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Nalam Kakkum Stalin scheme to boost public health awareness, says Minister Muthusamy

Nalam Kakkum Stalin scheme to boost public health awareness, says Minister Muthusamy

The Hindu3 days ago
Despite the implementation of several welfare schemes over the past four-and-a-half-years, the newly launched Nalam Kakkum Stalin scheme is seen as particularly significant as it directly promotes public health awareness and preventive care, said Minister for Housing, Prohibition and Excise S. Muthusamy here on Saturday (August 2, 2025).
The Minister inaugurated the scheme at the Government Boys Higher Secondary School in Vellode, in the presence of District Collector S. Kandasamy and MLA V.C. Chandhirakumar. As part of the initiative, 45 health camps have been planned across the district.
Speaking to media persons, the Minister highlighted the ongoing success of the Makkalai Thedi Maruthuvam initiative, which has delivered mobile medical services to various sections of the population. 'Of the three lakh people invited for cancer screening, over 1.5 lakh have already been tested. Among them, 32 individuals were diagnosed with cancer and are currently receiving treatment,' he said. However, he clarified that this does not indicate a high prevalence of cancer in the district.
Responding to AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami's allegation that 2,000 Amma Mini Clinics were closed under the DMK regime, the Minister refuted the claim. He asserted that the current government's doorstep healthcare initiative is fully functional, adequately staffed, and equipped with essential medicines.
Addressing concerns over reports of kidney trafficking, Mr. Muthusamy said the government had identified isolated incidents and initiated firm action. Investigations into the medical institutions allegedly involved are ongoing, and strict measures are being taken wherever malpractice is confirmed.
Commenting on the Madras High Court directive prohibiting the use of Chief Ministers' images in government welfare advertisements, the Minister said, 'The government will strictly follow the court's order. There is no need to advertise using the Chief Minister's image—everyone, from children to adults, knows M.K. Stalin is the Chief Minister.'
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