Manipur to have own Health Policy
Phungzathang Tonsing assures of Mental Hospital in JNIMS
Source: Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, October 10 2012:
As done in other parts of the globe, 20th World Mental Health Day was observed in the state jointly by Manipur Health Department, Manipur State Mental Health Authority and the Indian Psychiatric Society, Manipur Branch at the auditorium of Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy here today.
Organized under the theme of "Depression: A Global Crisis", the observance function was graced by Phungzathang Tonsing, Minister of Health and Family Welfare and A Bijoy, Director of Health Services, Manipur as Chief Guest and President respectively.
N Achouba, Director of Family Welfare, Manipur; Prof N Heramani, Head of Department of Psychiatry, RIMS and L Surchandra, ex-Director of Family Welfare, Manipur were also present as Guests of Honour.
Speaking on the occasion, Minister Phungzathang Tonsing said that the health care system of the state needs to be changed and the best possible health care facilities should be provided to the people.
Considering this, all possible means would be discussed to bring out a State Health Policy at the earliest possible in tune with the present health scenario of the state.
The Minister further informed that a 50-bedded Mental Health Care Service Hospital would also be set at JNIMS, Porompat under the funding of North Eastern Council (NEC) at an estimated cost of Rs 7.68 crores.
This effort has been made in order give a sense of comfort and relief to patients suffering from depression.
For the construction of the proposed Mental Health Hospital, an area of 1.5 acres of land has been allocated and the required DPR sent to NEC, the Minister disclosed.
The Minister observed that depression has become one of the most widely encountered problems in the world.
Same is the case with Manipur.
So the doctors and nurses specializing in this field should treat the patients with love and care.
These patients should always be encouraged.
He also pointed out the need to change the name of the treatment centre from 'Psychiatric Department' to 'Mental Health Care Service' so as to minimize chances of creating awkwardness to the patients.