Khonsa, May 30: A mega Health Mela-cum-free eye screening camp was organised at Nehru Stadium, Khonsa, on Saturday as part of the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the Arunachal Pradesh State Transport Services (APSTS).
The programme was conducted by the Health Department under the aegis of the District Health Society, Tirap, under the chairmanship of District Medical Officer Dr B Ratan, with the aim of providing comprehensive healthcare services to the public.
The event was inspected by MLA-cum-Advisor to the Minister of Transport Chakat Aboh, Zilla Parishad Chairperson John KK Matey, and Deputy Commissioner Techu Aran, who appreciated the department’s efforts in bringing essential healthcare services closer to the people.
During the programme, DTO (DTC)-cum-DACO Dr Jayanty Thingnok highlighted activities undertaken under the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan 100-Day Campaign. As part of the initiative, 48 individuals were screened for tuberculosis, while 45 people underwent Handheld Chest X-Ray examinations.
The Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) and IDSP team, led by DPO-cum-DSO Dr K Socia, conducted health screenings and distributed free medicines to beneficiaries. Of the 163 individuals screened, 40 were found to be hypertensive and 17 were diagnosed with diabetes mellitus.
AYUSH services were provided by Dr F Aran and Dr Runcha Thinra, who conducted consultations and health check-ups for 26 individuals. General health examinations were also carried out by Dr S Sumpa. The District AIDS Control Programme (DACP) team conducted HIV and VDRL tests for 146 individuals, with all results reported negative.
A major highlight of the event was the free eye screening camp, which witnessed an overwhelming public response. A total of 310 people underwent eye examinations. The screening identified 210 cases of refractive errors, 35 cataract cases, 25 cases of allergic conjunctivitis, 12 cases of blepharitis, and seven cases of pterygium, while 21 individuals were found to have normal vision.
In addition, 170 beneficiaries were provided with free spectacles based on their examination results.
The Health Mela witnessed enthusiastic participation from people across the district and served as a one-stop platform for a wide range of healthcare services. Besides facilitating early detection and treatment of various health conditions, the initiative promoted preventive healthcare practices and enhanced health awareness among residents.
Officials said the successful conduct of the programme reflects the commitment of the District Health Society and the Health Department towards improving healthcare accessibility and strengthening community outreach across Tirap district. (DIPRO)