Landmark step in Assam's healthcare journey: Dialysis center inaugurated in Cachar's Katigorah

SILCHAR ,December 16: —In a significant boost to healthcare services for Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) patients in Assam, a new Dialysis Center under the Pradhan Mantri National Dialysis Programme (PMNDP) was inaugurated at M.G. Model Hospital, Katigorah of Cachar district on monday. The ceremony was graced by the MLA of North Sribhumi district , Kamalakhaya Dey Purkayastha, Cachar District Commissioner ,Mridul Yadav, and Joint Director of Health Services, Dr. Ashutosh Barman, who lauded the initiative as a vital step toward ensuring accessible healthcare for all.

Speaking at the event, as a chief guest on the occasion , MLA Kamalakhaya Dey Purkayastha , emphasized the transformative impact of the PMNDP on rural and underserved areas, highlighting the government’s commitment to bridging healthcare gaps.
“This new dialysis center is not just a facility; it is a lifeline for countless patients in need of critical care. Under the PMNDP, we are taking healthcare to every doorstep, ensuring that no one is left behind,” he remarked.

While talking at the event, Cachar District Commissioner Mridul Yadav echoed these sentiments, stating, “This initiative is a testament to the government’s dedication to uplifting public health infrastructure in Assam. The free dialysis services provided here will alleviate the financial burden on families while offering hope and support to CKD patients.”

Earlier, in his welcome address, Joint Director of Health Services Dr. Ashutosh Barman expressed his gratitude to the stakeholders involved and stressed the importance of public-private partnerships in enhancing healthcare accessibility.
“The collaboration with Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Ltd. in operating this center ensures high-quality, professional care for patients. With three dialysis beds accommodating up to nine patients daily in three shifts, this facility is a crucial addition to our district’s healthcare framework,” he noted.

It’s worth mentioning that the new center at Katigorah is part of a broader expansion under the PMNDP, which was launched in June 2019 by then Health Minister, Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma. Since its inception, the program has seen the establishment of 41 operational dialysis centers in 33 districts, offering 277 dialysis beds. To date, over 25,000 patients have been registered, with approximately 7.45 lakh dialysis sessions conducted across Assam.

Recognizing the growing demand for dialysis services, the Assam Cabinet has approved the opening of 37 additional centers across the state. These efforts aim to address the increasing prevalence of kidney diseases, reduce patient travel, and eliminate waiting lists for critical care services.

The PMNDP’s benefits extend beyond healthcare delivery. By providing free dialysis services, the program eases the financial strain on patients and their families, allowing them to focus on recovery rather than costs. It also reduces the need for patients to travel to cities like Guwahati or Silchar for treatment, making life-saving care more accessible in every district.

Dr. Ashutosh Barman concluded the ceremony by emphasizing the program’s far-reaching impact.
“The PMNDP is not just a scheme; it is a promise to the people of Assam. This new center at Katigorah symbolizes our collective effort to ensure that healthcare is a right, not a privilege.”

The inauguration marks a milestone in Assam’s healthcare journey, underscoring the state’s unwavering commitment to improving lives through accessible and affordable medical care.
This is stated in a press release issued from Regional office of Information & Public Relations Barak valley Zone Silchar Assam.