maha Vishuva Sankranti</keyword> – <keyword id="6357961" type="CITY" weightage="100" keywordseo="Odisha">Odisha</keyword>: In neighbouring Odisha, the New Year’s Day is also known as <keyword id="1998476" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Pana-Sankranit">Pana Sankranit</keyword> or <keyword id="1998424" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Jala-Sankranti">Jala Sankranti</keyword> or <keyword id="1998427" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Mesha-Sankranti">Mesha Sankranti</keyword> that marks the beginning of a year in the solar calendar. Traditionally held on the first day of Baishakh (mid-April), a sweet drink called <keyword id="1998477" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Pana">Pana</keyword> is made using fruits, card, milk, water and sugar/jaggery and bestowed as <keyword id="1998478" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Puja-offering">puja offering</keyword>. People also drink Pana and water is offered to all, even to birds and animals, for a month. Throughout this period, <keyword id="1998479" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Goddess-Hingula">Goddess Hingula</keyword> is worshipped for driving the evil away. Devotees often keep fast and perform penances as part of the rituals. 
 
Rongali/Bohag Bihu – <keyword id="6354915" type="CITY" weightage="100" keywordseo="Assam">Assam</keyword>: Held in the month of Baishakh (mid-April), this weeklong colourful and vibrant festival not only marks the beginning of a year in the solar calendar, but also heralds the new agricultural season. As in all other states, pujas are offered to ensure a prosperous year ahead; <keyword id="974604" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="festive-food">festive food</keyword> such as pitha and laru is made and shared, and young people get together to choose their life partners. Fairs are held; games are played, and the traditional <keyword id="1998481" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Bihu-songs">Bihu songs</keyword> &amp; dances make it the perfect season for jollity and merriment. 
 
<keyword id="1998480" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Cheiraoba">Cheiraoba</keyword> – <keyword id="6359754" type="CITY" weightage="100" keywordseo="Manipur">Manipur</keyword>: Moving further north-east, one gets to celebrate the Manipuri New Year Sajibu Cheiraoba in the month of April. Puja offerings, delicious food and festivities mark this occasion as well. In addition, locals climb the nearest hill tops, thus aspiring to rise to great heights in real life. 
 
Baisakhi/Vaisakhi – <keyword id="6354953" type="COMPANY" weightage="100" keywordseo="Punjab">Punjab</keyword>: Traditionally a <keyword id="404010" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="harvest-festival">harvest festival</keyword>, the <keyword id="1011009" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Punjabi-New-Year">Punjabi New Year</keyword>’s Day is held on April 13/14 (the first day of the second month of the year, according to the Nanakshahi Calendar). It is a significant day for the <keyword id="81001" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Sikh-community">Sikh community</keyword> as well since they celebrate the day in honor of the 10th guru, <keyword id="138545" type="PERSON" weightage="80" keywordseo="Guru-Gobind-Singh">Guru Gobind Singh</keyword>, who did away with the <keyword id="6434481" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Caste-System">caste system</keyword>. Otherwise, fun, food and <keyword id="1998485" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Country-dances">country dances</keyword> like <keyword id="6920" type="CITY" weightage="100" keywordseo="Bhangra">Bhangra</keyword> and <keyword id="465865" type="PERSON" weightage="100" keywordseo="giddha">Giddha</keyword>, keeping time with the beats of dhols and drums, mark this occasion. 
 
<keyword id="585610" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Bestu-Varas">Bestu Varas</keyword> – <keyword id="6354766" type="COMPANY" weightage="100" keywordseo="Gujarat">Gujarat</keyword>: In certain parts of northern and western India, Diwali heralds the New Year and Gujarat is one of them. Bestu Varas is held a day after the Festival of Lights, in the month of <keyword id="6376330" type="PERSON" weightage="100" keywordseo="Kartik">Kartik</keyword> (October-November) and houses are splendidly decked up with <keyword id="5823" type="PERSON" weightage="100" keywordseo="Flowers">flowers</keyword>, rangoli and torans (door hangings). Pujas are offered; New Year <keyword id="54214" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Fireworks">fireworks</keyword> are everywhere and gifts are generously exchanged. And one must not forget the festive food either, especially the delectable and traditional snacks of Gujarat such as <keyword id="107294" type="CITY" weightage="100" keywordseo="farsan">farsan</keyword>. 
 
