MANT And CPHR Join Hands To Address Tribal Health Challenges

Kolkata, 16th December, 2023: Manbhum Ananda Ashram Nityananda Trust (MANT) and the Centre for Public Health Research (CPHR), an Independent Public Health Research Organization in Eastern and Northeastern India hosted the National Symposium on ‘Resolving Tribal Health Challenges.’ To mark the occasion, CPHR launched their Annual Progress Report, providing insights into the organization’s achievements, ongoing initiatives and future plans in the scope of public health research.

Distinguished dignitaries and healthcare professionals including Padma Shri & Sangeet Natak Akademi Awardee, Mr Mukund Nayak, Nagpuri Folk Singer, Mr Marty Otanez, PhD, Associate Professor & Chair, Anthropology, University of Colorado, Dr Jaideep Menon, Head – Preventive Cardiology, Amrita Institute, Medical Sciences & Research Centre, Kerala, Dr Chandrasekhar Janakiraman, Head Public Health Dentistry, Amrita Institute, Medical Sciences & Research Centre, Kerala, Dr Sayantan Banerjee, Associate Prof. All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Kalyani, West Bengal, Dr Shekhar Bhojraj, Founder, The Spine Foundation Mumbai, Dr Kaushik Chattapadhyay, Assistant Professor. University of Nottingham, Dr Omesh Bharti, Principal & State Epidemiologist, State Institute of Health & Family Welfare, Himachal Pradesh, Ms Srimanti Hembram, First Tribal Radio Jockey in India & Ms Sarala Saren, Community Radio Producer addressed various health concerns encountered by tribal groups and given views regarding the way forward. Their collective skills aided in a productive conversation which aimed to shape the future of tribal health initiatives.

“The symposium served as a crucial platform to address the health challenges faced by tribal communities, addressing issues ranging from cardiovascular diseases and oral health to mental health, spine disorders, and other health issues. We are committed to fostering sustainable solutions and ensuring that the healthcare needs of tribal populations are met”, said Dr Nirmalya Mukherjee, Director, MANT.

A notable highlight of the symposium was the participation of a tribal community from Purulia, who shared firsthand experiences and shed light on the present status of maternal, neonatal health, nutritional status, water sanitation and other critical health issues. Their presence added a crucial real-world perspective to the discussions.

The symposium aimed to draw attention to the critical health issues faced by tribal communities, constituting 8.6% of the population, and provided a platform for discussions and solutions. Despite their significant presence, tribal communities often remain the most neglected when it comes to healthcare access. The National Symposium on Tribal Health 2023 served as a dedicated effort to bridge this gap, bringing together academics, researchers, and practitioners immersed in tribal health to foster an exchange of experiences and insights.