From Our Correspondent
JOWAI, Sep 29: Governor CH Vijayashankar visited Ummulong Community Health Centre (CHC) on Monday as the chief guest at a special health camp under the “Swasth Nari, Sashakt Parivar Abhiyaan” (SNSPA), organised by the District Medical & Health Officer of West Jaintia Hills District.
Health workers highlighted that the programme primarily aims to support women, particularly pregnant mothers, in both rural and urban areas. As part of the campaign, 994 outreach events have been planned, of which 700 have already been conducted, benefiting thousands across the district.
The event was attended by Health Minister Wailadmiki Shylla; Dr Joram Beda, Commissioner & Secretary of the Health department; B Blah, Additional Deputy Commissioner (WJH); Dr N Kharsahnoh, Director of Health Services (MCH&FW); among others. The programme was chaired by Dr P Shylla, District Medical & Health Officer.
In his address, the Governor lauded the 15-day special campaign launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which focuses on women’s health. The campaign, which began on September 17, will conclude on October 2, 2025.
He noted that the programme provides free health services for women, including screening and treatment for anemia, cancer, hypertension, and other ailments. Medicines, check-ups, and treatments are being offered at no cost. The Governor urged women to make full use of the facilities extended by the government.
He further highlighted three major health challenges in Meghalaya—cancer, tuberculosis (TB), and drug abuse, along with HIV—and called on the Health Department to ensure timely treatment. He also encouraged patients suffering from these conditions to come forward for care.
The Governor stressed that West Jaintia Hills must actively implement the programme, adding that reports will be collected from all districts after October 2. The top three districts in terms of SNSPA implementation will be recognised and awarded at Raj Bhavan.
He also praised Meghalaya’s unique matrilineal tradition, which grants women lineage rights and equal participation, a feature rarely seen in other parts of India.
During the event, gifts were distributed to adolescents and five elderly individuals. Beneficiaries also underwent health check-ups, while enrolment for the Meghalaya Health Insurance Scheme (MHIS) was facilitated through Aadhaar. The programme featured cultural performances by CHC staff showcasing traditional dances. A coordination meeting between officials of the Deputy Commissioner’s office and the Health department followed, where ideas and feedback were exchanged.