Images: Wikipedia

New Year Festivities
Not Over Yet; Here Is How India
Celebrates

<div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table float_right"><div><div class="image"></div></div></div>IN EASTERN Sierra Leone the roads are unusually quiet. Checkpoints manned by heavily armed soldiers have blocked all movement to and from the districts of Kailahun and Kenema. 
The main road to Freetown, the capital, is travelled by just a few motorbikes and cars carrying supplies. In Kenema, a usually heaving taxi rank is all but deserted; its cabs have nowhere to go.
Ebola has hit this region hard, and not just because of the deaths it has caused. The federal government's quarantines have taken their own toll. Businesses are suffering and villagers have complained of shortages.
But, even after having declared a state of emergency, the government's precautions are patchy.
At the public hospital in Kenema, which treats Ebola patients, visitors pass in and out as they like. There are few safeguards to prevent them from catching and spreading the disease.
It has been more than nine months since Ebola claimed a two-year-old boy in a village in Guinea--"patient zero" in the current outbreak. But rather than petering out, the virus seems to be ramping up. It has infected nearly 2,000 people in west Africa. Over 1,000 of them have died, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).
That is probably an underestimate. Some families, distrustful of outsiders and authorities, are concealing sick relatives. Unlike previous outbreaks, this one has travelled to cities, including crowded Lagos, Nigeria's commercial capital, which could become a transmission hotspot. On August 8th, for only the third time, the WHO declared a "public health emergency of <keyword id="6356001" type="COMPANY" weightage="60" keywordseo="international">international</keyword> concern".
<div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table float_right"><div><div class="image"></div></div></div>Despite the alarm, Ebola is unlikely to become a pandemic. The virus is caught only by direct contact with bodily fluids, such as vomit and blood. It is less contagious than airborne diseases, such as influenza.
Each Ebola victim usually infects just one or two others, whereas a case of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), first reported in Asia in 2003, generates three more. Compared with other infectious diseases in Africa, Ebola is a small-scale killer (see chart). But the virus is devastating for the region nonetheless.
The frightful nature of the disease, which can cause vomiting, diarrhoea and uncontrollable bleeding, and the lack of a cure have led to panic and fear. Ebola sufferers have overwhelmed hospitals, impairing their ability to treat other patients.
Quarantines are necessary, but threaten local economies (see "The economic impact of Ebola: Panicking only makes it worse"). The virus has showed how hard it can be to stop an outbreak and how, despite some progress, the world is still ill-prepared for a formidable new pathogen.
Ebola is not the first epidemic to catch the world off-guard. Advances in vaccines and antibiotics in the 20th century led some health experts to discount the threat of infectious disease. The devastating arrival of AIDS, SARS, H5N1 (a strain of bird flu) and H1N1 (commonly dubbed swine flu) exposed that as wishful thinking.
In the past two years a type of influenza called H7N9 was found in humans for the first time. A new disease caused by a virus from the same family as SARS, Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS), emerged in Saudi Arabia and has continued to fester.
In response the world has got better at spotting and dealing with troubling viruses. SARS and H5N1, in particular, jolted scientists, companies and governments into action. ProMED and HealthMap, two online reporting systems run by the International Society for Infectious Diseases and Boston Children's Hospital, use a variety of sources to provide quick information on possible outbreaks.
Epidemiologists now understand that most dangerous new viruses jump from animals to men, mutating along the way. So America's government is paying independent groups, such as the EcoHealth Alliance, to search for pathogens in places where such viral hopscotch is likely--often where rapid development disrupts animals' natural habitats. New tools for studying a virus's genes make it easier to identify different strains.
The goal is to spot viruses early so that the damage they do can be contained. To that end, members of the WHO passed new rules for reporting and responding to outbreaks in 2005. China's handling of H7N9 was a sign of progress. A decade earlier, Chinese officials had concealed information about SARS, allowing that virus to spread. But last year China's government promptly shared samples of H7N9 with laboratories around the world and published its own findings in the New England Journal of Medicine.
<h3>How to stop a killer</h3>
The Ebola outbreak is a grisly reminder of how much work remains to be done. The virus first emerged in 1976 in a remote part of Sudan and in the Democratic Republic of Congo, near the Ebola river. But even though epidemiologists were familiar with the disease, it quietly killed Guineans for four months starting last December.
Its symptoms resemble those of more common ailments, such as malaria, which helped to conceal its presence. Apart from a small outbreak in Cote d'Ivoire, this is also the first time that Ebola has appeared in west Africa.
Having revealed a failure in surveillance, Ebola is now exposing how hard it is to contain an outbreak, particularly in poor countries. Stopping Ebola should, in theory, be straightforward. There is no cure, but there are ways to treat victims that will maximise their chance of survival and help prevent transmission.
Patients should be isolated and kept hydrated, their blood pressure monitored and secondary infections treated. Those who have come into contact with the infected should be watched to see if symptoms develop. If none emerge within 21 days, the person can be deemed virus-free.
But all this is labour-intensive. "You still have to have a cadre of people who at the end of the day are able to go out there," explains Ian Lipkin of Columbia University. That depends on strong health systems or substantial international help. In this case, there was neither.
<div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table float_right"><div><div class="image"></div></div></div>The outbreak began in three of the world's poorest countries. Guinea spends $62 per person on health each year, compared with $3,364 in Britain.
Sierra Leone has two doctors per 100,000 people, compared with 245 in America (see chart). Such health workers as are available in the countries affected by Ebola are under severe strain.
About 150 have been infected and 80 have died, the WHO said on August 8th. Médecins Sans Frontières, a non-profit organisation that has 680 health workers in the region, now says that its staff "simply cannot do more".
Decades of civil war in these countries have made matters worse. Many villagers distrust the government and foreign health workers in particular--they fear that doctors and nurses carry the virus. This has undermined efforts to isolate infected patients and stop the chain of transmission.
Education is especially crucial. No family wants to leave a sick loved one or deny him the embraces common in a traditional burial. Yet if the virus is to be stopped, that is what must be done.
In the face of such problems, the WHO's power is limited. It has laid out steps that governments should take, including ensuring health workers' security, but all it can do is make recommendations. The agency is already overstretched from dealing with humanitarian crises in the Central African Republic, South Sudan and Syria, as well the ongoing challenge posed by H7N9 and MERS.
Its budget for outbreaks and crises has declined by 35% since 2010, though it can seek extra money in emergencies. Last month the WHO said $103m was needed to continue the fight against Ebola; it faces a gap of $79m.
Other groups are trying to help. The World Bank says it will devote up to $200m to fight Ebola, though some of these funds were already allocated to the affected countries. America's Centres for Disease Control and Prevention now has over 50 health experts in west Africa. How much difference this will make is unclear, however--many more doctors and nurses are needed.
In the long term, several things will be needed to prevent a repetition of the chaos of this outbreak. The World Bank will direct some of its funding towards improving west Africa's teetering health systems.
As African countries get richer, they should invest more in their own health systems, too. Properly staffed, well-supplied clinics would help countries handle not just outbreaks of Ebola, but more common diseases such as malaria and HIV.
Nigeria's health system is hardly a model--its response to Ebola has been hampered by a strike of government health workers--but it provides a glimpse of how countries might cope with outbreaks in future. The health ministry has been sending text messages detailing symptoms to watch for, protective measures and hotlines to ring to seek care.
New vaccines and drugs to treat Ebola will also be needed. Some are already being developed, including one called ZMapp, which was given to two infected American health workers. Much has been made of these experimental medications, but none has been properly tested in humans.
Nevertheless, on August 12th a WHO committee of scientists and ethicists recommended that their use be allowed in west Africa, subject to certain conditions. Also on that day Canada's government said it would donate up to 1,000 doses of a new Ebola vaccine to the WHO.
Whether it works or how it will be distributed is still unclear. Of the experimental treatments, ZMapp has attracted the most attention. But given the early stage of the drug's development, there is as yet no system for manufacturing it in bulk, even if it were to prove effective.
The toll from this outbreak looks set to rise. But at least the severity of the disease is recognised. At a Kenema coffee shop made of corrugated iron, patrons used to doubt that the virus was real. "Ebola no dae," they would declare, in the local krio language. The mood now is different. "Ebola is there," announced one elderly tea-drinker. "It is worse than the war."
Click <a href="http://www.store.eiu.com">here</a> to subscribe to The Economist

The Spread Of Ebola In West Africa Is Deeply Troubling For The Region And The World

