Imphal, September 07, 2009: Convocation ceremony for the Red Shield's 'Health Angels' was held in an impressive function today at the Red Shield Auditorium, Leimakhong.

Certificates and medical kits were given to 15 girls � the 'Health Angels' � who have completed a three-month intensive training course on first aid and basic maternity and child health.

The convocation ceremony was graced by Health and Family Welfare Minister Ph Parijat as the chief guest.

Delivering the convocation speech, Health and Family Welfare Minister Parijat extolled the contribution of the Army in assisting the state not only in running the administration, but also in healthcares sector.

Noting that the government could not give better health care facility in the interior areas due to lack of viable communication, Parijat urged the Army to continue its charitable works in the remote areas of the state.

Parijat further assured to take up possible measures to engage the Health Angels in government projects like ASHA.Speaking on the occasion, Convenor of the Red Shield AWWA, Madhu Gurung � credited to have been the architect of Health Angels Initiative � said the initiative is a part of community solutions.

"Our biggest emphasis has been to demystify basic health care so that each Health Angel can make sure every household knows what measures to take to avoid an epidemic or any illness and overall care to stem the tide themselves.

In a small way to ensure health for all," she said.

Madhu Gurung said the fifteen buds (Health Angels) have blossomed.

She further exhorted the 'Angels' to carry the knowledge and responsibility with them through their actions and commitment.

Health Angels are fifteen volunteered educated girls from remote villages around Leimakhong.

They have been imparted 15 weeks intensive training course � beginning from May 25 this year � on first aid, and basic maternity and child health by the 57 Mountain Division.

They were trained to be the Messiahs of Health to their community and areas, where no healthcare facility is available.

They were imparted theoretical training at 357 Field Hospital and practical training at 183 Military Hospital.

They were also imparted Trained Birth Attendant (BTA) at RIMS, Imphal.

All expenditures of the trainees were borne by the Red Shield Division.

They were provided free books, stationery items, aprons, transport, lunch and snacks during the course of their training.

Awarding of prizes to three outstanding 'Angels,' during the training course, and presentation of songs and traditional dances by the Health Angels, power-point presentation on the activities of the Health Angels and the idea behind it by Col Jayanta Dutta, ADMS have also marked the ceremony.

The convocation was also attended by officers of the Red Shield, senior officials of the state Health department, Medical Superintendent of RIMS Prof Y Mohen, village chiefs, pastors, parents and relatives of the trainees and prominent leaders of the villages in the adjoining area of Leimakhong.

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