Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, June 02 2009:
IGAR (South) Major General AK Choudhury today formally inaugurated a HIV/AIDS Patients' Care Centre at Grace Bhavan, Motbung.
The care centre has been set up by the Mangkhokai Institute of Medical Science and Research Centre (MIMSARC) with the support of 31 Assam Rifles taking into consideration of the difficulties faced by the HIV/AIDS patients in Motbung area in coming down to Imphal for counselling and treatment.
Besides taking care of the needs for counselling and treatment, the newly inaugurated care centre would also provide facility for blood testing of the patients.
It is said that in connection with setting up the centre, MIMSARC had reportedly submitted a project proposal of Rs 15 lakhs to Manipur AIDS Control Society.
However, after the project was turned down, 36 Assam Rifles has chipped in under its MCA programme to materialise the project.
Along with a financial assistance of Rs 15 lakhs from the side of the paramilitary force and another Rs 8 lakhs as local contribution, the care centre has been set up at an estimated cost of Rs 15 lakhs.
On doctor, two nurses and one counsellor have also been appointed to look after the functioning of the care centre which also has six beds and one ambulance.
According to a volunteer of MIMSARC, the necessity of such a care centre in Motbung area is such that even before its formal inauguration, 15 patients have already been treated so far.
However, due to limited number of beds, only the serious patients would be admitted.
Speaking as chief guest of the inaugural function, Maj Gen AK Choudhury stressed on the need for having a sympathetic approach towards the patients and lauded the efforts of MIMSARC in this direction.
He also assured continued support in such noble endeavours.
Commander of 10 Sector Assam Rifles Brigadier Thukral and CO of 36 Assam Rifles Col Dushant Singh were also present as at the occasion chief guest and president respectively.
During the function, a memorandum had also been handed over from the side of MIMSARC requesting the Major General for further assistance with regard to ensuring a well-equipped laboratory, electrical generator, sanitary care facilities for the patients and construction of a kitchen.