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Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month 2025: Understanding Risks, Symptoms, Prevention, And More

(Dr. Santanu Mandal) November is observed as Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month, a month dedicated to educating people about the serious eye complications associated with diabetes and the importance of preventive care. For millions living with diabetes, vision loss can occur silently, as diabetic eye diseases often progress without noticeable symptoms in the initial stages. This makes regular, comprehensive eye examinations, especially annual dilated eye checkups, an essential part of diabetes management. In India, where the prevalence of diabetes continues to rise rapidly, such awareness is not only timely but also critical for protecting long-term eye health. ALSO READ: Know How Ageing Can Impact Diabetes Management And What Older Adults Should Consider Diabetic Eye Disease And Its Types Diabetic eye disease is an umbrella term for several vision-related complications that occur due to long-standing high blood sugar levels. The most common among these is diabetic retinopathy, which results from damage to the small blood vessels in the retina. Over time, elevated glucose weakens these vessels, causing them to leak fluid or grow in abnormal patterns. If untreated, this can lead to blurred vision, the appearance of dark spots and even irreversible blindness. Another significant condition is diabetic macular edema, where fluid accumulates in the macula, the part of the retina that allows sharp, central vision. People with diabetes are also at increased risk of early cataracts and glaucoma, with studies indicating that diabetics are several times more likely to develop these issues compared to those without the condition. These complications stem primarily from prolonged exposure to high blood sugar, which damages blood vessels and reduces oxygen supply to retinal tissues. As the body attempts to compensate, fragile new vessels may form, increasing the likelihood of bleeding and scarring. Additional risk factors such as high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, smoking habits and the number of years a person has lived with diabetes can further accelerate eye damage. Pregnant women with diabetes also require special attention, as hormonal fluctuations can temporarily worsen eye-related symptoms. Symptoms And Importance Of Early Detection  The silent progression of diabetic eye disease is one of its most dangerous aspects. Many individuals remain unaware of any changes in their vision until substantial damage has already occurred. When symptoms do appear, they may include fluctuating vision, difficulty seeing in low light, faded colours, blind spots or sudden vision loss. Because these signs typically emerge only after significant retinal damage, eye specialists strongly advocate yearly dilated eye exams for all diabetic individuals. Early detection improves treatment outcomes and can prevent long-term complications. Treatment options vary depending on how early the disease is identified. In its early phases, maintaining optimal blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol levels can slow or halt the progression of damage. More advanced cases may require medical intervention. Laser treatments can seal leaking vessels, while anti-VEGF injections help reduce abnormal vessel growth and retinal swelling. In severe situations, vitrectomy surgery may be needed to remove blood or scar tissue from within the eye. Cataracts resulting from diabetes can typically be treated with routine surgery that replaces the clouded lens. Despite these options, early detection remains the most powerful factor influencing outcomes. HbA1c Plays A Significant Role  The role of HbA1c as a parameter in diabetes control is invaluable. It shows the average sugar level for the last three months. Whereas the fasting and post prandial blood sugar will show the sugar level of that particular moment when the blood was drawn. HbA1c can give the true regular blood sugar level of last three months which is ideal to see whether the control is truly adequate or not. Thus the importance of HbA1c is immense. Unfortunately most diabetic patients has no idea about this test. Measures To Control Diabetes And Its Effect On The Human Eyesight  Ultimately, prevention is the best defence. Proper diabetes management such as eating a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining hydration and avoiding tobacco, play a vital role in protecting vision. Routine eye checkups should be viewed as a non-negotiable aspect of diabetes care. Awareness Is An Incumbent Step To Prevent Diabetes Induced Blindness  With India home to more than 100 million diabetic individuals, raising awareness about diabetic eye disease is essential. Countless cases of vision loss can be prevented through education, timely screenings and consistent medical follow-up. This month serves as a reminder that with the right knowledge and actions, people with diabetes can safeguard their sight and lead healthy, fulfilling lives. Dr. Santanu Mandal is Senior Consultant, Vitreo- Retina and Uvea at Disha Eye Hospitals [Disclaimer: The information provided in the article is shared by experts and is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]

