The Indian Navy successfully completed a five-day Joint Services Multi-Speciality Medical Camp in the Lakshadweep Islands. This important healthcare initiative ran from January 12 to January 16. It brought specialised medical care and preventive health services directly to people living in the remote island territory.
Large-Scale Outreach Across Multiple Islands
The Navy organised this large-scale outreach programme across five key islands. These included Kavaratti, Agatti, Amini, Androth and Minicoy. The Union Territory administration and local health authorities provided active assistance. This effort reflected close coordination between the Armed Forces and the civilian setup.
Residents responded very strongly to the initiative. A total of 4,719 patients sought consultations from specialist and super-specialist doctors. This marked the first time such an extensive medical camp was organised in Lakshadweep. It enabled islanders to access advanced healthcare services much closer to their homes.
Expert Medical Teams and Specialities
The medical teams comprised experts from numerous critical fields. Specialists came from Neurology, Cardiology, Nephrology, Endocrinology and Gastroenterology. The camp also included specialists in Medicine, Surgery, ENT, Ophthalmology, Dermatology, Dental Surgery, Radiology and Community Medicine.
Careful planning allowed for the swift mobilisation of all medical personnel and critical equipment. The Navy set up temporary but fully operational medical facilities on each island. Coordinated air and sea transport arrangements supported the entire operation. This highlighted the strong cooperation among all three Services of the Indian Armed Forces.
Wide Range of Treatments Provided
During the camp, doctors provided a broad spectrum of medical and surgical treatments. They performed 51 general surgeries. This significantly minimised the need for patients to undertake difficult travel to mainland hospitals.
Eye care services formed a crucial part of the camp. Specialists conducted 71 cataract operations. These procedures helped restore eyesight for many elderly residents on the islands.
Comprehensive Diagnostic and Procedural Work
Diagnostic services covered an impressive range. Teams performed more than 50 endoscopic procedures. They also conducted over 50 echocardiograms and several Treadmill Tests.
Radiology teams carried out over 250 ultrasound scans. Dental teams completed more than 100 different procedures. Dermatology specialists handled over 30 minor cases. Importantly, the Navy offered all consultations, procedures and medicines completely free of cost to the residents.
Equipment Donation and Health Awareness
The Indian Navy further strengthened local healthcare infrastructure. They handed over two new ECG machines to hospitals in Agatti and Amini.
Alongside direct clinical services, the camp included vital awareness programmes. Teams conducted sessions on preventive health, healthy living practices and cancer awareness. They also covered mental health topics and provided Basic Life Support training to local communities.
Strong Appreciation from the Community
The medical camp received widespread appreciation from Lakshadweep residents. The Union Territory administration also praised the effort. This initiative clearly highlighted the Indian Armed Forces' strong commitment to delivering healthcare and preventive services in the nation's most remote regions.
