World ORS Day Celebrated at Assam Don Bosco University with Awareness and Enthusiasm

Institute of Pharmacy Hosts Educational Event Promoting Oral Rehydration Solutions

The Institute of Pharmacy, Assam Don Bosco University, under the aegis of its Holistic Health Club, organized an engaging event on the occasion of World ORS Day on Tuesday. The program, themed “ORS – A Simple Solution for a Healthier Future” and carrying the slogan “Sip Smart, Stay Strong – Say Yes to ORS,” aimed to raise awareness about the life-saving benefits of Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS) in combating dehydration-related illnesses.

The event began at 9:00 AM with a welcome address by Prof. (Dr.) Raja Chakraborty, Principal of the Institute, who emphasized the crucial role ORS plays in enhancing community health, particularly in under-resourced areas. Fr. (Dr.) Zacharias George, Registrar of ADBU, addressed the gathering with an insightful speech on the importance of ORS in emergency healthcare. He underscored how this low-cost and effective remedy helps restore essential electrolytes during episodes of diarrhea and dehydration. Adding historical perspective, Dr. Deepak Sharma recounted the pioneering use of ORS by Dr. Dilip Mahalanabis during the 1971 cholera outbreak in Bangladesh. Dr. Sharma highlighted how this breakthrough innovation dramatically reduced mortality rates and set a global standard for managing dehydration, urging students to appreciate and advocate for such impactful healthcare interventions.

A major attraction of the event was an Inter-Departmental Quiz Competition held from 9:20 AM to 11:30 AM, coordinated by Mr. L. Sanathoiba Singha. The quiz featured wide-ranging questions on health, science, and awareness, and witnessed enthusiastic participation from various departments. The top three performing teams were awarded prizes at 11:30 AM, recognizing their knowledge and quick thinking.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. L. Samananda Singh, Program Convenor, who appreciated the efforts of all participants and organizers in making the event a success. The celebration served not only as a platform for education and engagement but also as a reminder of how simple solutions like ORS continue to save lives across the globe.