Malnutrition, related diseases a major issue in India: Health Minister Harsh Vardhan

Jaipur, Sep 29: Malnutrition and related diseases is a very serious issue in 184 deprived districts across the country and the Centre will launch a campaign to check it, Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan today said.

"The government is very serious and sensitive on pre-mature deaths due to malnutrition, especially in 184 deprived districts in the country, including Rajasthan," Vardhan said replying to media questions during a video press conference from the national capital.

The Health Minister said the government will undertake a massive "andolan" (campaign) of one week on malnutrition which causes anaemia and other diseases and malnutrition management will be taken up in a detailed programme to be announced in Delhi on October 9, he said.

To a question that Rajasthan's free medicine and diagnostic services in government hospitals have allegedly slowed down during the new BJP government, the minister said for better medical care, a massive Universal Health Assurance Mission (UHAM) was in the offing which will cater to all needs of the people, especially the poor.

He said a special drive against cancer will be announced on November 7 which will cover Rajasthan also. Giving assurance, the minister said he will talk to the Rajasthan government and Health Minister R S Rathore on the status of free medicine and diagnostic services being provided in the state.

To a question related to shortage of doctors and paramedical staff, corrupt practices in the sector and seven new upcoming medical colleges, the Minister said it is a state subject and the competent authorities should take the responsibility to fulfil the need and take strict action against those who are careless, corrupt and dishonest.

Besides the faculty and paramedical staff doing good jobs should be rewarded, Vardhan said. T

he minister said a few medical professionals not taking their job seriously should not pollute the entire medical fraternity.

PTI