Attappadi package to be finalized by the cabinet

A package for Attappadi( Kerala-India) tribal hamlets is likely to take a final shape in Wednesday's cabinet meeting, after several deaths due to malnutrition were reported from the area. The package would be finalized after ministers for health, and social welfare and scheduled tribes will submit a comprehensive report to the cabinet. The ministers, V S Sivakumar and P K Jayalakshmi, had visited the hamlets a few days ago. 

At least 12 malnutrition-related deaths were reported from the tribal villages in the past three months. NGOs working among the tribal population pegged the toll at 28 in 14 months. Sources said the package would be implemented in two phases, rolling out short-term and long-term remedial measures. It has been alleged that the Attappadi region was not benefitting from the government's social schemes.

 The allegation found mention in a report the NRHM director, Dr Beena, had submitted to the health secretary after a visit to Attappadi. It has been proposed to appoint a nodal officer to monitor the implementation and execution of social schemes meant for the schedule tribes in Attappadi. The cabinet, it was learnt, would also decide on the compensation for families which had lost children or women to malnutrition. A special nutrition scheme for adivasi hamlets would also be announced. 

Those found suffering from malnutrition or anaemia in a medical camp organized on April 20, would be offered specialized treatment, sources said. The package would also focus on setting up of a blood bank

in the region to benefit sickle cell anaemic patients, who now have been forced to depend on Palakkad-based hospitals for blood transfusion.

More focus of the package will be given to the health sector which is expected to include setting up of a blood bank in the region to help the sickle cell anaemic patients. These patients are now totally depended on the hospitals in Pallakkad for blood transfusion.
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