Deputy Commissioner Spearheads Effort to Alleviate Endosulfan Victims’ Issues
Mangaluru, Nov 24, 2023: Deputy Commissioner Mullai Muhilan has directed officials to address the challenges faced by endosulfan victims at the local level. This directive was issued during a meeting on the rehabilitation program for endosulfan victims, held at the Deputy Commissioner’s office hall on Thursday.
Highlighting the need for a comprehensive approach, the DC emphasized the formation of teams at the health center level, consisting of endosulfan victims, their parents, medical officers, and PDOs. These teams would play a crucial role in addressing the myriad issues faced by children affected by endosulfan, such as mental disability and retardation.
“The district hospital and taluk hospital authorities should compile a village-wise list of endosulfan victims and ensure they receive the necessary medicines and facilities provided by the government,” the DC stated. He stressed the importance of special care for these victims, given the gravity of their health conditions.
To streamline the process, Muhilan instructed that the information list of endosulfan victims be registered at both the district and taluk hospitals. He urged officials to ensure the effective distribution of medicines through health centers directly to the doorsteps of the victims.
Dr. Naveenchandra Kulal, the nodal officer for the endosulfan cell, provided a somber update, revealing that 364 endosulfan patients have lost their lives in the district, while 6,314 individuals grapple with various health issues arising from endosulfan exposure.
Zilla Panchayat Chief Executive Officer Dr. Anand K., Additional Deputy Commissioner Dr. Santhosh Kumar, District Health Officer Thimmaiah, Health Department’s Endosulfan Division Coordinator Sajeeuddin, and representatives from various departments were present.