<ul class="summary-list"><li>A looming port strike and the aftereffects of <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/florida-home-insurance-prices-premium-effect-from-hurricanes-2024-9">Hurricane Helene</a> could slow the US transport of goods.</li><li>The strike could involve 45,000 dockworkers demanding higher wages and start October 1.</li></ul>The US could be entering a hellish period for moving goods around huge swaths of the country.<a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/florida-home-insurance-prices-premium-effect-from-hurricanes-2024-9">Hurricane Helene</a> has <a target="_blank" href="https://apnews.com/article/hurricane-helene-north-carolina-asheville-f02869c7d01e68f2d7f0553abb82252f">killed nearly 100 people</a> and left devastation across several states, including widespread flood damage that could leave cities like Asheville, North Carolina, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ashevillenc.gov/news/city-of-asheville-prepares-for-tropical-strom-helene-and-shares-preparedness-tips/">without running water</a> for weeks.The flooding, plus debris including fallen trees, has made many roads and highways impassable, or at least tricky to traverse, across the southeast.Now, a looming port strike could also conspire to slow the transport of critical goods and supplies into, out of, and across the US — and, as a result, deal a devastating economic blow.A <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/dockworker-strike-what-will-be-impacted-prices-inflation-martime-longshoremen-2024-9">strike among dockworkers</a> stretching from the East Coast to the Gulf Coast could start Tuesday. The International Longshoremen's Association said Sunday it was prepared to strike on October 1. The nation's largest union of maritime workers is demanding higher wages, among other conditions.Jon Davis, chief meteorologist at Everstream Analytics, which focuses on supply-chain risk, told Business Insider that the storm and the possible strike would have massive "compounding effects.""It's not one plus one equals two. One plus one equals a lot more than that," he said.JPMorgan analysts have estimated that costs from shutdowns related to the strike could climb to <a target="_blank" href="https://www.politico.com/news/2024/09/27/port-strike-harris-biden-trump-election-00181319">$5 billion a day</a>.It would be the first to span an entire US coast since 1977 and would involve ports that account for about half of the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.reuters.com/world/us/us-east-coast-port-strike-looms-tuesday-with-no-talks-scheduled-2024-09-30/">country's ocean shipping</a>. Some 45,000 workers could lay down their metaphorical tools; on top of the catastrophic damage to infrastructure in hard-hit states like Florida, Georgia, and North Carolina, it would undoubtedly slow the movement of critical goods, including food and vehicles.<h2 id="0053eb76-883a-40c9-852c-7ac96df4524a">An inflation driver</h2>Any slowdowns in the US's critical supply chains could also fan inflation at a time when the Federal Reserve has begun to lower its benchmark interest rate to avoid tipping the economy into a recession. Price increases have cooled year over year, though they remain high for certain goods like eggs, which have spiked because of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.npr.org/2024/09/27/nx-s1-5126581/egg-prices-bird-flu">bird flu</a>.Amir Mousavian, a professor of supply chain management at the University of New England's College of Business, said the impact of a strike would depend on how long it lasts but that the potential consequences are substantial.He told BI that perishable goods would be affected almost immediately and that grocery-store shortages could trigger panic buying — akin to what unfolded during the pandemic.Shipping costs could also jump as businesses seek alternate means of getting goods to customers, such as importing and exporting goods from the West Coast."The timing of the strike is especially concerning, as the US economy has seen progress in lowering inflation. A prolonged strike could reverse these gains, forcing the Federal Reserve to reconsider its economic strategy and possibly reintroduce more restrictive measures," Mousavian said.<h2 id="8e8f958b-33ca-47d6-a3cd-5f4a1572af77">A supply chain that's not resilient</h2>He said the situation is a reminder of what the pandemic starkly revealed — that the US supply chain is "efficient but not resilient." A walkout would also be a reminder of a need for stronger and more adaptable supply chains to withstand future crises, Mousavian said.Jason Greer, president of Greer Consulting Inc. and a former agent with the National Labor Relations Board, told BI the industrial action is likely to happen and the combination with the hurricane's aftereffects is "going to be devastating overall."He said he expects the union will walk out because there is a feeling among members that their concerns haven't been taken seriously for too long."The longshoremen have said, 'We continue to be pushed aside. We continue to be pushed aside. We're not going to be pushed aside any longer.' So I think the overall economic damage is huge," Greer said, also highlighting impacts like higher grocery prices.Meantime, Angela Blanchard, Houston's chief recovery and resilience officer, pointed out on X that the <a target="_blank" href="https://x.com/CajunAngela/status/1840397403658097142">response to and recovery from the</a> hurricane would be "significantly impeded" by a strike. She noted that the disruption at the ports would crimp the availability of materials and fuel — and affect prices."This will be a long and complicated recovery season," Blanchard wrote.

America is facing a nightmare scenario with a looming strike and wrecked infrastructure after Hurricane Helene

