Shillong, November 09: The Governor of Meghalaya, Shri V Shanmuganathan today met about 134 pregnant mothers at Child and Maternity Hospital, West Garo Hills, Tura during the observance of Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA). Secretary to the Governor of Meghalaya, Shri H M Shangpliang, Brand Ambassador, PMSMA, Meghalaya, Smti Sweety Pala, Joint Director of Health Services, Garo Hills Division, Dr. T S Nongkhlaw, District Medical and Health Officers of the District, Officers from different Departments, ASHAs were among others present at the function.
Expressing his concern with regards to the health and wellbeing of pregnant mothers, the Governor extended his full support, encouragement, confidence and his devoted prayers for the safe delivery and also for the good health of the expectant mothers. He informed that free health care facilities are being provided by the Government to all pregnant mothers under PMSMA Scheme and urged them to avail the facilities. The Governor also highlighted on the objectives of the PMSMA scheme and informed that under this scheme, the pregnant mothers are given free health check-up and required medical treatment for free on the 9th of every month which is applicable for pregnant women only and is available in all Government hospitals across the country.
The Governor further motivated the expectant mothers to nurture their children in such a manner that they grow up to become productive citizens of the society. The Governor also stressed on the promotion of institutional delivery at the nearest Government health care centres since such centres have better facilities thereby helps in reducing the maternal and infant mortality rates in the region.
During the function, the Governor also distributed packets of Mother’s Horlicks, as a token of special love and care for all pregnant mothers and in recognition for the selfless, dedicated work of the ASHAs.
Secretary to the Governor, Shri H M Shangpliang said that Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan or Yojana is a new initiative of the Central Government launched on June 9, 2016 with the objective of boosting the health care facilities for the pregnant women, especially the poor and the marginalized. He added that since its launch, the programme has been continuing in a holistic manner thus ensuring overall health and wellbeing of expectant mothers.
The Brand Ambassador of PMSMA, Meghalaya and renowned Actress of the Award winning Khasi feature film “Onataah”, Smti Sweety Pala also enlightened the gathering about her experiences of being a mother and the necessary precautions needed to be taken during pregnancy for the safe delivery of the child.
During the programme, the Governor also interacted with the pregnant women and patients at the hospital premises. Earlier in the programme, Deputy Commissioner, West Garo Hills, Pravin Bakshi chaired the function while Joint Director of Health Services, Dr. T S Nongkhlaw welcomed the gathering and District Maternity and Child Officer, Dr. I A Sangma proposed the vote of thanks.
