Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy Wednesday announced a slew of health initiatives for tribal areas in Palakkad district, where 28 infants died this year.
"Seventy-five new posts have been created at three hospitals in the area. Doctors there will be given Rs.20,000 each month over their monthly salary. Other staffers will get a 20 percent hike on their basic pay per month. Rs.25 lakh has been sanctioned for buying medical equipment. A 24x7 blood bank and a de-addiction centre will also be opened," Chandy told reporters after the weekly cabinet meeting.
The cause of death of the 28 infants was attributed to malnutrishmment of mothers.
"A nutrition institute will also function at the Agali public health centre besides a 24x7 casualty and major speciality departments," said Chandy.
Another major problem in the tribal areas is that many, including women, are addicted to spurious liquor.
"Central ministers K.V. Thomas and Jairam Ramesh are joining me in visiting the tribal areas in Palakkad on June 6," said Chandy.
