Jharkhand Government Announces High-Tech Biomedical Waste Treatment Plants and Medical Officer Appointments
In a significant development during the state assembly session on Friday, Health Minister Irfan Ansari unveiled plans for the establishment of high-tech micro biomedical waste treatment plants across district hospitals and medical colleges in Jharkhand. This announcement came as part of a broader response to pressing health-related issues raised by MLAs, including concerns over improper waste disposal, non-functional oxygen plants, and critical shortages in medical staffing.
Heated Exchanges Over HIV Infection Inquiry and Healthcare Demands
The assembly witnessed intense debates, particularly surrounding MLA Arup Chatterjee's demand for an inquiry report on a distressing incident where five children contracted HIV after blood transfusions at a district hospital in West Singhbhum. Chatterjee insisted on the submission of this report during the budget session and called for government-funded treatment for the affected children if necessary. While Minister Ansari assured that the report would be provided soon, opposition members persisted, leading to raised voices and a charged atmosphere.
Further discussions highlighted systemic issues in healthcare infrastructure. Dhanbad MLA Raj Sinha raised alarms about defunct oxygen plants at the Saheed Nirmal Mahto Medical College and Hospital, coupled with a severe manpower shortage. In response, Ansari informed the House that the government is actively engaging with the Jharkhand Public Service Commission to expedite the appointment of 370 medical officers, aiming to alleviate staffing crises.
Biomedical Waste Management Under Scrutiny
MLA Chandardeo Mahto brought to light operational failures in existing biomedical waste treatment plants located in Dhanbad, Ramgarh, Lohardaga, Adityapur, Pakur, and Deoghar. He pointed out that these facilities are not functioning properly, with particular criticism directed at a powerful agency in Dhanbad that allegedly faces no opposition due to its influence. Mahto questioned whether adequate monitoring and corrective actions were being implemented for agencies responsible for waste management.
Supporting these concerns, MLAs Mathura Mahto and Arup Chatterjee echoed demands for stricter oversight. Minister Ansari committed to initiating an inquiry against the Dhanbad agency and taking necessary action if misconduct is confirmed. He emphasized that monitoring of biomedical waste management is ongoing, with regular reports being submitted to the government, and urged MLAs to identify underperforming agencies for further intervention.
Technical Glitches and Legislative Proceedings
The session also faced technical hurdles, as MLA Amit Mahto reported inability to pose questions due to malfunctions in the National e-Vidhan Application. The Speaker clarified that after a technical glitch, the system resumed operations at 7:30 am, ensuring continued legislative activities.
In other legislative business, the House approved a substantial budget of Rs 12,346.89 crore for the rural development department following extensive discussions. MLAs advocated for incorporating their suggestions on the Panchayats Extension to Scheduled Areas into official rules. Rural Development Minister Depika Pandey defended the state's PESA rules as superior to those of other states and vowed to resist any reduction in mandays under the renamed MNREGA scheme, underscoring the government's commitment to rural welfare.
The assembly was adjourned until March 9, marking a session focused on critical health and development priorities.
