Mon Sep 15 18:17:56 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the provided text and a rewritten news article based on it:

**Summary:**

C.N. Manjunath, MP and former Director of Sri Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences and Research, received the Bharat Ratna Sir M. Visvesvaraya Memorial Award from the Federation of Karnataka Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FKCCI) on Engineers’ Day in Bengaluru. During his acceptance speech, he emphasized the critical link between lifestyle-related diseases, public health, and sustainable engineering. He highlighted that 60% of deaths in India are due to lifestyle-related illnesses and warned that technological advancement must prioritize public health, environmental sustainability, and access to basic necessities like clean air and water. He also pointed out the devastating impact of smoking and air pollution, which negate the efforts of the healthcare system.

**News Article:**

**India Faces “Silent Epidemic” of Lifestyle Diseases, Warns Cardiologist C.N. Manjunath**

**Bengaluru, September 16, 2025 (The Hindu):** Renowned cardiologist and MP C.N. Manjunath warned of a “silent epidemic” of lifestyle-related diseases plaguing India, stating that these ailments account for a staggering 60% of deaths nationwide. Dr. Manjunath issued this warning during his acceptance speech after receiving the prestigious Bharat Ratna Sir M. Visvesvaraya Memorial Award from the Federation of Karnataka Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FKCCI) on Engineers’ Day.

He emphasized that issues such as heart attacks, diabetes, stroke, cancer, and mental health disorders are increasingly tied to modern lifestyles, including screen addiction and social isolation. “No nation can progress without addressing this silent epidemic,” Dr. Manjunath stated.

While acknowledging the importance of technology and engineering for industrial growth, Dr. Manjunath urged a greater focus on public health, water security, and environmental sustainability. He called for a shift towards prioritizing “clean air, clean water, unadulterated food, and a clean mind” as the true cornerstones of a healthy nation.

Dr. Manjunath further highlighted the significant impact of preventable factors like smoking and air pollution. He cited alarming statistics indicating that smoking claims 14 lakh lives annually in India, while air pollution accounts for a staggering 22 lakh deaths. He warned that these preventable factors undermine the efforts of the entire healthcare system. He also argued that while robotics in surgery and medical advances can treat patients, prevention is the real goal that requires better urban planning, pollution control and sustainable engineering.

Dr. Manjunath’s remarks serve as a strong call to action, urging policymakers, engineers, and individuals to prioritize public health and sustainable practices to build a healthier and more prosperous future for India.

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