Iodine Deficiency Disorder Prevention Day observed
Source: Chronicle News Service / DIPR
Imphal, October 31 2023:
While stating the different programmes taken up by the Health Department are related to one another, Health & Family Welfare minister Dr Sapam Ranjan expressed resentment that State Nodal Officers (SNOs) often skip programmes not directly related to them, inspite of the fact that coordination among the SNOs with regard to all programmes is of utmost importance.
Global Iodine Deficiency Disorder Prevention Day was jointly observed by National Iodine Deficiency Disorders Control Programme (NIDDCP), Directorate of Health Services, and State Health Society, NHM at DIPR Auditorium, Nityaipat Chuthek, here, on Tuesday.
Speaking as chief guest of the event, Dr Ranjan highlighted that the Day is dedicated to raise awareness on the critical role of iodine in one's health.
Though iodine is needed in meagre quantity, its importance is significant, he added.
He continued that all programmes taken up by the health department are related with one another.
Thus, SNOs along with the targeted beneficiaries should attend all programmes organised by the department in addition to their own, white understanding the seriousness of the matter, he said, and emphasised the importance of co-ordination.
Dr Ranjan regretted that many people have to travel outside the state for medical treatment.
The deficiency of iodine is permanent and incurable, and as such, we must try to prevent it, by taking up preventive measures in time.
He then appealed to the state nodal officers to coordinate with Food Safety department and other line departments, while conducting such awareness programmes.
The officials should contribute their mite in preventing iodine deficiency disorder, the minister said while stressing the need for handing over the responsibility of the matter to ASHAs, who are trained in conducting salt quality test.
Presiding over the programme, Health and Family Welfare commissioner Pradeep Kumar Jha said that conducting such a programme will help in spreading awareness among the general public about the importance of iodine.
The programme was also attended by Health & Family Welfare director Dr Khoirom Sasheekumar Mangang and NHM state mission director Dr Somorjit Ningombam as guests of honour, along with officials and staff of Health Department and others.