Shillong July 11: The World Population Day was observed today at U Soso Tham Auditorium, Shillong on the theme “Small Family Happy Family”. The programme was organized by the Directorate of Health Services, Meghalaya wherein Meghalaya Minister for Health and Family Welfare Mr. A. L. Hek graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Hek said that the World Population Day was observed every year since 1989 on July 11 with an aims to increase awareness on various population issues such as the importance of family planning, including gender equality, poverty alleviation, maternal health and human rights.
Mr. Hek informed that this year, the State along with the rest of the country is observing “Population Stabilization Fortnight” from 11th to 24th July on the theme “Small Family Happy Family” by organizing various activities and family planning services at Block and District levels to carry forward the government effort to stabilize the population of the country at a level consistent with the national economy. To ensure sustainable growth and development, there is urgent need to reduce the population growth rate substantially, said Mr. Hek.
The Health Minister informed that the population of Meghalaya according to 2011 census is 29,64,007, increase by 27.82% since 2001 which is higher than the national growth rate. While stating that education has a direct impact on fertility, Mr. Hek said that young mothers face a heightened risk of maternal complications, death and disability and their children face higher risks as well as far as health is concerned.
During the World Population Day 2013, the Health Department endeavour to raise awareness on the issue of adolescent pregnancy in the hope of making the world where every pregnancy is wanted, every child birth is safe and every young person’s potential is fulfilled, said Mr. Hek.
In order to bring about overall development, Mr. Hek said that multi-sectoral endeavours requiring constant and effective dialogue among the stake holders, coordination at all levels between the government and the society will facilitate early achievement of the socio demographic goals and thereby stabilize population.
Others who spoke on the occasion were Mr. K. W. Marbaniang, Secretary Health and Family Welfare, Dr. A. Dkhar, Director Health Services, MCH&FW and Dr. M. K. Marak, Director of Health Services, MI.(SP News)
