IIT Madras Director's remark on cow urine's medicinal value sparks controversy
Criticised for spreading pseudoscience
Chennai: IIT Madras Director V Kamakoti has stirred debate by praising the medicinal properties of cow urine during an event at a 'Go Samrakshana Sala' on Maatu Pongal in Chennai. Kamakoti claimed cow urine possesses anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and digestive benefits, citing its potential to treat ailments like Irritable Bowel Syndrome.
In a viral video, Kamakoti narrated an anecdote of an ascetic who reportedly cured a fever by consuming cow urine. His statements were made in the context of advocating for organic farming and the protection of indigenous cattle breeds.
The remarks have drawn criticism from political leaders and rationalist groups. DMK leader TKS Elangovan accused the central government of promoting pseudoscience, while Congress MP Karti Chidambaram called the comments unbecoming of an academician. Dravidar Kazhagam leader Kali Poongundran referred to studies suggesting cow urine's harmful effects, urging the public not to believe such claims.
However, Tamil Nadu BJP chief K Annamalai defended Kamakoti, stating his remarks were personal and not intended as a directive. Sources close to Kamakoti clarified that his comments were rooted in his personal experiences as an organic farmer.
At the event, Kamakoti also criticised the British colonial education system, alleging it undermined indigenous cattle breeds and farming practices. Highlighting the role of native cows in organic farming, he emphasised the environmental, nutritional, and economic benefits of protecting them.
Kamakoti, who has been the director of IIT Madras since January 2022, is a recipient of the DRDO Academy Excellence Award for his contributions to scientific research and technology development.
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Sri Lanka releases 11 Indian fishermen as special gesture
Colombo (PTI): Sri Lanka on Sunday released at least 11 Indian fishermen as a special gesture, a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi pitched for resolving the vexed fishermen issue with a "humane approach".
The fishermen issue figured prominently during talks between PM Modi and Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake on Saturday.
"We also discussed issues related to fishermen's livelihood. We agreed that we should proceed with a humane approach in this matter," Modi said in his media statement after meeting Dissanayake.
"We also emphasised on immediate release of the fishermen and their boats," he said.
At least 11 Indian fishermen were released as a special gesture, people familiar with the matter said.
The fishermen issue is a contentious one in ties between the two sides.
There have been several alleged incidents in the past of Sri Lankan Navy personnel using force against Indian fishermen in the Palk Strait which is a narrow strip of water separating Tamil Nadu from Sri Lanka.
At a media briefing on Saturday, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said the fishermen issue was discussed in "considerable detail" between the two sides.
"As the prime minister said himself during his remarks, there was an emphasis on the need to adopt a humanitarian and constructive approach to cooperation on these issues because these are ultimately issues that impact the livelihood of fishermen on both sides of the Palk Bay," he said.
"The prime minister emphasised that at the end of the day, it is a daily issue for the fishermen and that certain actions that have been taken in recent times could be reconsidered," Misri said.
The foreign secretary said both sides also emphasised the need to intensify the institutional discussions on the issue.
"Both sides are in touch with each other on the possibility of convening the next round of fishermen's association talks between Sri Lanka and India," he said.
