Shimla: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Tuesday directed the health department to prepare a comprehensive nutrition policy for the state by May 31, aiming to promote healthier lifestyles and achieve the vision of a 'Fit Himachal'. Chairing a meeting of health officials, Sukhu said there was a pressing need to spread awareness among people about the nutritional value of food and healthy eating habits. He said Himachal Pradesh was poised to become the first state in the country to introduce such an extensive nutrition policy.
Digitisation of health sector
Sukhu also emphasised the importance of digitisation in the health sector and instructed officials to make patient records available online for faster and more convenient healthcare services. He said patients would not need to carry paper registration slips or medical reports once the digital system was implemented. The CM directed the health officials to launch a pilot project at Indira Gandhi Medical College and Hospital (IGMC), Shimla, for the digitisation of patient data in pathology, radiology, mycology, biochemistry and pharmacy departments. He assured adequate manpower for the project and said it would later be expanded to all departments and other medical colleges across the state.
Investment in healthcare infrastructure
Sukhu also informed that the government was investing Rs 3,000 crore in advanced medical equipment and healthcare infrastructure. This investment aims to strengthen the state's healthcare system and ensure better facilities for residents. The comprehensive nutrition policy and digitisation efforts are part of the government's broader strategy to improve public health outcomes and promote a healthier lifestyle among citizens.
