Thiruvananthapuram, June 27 : The Kerala government on Wednesday decided to honour 76 medical professionals at the Kozhikode Medical College Hospital for their dedicated and committed service during the Nipah virus outbreak.

The decision was taken at a weekly cabinet meeting held here.

Among those who got an advance increment included four assistant professors, 26 nursing staff, 17 cleaning staff, four attendants, four security staff, three laboratory technicians, two health inspectors and one plumber.

Twelve junior residents and three senior residents will be given one sovereign of gold (7.98 grams) each for their dedication in their work when the tragedy struck.

The government also decided to honour the best nurse in the government sector by giving an award in memory of Lini Puthussery, a nurse at a rural health centre in Kozhikode who died after contacting the Nipah virus from a patient.

Nipah struck Kerala in May leaving 13 dead and over 2,000 under observation.

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Bengaluru: Karnataka Home Minister Dr. G Parameshwara has directed police officers to initiate necessary measures to prevent any untoward incidents during the Christmas and New Year celebrations in Bengaluru.

The Minister held a meeting with senior police officers at the city police commissioner's office on Monday and highlighted that last year a proper security arrangement was made for the Christmas and New Year celebrations. “Since Bengaluru is a city that attracts attention around the world, security should be taken very responsibly without neglecting anything,” he said.

“In the backdrop of Christmas celebrations, there should be constant contact with the intelligence department. Greater emphasis should be placed on women's safety. Care should be taken to prevent minor accidents. Those celebrating the New Year should not be harassed. They should be provided with safety. Action should be taken against miscreants who cause trouble,” he said.

He also emphasized that during this critical period, city police officers and staff should not be granted leave except in cases where it is absolutely necessary and unavoidable. He warned that if any kind of accident occurs during Christmas and New Year celebrations, the concerned DCP, ACP, and inspector would be held responsible, and no excuses would be entertained.

Parmeshwara advised seeking assistance from BBMP, BMTC, BMRCL, the Health Department, and the Fire Department. Precautions should be taken to prevent fire accidents. Authorities were instructed to monitor incidents involving drunkenness, bike-wheeling miscreants, and individuals with previous criminal records. He also suggested arranging proper parking facilities for vehicles.

State Director General of Police Alok Mohan, Bengaluru City Police Commissioner B. Dayanand, Additional Commissioner of CCB Division Dr. Chandragupta and Deputy Commissioners of Police and Assistant Commissioners of Police of all divisions were present during the meeting.

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