India, with its diverse landscapes and rich biodiversity, offers a plethora of opportunities for nature and wildlife enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the wonders of the natural world. From lush forests to pristine beaches, from towering mountains to expansive grasslands, India is a treasure trove of natural beauty. In 2024, these 10 must-visit places promise unforgettable experiences for those seeking to reconnect with nature and encounter its magnificent inhabitants. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Best 10 destinations for nature and wildlife lovers to visit in India" comment="subhead" text="Best 10 destinations for nature and wildlife lovers to visit in India">Best 10 destinations for nature and wildlife lovers to visit in India</cmsannotation> <ul><li><keyword id="94857" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Jim-Corbett-National-Park" source="Orion">Jim Corbett National Park</keyword></li><li>Kaziranga National Park</li><li>Ranthambore National Park</li><li>Sundarbans National Park</li><li>Periyar National Park</li><li>Bandhavgarh National Park</li><li>Hemis National Park</li><li>Gir National Park</li><li>Keoladeo National Park</li><li>Andaman and Nicobar Islands</li></ul><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Jim Corbett National Park - Encounter the Majestic Tigers" comment="subhead" text="Jim Corbett National Park - Encounter the Majestic Tigers">Jim Corbett National Park - Encounter the Majestic Tigers</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="1" msid="109793109" hostid="261" sizebytes="1774180" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Encounter the regal Bengal tigers amidst the Himalayan foothills at Jim Corbett National Park&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Jim Corbett National Park is India's oldest national park and a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Renowned for its population of Bengal tigers, the park offers thrilling safaris where you can catch a glimpse of these majestic predators in their natural habitat. Besides tigers, the park is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, making it a paradise for nature lovers. How to Reach: Jim Corbett National Park is accessible from major cities like Delhi and Dehradun by road. The nearest railway station is in Ramnagar, which is well-connected to other cities in India. Things to Do: Wildlife Safaris, Birdwatching, Nature Walks Speciality: Bengal Tigers, Asiatic Elephants, Leopards, Birdlife Best Time to Visit: November to June, with the best wildlife sightings during the dry season from March to May. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Kaziranga National Park - Explore the Land of the One-horned Rhinoceros" comment="subhead" text="Kaziranga National Park - Explore the Land of the One-horned Rhinoceros">Kaziranga National Park - Explore the Land of the One-horned Rhinoceros</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="2" msid="109793123" hostid="261" sizebytes="2156827" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Witness the majestic Indian one-horned rhinoceros roam freely in the floodplains of Kaziranga&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Located in the northeastern state of Assam, Kaziranga National Park is famous for its population of Indian one-horned rhinoceroses. Spread across the floodplains of the Brahmaputra River, the park is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a biodiversity hotspot. In Kaziranga National Park you can embark on thrilling elephant and jeep safaris to spot rhinos, as well as tigers, elephants, and a variety of bird species. How to Reach: Kaziranga National Park is accessible from Guwahati, the capital city of Assam, by road. The nearest airport and railway station are both located in Guwahati. Things to Do: Elephant Safari, Jeep Safari, Birdwatching Speciality: Indian One-Horned Rhinoceros, Royal Bengal Tigers, Asiatic Elephants, Swamp Deer, Water Buffalo Best Time to Visit: November to April, with the dry season (November to March) being ideal for wildlife viewing. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Ranthambore National Park - Witness the Graceful Big Cats" comment="subhead" text="Ranthambore National Park - Witness the Graceful Big Cats">Ranthambore National Park - Witness the Graceful Big Cats</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="3" msid="109793134" hostid="261" sizebytes="1860388" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Embark on a safari to catch a glimpse of elusive tigers amidst the ancient ruins of Ranthambore&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Ranthambore National Park is popular for its population of Bengal tigers and is one of the best places in India to spot these elusive predators. The park is also home to the historic Ranthambore Fort and a diverse range of wildlife, including leopards, sloth bears, and various species of birds. Visitors can enjoy exhilarating safaris amidst the rugged terrain of Ranthambore. How to Reach: Ranthambore National Park is located near the town of Sawai Madhopur, which is well-connected to cities like Jaipur and Delhi by road and rail. Things to Do: Tiger Safari, Fort Exploration, Birdwatching Speciality: Bengal Tigers, Leopards, Sloth Bears, Marsh Crocodiles, Birdlife Best Time to Visit: October to April, with the cooler months of October to March being the prime time for tiger sightings. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Sundarbans National Park - Navigate the Mangrove Wilderness" comment="subhead" text="Sundarbans National Park - Navigate the Mangrove Wilderness">Sundarbans National Park - Navigate the Mangrove Wilderness</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="4" msid="109793144" hostid="261" sizebytes="1968121" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Explore the mystical mangrove forests where Royal Bengal tigers reign supreme in Sundarbans&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>The Sundarbans, located in the delta region of West Bengal, is the largest mangrove forest in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Sundarbans National Park is home to the iconic Royal Bengal tiger and other wildlife such as saltwater crocodiles, spotted deer, and various bird species. Exploring the dense mangrove forests by boat offers a unique opportunity to witness the rich biodiversity of this extraordinary ecosystem. How to Reach: Sundarbans National Park can be accessed from Kolkata by road and waterways. The nearest airport and railway station are in Kolkata. Things to Do: Boat Safari, Birdwatching, Mangrove Exploration Speciality: Royal Bengal Tigers, Saltwater Crocodiles, Spotted Deer, Birdlife, Mangrove Ecosystem Best Time to Visit: December to February, during the cooler months when wildlife sightings are more frequent. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Periyar National Park - Discover the Wilderness of the Western Ghats" comment="subhead" text="Periyar National Park - Discover the Wilderness of the Western Ghats">Periyar National Park - Discover the Wilderness of the Western Ghats</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="5" msid="109793163" hostid="261" sizebytes="1248700" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Cruise along the tranquil waters of Periyar Lake as elephants roam the lush forests of Periyar&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Periyar National Park is a biodiversity hotspot in the Western Ghats of Kerala known for its picturesque landscapes and diverse wildlife. The park is home to herds of elephants, as well as tigers, sambar deer, and endemic bird species. You can explore the park through guided nature walks, boat cruises on Periyar Lake, and bamboo rafting adventures, offering a close encounter with nature. How to Reach: Periyar National Park is located near the town of Thekkady, which is well-connected to cities like Kochi and Madurai by road. Things to Do: Boat Cruise, Nature Walk, Bamboo Rafting Speciality: Indian Elephants, Tigers, Sambar Deer, Lion-Tailed Macaques, Birdlife, Periyar Lake Best Time to Visit: October to February, with the winter months offering pleasant weather and good wildlife sightings. