CM assures dental fraternity of support, promises action on long-pending cadre review

GANGTOK,  (IPR): National Dentist’s Day was celebrated at the STNM Hospital auditorium in Socheygang on Saturday. The programme was organised by the Health & Family Welfare department (H&FW), Government of Sikkim, in collaboration with the Dental Department and the Indian Dental Association.

Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang-Golay attended the event as the chief guest. The programme was also attended by Health & Family Welfare and Culture minister GT Dhungel, Rural Development minister Arun Kumar Upreti, and advisor RDD-cum-MLA Kala Rai as special guests.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister extended warm greetings on the occasion and acknowledged the vital role played by dental surgeons in strengthening public healthcare services. He highlighted the importance of oral health in overall wellbeing and appreciated the contributions of the dental fraternity towards the healthcare system of the State.

He stated that the government has consistently prioritised the health sector and ensured equal access to healthcare services for all. Highlighting recent developments in the sector, he mentioned the establishment of dialysis facilities at District Hospitals in Gangtok, Namchi, Mangan and Gyalsing, along with a similar facility at Jorethang to benefit the public.

The Chief Minister also noted that cancer treatment services have been initiated at STNM Hospital, Socheygang, providing lifesaving support to many patients. He further remarked that the hospital houses highly qualified super-specialists who are delivering specialised care, resulting in the growing reputation of STNM Hospital even beyond the State.

Emphasising the need to strengthen the healthcare system, he said that collective effort and teamwork are essential in achieving the goal of providing quality healthcare services to the people. The Chief Minister also commended the role played by dental surgeons during the COVID-19 pandemic and expressed gratitude to the entire dental fraternity for their dedication and service.

He described the medical profession as one that provides an opportunity to serve society and urged healthcare professionals to carry out their responsibilities with commitment and compassion. Assuring support to the dental fraternity, he stated that the government will take steps towards a long-pending cadre review and the establishment of a dedicated Dental Wing at STNM Hospital to facilitate better services and improved working conditions.

He further noted that healthcare professionals across Sikkim have been working tirelessly to provide quality medical services and urged them to strive towards making every healthcare institution in the State among the best in the country. Appreciating the ‘War on Waste’ initiative of the Gangtok Municipal Corporation (GMC), the Chief Minister encouraged everyone to adopt similar practices in their respective areas and contribute towards maintaining cleanliness for a greener and cleaner Sikkim.

He concluded by congratulating the department and assuring continued support for the welfare of healthcare practitioners in the State.

In a special gesture of respect and appreciation, the dental fraternity felicitated the Chief Minister and presented him with a thangka of Sangay Menla, symbolising healing, wisdom, and his commitment to the health and wellbeing of the people.

Speaking on the occasion, Health & Family Welfare minister GT Dhungel extended his greetings on National Dentists’ Day and called upon officials and healthcare professionals to work in close coordination to enhance efficiency within the department. He urged officers to avoid delays in work and emphasised the importance of completing tasks promptly.

He encouraged doctors to serve with dedication and passion, while also promoting local entrepreneurship in the healthcare sector. He noted that several dental services are now available in local hospitals and Primary Health Centres, making treatment more accessible to the public.

The minister also thanked the Chief Minister for prioritising the health sector and for implementing policies aimed at the welfare of the people. He concluded by stressing the importance of gratitude and dedication in achieving success in life.

Health & Family Welfare secretary Tsewang Gyatso also extended his greetings to the dental fraternity and highlighted the theme of World Oral Health Day, “A Happy Mouth is a Happy Life”. He described the occasion as an opportunity to recognise the dedication and hard work of dental professionals and expressed appreciation for their services. He also highlighted key achievements of the Health department and outlined various challenges faced by the Dental Department.

Indian Dental Association president Dr SK Rai, in his address termed the day historic and memorable. He stated that the presence of the Chief Minister served as a great morale booster for the dental fraternity. He also commended the State government for the overall development of the healthcare system in Sikkim, describing it as one of the most advanced in Northeast India.

Dr Rai also thanked the Chief Minister for naming the medical college as Savitri Devi Memorial Medical College in honour of Sikkim’s freedom fighter.

Earlier, the programme commenced with a welcome address and a brief overview of the department by PD-cum-HOD Dental, Dr Kessang C Rechung. A presentation on the achievements of the Dental Department was delivered by Dr Jigmee Paljor Denzongpa. The programme also featured cultural presentations by doctors from the department.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr Nanda Kishore Sharma, director, Dental Department, Namchi District Hospital.

The programme was attended by advisors, chairpersons, OSDs, heads of departments, APS to CM, medical superintendent STNM Hospital, super-specialists, doctors, senior officials of the Health & Family Welfare department, healthcare practitioners and members of the dental fraternity.