DELHI, 12 June 2024 – India’s heatwave shows no sign of abating as the country’s meteorological department warned of extreme heat in four out of 28 states on Wednesday, Save the Children said. On 11 June the Day of Play was added to the list of global annual observances recognised by the United Nations, highlighting play as a critical developmental activity for children. Children face significant health and developmental risks, including dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke, with prolonged exposure to such high temperatures putting children at risk of long team heath issues. Sudarshan Suchi, CEO of Bal Raksha Bharat [Save the Children in India] said:“Play is crucial for children’s well-being and for their learning and development, but children in India cannot play outdoors during extreme heat events because this puts their mental and physical wellbeing at risk. We’re calling on the government of India, civil society and the international community to take urgent action to mitigate the impact of heatwaves on India’s children.

Source: Indian Express June 12, 2024 11:04 UTC