Dr. Pawan Kotwal, Advisor convened a meeting with a delegation of retired Central Government Employees on October 31 and discussed the establishment of a Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) Wellness Centre in Ladakh.

This initiative marks a significant leap forward in improving healthcare facilities in the region and enhancing the welfare of Central Government employees.

Several eminent retired All India Service Officers and officers of the Administration of the Union Territory of Ladakh demonstrated a collective commitment to the health and well-being of the region's populace. Distinguished individuals such as C. Phuntsog, IAS (Retd), former Chief Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir;  T Namgyal, IFS (Retd), a former Ambassador; Tsering Anchok, IAS (Retd), a former Member of the Jammu and Kashmir Public Service Commission; T Phunchok, IPS (Retd), former Inspector General of Police were present in the meeting.

A significant focal point of the discussions was the requirement for a minimum of 6000 CGHS beneficiaries, as mandated by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, for the establishment of a CGHS Wellness Centre in a new city. 

Advisor Dr. Pawan Kotwal emphasized the importance of this criterion, highlighting the need to adhere to the established norms.

In line with the Ministry's guidelines, Dr. Kotwal provided updates regarding the progress made so far. According to Circular No: E 9741 A/53/2022-LG OFFICE Temp-1 1468-74 dated June 1, 2023, and a subsequent Reminder No: E 9741 A/53/2022-LG OFFICE Temp-1 1468-74, also dated June 1, 2023, from the Health and Medical Education Department of the Union Territory, Ladakh has received a list of 4215 beneficiaries. This encouraging figure brings the region closer to the targeted number of beneficiaries, with an optimistic outlook of reaching the goal in the near future.

Recognizing the significant presence of eligible retired and serving employees in institutions such as the Indo Tibetan Border Police in Leh and the Intelligence Bureau in Leh, Dr. Kotwal expressed his commitment to the cause. He assured the delegation that a request letter would be promptly dispatched to the concerned authorities to gather the necessary information, further streamlining the process.

Furthermore, he went the extra mile by personally committing to expediting the process. 

He pledged that once the target beneficiary count is reached, he will personally oversee the interviews and subsequent procedures to facilitate the earlier opening of the CGHS Wellness Centre in Leh, reaffirming his dedication to improving healthcare access in the region.

To ensure the smooth functioning of the proposed CGHS dispensary, the UT administration has already mapped out the required manpower, indicating a comprehensive approach to healthcare delivery.

This meeting signals a significant step towards enhancing healthcare facilities in Ladakh and ultimately improving the welfare of Central Government employees in the region. The Administration of the Union Territory of Ladakh extends its heartfelt gratitude to all stakeholders, including the esteemed retired officers, serving employees, and dedicated officials, for their unwavering dedication and support in their efforts to achieve this vital milestone.

As Ladakh continues to evolve and progress, the commitment to establish a CGHS Wellness Centre stands as a testament to the administration's commitment to the health and well-being of its employees and residents. It is an encouraging sign for the region's growth and a promising step toward a healthier, more prosperous future.

The potential establishment of the CGHS Wellness Centre in Ladakh marks a significant stride forward in Ladakh's commitment to the health and well-being of its people. This achievement will bring Ladakh closer to a brighter, healthier future, and it underscores the region's potential and promise. This collaborative effort embodies the spirit of progress, unity, and betterment, exemplifying the region's potential for a brighter tomorrow.