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11 months ago

Trump Welcomes NYC Mayor-Elect Zohran Mamdani To First White House Meeting: Key Takeaways

In a surprising display of civility, President Donald Trump hosted New York City’s mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani at the White House on Friday. Despite their starkly different political views, the meeting unfolded without the expected friction, leaving observers with several notable takeaways. Shifting the Narrative One of the most striking moments of the meeting was Trump’s softening rhetoric toward Mamdani. The president, who previously labelled Mamdani a “100% Communist Lunatic,” now praised him as “Mr. Mayor” and predicted success for his tenure. “We agree on a lot more than I would have thought,” Trump said, smiling broadly in a rare departure from his signature scowl. Their televised Oval Office discussion captured headlines, offering a political boost for Trump following weeks of damaging coverage linked to files concerning Jeffrey Epstein, the convicted sex offender once associated with the president. Working people have been left behind in New York. In the wealthiest city in the world, one in five can't afford $2.90 for the train or bus. As I told Trump today, it’s time to put those people right back at the heart of our politics. pic.twitter.com/PUVQfuT38s — Zohran Kwame Mamdani (@ZohranKMamdani) November 21, 2025 With Trump’s poll numbers dipping and some policy efforts faltering, redirecting attention to a different topic provided a welcome reprieve, and may explain why he is unlikely to attack Mamdani again anytime soon. A Focus on Affordability The conversation quickly turned to one of New York voters’ most pressing concerns: the cost of living. Trump and Mamdani delved into housing, groceries, and general affordability, issues central to Mamdani’s mayoral campaign. “Some of his ideas are the same ideas I have,” Trump noted, adding that some of Mamdani’s supporters overlapped with his own base. Mamdani highlighted outreach to Trump voters during his campaign, emphasising that concerns about rising living costs transcend party lines. By concentrating on economic issues, the two leaders sidestepped potentially divisive topics like immigration and foreign policy, strategically aligning the discussion with Trump’s political priorities. The White House has indicated that affordability will remain a central focus for Trump in the run-up to next year’s midterm elections, which will determine whether Republicans retain control of Congress. Standing Firm, Yet Respectful For his part, Mamdani appeared confident and poised, sticking to his campaign themes while showing respect for the president. He did not offer overt praise for Trump but addressed sensitive topics candidly, including immigration policies affecting New Yorkers. During the press session, Mamdani allowed Trump to select which journalists to call on, including New York-focused and right-leaning reporters. At one point, when questioned about flying to Washington instead of taking a train, Trump interjected with support: “I’ll stick up for you. That was the fastest way to get here.” Warmth and Body Language Despite their political differences, both men displayed a surprising degree of friendliness. Trump shook Mamdani’s hand multiple times, sometimes patting it with his other hand, and even playfully touched or punched his arm during media interactions, gestures signalling camaraderie rather than conflict. Trump, seated at the presidential desk, contrasted with the younger Mamdani, standing respectfully beside him. Their attire subtly reflected party colours: Trump in a bold red tie, Mamdani in a narrower blue one. Observers noted the overall atmosphere of warmth and mutual respect, a stark contrast to Trump’s more combative meetings with other leaders. Trump’s Appreciation for Winners Analysts expected tension between the conservative president and the democratic socialist mayor-elect, yet the meeting was unexpectedly cordial. Trump suggested that Mamdani might “surprise some conservative people” and expressed admiration for his electoral success. For Trump, who has long celebrated winners, bringing Mamdani to the White House resembled the tradition of inviting championship sports teams. As fellow New Yorkers, the two may share a unique respect for navigating the city’s political complexities. “Being the mayor of New York City is a big deal,” Trump said, adding, “I love New York City.”