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Bandhavgarh National Park - Unravel the Mysteries of the Jungle" comment="subhead" text="Bandhavgarh National Park - Unravel the Mysteries of the Jungle">Bandhavgarh National Park - Unravel the Mysteries of the Jungle</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="6" msid="109793173" hostid="261" sizebytes="2458703" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Unravel the mysteries of the jungle as you track Bengal tigers in the rugged terrain of Bandhavgarh&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Situated in the heart of Madhya Pradesh, Bandhavgarh National Park is famous for its high density of Bengal tigers and is considered one of the best places in India for tiger sightings. The park's rugged terrain, ancient ruins, and lush forests create a dramatic backdrop for wildlife safaris. In addition to tigers, visitors can spot leopards, deer, langurs, and a variety of bird species. How to Reach: Bandhavgarh National Park is accessible from cities like Jabalpur and Khajuraho by road. The nearest railway station is in Umaria. Things to Do: Tiger Safari, Jungle Trekking, Fort Exploration Speciality: Bengal Tigers, Leopards, Spotted Deer, Langurs, Birdlife, Bandhavgarh Fort Best Time to Visit: October to April, with the dry season (October to March) being ideal for tiger sightings. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Hemis National Park - Explore the High-altitude Wilderness" comment="subhead" text="Hemis National Park - Explore the High-altitude Wilderness">Hemis National Park - Explore the High-altitude Wilderness</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="7" msid="109793179" hostid="261" sizebytes="2279669" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Embark on a snow leopard trek amidst the towering peaks of the Himalayas in Hemis&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Hemis National Park is India's largest national park and a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The park is home to elusive snow leopards, as well as blue sheep, ibex, and various species of migratory birds. Trekking through the rugged terrain of Hemis offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas and a chance to encounter the rare and elusive snow leopard. How to Reach: Hemis National Park is accessible from Leh, the capital of Ladakh, by road. Leh is connected to major cities like Delhi by air. Things to Do: Snow Leopard Trek, Birdwatching, Photography Speciality: Snow Leopards, Blue Sheep, Ibex, Himalayan Griffon, Tibetan Argali Best Time to Visit: December to March, during the winter months when snow leopards descend to lower altitudes in search of prey. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Gir National Park - Witness the Last Asiatic Lions" comment="subhead" text="Gir National Park - Witness the Last Asiatic Lions">Gir National Park - Witness the Last Asiatic Lions</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="8" msid="109793187" hostid="261" sizebytes="2365471" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Witness the last Asiatic lions roam freely in the wilderness of Gir National Park&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Situated in Gujarat, Gir National Park is the last refuge of the Asiatic lion and a symbol of conservation success. The park is home to a thriving population of lions, as well as other wildlife such as leopards, deer, and various bird species. Visitors to Gir can embark on lion safaris and nature walks to explore the diverse ecosystems of this unique habitat. How to Reach: Gir National Park is accessible from cities like Ahmedabad and Rajkot by road. The nearest railway station is in Junagadh. Things to Do: Lion Safari, Nature Walk, Birdwatching Speciality: Asiatic Lions, Leopards, Indian Cobras, Indian Gazelles, Birdlife Best Time to Visit: December to March, with the cooler months offering better wildlife sightings. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Keoladeo National Park - Delve into the Wetland Paradise" comment="subhead" text="Keoladeo National Park - Delve into the Wetland Paradise">Keoladeo National Park - Delve into the Wetland Paradise</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="9" msid="109793203" hostid="261" sizebytes="1326583" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Immerse yourself in a symphony of bird calls as migratory birds flock to Keoladeo&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Formerly known as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, Keoladeo National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a paradise for birdwatchers. Located in Rajasthan, the park is home to over 370 species of birds, including migratory birds like Siberian cranes and painted storks. Exploring the park on foot or by cycle rickshaw offers intimate encounters with the diverse avian inhabitants amidst the tranquil wetlands. How to Reach: Keoladeo National Park is located near the town of Bharatpur, which is well-connected to cities like Delhi and Jaipur by road and rail. Things to Do: Birdwatching, Cycle Rickshaw Ride, Nature Photography Speciality: Migratory Birds (Siberian Cranes, Painted Storks, etc.), Waterfowl, Reptiles Best Time to Visit: November to March, with the peak birdwatching season from December to February. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Andaman and Nicobar Islands - Dive into the Pristine Marine Wonderland" comment="subhead" text="Andaman and Nicobar Islands - Dive into the Pristine Marine Wonderland">Andaman and Nicobar Islands - Dive into the Pristine Marine Wonderland</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="10" msid="109793208" hostid="261" sizebytes="1086038" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Dive into the vibrant marine world teeming with life in the crystal-clear waters of Andaman and Nicobar Islands&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, located in the Bay of Bengal, are a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. With its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life, the islands offer unparalleled opportunities for snorkelling, scuba diving, and underwater exploration. Visitors can discover the rich biodiversity of the Andaman Sea, including colourful coral reefs, exotic fish species, and even encounters with majestic creatures like manta rays and sea turtles. How to Reach: The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are accessible by air and sea from cities like Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam. Things to Do: Snorkeling, Scuba Diving, Beach Exploration Speciality: Coral Reefs, Marine Life (Manta Rays, Sea Turtles, Reef Sharks), Mangrove Forests, White Sand Beaches Best Time to Visit: November to April, with the dry season (December to March) offering the best conditions for water activities and beach exploration. Whether you're seeking thrilling wildlife encounters, serene natural landscapes, or adrenaline-pumping adventures, these 10 must-visit places in India offer a diverse range of experiences for nature and wildlife enthusiasts in 2024. Visit these enchanting destinations and immerse yourself in the unparalleled beauty of India's natural wonders. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Frequently Asked Questions" comment="subhead" text="Frequently Asked Questions">Frequently Asked Questions</cmsannotation> 1. What are the safety measures in place for visitors to wildlife parks and sanctuaries in India? Wildlife parks and sanctuaries in India prioritise visitor safety by implementing measures such as trained guides for safaris, designated viewing areas, and strict regulations regarding wildlife interaction. Additionally, visitors are advised to follow park rules, maintain a safe distance from animals, and refrain from feeding or disturbing them. 2. What types of accommodations are available near these natural and wildlife destinations? Accommodation options near natural and wildlife destinations in India vary from luxury resorts and eco-lodges to budget guesthouses and campsites. Visitors can choose accommodations based on their preferences and budget, with options ranging from rustic wilderness camps to comfortable lodges with modern amenities. 3. What should I pack for a trip to these natural and wildlife destinations? Essential items to pack for a trip to natural and wildlife destinations in India include lightweight and breathable clothing suitable for the climate, sturdy walking shoes or boots for outdoor activities, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), insect repellent, binoculars for wildlife viewing, and a camera for capturing memorable moments. 4. What are the transportation options available for getting to these destinations? Transportation options for reaching natural and wildlife destinations in India vary depending on the location. Most destinations are accessible by road, with options for private vehicles, buses, or hired taxis. Some remote destinations may require additional modes of transportation such as boats, jeeps, or domestic flights to nearby airports. It's advisable to plan transportation in advance and check for any travel restrictions or permits required for certain areas. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/travel/india/webstories/8-best-places-in-india-to-spot-tigers/slidelist/109001417.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Best places in India to spot tiger</a>

