Indian Oil to install haemodialysis machines in Meghalaya under PMNDP

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaNovember 27, 2024

In a landmark effort to improve healthcare access in Northeast India, Indian Oil Corporation Limited (Indian Oil), the Meghalaya government, and Fairfax India Charitable Foundation have partnered to install six haemodialysis machines in East Garo Hills and Ri-Bhoi districts under the Pradhan Mantri National Dialysis Programme (PMNDP).

The initiative aims to address the pressing need for affordable, quality dialysis services, especially in Meghalaya’s underserved regions. A tripartite agreement to formalize the partnership was signed on November 25 at Hotel Palacio, Khanapara, Guwahati. The agreement was executed by Hitajit Bhattacharyya, CGM (HR) of Guwahati Refinery for Indian Oil, Dr. Neela Ewon Kharsahnoh, Director of Health Services (MCH & FW) for Meghalaya, and Abraham Alapatt for Fairfax India Charitable Foundation.

Chronic Kidney Disease affects an estimated 1.3 million patients nationwide, requiring haemodialysis two to three times a week. However, the availability of dialysis machines remains critically low, with only 35,000 machines available against a demand of over 200,000. High treatment costs (Rs 2.4 lakh annually) and additional travel expenses exacerbate access issues for rural populations.

 In Meghalaya, healthcare challenges are compounded by rugged terrain, remote villages, and overburdened urban centers. Many districts lack adequate dialysis facilities, leaving rural patients to face severe logistical and financial hurdles.

Udit Jain, Chief General Manager (HRD & ER) at Indian Oil, underscored the importance of public-private partnerships in addressing critical healthcare issues, stating: “This partnership exemplifies the power of collaboration. By decentralizing haemodialysis services, we are bringing life-saving care to underserved communities.”

Hitajit Bhattacharyya, CGM (HR) at Guwahati Refinery, emphasized Indian Oil’s commitment to equitable healthcare, stating: “Indian Oil’s contribution of six haemodialysis machines strengthens efforts to make essential dialysis services accessible in even the remotest areas. This initiative will significantly improve health outcomes for Meghalaya’s underserved communities.”