In a significant step towards improving specialised healthcare for children, a surgical camp for those born with cleft lip and cleft palate has been organised at Tripura Medical College and Dr. BRAM Teaching Hospital. The initiative aims to ensure early diagnosis and access to appropriate surgical treatment through a collaborative effort involving the Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK) under the National Health Mission (NHM), Tripura Medical College and Mission Smile.
Addressing the programme, Dr. Shovik, Member Secretary of the National Mission, said an estimated 60 to 65 children are born with cleft lip or cleft palate in Tripura every year. He stressed the importance of identifying affected children at an early stage and ensuring that they receive timely medical intervention.
As part of this effort, RBSK mobile teams regularly visit Anganwadi centres and schools to conduct health screenings and identify children with congenital conditions requiring medical attention. Children suspected of having cleft lip or cleft palate are referred to Tripura Medical College for detailed evaluation. Those found suitable for surgery are provided treatment free of cost or under applicable government schemes.
Dr. Shovik highlighted that timely surgery can make a substantial difference to a child's quality of life. Children born with these conditions may experience difficulties with feeding and speech, while delayed treatment can further affect their physical, social and developmental progress. Early intervention, he noted, can help improve feeding, speech development and social integration.
Emphasising the need for sustained efforts, he said regular screening and specialised surgical camps play a vital role in identifying affected children and connecting them with appropriate treatment facilities.
Sharing details of the programme's achievements, Dr. Shovik said approximately 1,165 children with cleft lip and cleft palate have undergone surgery in Tripura since 2014. The initiative has helped numerous families access specialised treatment and improved the prospects of better health and development for affected children.
The programme was attended by IAS officer Kiran Gitte, Tripura Medical College Society Chief Executive Officer Sapan Saha, college principal Prof. Dr. Rimon Dutta, hospital Medical Superintendent Prof. Dr. Jayanta Bardhan and Joint Mission Director Dr. Jyoti Debbarma, along with members of the RBSK team.
Faculty members and doctors from the departments of ear, nose and throat (ENT), surgery and anaesthesiology were also present, along with representatives of Mission Smile, children receiving treatment and their parents.
The collaborative initiative underscores the importance of coordinated healthcare efforts in expanding access to specialised surgery, strengthening early screening mechanisms and helping children with congenital cleft conditions lead healthier lives.
