Shishu Swarga facilities being established in 22 districts: Muhit
The government is establishing ‘Shishu Swarga’ facilities in 22 districts to provide integrated treatment and rehabilitation services to around 350,000 children with cerebral palsy across the country, State Minister for Health and Family Welfare Dr MA Muhit said on Tuesday.
He made the remarks while addressing a programme at the National Institute of Neurosciences and Hospital in Agargaon as the chief guest, marking World Cerebral Palsy Day.
Dr Muhit said the initiative was part of the government’s efforts to ensure the rights of and provide services to children and persons with disabilities.
“‘Shishu Swarga’ facilities are being established in 22 districts to ensure integrated treatment and rehabilitation for around 350,000 children suffering from cerebral palsy in the country,” he said.
He said the health sector had received the highest budget under the Prime Minister’s directive and that the establishment of Shishu Swarga facilities in 22 districts was part of the allocation.
Dr Muhit said a pilot project had recently been launched at Karail slum under a government initiative, where around 300 identified children were receiving services.
He said developing a ‘community-based early case detection’ system was the most urgent priority for extending healthcare services to children living in remote areas.
The state minister praised the tireless efforts of doctors and health workers, saying they were providing services to a large number of patients every day despite numerous limitations.
He sought united cooperation from all stakeholders in the health sector to ensure a universal and inclusive healthcare system for children with disabilities.
Director of the National Institute of Neurosciences and Hospital Professor Dr Md Nuruzzaman Khan presided over the programme, while State Minister for Housing and Public Works Ahammad Sohel Monzoor attended as the special guest.
Earlier, a rally was brought out from in front of the National Institute of Neurosciences and Hospital, with doctors, nurses, officials and employees of the hospital taking part.
World Cerebral Palsy Day is observed every year on October 6 to raise awareness about the rights, treatment, rehabilitation, education and social inclusion of people with cerebral palsy and their families.
Cerebral palsy affects more than movement and can involve varying degrees of difficulties with speech, eating, vision, hearing, learning and daily activities.
The condition varies from person to person, and many people with cerebral palsy can live independently with minimal assistance.
