After a gap of more than a decade and a half, Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) centres across the state are set to resume the supply of basic medicines for children and mothers, marking a significant step towards strengthening grassroots healthcare delivery. A fresh directive issued by the state’s Child Welfare Department has announced that essential medical kits will soon be supplied to ICDS projects in all districts and blocks.
Until around 2010, ICDS centres routinely stocked basic medicines such as paracetamol, bandages, oral rehydration salts (ORS), and zinc syrup, enabling the treatment of minor ailments among children and pregnant women at the local level.
"Over time, however, the practice was discontinued, forcing residents — particularly in rural and remote areas — to travel to block hospitals or primary health centres even for minor illnesses. This often resulted in increased financial burden, time loss, and delayed treatment,” said an officer of the state health department.
He said under the new plan, each ICDS centre will be equipped with a standard kit of essential medicines, including paracetamol syrup, antacid liquid, iodine cream, bandages, ORS sachets, zinc syrup, and nasal saline drops for children. “In addition, ICDS staff will undergo specialised training to provide basic first aid, identify early warning signs of illness, and refer patients to appropriate health facilities when required,” he added.
Administrative officials said the move is aimed at improving access to primary healthcare services, especially in underserved rural pockets.
“The initiative is expected to play a crucial role in safeguarding the health of children, adolescent girls, and pregnant and lactating mothers— key beneficiary groups under the ICDS framework,” the officer said.
Health experts believe that the availability of timely primary care at ICDS centres could significantly reduce complications arising from common conditions such as malnutrition, diarrhoea, and fever. “Early intervention can prevent minor health issues from escalating into serious medical emergencies,” said doctor Sumana Ganguly.
Public health specialists have welcomed the decision, describing it as a long-overdue but vital step towards revitalising ICDS centres as community-level health support hubs. “With the resumption of medicine supplies after more than 15 years, residents in rural areas are hoping that essential healthcare services will finally be accessible closer to home, reducing dependence on distant and overburdened health facilities,” said Sumana.
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