Taj Mahal to turn blue for World Diabetes Day

New Delhi, Nov 12: The Union Health Ministry and anti-diabetes activists have convinced the Archeological Survey of India (ASI) to grant permission to light up Taj Mahal in blue on the eve of World Diabetes Day, which would help to spread the awareness of the disease that affects nearly 51 million Indians.

A blue circle is the universal symbol for the diabetes. The ASI has also allowed Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri to be set up in blue.

"This is the first time the ASI has shown such a gesture to light up these three world heritage sites. We wanted to support the drive to raise awareness against diabetes that affects so many of us," said Indudhar Dwivedi, a senior archeologist at ASI.

"Taj Mahal draped in blue will spread awareness about diabetes. The world's most recognized monument to be lit in blue will send a global message. It will help multiply preventive efforts several times," said Dr Anoop Misra from Fortis Hospital.

Several monuments will be lit up in blue to mark the World Diabetes Day, which includes Old Fort, Red Fort, Qutub Minar and Humayun Tomb in New Delhi, Imambada in Lucknow, Manek Chowk and City Palace Ground in Udaipur, Sidhivinayak Mandir and CST Station in Mumbai, Sahniwada Fort in Pune, Victoria Memorial in Kolkata, 13 Gates of Ahmedabad and Konark Temple in Orissa.

Globally, over 900 monuments and buildings were lit up in blue on the World Diabetes Day. UN for the first time asked all the member states to establish national policies for the treatment, prevention and care of diabetes.

OneIndia News