UditVani, Ranchi/Jamshedpur:The Jharkhand government is set to introduce a groundbreaking initiative to enhance healthcare services for the state’s tribal population. As part of this initiative, a comprehensive ‘Health Atlas’ will be prepared to document health parameters in tribal-dominated regions.
The survey aims to identify health challenges and devise targeted solutions. Chamra Linda, the Minister for SC/ST and Backward Class Welfare, outlined the importance of this project during a departmental meeting on Monday.
Sickle Cell Treatment in Focus
Addressing the meeting, the minister emphasized the urgent need to combat sickle cell anemia, a major health concern for tribal communities. He directed close monitoring of the state-run sickle cell awareness campaign and stressed ensuring treatment facilities at all rural health sub-centers.
Additionally, Linda proposed telemedicine as a vital solution to bridge healthcare gaps in remote and inaccessible regions, urging officials to draft a comprehensive plan to connect these areas.
Review of Welfare Schemes
The meeting also reviewed various welfare schemes for Scheduled Tribes (ST) and Scheduled Castes (SC). Minister Linda directed the department to organize ‘exposure visits’ for students from welfare schools, offering them opportunities to explore cultural and educational experiences within Jharkhand and across India.
To ensure timely disbursement of scholarships for ST and SC students in the 2024-25 academic session, the minister set a deadline of March 2025.
Clearing Pending Scholarships
In a significant move, the minister approved Rs. 157 crore to clear the pending post-matric scholarships for backward caste students for the 2023-24 session. The proposal has been forwarded to the finance department for further action.
Addressing Quality Concerns in Welfare Schools
Minister Linda expressed concern over substandard facilities in welfare schools during a recent visit to Gumla district. Inferior quality ration, bags, and shoes were flagged, prompting him to instruct strict action against the responsible suppliers, including withholding payments and blacklisting them.
The review revealed that food served in many schools did not adhere to prescribed menus, and essential items like milk and fruits were missing. The tribal welfare commissioner has asked the district welfare officer to submit a clarification within three days.
Ensuring Accountability and Quality
To ensure consistent quality in welfare schemes, Linda mandated weekly field visits by headquarters and regional officers. Any negligence in scheme implementation will face strict action, he warned.
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