Under the flagship programme of the Prime Minister of India, “Mera Gaon Mera Gaurav” ICAR –CIBA, Chennai, CIBA is working with Karikattukuppam village (Kanchipuram district, Tamil Nadu) near Muttukkadu Experimental Station of CIBA, 30 km south of CIBA head quarters Chennai. This is a coastal village with 310 families and a total population of 1200, mainly engaged in fishing as their major livelihood activity. The unprecedented deluge happened in the first week of December 2015 in Chennai has resulted in sewage water stagnation and garbage pileup in this village, resulting in mosquitoes menace in the village, with possibilities of infectious diseases like dengue , diarrhoea, fungal skin infections, leptospirosis etc.
To create awareness on general health and hygiene practices, CIBA with the assistance of medical professionals from Sri Jayendra Saraswathi Ayurveda College and Hospital (SJSACH), Nazarathpet, Chennai, has conducted a cleanliness campaign and health camp in the village on 17-12-2015. Dr. Ramdas Maganti, Principal, SJSACH deputed a medical team lead by Dr.A.A.N. Udaya Kumar and Dr. K.P.Roshini, with a group of medical students for the camp. Dr (Mrs) D. Deboral Vimala, Principal scientist highlighted the importance of the cleanliness in the village to avoid infectious diseases and briefed about the various brackishwater activities under “Mera Gaon Mera Gaurav” in the village. Dr.M.Kailasam, Principal Scientist & Officer-in-Charge, Muttukkadu Experimental station briefed about the various ongoing research activities which has direct impact in the livelihood improvement of the fisherfolk in the village. Dr. A.A N. Udaya Kumar and Dr.K.P. Roshini, Readers, SJSACH explained the importance to follow strict hygiene measures and general cleanliness aftermath of flood to prevent the outbreak of infectious diseases in the village.
The medical team explained the various steps and safety precautions to be taken to keep the village premises clean and healthy. A free medical checkups and medicines were provided to the villagers as part of the programme. Clearing of the garbage and application of bleaching powder was also arranged by the ICAR-CIBA. Nilavembu Kasayam”, a highly potent ayurvedic decoction, known for its immunity enhancing properties, was prepared by the CIBA scientific team as per the instructions from the doctors, and distributed to the villagers during 17th to 19th December 2015. Around three hundred villagers participated the three day programme. Dr. (Mrs.) D. Deboral Vimala, Principal scientist and Nodal officer of the “Mera Gaon Mera Gaurav” programme coordinated this event.