SHILLONG, July 10 - Meghalaya Governor V Shanmuganathan on Saturday launched the Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA) in East Khasi Hills district, stating, everyone should ensure �safe and secure delivery of children.�
PMSMA was launched at a programme organised by District Medical and Health Office under the aegis of the National Health Mission at St Jerome School here.
PMSMA is a new initiative of the Union Government. Under the scheme free health care facilities for expecting mothers, especially the poor are provided. The scheme�s objective is to ensure pregnant women are given health check-up and required treatment for free on the 9th of every month in all government hospitals and health centres across India.
Expressing concern over the �high maternal mortality rate (MMR) in Meghalaya,� the Governor called upon all stake- holders including the government, social and religious organisations, youth bodies and general public to come together to ensure safe and secure delivery of children.
The Governor also impressed upon the pregnant women in attendance at the programme to visit hospitals and other health care institutions like Public Health Centres and Community Health Centres during the early stages of pregnancy to prevent complications during and after delivery.
Health Minister AL Hek in his address stated ante-natal check-ups are crucial in determining the health and wellness of women and children. �The State Government is making all attempts to reduce the MMR and Infant Mortality Rate in the State,� Hek said.
The inaugural programme was followed by a day-long free medical camp for pre-natal and post-natal care which was availed by hundreds of women and children.
