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India's Census Delay: A Looming Crisis with Real-World Impacts

 The postponement of India's 2021 Census has triggered a data crisis with consequences far beyond simple numbers. This ten-year survey, crucial for socio-economic planning, was delayed due to the pandemic. Now, the lack of recent data is creating a ripple effect across various sectors. Policy and Planning in the Dark: Consider the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY), a government scheme providing subsidized LPG connections to low-income families. Dr. Rajesh Kumar, a social worker in Delhi, explains, "Without recent data on population shifts and economic status, many deserving families, especially those who recently migrated to urban areas, might miss out on the PMUY benefits." Outdated data can lead to inefficiencies in such crucial social programs. Businesses Hit the Pause Button: Businesses rely on census data to understand consumer demographics and make investment decisions. For instance, Mr. Shah, owner of a clothing store chain in Bengaluru, says, "The abse

Burning Issue: Confronting India’s Tobacco Epidemic

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  Tobacco is the most widely recognized preventable cause of disease and death in the world. Each year, it claims millions of lives, contributing to a wide array of health issues, from lung cancer and heart disease to chronic respiratory conditions. Despite global awareness campaigns, the tobacco epidemic continues to grow, especially in developing nations. One of the most alarming aspects of tobacco use is its widespread acceptance. Many people underestimate the dangers, often associating smoking with social activity or stress relief. However, the reality is stark: smoking is responsible for over 7 million deaths annually, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). This figure includes non-smokers exposed to secondhand smoke, highlighting the far-reaching impacts of tobacco. The health risks associated with tobacco are profound. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally, and smoking is the primary cause. Heart disease, stroke, and chronic obstructive pu