Top 10 destinations to visit in India for nature and wildlife lovers in 2024

As the scorching summer sun casts its relentless heat across the Indian subcontinent, families seek refuge in the cool, serene corners of this diverse land. With its plethora of landscapes, cultures, and attractions, India offers a wide array of options for families with children looking to make the most of their summer vacations. Here's a curated list of some of the best <keyword id="21088631" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="kid-friendly-destinations-in-India" source="Orion">kid-friendly destinations in India</keyword>. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Goa" comment="subhead" text="Goa">Goa</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="2" msid="110088606" hostid="261" sizebytes="1874204" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Sandy shores and endless adventures await in vibrant Goa&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Feel the soft sand between your toes and the gentle sea breeze in your hair as you create unforgettable memories on Goa's beautiful beaches! Dive into the sparkling waves, build towering sandcastles, and soak up the sunshine with your family. Explore lively markets, try delicious seafood, and embark on exciting dolphin-watching cruises. In Goa, every moment is filled with joy and adventure, making it the perfect destination for a fun-filled family vacation! Things to do: Build sandcastles at Calangute Beach, take a dolphin-watching cruise, explore the spice plantations, and visit the vibrant markets of Anjuna, <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/travel/india/these-are-top-10-activities-for-your-next-visit-to-goa/slidelist/100872614.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">read more</a>. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Shimla, Himachal Pradesh" comment="subhead" text="Shimla, Himachal Pradesh">Shimla, Himachal Pradesh</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="3" msid="110088650" hostid="261" sizebytes="1796574" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Amidst misty mountains, find serenity in Shimla&amp;#39;s embrace&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Escape the scorching summer heat and retreat to the refreshing hills of Shimla! Ride the toy train through picturesque valleys, stroll along the bustling Mall Road, and marvel at the stunning views of snow-capped mountains. Take walks between towering pine trees, visit charming temples, and indulge in delicious local delicacies. Shimla's serene beauty and cool climate create the ideal setting for quality family time and unforgettable adventures! Things to do: Ride the historic toy train to Kalka, explore the colonial architecture on Mall Road, take a nature walk through the pine forests, and visit the Himalayan Bird Park, <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/travel/india/these-are-top-10-activities-you-need-to-do-on-next-trip-to-shimla/slidelist/100593678.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">read more</a>. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Darjeeling, West Bengal" comment="subhead" text="Darjeeling, West Bengal">Darjeeling, West Bengal</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="4" msid="110088673" hostid="261" sizebytes="1860231" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Tea-scented hills and toy train thrills in Darjeeling!&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Surrounded by lush tea gardens and majestic mountains, Darjeeling welcomes families with open arms! Hop aboard the iconic toy train for a scenic ride, visit the adorable pandas at the Himalayan Zoological Park, and take breathtaking cable car rides over verdant valleys. Explore vibrant markets filled with unique souvenirs, sip on aromatic tea at quaint tea estates, and immerse yourself in the rich culture of this enchanting hill station. Darjeeling promises endless delights for families seeking a memorable getaway! Things to do: Ride the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train), visit the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, take a cable car ride to see the valley from above, and explore the vibrant markets, <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/travel/india/these-10-activities-you-should-do-in-darjeeling-trip/slidelist/100647508.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">read more</a>. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Munnar, Kerala" comment="subhead" text="Munnar, Kerala">Munnar, Kerala</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="5" msid="110088691" hostid="261" sizebytes="2245146" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Misty mornings and tea garden wonders await in Munnar!&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div> Discover the natural wonders of Munnar, where rolling hills are carpeted with lush tea plantations and misty waterfalls cascade down verdant slopes. Learn the art of tea-making at the Tea Museum, embark on exhilarating treks to hidden viewpoints, and enjoy serene boat rides on tranquil lakes. Spot exotic wildlife in the verdant forests of Eravikulam National Park and marvel at the beauty of rare Neelakurinji flowers in bloom. Munnar's tranquil beauty and serene ambience provide the perfect backdrop for family bonding and outdoor adventures! Things to do: Visit the Tea Museum to learn about tea processing, trek to the top of Anamudi Peak, go boating at Kundala Lake, and explore the Eravikulam National Park to spot the Nilgiri Tahr, <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/travel/india/these-are-must-do-activities-for-your-next-trip-to-munnar/slidelist/100928761.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">read more</a>. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Jaipur, Rajasthan" comment="subhead" text="Jaipur, Rajasthan">Jaipur, Rajasthan</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="6" msid="110088733" hostid="261" sizebytes="2074108" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Step into a regal past in the pink-hued city of Jaipur!&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Step into a world of regal splendour and vibrant culture in the historic city of Jaipur! Explore magnificent palaces like the Amer Fort, where you can ride on majestic elephants and marvel at intricate architecture. Wander through bustling bazaars filled with colourful textiles, traditional handicrafts, and savoury street food delights. Experience the thrill of a camel safari in the golden sands of the Thar Desert and witness mesmerising folk performances under the starlit sky. Jaipur's royal charm and warm hospitality promise an unforgettable family vacation filled with grandeur and excitement! Things to do: Explore the majestic Amer Fort on an elephant ride, visit the City Palace and Hawa Mahal, take a camel safari in the Thar Desert, and shop for traditional Rajasthani handicrafts at the bustling markets, <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/travel/india/these-are-10-activities-you-should-on-your-next-visit-to-jaipur/slidelist/101049417.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">read more</a>. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan" comment="subhead" text="Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan">Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="7" msid="110088798" hostid="261" sizebytes="2477327" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;In the heart of the wild, encounter the kings of Ranthambore!&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Go on a thrilling wildlife adventure in Ranthambore National Park, where majestic tigers roam free amidst ancient ruins and dense forests! Hop on a safari jeep and venture deep into the wilderness to spot elusive big cats, graceful deer, and exotic bird species. Explore the towering ramparts of Ranthambore Fort and soak in panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of nature, as you create cherished memories with your family in this untamed wilderness! Things to do: Embark on a safari to spot tigers, leopards, and other wildlife, visit the ancient Ranthambore Fort, explore the Surwal Lake for birdwatching, and enjoy a cultural evening with folk performances. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Andaman and Nicobar Islands" comment="subhead" text="Andaman and Nicobar Islands">Andaman and Nicobar Islands</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="8" msid="110088806" hostid="261" sizebytes="1444336" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Turquoise waters and tropical dreams await in Andaman&amp;#39;s paradise!&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Escape to paradise on the pristine beaches of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, where crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs await your family's exploration! Dive into the azure sea to snorkel amongst colourful marine life, relax on powdery white sands, and watch breathtaking sunsets paint the horizon. Explore historic landmarks like the Cellular Jail National Memorial and learn about India's rich heritage. From thrilling water sports to serene beachcombing, the Andaman Islands offer endless opportunities for family fun and relaxation in a tropical paradise! Things to do: Snorkel or scuba dive in the crystal-clear waters to explore vibrant coral reefs, visit the Cellular Jail National Memorial for a glimpse into India's freedom struggle, relax on the beaches of Havelock Island, and take a glass-bottom boat ride to see marine life up close. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Udaipur, Rajasthan" comment="subhead" text="Udaipur, Rajasthan">Udaipur, Rajasthan</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="9" msid="110088838" hostid="261" sizebytes="2089547" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Palace reflections and lakefront tales in Udaipur&amp;#39;s splendor!&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Experience the charm of the 'City of Lakes,' Udaipur, where majestic palaces and serene lakes create a fairy-tale ambience for families to explore! Take a boat ride on the shimmering waters of Lake Pichola and marvel at the grandeur of the City Palace, adorned with intricate carvings and colourful murals. Wander through the narrow lanes of the old city, shop for exquisite handicrafts, and savour delectable Rajasthani cuisine at rooftop restaurants overlooking the lake. With its romantic atmosphere and cultural treasures, Udaipur promises an enchanting family getaway filled with wonder and discovery! Things to do: Sunset at Sajjangarh Palace, Explore Old City and Boat Ride on Lake Pichola <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Ooty, Tamil Nadu" comment="subhead" text="Ooty, Tamil Nadu">Ooty, Tamil Nadu</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="10" msid="110088858" hostid="261" sizebytes="2441159" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Amongst Nilgiri peaks, find tranquility in Ooty&amp;#39;s charm!&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Ooty beckons families with its cool climate, verdant landscapes, and old-world charm! Hop aboard the historic Nilgiri Mountain Railway for a scenic journey through lush valleys and cascading waterfalls. Explore the vibrant flower gardens of the Government Botanical Garden, go boating on the serene waters of Ooty Lake, and enjoy panoramic views from Doddabetta Peak. Treat your taste buds to homemade chocolates and aromatic teas at quaint cafes, and immerse yourself in the tranquillity of nature in this idyllic hill station! Things to do: Explore the Botanical Garden, Relax at Ooty Lake and Tea Tasting and Shopping <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Manali, Himachal Pradesh" comment="subhead" text="Manali, Himachal Pradesh">Manali, Himachal Pradesh</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="11" msid="110088879" hostid="261" sizebytes="2050553" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Snow-capped dreams and mountain escapades beckon in Manali!&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Escape to the picturesque hill station of Manali, where snow-capped peaks, gushing rivers, and lush meadows create a paradise for families seeking adventure and relaxation! Trek through scenic trails amidst towering deodar trees, splash in the icy waters of the Beas River and marvel at the panoramic views from the Rohtang Pass. Visit ancient temples, explore Tibetan monasteries, and indulge in thrilling activities like paragliding and river rafting. Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping thrills or serene moments in nature, Manali offers an unforgettable family vacation amidst the beauty of the Himalayas! Things to do: Experience Adventure Sports, Explore Solang Valley, Visit Hadimba Temple Relax at Vashisht Hot Springs and <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/travel/news/these-10-activities-you-should-do-in-manali-trip/slidelist/100410263.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">read more</a>. Each of these destinations offers a unique blend of culture, adventure, and natural beauty, making them perfect choices for unforgettable family vacations. So pack your bags, gather your loved ones, and set out on a summer adventure to create cherished memories that will last a lifetime! <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Frequently asked questions" comment="subhead" text="Frequently asked questions">Frequently asked questions</cmsannotation> 1. What is the best time to visit Goa? The best time to visit Goa is during the cooler, drier months of November to February, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for beach activities and sightseeing. 2. Are there any direct flights to Darjeeling? Darjeeling does not have its own airport. The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport, located approximately 70 kilometres away. From there, you can either take a taxi or a shared jeep to reach Darjeeling. 3. What is the temperature like in Munnar during summer? Munnar enjoys a cool and pleasant climate during summer, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. It is an ideal destination to escape the summer heat and enjoy outdoor activities amidst lush greenery. 4. Can I see tigers in Ranthambore National Park? Yes, Ranthambore National Park is one of the best places in India to spot Bengal tigers in their natural habitat. However, tiger sightings are not guaranteed as they are wild animals and their movements are unpredictable. Embarking on multiple safaris increases the chances of spotting these majestic creatures.