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11 months ago

'We Agree On A Lot More...': Trump Praises 'Productive' White House Talks With Mamdani

US President Donald Trump on Friday struck a surprisingly warm tone after his first Oval Office meeting with New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, a political rival he had mocked for months on the campaign trail. Standing beside Mamdani at the Resolute Desk, Trump praised their closed-door conversation and called it "really good" and "very productive," signaling a sharp shift from the fiery rhetoric that defined their earlier exchanges. "We’ve just had a great meeting," Trump told reporters, with Mamdani at his side. The remarks marked an unexpected moment of unity between two leaders who spent much of the election season at odds. A Sudden Change In Tone Throughout the mayoral race, Trump frequently belittled Mamdani. Yet on Friday, he applauded the 34-year-old’s victory and insisted he wanted the mayor-elect to thrive. "The better he does, the happier I am," Trump said. "We have one thing in common, we want this city of ours that we love to do incredibly well." Trump even suggested Mamdani might prove more adaptable than critics expect. With the mayor-elect standing over his right shoulder, the president remarked, "I think he’s going to change on some of his views. Some of my views have changed too, since I entered public office." He added that Mamdani "might surprise some conservative people." Mamdani Calls Meeting 'Productive' Mamdani, who has built his political platform around affordability, housing, and cost-of-living concerns, echoed Trump’s upbeat summary. "As he said, it was a productive meeting focused on a place of shared admiration and love, New York City," the mayor-elect said. He noted that their conversation zeroed in on the economic pressure facing millions of residents. "We spoke about rent, we spoke about groceries, we spoke about utilities," Mamdani said. "We spoke about the different ways in which people are being pushed out." The mayor-elect emphasised that he looks forward to working with the administration to make the city more affordable for "the eight and a half million people who call our city home." A Quiet Entrance, A Loud Moment Mamdani’s arrival at the White House earlier in the day briefly puzzled reporters. He skipped the main entrance, where dozens of journalists had gathered hoping to catch a glimpse of him, and instead appeared inside the complex without passing the waiting cameras. The only official hint came from White House communications director Steven Cheung, who posted a photo on X of the assembled press corps outside the West Wing with a teasing caption: "Too late guys! Y’all are too slow!" Past Clashes Trump set the stage for a softer meeting during a morning appearance on Fox News Radio with host Brian Kilmeade, where he admitted he may have "hit Mamdani a little hard" during the campaign. "I give him a lot of credit for the run," Trump said. "I think we’ll get along fine." The president had spent months portraying Mamdani as a "radical left lunatic" and predicting he would be "a disaster" for New York. Yet by Friday morning he was moderating his tone, telling the radio host, "We both want New York to be strong." Mamdani, a democratic socialist who takes office on January 1, requested the meeting to address affordability, housing pressures, and public safety, issues on which he and Trump have often disagreed publicly. Their clashes over immigration, policing, and federal funding have been frequent and sharp. Trump announced the meeting Wednesday night on social media while once again labeling Mamdani a "communist," placing the mayor-elect’s middle name, Kwame, in quotation marks. But by the next morning, he was predicting the two leaders would get along. "He’s got a different philosophy. He’s a little bit different," Trump said. "They did a successful run. I think we’ll get along fine." The president added that, despite political differences, both men shared one overarching priority: "We want to make New York strong."

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11 months ago

'You Can Just Say Yes': Trump Jokes As Reporter Asks Mamdani If He Thinks US Prez Is 'Fascist'

