Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah recently presented state budget, the first since Congress took power this year. Initiatives for Community Health include allocation of Rs 3 crore for 20 hand held X-ray machines to detect tuberculosis. Diabetes and blood pressure camps along with distribution of medicines at door step, as a pilot project will be implemented in 8 districts. Ophthalmology camps called ‘Ashakirana’ in 4 districts will be organised at a cost of Rs 21 crore.

According to the new budget, Rs 25 crore are being allocated to extend Brain Health Initiative in collaboration with the National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro-Sciences (NIMHANS) across the State. CT (computed tomography) and MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scanning facility will be introduced in all district hospitals.

In addition, Rs 92 crore will be allocated to provide single use dialyser to all district and taluka hospitals. Dialysis centres will be increased from 173 to 219. Further, Karnataka Health Technology lab is to be established at a cost of Rs 8 crore. The Minister also announced that the first government hospital dedicated for organ transplant will be established in NIMHANS at a cost of Rs 146 crore.