Sri Vijaya Puram, July 14: In a significant move to address critical gaps in the healthcare and social welfare infrastructure of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Shri Mandeep Grewal, Founder & President of the prominent humanitarian organisation Port Blair Guru Ki Rasoi, met with the Chief Secretary of the A&N Administration today at the Secretariat.
During the high-level meeting, Mr. Grewal submitted a comprehensive representation detailing urgent public interest issues that require immediate administrative intervention and policy support.
Key Highlights of the Discussion:
Self-Funded De-Addiction & Rehabilitation Centre: Expressing deep concern over the rising issue of substance abuse in the islands, Port Blair Guru Ki Rasoi has offered to establish, fund, and operate a modern, highly subsidised de-addiction and rehabilitation facility at its own expense. Mr. Grewal requested the Administration’s support in terms of suitable land allocation and the necessary statutory clearances to bring this vital project to life.
Expansion of Old Age Home Facilities: Highlighting the growing vulnerability of senior citizens, Mr. Grewal urged the Administration to expand existing old age home facilities or establish a new, modern facility with enhanced bed capacity, recreational spaces, and robust medical support to ensure elderly islanders can live with dignity.
Combatting Thalassemia Through Free Mass Screening: Pointing to medical research showing that the prevalence of beta-thalassemia carriers in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands (approx. 4.86%) is notably higher than the national average (approx. 3.96%), Mr. Grewal requested the immediate launch of a free, permanent thalassemia screening programme under the Directorate of Health Services. He emphasised the critical need for premarital genetic counselling and awareness drives in schools and colleges to protect future generations.
Speaking on the Meeting, Mandeep Grewal said, “Our islands are growing rapidly, but our social and healthcare safety nets must keep pace. Whether it is shielding our youth from addiction, ensuring our elders are cared for, or eradicating hereditary disorders like Thalassemia, we must act decisively”.
“Port Blair Guru Ki Rasoi is not just raising these issues; we are ready to step up, put in our own resources, and work shoulder-to-shoulder with the Administration. We had a highly constructive dialogue with the Chief Secretary, and we are optimistic about receiving the administrative support required to implement these life-saving initiatives”.