Homeopathy Treatment Centers in Jhargram on the verge of closure

Mail News Service

Jhargram: The closure of homeopathy treatment centers in the Jhargram district has become a pressing issue, particularly for the vulnerable Lodha and Sabar tribal communities. This crisis has arisen due to the central government’s discontinuation of financial assistance to 15 “Door Homeopathy Treatment Center” projects in Jhargram and West Medinipur since the 2021-22 financial year.

The Ministry of Tribal Affairs had been funding these centers under the Special Central Assistance (SCA) to Tribal Sub Plan (TSP) scheme. With the funding halted, the operation of these centers is at risk, which is causing concern among local communities who have depended on these services for years.

Partha Day, District Project Officer of the Backward Classes Welfare Department, explained that the project was initially run under SCA to TSP, but the central government’s withdrawal of funds has left the centers struggling. “The state government is working to restart the project and ensure its continuation,” Day said.

In response, tribal communities in Jhargram, such as those from Sangram and Pranavpalli villages in the Jamboni block, have submitted written petitions to the District Magistrate requesting that the homeopathy treatment centers remain operational.

The Lodha and Sabar communities have been receiving medical services through 11 homeopathic centers in the region, but the closure of these centers would lead to a significant healthcare gap for these underserved communities. Balaichandra Nayak, Chairman of the State Lodha Vikas Board, has raised concerns and has written to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and the Principal Secretary for urgent action. “This situation could have serious repercussions for our people, and we are hopeful that the government will take immediate steps to address the issue,” Nayak stated. (w/nkm)