New Delhi: In a landmark move towards last-mile service delivery, Dr. Rashmi Choudhary, Assistant Commissioner of the National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS), New Delhi, inaugurated the first fully operational healthcare centre in the remote Paatalkot valley of Chhindwara district, Madhya Pradesh. This intervention marks a historic milestone for the Gond and Bharia tribes residing in this isolated tribal region.
Transforming Tribal Lives through Government Initiatives
Paatalkot, home to nearly 4,000 residents across 12 scattered villages classified as Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs), had long endured severe isolation, compelling residents to trek long distances over difficult terrain for medical care. Previous central government schemes such as Pradhan Mantri Janman Yojana, Dharti Abba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan, and Aadi Karmayogi Abhiyan have catalyzed infrastructure improvements in roads, housing, education, drinking water, and electricity.
Addressing Critical Healthcare Gaps
Despite prior progress, healthcare remained a crucial need, with villagers expressing concerns about the dormant Ayushman Arogya Kendra facility. Responding swiftly, Dr. Choudhary directed officials to operationalize the centre immediately, which was inaugurated and opened for public use on September 27, 2025, with staff and essential services now active.
Impact and Future Prospects
Villagers heralded the centre’s opening as a transformative moment, eliminating the need for arduous travel for basic healthcare. This progress epitomizes the government’s commitment to embedding essential services in India’s most remote and vulnerable communities, empowering tribal populations towards inclusive development. Shri Ajeet Srivastava, Commissioner of NESTS and State Prabhari Officer for Madhya Pradesh, continues to oversee implementation under the Aadi Karmayogi Abhiyan.
Conclusion: health centre in Paatalkot Valley
The operationalization of the health centre in Paatalkot Valley is a significant stride from isolation to inclusion, showcasing effective last-mile delivery of healthcare and reaffirming government dedication to tribal empowerment and holistic development.
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Source: PIB
