Diwali is the time of the year when our nation’s children are on holiday and festivities are rampant. Sadly this fun time for children is also when firecrackers and fireworks are available in plenty. The word “firecrackers” evokes quite a bit of emotion and is often associated with great joy but one must realize that the chemical smoke and gases released from firecrackers can be regarded as a serious concern for the capacity of eyes for children.

It is shocking to know that mothers and fathers have been using firecrackers for this long despite it being scientifically proven to be a pollutant and one that can heavily damage children’s eyesight.

But now, as a parent, most people see things differently—firecracker smoke, while dazzling, risks young eyes and health. From choosing eco-friendly lights and indoor activities, ensuring a festive, safe celebration for your children’s well-being is important and necessary. Dr. Neeraj Sanduja, MBBS, MS - Ophthalmology, Ophthalmologist, Eye Surgeon shares all about the toxic effects of smoke from the firecrackers kids so lovingly enjoy bursting and how harmful they can be for their eyes.

Hazardous Effects of Firecracker Smoke

The smoke from firecrackers is a blend of toxic chemicals and fine particles, each carrying potential harm for the delicate tissues of the eyes. Here are some key pollutants present in firecracker smoke that pose specific dangers:

Particulate matter: These are the fumes exhaled from burning that are extremely small but can infiltrate deep into the lungs and eyes creating lesions and scars.

Sulfur dioxide & nitrogen oxides: These gasses emit acid rain, it's easy to comprehend how detrimental it is to the human body.

Heavy metals: If consumed through the skin lead arsenic or any other toxic metals emitted through firecrackers will inflict great damage.

Common Eye Conditions Linked to Firecracker Pollution in Children

Exposure to firecracker smoke can cause a range of immediate symptoms in children, as well as chronic eye problems that may not become apparent until much later. Children are at high risk of developing some symptoms upon exposure to firecracker smoke, and these include:

Red eye syndrome: Clinical eye examinations show that the eyes can be red and watery, as well as itchy due to the smoke's chemicals.

Eye pain: Another common complaint in children is a burning and stinging sensation in the eye areas.

Intolerance to light: The burning of firecrackers leads to the emission of smoke that can irritate the eyes and increase their sensitivity.

Corneal damage: Severe inflammation of the outer layer of the eyeball caused by exposure to smoke may be a more damaging injury caused than previously mentioned damages of the inner layer.

Long-Term Effects of Firecracker Smoke on Eye Health

While some eye issues may appear right after exposure, others may develop subtly and manifest over time, resulting in chronic eye conditions. Dr Neeraj exclaims, "Of great concern is the fact that parents may not notice these initial signs and the signs that are causes are others since these are only some of the diseases that are dangerous but children who continuously come into contact with air polluted by firecrackers may consider the following risks:

Cataracts

Glaucoma

Dry eye syndrome

Tips for Protecting Children’s Eyes During Diwali

Parents can observe the following measures to shield their children's eyes from the harmful effects of firecracker smoke:

Avoid exposure: In the first place, the best way to avoid damaging children’s eyes is to prevent any contact with firecracker smoke. Encourage children to remain in the house or in well-ventilated areas during a firework display.

Wear protective eyewear: In the event that children have to go outside during a firework display, they should wear protective eyewear such as goggles or sunglasses.

Rinse eyes thoroughly: In case of exposure of firework smoke to the child’s eyes, the affected eyes should be washed with plenty of clean water.

Seek medical attention: If a child suffers from intense pain in the eyes, redness in the eyes or any changes in vision after exposure to cracker smoke, he/she should be taken to a medical facility as soon as possible.

Parental Guidance During Diwali

1.⁠ ⁠Educate Children on Firecracker Safety

2.⁠ ⁠Monitor Air Quality Index (AQI)

3.⁠ ⁠Plan Indoor Activities During Peak Pollution Hours

4.⁠ ⁠Encourage Healthy Eye Habits (Regular Exams, Hygiene)

Eco-Friendly Alternatives to Firecrackers

1.⁠ ⁠Eco-Friendly Firecrackers

2.⁠ ⁠Laser Light Shows

3.⁠ ⁠Community Events (Parades, Festivals)

4.⁠ ⁠Indoor Games and Activities

5.⁠ ⁠Environmentally Conscious Celebrations

Firecrackers undoubtedly liven up the festivities; however, the use of firecrackers and their impact on the health of children has caused a lot of concern, especially their vision. It has become crucial to protect young developing eyes from fire cracker pollution which is harmful to them, especially in the long run. In this manner, we are able to assist in the preservation of our children’s eyesight and create safe and happy festive occasions for everyone.

Every year, National Doctors' Day is observed on July 1 to commemorate the birth and death anniversaries of Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy, a renowned physician, freedom fighter, and educationist.

The National Doctors' Day 2026 theme is "Behind the Mask: Who Heals the Healers?" This year's theme highlights the importance of supporting the mental, emotional and physical well-being of doctors who dedicate their lives to caring for others.

