Raipur: In a major push to bring healthcare services directly to remote tribal regions, Chief Minister Mr. Vishnu Deo Sai flagged off 57 Mobile Medical Units (MMUs) in Naya Raipur on Wednesday under the Prime Minister’s Tribal Welfare Initiative “PM Janman”. The event was attended by Health Minister Mr. Shyam Bihari Jaiswal, other cabinet members, elected representatives, and senior health officials.
Healthcare Services at Doorstep for Vulnerable Tribal Communities
The initiative is specifically designed to benefit the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) living in dense forests and hard-to-reach areas, where access to hospitals and clinics is limited. The deployment of MMUs ensures that essential health services, including preventive care, diagnostics, and treatment, are brought directly to the villages and settlements.
Through these units, healthcare services will reach over 2,100 villages and habitations across 18 districts, positively impacting more than two lakh PVTG residents. Each MMU is fully equipped with a team of doctors, nurses, lab technicians, pharmacists, and local volunteers, providing 25 diagnostic tests and 106 essential medicines free of cost.
Focus on Accessibility and Comprehensive Care
Chief Minister Mr. Sai emphasized that this program would make diagnosis and treatment available within villages, eliminating travel difficulties for remote families. He described the initiative as a “solid foundation for comprehensive participation and health security” for tribal communities.
Mr. Sai also highlighted that out of Chhattisgarh’s population of 3 crore, approximately 2.3 lakh PVTG members reside in these 2,100 settlements, making the MMUs a significant boon for marginalized groups.
Government and PM Janman Initiative Support
Health Minister Mr. Shyam Bihari Jaiswal noted that both the Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Mr. Vishnu Deo Sai are committed to uplifting PVTGs. The MMUs will strengthen healthcare delivery in areas with limited medical infrastructure, fulfilling the vision of PM Janman Plan, launched on November 15, 2023, which aims to provide essential services directly to remote tribal settlements.
Health Secretary Mr. Amit Kataria added that each MMU will conduct health camps every 15 days, offering diagnostic services, treatment for common illnesses, and distribution of medicines. In case of emergencies or serious conditions, patients will be referred to the nearest health facility, ensuring a comprehensive and responsive healthcare framework.
Tackling Health Challenges in Remote Regions
Previously, remote tribal regions faced irregular healthcare access due to resource constraints. With the addition of new vehicles and trained personnel, the MMU system will operate continuously, helping in early detection and prevention of diseases such as TB, malaria, anemia, and malnutrition.
This initiative marks a significant milestone in bridging healthcare disparities, making Chhattisgarh a model for delivering accessible, high-quality medical care to marginalized and hard-to-reach communities.