10 best kid-friendly summer vacation destinations in India

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Soaring input costs and a bird flu outbreak have driven up US egg prices to multi-year highs.</li><li>The average price of a dozen eggs surged nearly 60% last year to over $3.70 – and more than doubled in seven states.</li></ul>If you've been to the shops – or <a href="https://twitter.com/0xgaut/status/1617385256147111936?s=20&amp;t=UpZab2p0vs-XTPlcGey6Pw" target="_blank" rel="noopener">checked social media</a> – lately, you'll know that egg prices are soaring.The average cost of a dozen eggs rose 59% last year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, with <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/these-states-have-seen-the-highest-increases-in-egg-prices-2023-1">prices more than doubling</a> in West Virginia and six states in the upper Midwest. The cost shock was even more acute in the case of eggs classified grade A, with prices jumping almost 140%.That surge has inspired waves of memes on Twitter as well as retail-trading forums like Reddit's Wall Street Bets, usually based on the idea that made-up "egg investors" beat benchmarks like the <a href="https://markets.businessinsider.com/index/s&amp;p_500">S&amp;P 500</a>, yields on <a href="https://markets.businessinsider.com/rates/u-s--rates-10-years">10-year US Treasury notes</a>, or <a href="https://markets.businessinsider.com/currencies/btc-usd">bitcoin</a> in 2022.There's no such thing as tradeable egg futures, but the Consumer Price Index does include eggs – and a reading of the monthly inflation reports shows that the price of a dozen jumped to <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/inflation-cpi-report-december-price-growth-2023-1">$3.73 in December</a> from $2.34 at the end of 2021.Farmers across the US have pinpointed two factors that are fuelling the egg price crisis.Spiraling inflation has squeezed their input costs higher – and they've had to respond by raising egg prices."This year, my feed cost has jumped 26%, my electric cost is up 30%, and now my cost of cartons is up 45%," Ron Eichner, who owns Eichner's Family Farm in Wexford, PA, told <a href="https://www.npr.org/2023/01/21/1150548985/whats-behind-the-rising-price-of-eggs" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NPR</a> last week. "You know, these are things that you have to escalate now into your retail product."Furthermore, demand for eggs is relatively <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/ask/answers/012915/what-difference-between-inelasticity-and-elasticity-demand.asp" target="_blank" rel="noopener">inelastic</a> – meaning consumers tend to stomach price rises in the commodity, widely used as part of a balanced diet, than they would do with less essential items such as cookies or <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/millennials-starbucks-pumpkin-spice-latte-cultural-icon-2021-10">pumpkin spice lattes</a>.But that's also true for <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/global-food-crisis-higher-prices-shortages-civil-unrest-2022-8">products like milk, bread, and cereal</a> – none of which saw price increases on a scale similar to that of eggs.That's because the US is also contending with a vicious outbreak of bird flu, which is killing hens and reducing overall egg supplies.At least 46 million birds have either died or been culled since early 2022 to avoid further spread of the virus, according to the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/flu/avianflu/spotlights/2022-2023/nearing-record-number-avian-influenza.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Center for Disease Control and Prevention</a> – approaching the 51 million deaths recorded during the worst-ever US outbreak in 2015."It's mostly in the wild bird population and if you're going to bring everything from air to people from the outside to the inside of your barns, you have a chance to spread infection," Buckeye, AZ-based Hickman's Family Farms president Glenn Hickman told <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-01-23/odd-lots-podcast-why-are-eggs-so-expensive-right-now" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bloomberg's "Odd Lots" podcast</a> Monday."The spread of infection is so fast and so deadly that maybe one day you'll have 10 dead chickens in a barn, the next day you'll have 100, the next day you'll have 1,000," he added. "Within just a few days, the entire farm is involved in it."It's the flu breakout that's caused egg prices to spiral higher at an even faster rate than other farmed foods – inspiring retail investors' latest memes and squeezing shoppers' wallets across the US.And with inflation still remaining elevated by historical standards and bird flu fueling a steep drop-off in supply, it's unlikely that the egg price crisis will be over anytime soon.Read more: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/global-food-crisis-higher-prices-shortages-civil-unrest-2022-8">We're in a global food crisis that will wreak havoc on local economies and trigger civil unrest</a>

Americans are battling an egg price crisis after an almost 60% surge in 2022. Here's what's happening.

<ul class="summary-list"><li><keyword id="2390" type="COMPANY" weightage="60" keywordseo="Las-Vegas">Las Vegas</keyword> Mayor Carolyn Goodman told MSNBC that hospitality businesses should be allowed to reopen.</li><li>"Assuming everyone's a carrier," Goodman said that the open businesses that generate infections will then be closed again.</li><li>MSNBC's Katy Tur called the mayor's idea "modern day survival of the fittest." </li><li><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/?hprecirc-bullet">Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories</a>.</li></ul>Las <keyword id="241497" type="CITY" weightage="60" keywordseo="Vegas">Vegas</keyword> Mayor Carolyn Goodman thinks that businesses in the city that want to reopen should be able to. That way, those businesses that see outbreaks can just be closed again at a later date.The mayor, who doesn't have authority over the Vegas strip, shared her idea with MSNBC's Katy Tur in a phone <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rnM2jqB9OQ4">interview on Tuesday</a>. "Assume everybody is a carrier," the mayor told Tur. "And then you start from an even slate. And tell the people what to do. And let the businesses open and competition will destroy that business if, in fact, they become evident that they have disease, they're closed down. It's that simple."Tur, who was apparently dumbfounded by the comments, called the plan "modern day survival of the fittest."Goodman has been a vocal critic of business closures. She previously came under fire for calling the shutdowns "insanity." Matthew 'Matt' Maddox, CEO Wynn Resorts, said in <a href="https://thenevadaindependent.com/article/a-plan-to-re-open-nevada">an op-ed</a> "that opinion has no basis in science or data and should be ignored." Stephen Cloobeck, CEO of Diamond Resorts International, appeared in Tur's Tuesday segment in a fiery video message."Mayor Goodman is the mayor of Las Vegas downtown, she has nothing to do with the strip and we're sick and tired of hearing this," Cloobeck said. Goodman tried to explain her thoughts to Tur, and referred to hospitality workers who are struggling to feed their families. She also made reference to lesser infectious diseases that have come and gone. "We've survived the West Nile and SARS, Bird Flu, E. coli, swine flu, the Zika virus," Goodman told Tur, who quickly interjected. "They were not as contagious and they did not spread as far as this disease has already done," Tur said.As of Wednesday morning, there were more than 826,000 confirmed <keyword id="8763838" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="covid-19">COVID-19</keyword> cases in the US and more than 45,000 deaths. In Nevada, there have been nearly 4,000 cases and 163 deaths. Goodman's comments come as protesters around the United States <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/pro-gun-activists-brothers-facebook-protest-lockdowns-2020-4">hold rallies</a> calling for the end of lockdowns and restarting the economy.Read the original article on <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/las-vegas-mayor-open-casinos-close-with-most-infections-2020-4">Business Insider</a>

The mayor of Las Vegas wants to open casinos and let the number of infections determine which of them have to close

<ul><li>One in every 10 Indian travellers say that they seek an adrenaline rush. </li><li> As adventure sports are turning popular, Booking.com reveals the top 5 places where people can go paragliding, skydiving, and others. </li><li>Here are the top 5 places around the world for adrenaline junkies</li></ul>One in every 10 Indian travellers say that they seek an adrenaline rush. As adventure sports are turning popular, Booking.com reveals the top 5 places where people can go paragliding, skydiving, and others. Here are the top 5 destinations: Kalimpong, India 
	
 


 
	
 
 <div type="image" title="800_paragliding-287624" msid="72183498" hostid="261"></div>





 Kalimpong, a Himalayan hill town set in West Bengal, is ranked as one of the top paragliding top destinations by Booking.com travelers. It has many hotspots for paragliding and <keyword id="3474767" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="hang-gliding">hang gliding</keyword> including Deolo Park with its green landscapes and a view of the town and hills. It is also known for Dhok Palri Phodang, a Tibetan Buddhist temple located at the top of Durpin Hill. Boituva, <keyword id="6355226" type="LOCATION" weightage="20" keywordseo="brazil">Brazil</keyword> 
	
 


 
	
 
 <div type="image" title="800_skydiving-127722" msid="72183508" hostid="261"></div>





 Boituva with dramatic green landscape in São Paulo - is a popular destination for skydiving. And it has a lot more to offer than adventure sports — like watching the birds in flight at the Parque Ecologico Eugenio Walter. It is home to a vast array of birds such as peacocks, swans and Macaws. <keyword id="8362608" type="LOCATION" weightage="20" keywordseo="Mulwala">Mulwala</keyword>, Australia 
	
 
 <div type="image" title="800_big4nrmayarrawongamulwalaholidaypark1-497684" msid="72183518" hostid="261"></div>





 
	
 


Mulwala is located in New South Wales, Australia. The area is best known for water skiing, wakeboarding and canoeing along the <keyword id="8362607" type="LOCATION" weightage="20" keywordseo="Murray-River">Murray River</keyword>. The town also has a Water Ski Club that provides travelers with a vast array of aquatic fun. Birgi Vecchi, Italy 
	
 
	
 
 <div type="image" title="800_kitesurfing-673985" msid="72183547" hostid="261"></div>





 
	
 

Located in the province of Trapani, Birgi Vecchi is popular for kitesurfing. The winds in the move from three directions, North, Northwest and South, creating the perfect conditions to kitesurf. Birgi Vecchi has a variety of kitesurfing schools which aid those who are novices. It also has Lo Stagnone, the ‘Kitesurfing Gym’, a place where travelers can safely practice whilst exploring the waters. San Pedro, Belize 
	
 


 
	
 
 <div type="image" title="800_sharkdiving-210870" msid="72183538" hostid="261"></div>





 San Pedro, a town in the southern part of Ambergris Caye, has a vast array of water sports-- scuba diving, snorkeling and dive sites. Its home to exotic sea life and the Great Blue Hole, a marine sinkhole which is (400 feet deep. Its bustling marine life includes various species of sharks-- like Nurse Sharks, Bull Sharks and Hammerhead. Travelers can go for a whale diving trip.

