Department of Information and Public Relations

Press Release No. 181/23

CHIEF MINISTER INAUGURATES NORTHEAST SUMMIT ON TB ERADICATION

Chief Minister, Conrad K Sangma, today, inaugurated the North East TB Free Summit at Courtyard Marriot in the presence of Minister, Health, Dr M Ampareen Lyngdoh and Dr Roderico H Ofrin, WR, WHO India.

In his inaugural address, Chief Minister, Conrad K Sangma, said that healthcare is one of the top priorities of the government. In the last few years we have continuously engaged and invested in healthcare and adopted different strategies for ensuring quality health care in Meghalaya, he said. He also informed that a quantum increase on state government allocations to health and added Bulk of this increased spending fund different health missions as well as health and wellness centres that then help improve access to and quality of primary healthcare.

Talking about how the engagement of women in different self-help groups have economically empowered them which in turn has improved the health the Chief Minister said, The relationship between health and economic development can be measured by assessing the impact of health-related issues like rate of mortality, infant mortality, fertility, diseases and overall health in relation to their impact on human productivity, he said. He further said that human capital is one of the chief cornerstones of economic development and any economy that is deficient in this vital component will suffer from the effects. He also highlighted the correlation between health and economic development.

The Chief Minister also informed that there is a significant delay in the diagnosis of tuberculosis, especially among poorer people who do not visit a doctor until the symptoms have become severe. Community participation, enhancing nutrition, treatment innovation, tech integration, wellness and prevention interventions such as awareness about the disease, early screening and maintaining hygiene are some measures that can accelerate the goal to make India TB Free by 2025, he added. He also said that the state shares the national goals and aspirations and Meghalaya’s challenging terrain and dispersed population have made it necessary to establish TB diagnostic and treatment facilities in remote areas. The fight against Tb is far from over but with unwavering dedication and collaboration we can make great strides in reducing its impact, he said.

The Chief Minister further urged the different stakeholders in the health department to continue to work with purpose, commitment and determination. We should not become a government of schemes and programs but not of purpose that brings positive results at the grass roots, he said. Dr Ampareen Lyngdoh, Minister, Health, in her address said that a robust preventive procedure and concerted effort and continued focus with the participation of the community is needed to eradicate TB. We need to spread and intensify our presence as far as tuberculosis is concerned, she told the gathering.

Dr Roderico H Ofrin said that the summit is not only to celebrate the efforts of the North east in TB eradication programs but also to spread word to other parts of the country about the good practices and learn from each other.

The Chief Minister also launched the Meghalaya Mobile Portable AI based X-Ray diagnostic facility during the event.

Press Release No. 182/23

74TH FOUNDATION DAY OF THE BHARAT SCOUTS AND GUIDES

On the occasion of the 74th Foundation Day of the Bharat Scouts and Guides, the Rajya Puraskar Rally was held today at Raj Bhavan, Shillong.

The Governor of Meghalaya, Shri. Phagu Chauhan, who is also the Patron of the Meghalaya Bharat Scouts and Guides gave away the Rajya Puraskar certificate awards to 84 Scouts, 9 Rovers, 76 Guides and 9 Rangers in the presence of Meghalaya Chief Secretary, Shri. D P Wahlang, Secretary to the Governor of Meghalaya, Dr. B. D. R Tiwari and other dignitaries.

7 leaders (5 male and 2 female) were also felicitated for successfully completing the Himalayan Wood badge course.

Addressing the gathering, the Hon’ble Governor while lauding all the scouts and guides who have successfully completed their Rajya Puraskar, said that the Foundation Day serves as a reminder of the vision and foresight of its founders, who recognized the immense potential of scouting and guiding in shaping the lives of the youth. Drawing attention to the countless individuals across the nation whose lives have been positively impacted through scouting and guiding, the Hon’ble Governor called on the scouts and guides to reaffirm their commitment to the principles of scouting and guiding and to pledge to create an environment that nurtures the growth and development of the youth, ensuring a brighter future for the nation. Recognizing the transformative power of the movement, the Hon’ble Governor further assured the government's support and encouragement in further promoting the scouting and guiding movement in the State.

Meghalaya Chief Secretary, Shri. D P Wahlang in his address heaped praise on the scouts and guides for their hard work, perseverance, and determination in the completion of their Rajya Puraskar and also congratulated all the mentors who have played a major role in motivating, inspiring and shaping the young Scouts and Guides in moving forward despite many challenges.

Pointing out that importance of inculcating the habit of service to humanity, Shri Wahlang hoped that their achievements will serve as a source of inspiration for the youth of our state.

On the occasion, the Hon’ble Governor also released the Foundation Flag, the sale proceeds of which will be sent to the National Headquarters of the Bharat Scouts and Guides, to be utilised for the needy all over the country.