ORS Week 2025 begins at BABINA Hospital
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, July 23 2025: Paediatric Association of Manipur (PAM), in collaboration with BABINA Hospital, formally inaugurated the ORS Week Celebration 2025 at the hospital's training hall, Sajiwa Jail Road, Khabeisoi, on Wednesday.

According to a press statement issued by BABINA Hospital, the programme was organised with the aim of raising public awareness on the importance of Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) in preventing and managing dehydration, particularly among children suffering from diarrhoea.

The inaugural function was attended by BABINA Group of Companies chairman and managing director Dr Th Dhabali Singh and BABINA Hospital medical superintendent Dr Shyamkumar Laishram as chief guest and president respectively, while PAM vice president and RIMS paediatrics department associate professor Dr RK Rup abati Devi and PAM secretary Dr L Basanta were the guests .of honour.

RIMS Paediatrics Department assistant professor Dr Chabungbam Smilie participated as speaker of the function.

The press statement quoted Dr Th Dhabali as stating that despite the proven effectiveness of ORS in preventing up to 90 percent of childhood deaths caused by diarrhoea, its coverage remains sub-optimal.

"Only about 60 percent of children with diarrhoea currently receive ORS.

This calls for increased awareness and improved availability across all levels," he remarked.

Delivering the welcome and keynote address, Dr L Basanta stated that diarrhoea continues to be the third leading cause of death among children under five, even though it can be easily prevented using a simple and affordable solution like ORS, along with clean water, proper sanitation and hygiene.

According to the statement, Dr Shyamkumar Laishram, in his presidential speech, highlighted the global and national impact of diarrhoea-related child mortality.

"Around 1,200 children under five die globally every day due to diarrhoea.

In India alone, we lose approximately 440 children daily, a number that underscores the urgent need for timely ORS intervention and community awareness," he stated.

Dr RK Rupabati Devi reiterated PAM's ongoing efforts in promoting child health and strengthening public outreach initiatives, particularly during ORS Week.

The statement further informed that Dr Chabungbam Smilie, explained the composition and significance of ORS.

"ORS plays a critical role in preventing dehydration and death among children with diarrhoea.

Enhancing community-level knowledge and accessibility can significantly reduce mortality," she noted.

The statement further mentioned that ORS Week 2025 will feature a series of awareness activities across the state, targeting parents, caregivers and healthcare workers, to promote the effective use of ORS and zinc in the management of diarrheal diseases in children.

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