The top 5 destinations you can visit for paragliding, skydiving, kitesurfing and other adventure sports

Chinatopix/AP Medical workers in protective gear talk with a woman suspected of being ill with a <keyword id="1754604" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="coronavirus">coronavirus</keyword> at a community health station in Wuhan in central China's Hubei Province, January 27, 2020. <ul class="summary-list"><li>A <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/china-virus-everything-we-know-deadly-2019-ncov-wuhan-spread-2020-1">coronavirus</a> that originated in Wuhan, China, has killed at least 170 people and infected more than 8,000.</li><li>Coronaviruses are zoonotic diseases, meaning they <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/wuhan-coronavirus-chinese-wet-market-photos-2020-1">can pass from animals to humans</a>. Both this virus and <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/china-wuhan-coronavirus-compared-to-sars-2020-1">SARS</a> likely originated in bats, then jumped to people.</li><li>In the last 50 years, at least 10 infectious diseases have <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/wuhan-coronavirus-many-other-disease-outbreaks-to-come-2020-1">jumped from animals to people</a>. </li><li>Here's how the <keyword id="8629628" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="wuhan-coronavirus">Wuhan coronavirus</keyword> compares to other major outbreaks.</li><li><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/?hprecirc-bullet">Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories</a>.</li></ul>Since December 31, the Wuhan coronavirus has killed at least 170 people and infected more than 8,000 across 20 countries, including the US. The outbreak isn't currently considered a <keyword id="43587" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="20" keywordseo="pandemic">pandemic</keyword>, however, despite its rapid spread. The World Health Organization has not declared it a global public-health emergency either, in part because China has <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/wuhan-coronavirus-officials-quarantine-entire-city-2020-1">quarantined Wuhan</a> and other nearby cities to stop the virus' spread. Here's how the Wuhan outbreak compares to other major virus outbreaks in the last 50 years. So far, the coronavirus has the lowest fatality rate. 
 
 <div type="image" title="unnamed" msid="73950073" hostid="261"></div>





 The chart above does not include mosquito-borne viruses like Zika, malaria, and Dengue fever. <h2>All of these diseases jumped from animals to people</h2>According to experts, the new coronavirus likely originated in bats. More than <a href="https://www.infectioncontroltoday.com/infectious-diseases-conditions/world-zoonoses-day-most-emerging-infectious-diseases-originate">75% of emerging diseases</a> originate in animals; these are called zoonotic diseases, meaning they can jump from animals to people. At least 10 outbreaks in the last century have spilled over to humans from mammals like bats, birds, and pigs. Ebola jumped from fruit bats in west Africa 40 years ago and has killed more than 13,500 people in multiple outbreaks. The Marberg virus, SARS (severe acute respiratory syndrome), MERS (Middle Eastern respiratory syndrome), and <keyword id="6545212" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="nipah">Nipah</keyword> also originated in bats. The H7N9 and H5N9 bird flus, meanwhile, jumped from infected poultry to people in Chinese markets, together killing more than 1,000 people. Teh Eng Koon/AFP/Getty A Chinese poultry seller waits for customers behind freshly slaughtered chickens on sale at a wet market in Beijing, July 3, 2007. The 2009-2010 swine flu pandemic (also known as H1N1) started, of course, in pigs. It killed nearly 300,000 people in a global pandemic and spread to 214 countries in less than a year. According to experts, diseases will continue to spill over from animals to humans as the global population grows. The more people there are on Earth, the more our species moves into wild habitats and encounters creatures that harbor viruses. "Infectious diseases will continue to emerge and re-emerge. I think it's part of the world we live in now," Eric Toner, a senior scientist at the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security, <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/wuhan-coronavirus-many-other-disease-outbreaks-to-come-2020-1">previously told Business Insider</a>. "We're in an age of epidemics because of globalization, because of encroachment on wild environments." Read more about the Wuhan coronavirus: <ul><li><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/china-virus-everything-we-know-deadly-2019-ncov-wuhan-spread-2020-1">The Wuhan coronavirus has killed at least 170 people and infected more than 8,000. Here's everything we know about the outbreak.</a></li><li><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/scientist-simulated-coronavirus-pandemic-deaths-2020-1">Health experts issued an ominous warning about a coronavirus pandemic 3 months ago. The virus in their simulation could kill 65 million people.</a></li><li><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/wuhan-coronavirus-officials-quarantine-entire-city-2020-1">Wuhan, China, and at least 15 other cities have been quarantined as China attempts to halt the spread of the coronavirus. That's about 50 million people on lockdown.</a></li><li><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-protect-yourself-from-coronavirus-wuhan-2020-1">The Wuhan coronavirus has spread to at least 20 countries. Here's how to protect yourself while traveling.</a></li></ul><a></a>Featured Digital Health Articles: - <a>Telehealth Industry: Benefits, Services &amp; Examples</a> - <a>Value-Based Care Model: Pay-for-Performance Healthcare</a> - <a>Senior Care &amp; Assisted Living Market Trends</a> - <a>Smart Medical Devices: Wearable Tech in Healthcare</a> - <a>AI in Healthcare</a> - <a>Remote Patient Monitoring Industry: Devices &amp; Market Trends</a>

You Searched For "bird flu west bengal" and got 12 results

WHO confirms human case of bird flu in India! H9N2 virus detected in a four-year child in West Bengal

ANI

The worst bird-flu outbreak in US history is 'wiping out everything in numbers we've never seen before.' Here's what you need to know.

Bethany Dawson

Swans are spinning in circles, bleeding from their nostrils, and collapsing dead amid an outbreak of avian flu in Europe

Will Martin

New Year Festivities Not Over Yet; Here Is How India Celebrates

Sanghamitra Mandal

The Spread Of Ebola In West Africa Is Deeply Troubling For The Region And The World

The Economist

America is facing a nightmare scenario with a looming strike and wrecked infrastructure after Hurricane Helene

Tim Paradis

Top 10 destinations to visit in India for nature and wildlife lovers in 2024

Ayush Mehrotra

10 best kid-friendly summer vacation destinations in India

Ayush Mehrotra

Americans are battling an egg price crisis after an almost 60% surge in 2022. Here's what's happening.

George Glover

The mayor of Las Vegas wants to open casinos and let the number of infections determine which of them have to close

Haven Orecchio-Egresitz

The top 5 destinations you can visit for paragliding, skydiving, kitesurfing and other adventure sports

Preeti Soni

One chart shows how the Wuhan coronavirus compares to other major outbreaks and pandemics in the last 50 years

Aylin Woodward,Shayanne Gal

Popular Keywords

Buying Guides