On the occasion of Doctors' Day, HealthandMe spoke to medical experts who highlighted the growing concern over violence against healthcare workers. They warned that such incidents not only endanger doctors but also weaken the entire healthcare system.

The experts stressed that violence affects patient care, lowers morale among healthcare professionals and erodes trust between doctors and patients.

Their concerns are supported by recent research highlighting the scale of workplace violence faced by doctors in India.

A 2026 study published in the National Medical Journal of India, researchers from the Institute of Human Behaviour and Allied Sciences (IHBAS), and Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, and Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Medical Sciences (ABVIMS) found that 80.2 per cent of doctors in India reported having faced or witnessed workplace violence.

Verbal abuse was identified as the most common form, followed by physical and sexual violence. The incidents affected doctors' mental health, with the impact lasting from several weeks to as long as a year.

The study also found that two-fifths of doctors sustained physical injuries, including 7.8 per cent who suffered grievous injuries.

More worryingly, only about one-third of doctors reported such incidents to hospital authorities or professional medical bodies. Even when complaints were made, no action was taken in nearly half the cases, suggesting gaps in institutional accountability.

Why Violence Against Doctors Happens

Also read: Violence Against Doctors Is A National Concern, Says IMA Dilip P. Bhanushali

According to Dr Ishwar Gilada, Secretary General People's Health Organisation, India, several factors contribute to violence against doctors.

These include "high patient expectations, poor clinical outcomes, inadequate communication between doctors and patients, an overburdened healthcare system, high out-of-pocket medical expenses, weak security, misinformation, 'Mr. Google' providing false information, and limited accountability for perpetrators".

Dr. Tejinder Singh, Senior Consultant, Medical Oncology, Apollo Cancer Centres, Apollo Hospitals, Navi Mumbai added that anger and frustration arising from a patient's condition can sometimes fuel violent behavior, but emphasized that respect and meaningful dialogue are essential.

Impact On Patients And The Healthcare System

The experts said violence against healthcare workers has consequences that extend far beyond individual doctors.

Dr. Rajeev Jayadevan, former President of the Indian Medical Association (IMA) Cochin and Convener of the Research Cell, Kerala told HealthandMe that healthcare workers—including doctors, nurses, technicians and other staff—cannot give their best to patients if they are working under the threat of violence.

Dr. Gilada told HealthandMe that violence affects emergency care, lowers doctors' morale, increases attrition among healthcare professionals and encourages defensive medicine, where doctors order more tests to safeguard their own interests. He also warned that such incidents contribute to an erosion of trust between doctors, patients and the healthcare system.

Dr. Tejinder described violence against doctors as violence against the healthcare system itself, saying it creates a harmful atmosphere that ultimately affects patient care.

Not Every Poor Outcome Is Medical Negligence

Dr. Rajeev said there is often a perception that a poor outcome for a patient is the fault of the doctor or the hospital. He stressed that many adverse outcomes are part of the complex disease process within the body and can occur despite the best possible treatment.

Dr. Tejinder told HealthandMe that doctors are also human and that medical science cannot guarantee that every patient's problem can be cured, even when doctors do their best.

What Is The Solution?

The experts proposed multiple measures to reduce violence against healthcare workers.

Dr. Gilada called for stronger legal protection, saying the Healthcare Protection and Clinical Services Act (Prevention of Violence Act) 2025 should be passed into law. He also recommended improving doctor-patient communication, strengthening hospital systems and increasing public awareness through collaboration among healthcare agencies, patients, communities, government bodies and law enforcement agencies.

Dr. Rajeev said hospitals should establish effective grievance redressal systems so that patients' concerns can be addressed before they escalate into violence. He also said healthcare establishments should be declared peaceful zones where violence is prohibited.

Dr. Tejinder urged patients and families to maintain open dialogue with doctors, emphasizing that doctors and patients ultimately share the same goal—the well-being and betterment of the patient.

Preventive healthcare through early screening, healthier lifestyles and greater public awareness is crucial to reducing the burden of both communicable and chronic diseases, doctors said ahead of National Doctors' Day.

National Doctors' Day is observed in India on July 1 to honor the contributions of medical professionals.

Shift Focus On Prevention

Speaking at an event organized by the Illness to Wellness Foundation, Rajesh Bhushan, former Secretary, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, said India has made significant strides in expanding access to healthcare and strengthening its treatment infrastructure.

"The next phase of our healthcare journey must focus equally on prevention," Bhushan said.

He stressed that preventive healthcare should become a national priority, supported by regular screening, early diagnosis, healthier lifestyles and greater public awareness.

"Preventive healthcare is not only a public health priority but also an economic imperative for building a healthier and more productive nation," he added.

India Faces A Double Burden

Also read: National Doctors' Day 2026: Stronger Protection Against Violence In Healthcare Need Of The Hour, Say Doctors

Prof. (Dr.) Nirmal Kumar Ganguly, former Director General of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), said India is battling both infectious diseases and a rapidly growing burden of lifestyle-related illnesses.