US President Donald Trump and New York mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani met at the White House, a conversation Trump later described as "very productive" and "great". During the seemingly cordial meeting, Trump even jokingly brushed off Mamdani's old "fascist" comment in which he had called the president a “fascist” during his campaign. The moment unfolded when reporters pressed Mamdani on whether he stood by labeling Trump as a fascist. As Mamdani began, “I’ve spoken about it…,” Trump cut in. “That’s okay. You can just say yes. It’s easier than explaining it. I don’t mind,” the president responded laughing and setting a surprisingly tolerant tone. #WATCH | "... That's okay, you can just say it. It's easier than explaining. I don't mind," says US President Donald Trump, interrupting New York Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, while he was trying to answer a question on if he thinks President Trump is a fascist.Source: The White… pic.twitter.com/dRzh70z2hK — ANI (@ANI) November 22, 2025 Focus On Shared Goals For New York City Earlier in the day, President Trump described their Oval Office discussion as “great” and “very productive.” Both leaders emphasised their common interest in improving New York City, particularly on tough issues such as housing and the rising cost of living. “We’ve just had a great meeting, a really good, very productive meeting. One thing in common, we want this city of ours that we love to do very well,” Trump told reporters, highlighting shared priorities including affordable housing and food prices. He also noted the recent drop in oil prices as a positive development. Trump, a New York native himself, congratulated Mamdani on his win and suggested the new mayor could exceed expectations on both sides of the political divide. “I think you’re going to have, hopefully, a really great mayor. The better he does, the happier I am. I will say there’s no difference in party. I think he is going to surprise some conservative people, actually, and some very liberal people,” the president said. Mamdani Reiterates Commitment To Address Affordability Standing with Trump, Mamdani echoed the Trump's view of the meeting as highly productive. He underscored the urgency of addressing cost-of-living challenges driving New Yorkers from the city. “I appreciated the meeting with the president, as he said, it was a productive meeting focused on a place of shared admiration and love, New York City,” Mamdani said. He went on to list rising rent, groceries, and utilities as critical issues discussed: “We spoke about rent, we spoke about groceries, we spoke about utilities. We spoke about the different ways in which people are being pushed out. I appreciated the time with the president, I appreciated the conversation, and I look forward to working together to deliver that affordability for New Yorkers,” Mamdani added.

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11 months ago

Vivah Panchami 2025: Check-Out The Date, Auspicious Timings, And All About This Sacred Day

Vivaah Panchami is celebrated on the Shukla Paksha Panchami of the Margashirsha month. According to the scriptures, the day holds special significance as it marks the divine wedding of Lord Ram and Goddess Sita. Every year, devotees observe this day as the anniversary of their celestial union. This year, Vivah panchami will be observed on 25 November 2025. The day will witness three highly auspicious yogas, Dhruv Yoga, Sarvartha Siddhi Yoga, and Shivvaas Yoga, enhancing its spiritual significance. Devotees believe that worshipping Lord Ram and Goddess Sita on this sacred day brings fulfilment of desires and ensures harmony in married life. Large-scale celebrations and rituals are organised in Sita-Ram temples across the country, where devotees perform puja, yajnas, and special ceremonies. In many places, recitations from the Ramcharitmanas are also held. ALSO READ: Nag Diwali 2025: Know Date, Significance, And More About This Festival Vivaah Panchami 2025: Auspicious Timings Panchami Tithi begins: November 24, 9:22 PM Panchami Tithi ends: November 25, 10:56 PM As per Sanatan Dharm, festivals are observed based on the Udaya Tithi, which is why Vivaah Panchami will be celebrated on November 25. Devotees perform special worship in honour of Shri Ram and Sita’s marriage anniversary. Three Auspicious Yogas On Vivaah Panchami Three highly auspicious yogas will align this year, bringing prosperity and harmony to devotees who worship with devotion: Dhruva Yoga: Symbolises stability and success Sarvartha Siddhi Yoga: Favourable for accomplishing all tasks Shivvaas Yoga: Enhances auspiciousness and good fortune Remedies For Finding A Suitable Life Partner Sharma advises that individuals facing delays or obstacles in marriage should observe a fast on Vivaah Panchami and worship Lord Ram and Goddess Sita with proper rituals. Performing their ceremonial wedding (Kalyanam) and presenting heartfelt prayers is believed to remove hurdles and attract a suitable life partner. For Early Marriage And Harmonious Married Life Those facing marital disputes or delays should perform a dedicated Puja on this day and read the Ram–Sita episode from the Ramcharitmanas. According to belief, sincere reading of this scripture brings peace, strengthens marital bonds and removes obstacles. Ramcharitmanas Recitation Tulsidas completed the Ramcharitmanas on the Panchami Tithi of the Margashirsha month, the same day Ram and Sita were married. Hence, reading the Ramcharitmanas on Vivaah Panchami is considered extremely auspicious. It is believed to bring peace, prosperity and fulfilment of wishes. Significance Of Vivaah Panchami This day is especially auspicious for those experiencing difficulties in marriage. Worshipping Lord Ram and Goddess Sita with proper rituals is believed to remove marital obstacles and help one find a suitable partner. Married couples who observe a fast are believed to experience harmony and relief from conflicts. Reciting the Ramcharitmanas at home on this day is said to bring peace and positivity. Vivaah Panchami Puja Vidhi According to Sharma, devotees should wake up early, take a holy bath and wear clean clothes. Install idols of Lord Ram and Goddess Sita and offer yellow clothes to Lord Ram and red clothes to Goddess Sita. Begin the rituals with tilak, incense and lamps, and decorate the home with earthen diyas. What To Do On Vivaah Panchami Observe the fast Worship Lord Ram and Goddess Sita with complete devotion Engage in religious activities Follow celibacy Take a holy dip in the Ganga, if possible Consume only sattvic food Help the needy Visit Ram–Sita temples What To Avoid On Vivaah Panchami Avoid tamasic foods like eggs, onion, garlic and meat Refrain from consuming alcohol Do not cut hair or nails Avoid arguments with your spouse Do not gamble [Disclaimer: The content of this article is based solely on astrological predictions, and should be taken as general guidance. Individual experiences may vary. ABPLive.com does not assert the accuracy or validity of any claims or information presented. It is strongly recommended to consult a qualified expert before considering or implementing any information or belief discussed herein.]

