Flying doctors to be soon in Manipur: Governor

Imphal: Governor Dr Najma Heptulla today said 'Flying Doctors' would be launched in Manipur soon after the logistics, maintenance and operating procedures are finalised and the North Eastern Council has already released Rs 25 crores for the purpose.

She said, soon after taking charge as the Governor of Manipur two years back, she had spoken to the Prime Minister highlighting major issues in health services, communication and roads. She had suggested the 'Flying Doctor', which is a unique way to reach out to people in remote areas by air service, being implemented successfully in Australia.

Regarding the issue of road and communication, she had the discussion with the Minister of Communication. She also suggested to the Home Ministry for Highway Patrol service along the National Highway for assistance to vehicle breakdowns and accidents. Stating that National Highway is a major Eastern Express Highway, she urged the Home Ministry for toilet facilities and also some kind of resting places for the commuters.

She was speaking during her maiden visit to Tengnoupal district today at Tengnoupal Community Hall. Governor said she had chosen to visit the district after a great consideration and was happy to be in Tengnoupal today. She said the pending issues regarding administration and development submitted by various Civil Society Organisations' will be addressed after studying the memorandum. Stating that she had received almost 8 memoranda, she assured to study the memorandums to solve the issues.

She said that among the 34 different tribes/sub-tribes in Manipur she is now able to differentiate the three major tribes. Unity in diversity should be maintained which is a strength not only for the state but for the country as well. She stressed on the need to solve issues in sectors like education and health services.

As part of the programme, Mate Cultural troupe and the Cultural troupe of Tengnoupal Youth Club presented the cultural dance. Various Civil Society Organisation, including Kuki Chief Association and Kuki Students Organisation, Tengnoupal, Tengnoupal Village Authority, Meitei Council Moreh and Chief of Khudengthabi submitted memorandum highlighting their grievances to the visiting Governor.