"One of the biggest health challenges India faces today is the growing burden of obesity, which is the root cause of many major non-communicable diseases. Preventive healthcare is the most effective way to address both communicable and non-communicable diseases."

India continues to report a high burden of communicable diseases such as tuberculosis, malaria, dengue, cholera, typhoid, HIV/AIDS, hepatitis B and hepatitis C, which together account for about 27.5% of the country's disease burden.

At the same time, non-communicable diseases—including obesity, diabetes, hypertension and cancer—are rising rapidly. Around 60% of all deaths in India are caused by NCDs, with nearly 70% of their risk factors linked to unhealthy lifestyles.

Prevention Can Improve Quality Of Life

Prof. (Dr.) G. C. Khilnani, Chairman, PSRI Institute of Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine, said preventive healthcare should become part of everyday life through regular health check-ups, balanced nutrition, physical activity, vaccination, good hygiene and timely medical consultation.

Dr. Yash Gulati, Padma Shri awardee and Senior Consultant Orthopaedic and Joint Replacement Surgeon at Apollo Hospitals, New Delhi encouraged people to treat preventive healthcare as a lifelong commitment rather than an occasional health check-up.

"Every step taken towards prevention today reduces the burden of disease tomorrow."

How To Prevent Diseases

Doctors said adopting a prevention-first approach can significantly reduce the risk of both communicable and chronic diseases. They recommended:

• Going for regular health screenings to detect diseases early.
• Exercising regularly, including walking, yoga or other physical activities.
• Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and fiber.
• Maintaining a healthy weight to reduce the risk of obesity, diabetes and heart disease.
• Getting adequate sleep and manage stress through meditation or relaxation techniques.
• Staying up to date with vaccinations to prevent infectious diseases.
• Maintaining good hygiene, including frequent handwashing and access to safe drinking water.
• Seeking timely medical advice instead of waiting for symptoms to worsen.

Aarogya Setu started as a contact-tracing and tracking app during the COVID-19 pandemic. But it underwent a significant transformation since its initial launch. Now, years after its launch, the Centre has launched Aarogya Setu 2.0.

Aarogya Setu 2.0 Aims To Solve Everyday Healthcare Problems

Instead of focusing only on infectious diseases, Aarogya Setu 2.0 now acts as a comprehensive healthcare app that provides a range of healthcare services. Its features are designed to change the way you obtain medical services in hospitals and other healthcare facilities.

It can help users store, retrieve, and manage their medical records, access various services, and simplify everyday healthcare tasks. Apart from data and records storage, the app can help users locate the nearest hospitals, manage their prescriptions, and track their insurance coverage seamlessly. The revamped platform is designed to address common challenges patients face while navigating India's healthcare system.

Here's a closer look:

Finding Closest Hospitals

One of the most useful features Aarogya Setu 2.0 provides is access to the locations of the closest hospitals and healthcare facilities. In times of emergencies, this feature could prove to be lifesaving as it could save valuable time when immediate medical attention is needed.

The app has also enabled searching for PM-JAY empanelled hospitals. This feature is integrated with Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, allowing users to search for empanelled hospitals offering cashless treatment. Users can easily find authorized hospitals and access free or subsidized care.

Read more: Ebola Outbreak Spreads To Fourth Province In DR Congo As Cases Rise To 1,274

Retrieving Medical History During Doctor Visits

Patients often struggle to recall their medical history, including details like previous illnesses, surgeries, allergies, medications, or vaccinations during a consultation. It often hinders the diagnostic process as the doctor does not have a comprehensive picture of the patient’s health.

The platform provides users with easy access to their health records, making it simpler to share relevant information with their healthcare providers whenever needed.

Read more: Leptospirosis In Monsoon: Expert Explains Why Early Detection & Prevention Is A Must

Avoiding Repetitive Diagnostic Tests

Patients are often compelled to undergo the same diagnostic tests and scans simply because their previous reports get misplaced. This not only increases healthcare costs but also causes inconvenience. Easy access to past laboratory reports can help patients avoid unnecessary repeat tests.

Simplifying Insurance And Cashless Treatment

Medical insurance paperwork often involves submitting hospital documents, prescriptions, diagnostic reports, and discharge summaries. Since many of these records are scattered across different hospitals or stored as paper documents, patients may spend considerable time collecting them.

With digital health records stored in one place, users may find it easier to retrieve documents required for insurance claims or cashless hospitalization, potentially reducing paperwork and delays.

Making Healthcare More Portable

Aarogya Setu 2.0 allows users to securely store and access digital health records through integration with India's digital health ecosystem. Having previous prescriptions and reports readily available can help both patients and healthcare providers make informed decisions.

This is particularly useful for individuals who relocate frequently and suffer from chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, asthma, thyroid disorders, or kidney disease that need long-term monitoring.

Changing cities usually means changing doctors and hospitals. In the absence of a complete medical history, one is more likely to incur additional healthcare costs of retaking the tests.