Kerala to launch Nirbhaya Nisha night-safety initiative for women
Kerala Police will launch the Nirbhaya Nisha initiative to enhance women’s safety during night travel, coinciding with International Women’s Day observances. The program will provide rapid police assistance from 9 PM to 5 AM via the 112 emergency helpline, Pol-App SOS, and enhanced night patrols. Politicians, police officials, and women’s groups described the scheme as a practical step toward safer urban mobility. The state-wide rollout includes awareness campaigns and collaboration with local communities to ensure quick access to assistance during late-night journeys.
Nirbhaya Nisha initiative announced in Kerala
Night safety window: 9 PM–5 AM
Services: 112 helpline, Pol-App SOS, night patrols
Aligned with International Women’s Day activities
Emphasis on rapid police assistance and community collaboration
Mar 08, 2026
Jan Aushadhi Diwas 2026 Observed on 7 March
Jan Aushadhi Diwas 2026 is observed on 7 March to promote affordable generic medicines under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana. The campaign emphasises the role of Janaushadhi Kendras, government-run outlets offering low-cost medicines for common diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, infections, and cardiovascular conditions. The initiative aims to reduce healthcare spending for millions of Indians and improve access to essential drugs. Authorities highlight the importance of generics in achieving universal health coverage and affordability, encouraging patients to consider Janaushadhi products where appropriate.
Jan Aushadhi Diwas observed on 7 March 2026.
Focus on affordable generic medicines under PMJAY Pariyojana.
Janaushadhi Kendras provide low-cost medicines.
Aims to reduce healthcare costs and improve access.
Supports India’s broader health affordability goals.
International Women’s Day 2026 Observed on 8 March with Theme Give To Gain
International Women’s Day 2026 is celebrated on 8 March worldwide to recognise women’s achievements and address ongoing equality challenges. The 2026 theme Give To Gain emphasises collaboration, generosity, and mentorship to empower women. In India, events focus on gender equality, women safety, and reproductive rights, with programs supporting girls’ education, women entrepreneurship, and leadership opportunities. The day recalls early 20th-century labour movements in Europe and North America and reinforces a global call for inclusive governance, equal opportunities, and respect for women’s rights across all sectors.
Observed globally on 8 March 2026.
Theme for 2026: Give To Gain.
Focus on gender equality, safety, reproductive rights.
India-wide events promote women’s education and entrepreneurship.
Roots in early 20th-century labour movements.
Mar 07, 2026
Kerala Launches MeHEALTH App to Improve Access to Public Healthcare
On 6 March 2026, the Kerala Health Department launched the MeHEALTH mobile application to help citizens access information about public healthcare facilities and nearby services. Health Minister Veena George announced that the app will provide details on government hospitals, specialty departments, laboratory tests and service charges. MeHEALTH also enables users to locate blood banks, pharmacies and radiology services. The platform offers comprehensive information about nearby government healthcare facilities and helps users identify suitable options in their area. The MeHEALTH initiative aims to simplify access to healthcare and improve patient awareness of available services.
Launch date: 6 March 2026
Provided information on hospitals, departments, labs, charges
Features blood banks, pharmacies, radiology location services
MeHEALTH targets public healthcare facilities
Speaker: Health Minister Veena George
Goal: simplify healthcare access for citizens
Mar 02, 2026
St Stephen’s HSS Kerala celebrates centenary; VP attends event
Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan inaugurated the centenary celebrations of St Stephen’s Higher Secondary School in Pathanapuram, Kerala. He described the institution as a milestone in education and nation-building, stressing that education should extend beyond textbooks and cultivate critical thinking, empathy, resilience and integrity in a rapidly changing world. The event brought together students, teachers and alumni, reflecting the school’s long-standing role in shaping responsible citizens and leaders. The celebration underscores the value of enduring educational institutions in regional development and national service.
Centenary celebrations inaugurated by Vice President
St Stephen’s HSS Pathanapuram celebrated 100 years
Education beyond textbooks emphasized by VP
Focus on critical thinking, empathy and resilience
Alumni and teachers participated in commemorations
Mar 01, 2026
India launches nationwide free HPV vaccination for 14-year-old girls
India’s Union Health Ministry announced a nationwide HPV vaccination program for 14-year-old girls, offered free at government health facilities on a voluntary basis. The vaccine used is Gardasil, a quadrivalent formulation protecting against HPV types 16 and 18, as well as types 6 and 11. Officials estimate about 1.15 to 1.2 crore doses will be required annually to cover girls turning 14 each year. Global and Indian data suggest that a single-dose schedule can provide durable protection in the target age group. The program aims to reduce cervical cancer burden and align with WHO elimination targets, with state-level implementation and monitoring to ensure coverage.
Target group: girls turning 14 annually.
Vaccine: Gardasil quadrivalent, free at government facilities.
Estimated annual doses: ~1.15–1.2 crore.
Evidence: single-dose protection supported by global and Indian data.
Goal: reduce cervical cancer burden and meet WHO elimination goals.
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