Mumbai :- In a significant step towards strengthening public healthcare services in the state, the Public Health Department of Maharashtra, under the special initiative of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, has signed an important Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Paediatrics Department of AIIMS Nagpur to effectively control non-communicable diseases (NCDs) among children.
A Step Towards a Healthier and Safer Environment for Children
Speaking about the agreement, Chief Minister Fadnavis emphasized that children’s health is crucial for the future of the state. He stated that controlling non-communicable diseases is not solely the responsibility of the healthcare sector but a collective societal commitment. This MoU marks a concrete step towards creating a safer, healthier, and more supportive environment for children.
Establishment of Childhood NCD Clinics
Under this agreement, “Childhood NCD Clinics” will be established and operationalized in district hospitals across the state. The initiative aims to ensure prevention, early diagnosis, and effective treatment of diseases such as Type-1 diabetes, congenital heart diseases, asthma, obesity, sickle cell disease, mental health conditions, and developmental disorders.
The program will also focus on capacity building of healthcare workers, standardized treatment protocols, robust data collection systems, and expert guidance.
Three-Year Implementation
This MoU, facilitated by the Public Health Department, will be implemented over a period of three years. It is expected to significantly enhance the quality, accessibility, and inclusiveness of healthcare services in the state.
The event was attended by Public Health and Family Welfare Minister Prakash Abitkar, Principal Secretary (Health) Dr. Nipun Vinayak, Health Services Commissioner and NHM Director Dr. Kadambari Balkawade, Deputy Secretary Vilas Bendre, Dr. Prashant Joshi, paediatric specialist Dr. Meenakshi Girish, and representatives of AIIMS Nagpur.