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Centre denies travel permission to Kerala Health Minister for US university lecture

Centre denies travel permission to Kerala Health Minister for US university lecture

India Today08-05-2025
The Centre has denied travel permission to Kerala Health Minister Veena George, who was invited to speak at Johns Hopkins University in the United States.According to her office, the minister had applied for political clearance three weeks ago but was informed of the denial just three days ahead of her planned departure.This isn't the first time Kerala ministers have faced travel blocks. In March, the Centre denied permission to Industries Minister P Rajeev and his team to attend a public administration conference in Washington, where they were scheduled to present Kerala's 'Year of Enterprises' initiative.advertisement
Just days ago, George warned that Kerala could see a rise in dengue, rabies, and water-borne infections due to shifting climate patterns, and directed that a micro-level health action plan be finalised by May 15.George instructed local bodies to step up mosquito control efforts, identify high-risk areas and ensure timely interventions as per the state's health alert calendar. Emphasising accurate disease reporting, including by private hospitals, she cited the Public Health Act as a mandate for coordinated responses.She stressed vigilance against dengue and leptospirosis as well. 'Leptospirosis deaths often occur due to not being treated in the initial stage,' she said, urging those who come into contact with contaminated water to take prophylactic medication as advised by health workers.
IN THIS STORY#Kerala
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