Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has strongly reaffirmed the government's commitment to delivering quality healthcare services to every citizen across India. He particularly highlighted the focus on people living in remote and island territories. Singh made these remarks during a virtual address on Tuesday.
Multi-Speciality Health Camp in Lakshadweep
The Defence Minister spoke at the inauguration of a nearly week-long joint services multi-speciality health camp. The Indian Navy organized this camp at the Indira Gandhi Hospital in Kavaratti, Lakshadweep. This marks the first time such an extensive medical initiative has been hosted in the island Union territory. The camp runs from January 12 to January 16.
Rajnath Singh described the Navy's initiative as a shining example of its significant role in nation-building and humanitarian assistance. He noted that this effort goes beyond the Navy's primary maritime security duties.
Comprehensive Medical Services Provided
The tri-Services team of the Armed Forces Medical Services has brought advanced diagnostic facilities and specialist care directly to the people's doorsteps. Key services being offered at the camp include:
- Outpatient consultations for various health issues
- Cataract surgeries to restore vision
- Select general surgical procedures
- Comprehensive health screenings and early diagnosis
- Timely medical advice and interventions
- Free distribution of essential medicines
Officials reported that nearly 50 sight-restoring surgeries have already been conducted in just the first two days of the camp. Specialists from the Army Hospital (Research & Referral) in Delhi are delivering world-class ophthalmic care to island residents. Many more surgeries are scheduled for the coming days.
Significant Medical Deployment
A substantial medical team has been deployed for this healthcare initiative. The camp features:
- 29 medical officers with various specializations
- 2 nursing officers providing patient care
- 42 paramedical personnel supporting medical procedures
These healthcare professionals come from armed forces establishments across the country. Their collective expertise ensures comprehensive medical coverage during the camp.
Government's Broader Healthcare Vision
Rajnath Singh emphasized that the government is working with the resolve of a Swasth Bharat (Healthy India). He highlighted that the administration has not only promoted physical infrastructure in the health sector but has also taken concrete steps for people's well-being.
The Defence Minister specifically mentioned initiatives like Ayushman Bharat and Jan Aushadhi Kendras. These programs demonstrate the government's comprehensive approach to healthcare accessibility and affordability.
Navy Chief Highlights Camp's Uniqueness
Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi formally inaugurated the health camp. He highlighted three unique aspects of this initiative:
- Synergy: The camp strengthens inter-service cooperation and civil-military collaboration
- Scope: It offers a wide range of medical services to address diverse health needs
- Scale: The deployment represents a significant medical outreach effort
Admiral Tripathi emphasized that such joint initiatives contribute meaningfully to citizen welfare. Following the inauguration ceremony, the Navy Chief personally interacted with patients. He handed over spectacles, eye drops, and medicines to beneficiaries of the cataract surgeries.
Extensive Outreach Across Lakshadweep Islands
The Indian Navy is conducting these multi-speciality camps across five islands of Lakshadweep:
- Amini
- Androth
- Agatti
- Kavaratti
- Minicoy
This widespread approach ensures maximum outreach and accessibility for residents. A dedicated ophthalmology team has been stationed at Kavaratti specifically to undertake cataract surgeries for eligible patients.
Transforming Lives Through Healthcare
The camp has already made a significant impact on individual lives. Kuni Koya, a 65-year-old resident of Amini, suffered from hypermature cataract that had nearly blinded him. His successful surgery at the camp represents the core mission of this healthcare initiative.
Officials stated that such transformations ensure residents of India's smallest Union Territory are never left behind in the dark. The camp aims to provide long-term health benefits through early diagnosis, timely interventions, and proper medical guidance.
Rajnath Singh concluded that comprehensive screening and medical care would contribute substantially to the island community's health and well-being. The government remains steadfast in its commitment to bringing quality healthcare to every corner of the nation.