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11 months ago

Twitch faces huge trouble as Australia puts all under 16 users under a full social media ban for online safety

Australia is tightening online safety for children by banning users under 16 from Twitch starting December 10, 2025. This move, following similar restrictions on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, aims to prevent young users from encountering unsafe content. Platforms failing to comply face hefty fines, underscoring the nation's commitment to safeguarding minors online.

Times of India

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11 months ago

Labour codes to usher in uniformity, clarity

India has unified its labour laws by implementing four new codes, consolidating 29 existing statutes into a single framework. This reform aims to enhance transparency, simplify compliance, and extend protections to unorganised, gig, and platform workers, marking a significant shift in the country's labour landscape.

Times of India

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11 months ago

REITs' index inclusion in works, says Sebi chairman

Sebi is exploring measures to boost liquidity for Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs), including discussions to include them in market indices. The regulator is also examining proposals to broaden investment options for REITs and InvITs, while enhancing investor protection and facilitating greater institutional participation.

Times of India

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11 months ago

Rupee breaches 89/$ mark, worst 1-day drop since May

The Indian rupee plummeted to a record low of 89.49 against the dollar on Friday, experiencing its sharpest fall since May. This decline was driven by strong dollar demand, portfolio outflows, and concerns over US sanctions on entities facilitating Iranian oil sales. Despite the RBI's stance on not targeting specific levels, intervention occurred after the 89 mark was breached.

Times of India

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11 months ago

India Inc eyes business boost, braces for changes

India Inc faces significant operational shifts, including revised salary structures and mandatory health check-ups, to align with new labor provisions. While demanding these changes for years, businesses also welcome the flexibility in hiring women for night shifts and managing seasonal workforce needs, boosting sector competitiveness.

Times of India

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11 months ago

Finally, gig workers have pan-India social security

Gig workers are set to receive a significant boost with the implementation of the Social Security Code. Online platforms like Swiggy and Uber will now contribute 1-2% of their turnover to welfare funds, ensuring nationwide social security coverage, portable benefits, and access to essential protections for millions.

Times of India

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11 months ago

Only 6 out of 46 EV models make cut for PLI scheme

Times of India

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11 months ago

TikTok star Megan Farina faces MAGA anger after calling out Donald Trump while her Charlie Kirk celebration clip goes viral again

TikToker Megan Farina is facing renewed online backlash for criticizing Donald Trump's remarks and Truth Social posts. Critics are calling her a hypocrite, pointing to a past viral video where she appeared to celebrate Charlie Kirk's death. Users argue she cannot condemn name-calling while previously joking about a man's killing.

Times of India

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11 months ago

India warming faster than expected, reveals Indian & international scientists’ study

Times of India

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11 months ago

India warming faster than expected, reveals Indian & international scientists’ study

Times of India

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11 months ago