Glenmark Foundation launches boat clinic program to enhance maternal & child health in Assam

New Delhi: In an effort to improve maternal and child health in Assam, the Glenmark Foundation has partnered with the Centre for North East Studies & Policy Research (C-NES) and the District Administration of Darrang to launch a pioneering boat clinic program.

The boat clinic program aligns with the Glenmark Foundation’s “Healthy Children, Healthier World” mission, targeting geographical barriers and healthcare delivery disruptions caused by seasonal flooding. By deploying mobile healthcare units capable of navigating flood-affected regions, the program focuses on delivering critical services such as immunizations, prenatal care, and health education to women and children, the most vulnerable groups in remote riverine communities.

The boat clinics, specially equipped with laboratories and pharmacies, will offer basic healthcare services through a dedicated medical team comprising doctors, nurses, lab technicians, and pharmacists. These teams will conduct regular health camps in coordination with community health workers and organizers across the district, ensuring continuous healthcare access and improved health outcomes.

“With the launch of the Boat Clinic, an important gap in the health services has been covered, which will be of immense help in providing basic healthcare services in the far-flung areas of the district,” said Nayana Parasher, District Program Manager, NHM Darrang.

District Commissioner Munindra Nath Ngatey expressed his enthusiasm for the project, noting that the boat clinic would significantly enhance efforts to extend health services to the district’s remote river islands. He also thanked Glenmark Foundation and C-NES for their support in launching this vital service.

“C-NES appreciates this gesture, which will help bring the basics of healthcare to many more of the marginalized in Assam and improve the overall health scenario in the state,” said Sanjoy Hazarika, Founder and Managing Trustee, C-NES.

Cheryl Pinto, Director of Corporate Affairs at Glenmark Pharmaceuticals, highlighted, “We are happy to be among the first corporates to partner with CNES and the District Administration of Darrang. Innovation can bring about change and greater outreach when done in collaboration with partners, and this initiative exemplifies the benefit it extends. At Glenmark Foundation, our focus on maternal and child health drives us to seek innovative solutions that reach those who are most in need. The boat clinic program is vital in ensuring access to healthcare for mothers and children in remote regions of Assam, especially in flood-prone areas.”

Since 2008, C-NES has been providing basic healthcare services to communities on river islands in 14 districts of Assam, supported by the National Health Mission (NHM). These clinics have brought sustained healthcare to thousands of people, focusing on women and children. With the addition of Darrang, the program now extends to 15 districts.