Later on, more districts will be covered under the project.

With the launch of the facilities, the Government aims to bridge health disparities among fishermen and fisherwomen communities associated with their respective cooperatives in the Chhattisgarh State, explained NCDC MD Shri Sundeep Nayak. The decision to launch the telemedicine facility was taken after it was found that many members from the cooperatives were shying away from availing medical services either because of living in far off areas, poverty or due to Covid fears.

“The idea is to extend healthcare facilities to members of fisheries cooperatives societies in remote areas as well as cut down their medical expenditure. The penetration of quality healthcare services in remote areas will also create health awareness among the fisheries community,” said Mr Nayak. He explained that after consultation, if it was found that the patient needed more specialized treatment, ambulance service would be available.

“It will also help them to make more informed decisions on prevention, diagnosis and health conditions,” said Shri Jatindra Nath Swain, Secretary, Department of Fisheries, while appreciating the collaborative efforts of AIIMS, Raipur with NCDC. It will be a guiding light for the startups to initiate innovative projects.

Dr Nitin Nagarkar, said that AIIMS, Raipur had already been conducting tele-consultation services for the benefit of the public, mainly residing in the tribal regions of the State. This activity was also further enhanced during this ongoing Covid pandemic. “We are happy to associate with the NCDC to provide high-quality care by providers and specialists in urban centers to the members of the fisheries cooperatives,” Dr Nagarkar added.