Silchar: In a major step toward making healthcare accessible for all, Minister for Food, Public Distribution and Consumer Affairs, Mines and Minerals, and Barak Valley Development, Kaushik Rai, on Thursday inaugurated a Mega Health Camp at the Labooc Tea Garden Playground in Lakhipur.

Speaking at the event, Minister Rai praised Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma’s vision of ensuring that no citizen is deprived of healthcare. The camp was organised under the state-wide ‘Seva Hi Samarpan – Seva Saptah’ programme, held in honour of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s birthday through acts of public service.

The Minister noted that Cachar district has hosted a series of such camps since September 17 beginning at Dholai, continuing in Silchar, and concluding in Lakhipur. He said the initiative represents more than just medical outreach; it reflects the government’s commitment to the health, dignity, and well-being of every citizen.

A key feature of the programme, he added, is the comprehensive health screening for children aged 0–18 years, covering 59 identified diseases. “Early diagnosis and treatment protect families and help us build a healthier generation. That’s the main goal of this mega health camp,” he said.

During the event, Minister Rai also distributed disability certificates to children with special needs, reaffirming the inclusive nature of the initiative. He expressed satisfaction over the participation of tea garden workers and rural families. “Coming from this region, I understand their struggles. Our government’s mission is clear no one will be left behind in building a healthy Assam,” he said.

The Minister appreciated the coordinated efforts of the Cachar district administration and health department, acknowledging District Commissioner Mridul Yadav, IAS, Senior Superintendent of Police Numal Mahatta, SMCH Principal Dr Bhaskar Gupta, and frontline health workers for their contribution.

DC Mridul Yadav, in his address, praised the health department’s dedication and pledged continued administrative support. “This camp shows what teamwork can achieve. We’ll keep supporting the health department in delivering these vital services,” he said.

SSP Numal Mahatta lauded the initiative, calling it “a humane effort in an era of commercialised healthcare.” He noted the effective coordination between health workers, police, and administration that ensured a smooth and safe event.

CO-District Commissioner Dhrubajyoti Hazarika highlighted the meticulous planning that went into the camp and said the large turnout was proof of public trust in government programmes. Dr Bhaskar Gupta, Principal of SMCH, confirmed that specialists from Medicine, Surgery, Gynaecology, Paediatrics, Ophthalmology, and other departments were fully engaged and ready to provide further treatment to referred patients.

In his welcome address, Joint Director of Health Services Dr Shibananda Roy described the initiative as “a movement for universal healthcare,” and commended the leadership and district administration for turning that vision into action.

The Mega Health Camp saw a turnout of about 10,000 people, with 7,725 screenings conducted, including child health check-ups. Around 538 patients were referred for advanced treatment at SMCH and other specialised centres.

The venue hosted 83 counters, including 27 specialist doctor chambers, 30 registration desks, and 15 referral counters. In addition to medical services, citizens accessed facilities for Aadhaar, Ration Card, Ayushman Bharat Card, UDID (disability certificates), immunisation, and Fit India activities. A dedicated play zone for children added a family-friendly dimension to the event.

Also present were Zilla Parishad CEO Pranab Kumar Bora, ACS, Lakshyajit Gogoi, ACS, Branch Officer (Health), Lakhipur, and other dignitaries.

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