SAHAYOG- an initiative by LEPRA

Greater truth could be revealed in the alleged financial irregularities and fraud committed during implementation of the World bank aided Orissa Health System Development Project (OHSDP) if CBI was given the responsibility to probe , said Durjyadhan Majhi , Minister for Health & Family Welfare of Orissa at Koraput today . While talking to the media in the circuit house in the morning he said that while his government was vigilant in maintaining transparency in each and every process during the implementation of the project , looking at the political situation in the state and forthcoming elections in the near future , a probe by CBI would help in building a greater image of the party among the people , he added.

Later, while addressing as the chief guest in the launching ceremony of “Sahyog – Reaching the Un reached” project of LEPRA society , held in the DNK Conference hall at Koraqput , he joined the voice of Ashok Kumar Pangi , President, Koraput Zilla Parishad in demanding a medical college at Koraput . Joint ventures by organizing public-private partnership could bring the dream into reality , he added .

Adding to the successes of LEPRA Society in eradicating leprosy from the state , he said that the newly launched programme ‘Sahyog” in collaboration with LEPRA UK and European Union (EU) in Koraput , Malkangiri and Rayagada districts covering an estimated population in 16 blocks over a period of 4 years would go a long way in controlling TB and HIV infection in the region, with a focus on enhancing access to TB and HIV/AIDS services , strengthening cross referrals , promoting health seeking behaviours and community participation along with improving capacities of mainstream service providers and other stakeholders .

Loknath Acharya , Director of Health Services , Govt.of Orissa , Terry Vasey , Chief Executive and Jenny Barraclough , Chairperson of LEPRA UK also spoke . Doctors , officials from state health department and health service providers from the three districts attended the function . Sasikant Nayak , Project Coordinator , LEPRA Society , Orissa Region presided over the meeting .
(EOM)