Over 1K patients examined at Arogya Mela on Day 1

Tribune News Service
Bathinda, November 17

A high turnout was witnessed on the first day of Arogya Mela at Government Rajindra College here on Saturday.

As many as 65 stalls of Ayurveda, homeopathy and naturopathy medicines were set up at the venue. Visitors in large numbers bought medicines from these stalls. Patients were also made aware of different medicines.

Many visitors also availed free treatment and got medicines at seven OPDs — five of Ayurveda and two of homeopathy — set up at the fair. The three-day Arogya fair is being organised by the Ministry of AYUSH in collaboration with the state government. On the first day, more than 1,000 patients were examined at the fair.

The Health Minister, Brahm Mohindra, was to attend the fair as the chief guest, but due to some reasons, he could not attend it.

Additional Chief Secretary, Health and Family Welfare, Punjab, Satish Chandra presided over the fair as the chief guest. Chandra said Arogya Mela was being organised to make the Ayurveda treatment technique popular.

“Ayurveda is not just a treatment technique, but it is a way of life. Patients are examined and free medicines are being given to them at the fair,” Chandra added.

On being asked about a shortage of doctors and medical staff in government-run hospitals, Chandra said, “Soon, doctors will be appointed keeping requirements in view in the state.”

Doctors, including specialists of women and children-related diseases, also examined the patients at the fair. Ayurvedic medicines for drug addicts were also provided on the occasion.

A cultural programme was also organised on the first day. A short act on female foeticide, which highlighted the stigma attached to girl child, was applauded by everyone. A group of students from Morarji Desai College, New Delhi, performed yoga postures.

Meanwhile, owing to poor seating arrangements at the venue, patients visiting the OPDs had to sit on the floor.

Sanjeev Pathak, nodal officer, Arogya Mela, said, “These ancient healing techniques of Ayurveda and homeopathy have no side effects unlike allopathic medicines.”