Northeast, 15th August: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma inaugurated the Babies’ Critical Care Unit at Ganesh Das Government Maternal and Child Health Hospital, marking a milestone in the state’s healthcare infrastructure. This new facility, the first of its kind in a government hospital in Meghalaya, represents a significant upgrade aimed at improving care for high-risk pregnancies and newborns requiring advanced medical treatment.
The 30-bed complex, which has been operational since May 1, is equipped with Special Newborn Care Units (SNCU), Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU), and Maternal and Newborn Care Units (MNCU). It offers comprehensive services, including post-surgery care, phototherapy, and central venous catheterisation. Six advanced NICU beds and a separate 10-bed maternal and newborn care unit are key features of the facility.
Funded through the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana-Multi-Service Health Insurance Scheme (PMJAY-MHIS), the facility received additional support from Meghalayan Medical Drugs and Services Limited, and staffing resources were bolstered by the Directorate of Health Services-MI office.
During the inauguration, CM Sangma emphasized that while state-of-the-art infrastructure and equipment are crucial, the dedication of healthcare professionals is the true driving force behind quality care. He lauded the commitment of the Ganesh Das Hospital team and urged other health centres to take inspiration from their exemplary work. Sangma also highlighted that 9% of the state’s budget is allocated to the health sector and assured continued support for further developments at the hospital.
Health Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh echoed these sentiments, describing the new unit as a beacon of hope for the citizens of Meghalaya. She also addressed ongoing efforts to resolve issues faced by contractual health staff and encouraged doctors working outside the state to return and serve their communities.
This inauguration represents a major step forward in enhancing maternal and child healthcare in Meghalaya, setting a new standard for government healthcare facilities in the region.
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