DC Karn Satyarthi Orders Overhaul of Rural Healthcare in Jamshedpur

Jamshedpur: Deputy Commissioner Karn Satyarthi chaired a review meeting of the Health Department at the Collectorate Auditorium on Wednesday, focusing on improving healthcare delivery, especially in remote and inaccessible areas.

The meeting assessed progress and quality in key areas including institutional deliveries, immunisation, malnutrition treatment, family planning, availability of Mamta vehicles, and prevention of non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

It was reported that in 2025–26, eight pregnant women have died due to various health-related causes. Expressing deep concern, the DC said that even a single death reflects a failure of the administration. He directed all Medical Officers In-Charge (MOICs) to take full responsibility, correct deficiencies, conduct regular field visits, and monitor the health concerns of rural populations. He stressed ensuring 100% safe and institutional deliveries to bring maternal and infant mortality rates down to zero.

The DC noted that except for urban areas, all blocks fell short of the target for full immunisation. He issued strict instructions for MOICs to ensure every newborn is vaccinated. Malnutrition treatment centres were directed to maintain 100% bed occupancy, with continuous identification and treatment of malnourished children.

Further directions included accelerating family planning initiatives, expanding NCD screening activities, and ensuring the availability of Mamta vehicles in all blocks. The meeting also reviewed prevention and treatment measures for dengue, malaria, and other seasonal infectious diseases, with instructions for regular surveys and prompt medical intervention in affected areas.

Progress under the National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme, National Leprosy Eradication Programme, TB Elimination Campaign, and Anaemia Mukt Bharat initiative was also examined. The DC emphasised prioritising these national health programmes, ensuring timely services reach beneficiaries at the grassroots level through regular monitoring and inter-departmental coordination.

Civil Surgeon Dr Sahir Pal, ACMO Dr Jogeshwar Prasad, Dr Ranjit Panda, Dr A. Mitra, Dr Mrityunjay Dhawadia, Dr O.P. Keshari, all MOICs, and other health officials were present at the meeting.