MP seventh in female foeticide: Ramadoss

Shivpuri, MP, Mar 18 (UNI) Union Health Minister Anbumani Ramadoss today said Madhya Pradesh had the dubious distinction of occupying seventh place in the country vis-a-vis female foeticide and a distorted gender balance.

''This is a social problem. Along with strict implementation of laws, social awareness is imperative. The Centre has enhanced budgetary allocation to health services from Rs 6,500 crore to Rs 15,000 crore. A Rs 10,000-crore component was earmarked for the National Rural Health Scheme,'' he told mediapersons here.

Assuring that health services would be modernised in rural areas, Dr Ramadoss added that the Asha scheme would provide health services in every rural area.

''New Delhi sanctioned Rs 1.5 crore for a trauma centre that is now operational here. A sum of Rs 1 crore will be provided for moderning the district hospital, blood bank and delivery facilities.

Three health centres will be modernised,'' the Minister said.

Guna MP Jyotiraditya Scindia also spoke on the occasion.

UNI