From Our Special Correspondent

Daijiworld Media Network

Bengaluru, Nov 6: Cow is considered very holy in our country. Cow slaughter hurts sentiments of Indian traditions and culture, said Dr K Sudhakar, health and family welfare as well as medical education minister.

Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru on Friday, the minister justified the decision of BJP’s Core Committee meeting held in Mangaluru.

There is a need for a wide debate on banning cow slaughter, said minister.

Dr Sudhakar also warmly welcomed the decision taken by chief minister B S Yediyurappa to ban crackers during this Deepavali based on the recommendation of Technical Advisory Committee of Health Department. "Let us celebrate a simple Deepavali this year,’’ he said.

The smoke due to burning crackers will have negative impact on people's health, especially on those who have recovered from Covid-19 infection. The technical advisory committee of health department had submitted report in this regard, he said pointing out that the chief minister has taken this decision based on the report.

"We have to celebrate Deepavali in a simple way this year and continue our tradition in a meaningful way by lighting more lamps, he requested.

Earlier, the minister held a meeting with all joint directors of health and family welfare department in Vikasa Soudha to review the progress of various schemes and programmes including Ayushman Bharat, Arogya Karnataka, Mission Indradhanush Immunisation Programme and Pradhan Mantri Janaushadhi etc.

Dr Sudhakar discussed the steps to be taken for effective implementation of schemes and usher efficiency and accountability in the system.

Later, he chaired a meeting regarding 108 ambulance services in the state.

"Ambulance services play a vital role in saving lives of people during emergency times. I have directed the officials to ensure availability of ambulance services everywhere including in rural areas,’’ the minister said.