Orissa’s health officials are now part of a closed users group (cug) facility that allows them to communicate over cellular phones free of cost. Over 18,000 employees, including the health secretary, are linked through the BSNL phone facility launched in March.
State health minister Prasanna Acharya said the facility would improve effective communication within the department and ensure better supervision and implementation of health programmes. Field health workers can now directly contact their seniors in case of emergencies. “Earlier, a health worker would think twice about spending money from her pocket to take advice for a delivery. She would not hesitate to call now,” said Premanand Senapaty, chief district medical officer of Sonepur. But health workers are not too happy. Chitrangada Samantray of Birmaharajpur block in Sonepur said the workers have sim cards but no handsets. Health officials said they will sort out the matter. The monthly expense on CUG facility would be Rs 52.57 lakh.
We are a voice to you; you have been a support to us. Together we build journalism that is independent, credible and fearless. You can further help us by making a donation. This will mean a lot for our ability to bring you news, perspectives and analysis from the ground so that we can make change together.
.png)
Comments are moderated and will be published only after the site moderator’s approval. Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name. Selected comments may also be used in the ‘Letters’ section of the Down To Earth print edition.