The Indian Community Benevolent Forum (ICBF), in collaboration with the Telangana Gulf Samithi (TGS) Qatar, conducted a heat stress awareness programme on July 24, 2026, at the ICBF Kanjani Hall in Doha. The initiative was aimed at educating blue-collar workers from various labor camps around the city on the health risks posed by high temperatures, particularly during the summer months.

The event drew participation from numerous laborers and highlighted ICBF’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding the health and welfare of the Indian expatriate community in Qatar. Shri Chandan Kumar Shrivastava, Attaché at the Embassy of India, served as the chief guest. In his remarks, he praised ICBF for its dedicated community work and assured the embassy’s continued backing for such welfare programmes. He encouraged workers to maintain good health practices, stay well-hydrated, and take precautions against heat-related illnesses, emphasizing the importance of their wellbeing for the sake of their families.

ICBF President Shanavas Bava expressed appreciation for the embassy’s support in managing community grievances and providing consular services. He also acknowledged the cooperation of Telangana Gulf Samithi in organizing the event. TGS President Madhukar Maidam addressed attendees, thanking ICBF for the opportunity to co-host the awareness session.

The technical portion of the programme was presented by Bimal Subedi, Coordinator of Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) at Building and Wood Workers’ International (BWI). Subedi explained that heat stress results when the body is unable to cool itself due to high temperatures or intense physical exertion. He detailed practical measures such as drinking ample water, taking breaks in shaded or cooler environments, wearing lightweight clothing, and identifying early symptoms including dizziness, excessive sweating, fatigue, and dehydration.

Additional remarks and felicitation were made by Advisory Council Chairman KS Prasad and ICBF’s Head of Labour Shankar Goud. The session began with a welcome address by General Secretary Deepak Shetty, and the vote of thanks was delivered by Secretary Jafar Thayyil. Coordination of the event was managed by ICBF’s Managing Committee members Irfan Ansari, Mani Bharathi, Mini Siby, Amarvir Singh, and Neelambari Sushant.

The programme reinforced efforts to raise awareness about occupational health risks among migrant laborers in Qatar, ensuring safer working conditions and promoting well-being amid challenging environmental factors.