AIDS in India: disaster looms for Bombay

Article Abstract:

The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) that according to their estimates, 250,000 people who live in the large cities of India are currently infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Even without additional infections, it is estimated that 60,000 individuals will develop AIDS and require hospitalization in India, a large percentage of these in Bombay, by 1995. In the district of Bombay where prostitution is common, it is estimated that 30 percent of the prostitutes are infected with HIV and that HIV is being spread to the heterosexual population. Studies by the ICMR have only detected approximately 3,200 cases of HIV infection, so far, but the general director of ICMR does not think that the WHO report is exaggerated. Of the women who attend clinics after they have given birth, 60 percent have inflammation of the cervix, which is conducive for HIV transmission. It is thought that in the future one out of three housewives in Bombay will show to be infected with HIV at their antenatal medical examinations. A massive campaign has been designed to educate the public on the spread of AIDS and to promote safe sex practices. In the past year, there was a 10 percent cut in the health budget in India, and there is concern that the facilities needed to treat people with AIDS will not be available. Six months ago, 10 major hospitals were asked to develop special wards for AIDS patients but none of the hospitals have done so. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Health aspects, Demographic aspects, AIDS (Disease)

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Russians reassure India on rocket contract

Article Abstract:

Russian secretary of state Gennady Burbuli told the Indian government that Russia will honor its contract to give India cryogenic rocket engines for use in its Geostationary Satellite Launch Vehicle but only after neutral experts certify that the deal does not defy the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR). The US opposes the contract because it breaks MTCR provisions designed to restrict the export of nuclear technology. However, the Indian government believes that the US is really seeking to bar India from the satellite launching business.

International aspects, Russia, Indian foreign relations, Russian foreign relations, Geostationary satellites, Rocket engines

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India blocks sale of transgenic cotton seeds

Article Abstract:

Issues are presented concerning the action of the environmental department in India in blocking the commercial release of transgenic cotton seeds due to economic and environmental concerns. Fresh trials have been ordered.

Environmental aspects, Genetically modified plants, Cotton (Fiber), Cotton

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