ZIRO, AUG 24:

Lower Subansiri has maintained zero malaria cases since 2020, while Siiro health facility has secured the National Quality Assurance Standards (NQAS) award, highlighting the district’s progress in public healthcare.

The milestones were highlighted during the first-quarter District Health Society (DHS) Review Meeting-cum-District Task Force for Immunisation (DTFI) held at the Golden Jubilee Conference Hall of the District Secretariat here on Monday.

The meeting brought together district administration, police, health and social welfare officials to review health programmes and identify key priorities.

The meeting was attended by Deputy Commissioner Oli Perme APCS, Superintendent of Police Keni Bagra, District Medical Officer Dr Millo Kunya and Deputy Director (ICDS) Kago Maya. District Reproductive and Child Health Officer (DRCHO) Dr S Rigia moderated the proceedings.

District Programme Officer (NVBDCP) Dr Kuru Tama highlighted the district’s malaria-free status and appreciated the Health and Wellness Officers and medical personnel for their sustained efforts in preventing transmission.

The meeting also reviewed progress under the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP), non-communicable disease control, National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP), blood services and Ayush initiatives. Officials discussed measures to address rising HIV cases reportedly linked to unsafe sex and sharing of syringes. With free anti-retroviral treatment now operational at the Ziro ART Centre, patients can access treatment locally.

Other issues reviewed included climate-related health risks and an HPV awareness campaign targeting girls aged 14-15, with support from partner organisations including the Voluntary Health Association of India (VHAI).

Dr Millo Kunya highlighted critical infrastructure and manpower requirements, including renovation of a defunct school compound to accommodate the Old Ziro Hospital administrative block, establishment of a dedicated Data Centre, provision of night-shift security at hospitals and installation of ambulance parking barricades. He also stressed the need for specialist doctors and adequate funding under the National Health Mission (NHM).

Concluding the meeting, Deputy Commissioner Oli Perme directed strict monitoring of dog-bite cases and uninterrupted availability of Anti-Rabies Vaccine (ARV). Deputy Director (ICDS) Kago Maya called for stronger inter-departmental coordination and regular sharing of monthly health and nutrition data on women and children.