By Our Reporter
Nongpoh, October 17: A collaborative effort between the Meghalaya AIDS Control Society Shillong and the Office of the Deputy Commissioner, Ri Bhoi District, has led to the initiation of an Integrated Health Camp on Wednesday in Ri Bhoi District, specifically at Iewmawlong Nongpoh. The event was graced by Mayralborn Syiem, MLA & Chairman of Meghalaya State Health Advisory Board, serving as the chief guest and R. Brahma, Additional Deputy Commissioner, as the guest of honor. Dr. B. Decruse, Project Director of Meghalaya AIDS Control Society, and Dr. T. Momin, DM&HO, Nongpoh, were also in attendance. The event drew a diverse audience, including healthcare professionals, students, village elders, and residents of Iewmawlong village and its surrounding areas.
Dr. B. Decruse, Project Director, stated that the Integrated Health Camp was organised in conjunction with various government departments to raise awareness about health-related issues such as HIV, AIDS, TB, non-communicable diseases, ophthalmic diseases and the impact of tobacco consumption.
The programme aimed to educate people on how to access available health services. The camp included health screenings and tests to provide individuals with insights into their health status. Additionally, the camp offered Aadhaar and MHIS enrollment services. Dr. Decruse mentioned that similar camps would be held at 66 static locations across Ri Bhoi District over a 20-day period.
In his address, Mayralborn Syiem, MLA, emphasised the efforts made by the State Government to improve various sectors, especially health and education.
Syiem also noted Ri Bhoi District’s progress as an Aspirational District, thanks to initiatives from NITI Aayog in areas such as health, nutrition, and education. However, he expressed concern about the rising social issues, including cases of rape, drug use, alcohol addiction, and HIV. He stressed the importance of conducting awareness campaigns, especially for teenagers.
Syiem commended the Integrated Health Camp for its significance in helping people understand their health status and access health services, encouraging the community to take advantage of this opportunity. The chief guest formally inaugurated the Integrated Health Camp in Ri Bhoi District.