Pointing out that the state has a great potential for medical tourism geographically with good manpower and capability, Health Minister S Ranjan informed that the department will expedite the process to promote medical tourism in consultation with the External Affairs Ministry.
He was delivering the chief guest speech during his felicitation programme organised by the Indian medical Association (IMA), Manipur state branch at the IMA’s office in Lamphelpat, Imphal West.
Talking on the present scenario of the health sector of Manipur which needs upliftment in various aspects, Ranjan gave his assurance to take up every possible measure and walk extra miles to uplift the health sector of the state and provide a robust health care system to the people of Manipur.
Concerning the lapse in Supplementary Nutrition Programme in Anganwadi centres, he said that the Health Department will soon sort out the issue at the ministerial level by collaborating with the Social Welfare department to supply nutritional diets to children.
Regarding the conflicts of private practices by government doctors, the minister said that he will consult the issue with the chief minister to resolve a balance rule as a doctor cannot turn out a patient who visit his house.
He also informed that the Health Department is also in process to introduce sanitary pads in schools concerning adolescent health and hygiene.
The minister further assured to address the issue of ‘violence against doctors’ as there are times where a doctor cannot save a life despite giving their best.
During the programme the IMA submitted a memorandum to the minister containing a charter of demands.
The demands included raising the health budget allocation to above 10 per cent, straightening the public health preparedness, increasing the numbers of nursing colleges, indulging members of IMA in all the health related activities, policies and decision making of the state among others.
