Integrate traditional, modern medicine to address tribal health issues: CM

Nagpur: Chief minister Devendra Fadnavis on Sunday emphasised the importance of integrating traditional tribal medicine with modern healthcare to provide sustainable solutions for fundamental health challenges such as malnutrition, sickle cell disease and malaria affecting tribal communities in Maharashtra.

Speaking at the valedictory function of MUHS FIST-25, an international symposium on tribal health at AIIMS Nagpur, Fadnavis said, "The discussions at MUHS FIST-25 have laid the foundation for a unified policy framework that can significantly impact tribal healthcare. AIIMS Nagpur and MUHS should jointly develop a roadmap for addressing the fundamental health issues of tribal communities. The Maharashtra govt will extend all necessary support to ensure these strategies are effective at the state, national, and global levels," said Fadnavis.

He also highlighted the role of indigenous diets in tackling malnutrition and emphasised that several govt initiatives have already succeeded in improving tribal health conditions.

MUHS vice-chancellor Lt Gen (retd) Madhuri Kanitkar reiterated that MUHS FIST-25 will play a pivotal role in shaping tribal health policies. She noted that data collected during the symposium would be crucial in developing strategies for improved healthcare access.

"Through the ‘BLOSSOM' project, we actively worked in tribal regions. Now, with AIIMS' support, MUHS FIST-25 will open new avenues for research and implementation in tribal health," she said.

AIIMS Nagpur director Dr Prashant Joshi emphasised that the symposium gained global recognition for its efforts in addressing tribal healthcare needs. He added that AIIMS has already implemented various initiatives, and their impact was becoming increasingly visible.

Organising secretary Dr Sanjeev Chaudhary acknowledged the efforts of AIIMS Nagpur and MUHS in shaping a roadmap for tribal health solutions. He also expressed confidence that the symposium would inspire young medical professionals to engage in tribal healthcare and social service.

Fadnavis felicitated Dr Sanjeev Chaudhary on his appointment as the head of the tribal health department at MUHS Nagpur. Dr Darshan Dakshindas anchored the programme, while Sandeep Rathod from the MUHS FIST-25 organising committee delivered the vote of thanks.

The symposium witnessed a large turnout of researchers, academicians, and medical professionals, further strengthening its impact in shaping future tribal healthcare initiatives.