Govt plans ‘Shishu Swarga’ in 22 districts for children with cerebral palsy

The government will set up “Shishu Swarga” facilities in 22 districts by 1 July next year to provide comprehensive treatment and rehabilitation for around 350,000 children living with cerebral palsy, State Minister for Health Dr MA Muhit said on Tuesday.
He was speaking as the chief guest at an event marking World Cerebral Palsy Day at the National Institute of Neurosciences and Hospital (NINS) in Agargaon, Dhaka. 
“A study has found that at least 350,000 children in the country are living with cerebral palsy. Yet, last year, only 3,300 children were able to receive treatment at the outpatient department of NINS, one of the country’s leading institutions,” Dr Muhit said.
“The vast majority of these children remain virtually invisible. Due to family limitations and social realities, many of them remain confined to dark rooms. As a state, we want to restore these children’s rights and human dignity.”
He said the health sector was receiving the highest budgetary priority on the prime minister’s special instructions. The government has also launched a pilot project in Korail slum, providing services to around 300 identified children.
Dr Muhit said a community-based early detection system is crucial to reaching children in remote areas.