Photo Narrative: Geriatric Camps in Kashmir, India
Under the National Programme for Health Care of Elderly (NPHCE), geriatric camps were conducted at six villages and hamlets in the Trans Singela area of Khaltse Block, Leh Ladakh from August 1, 2013 to August 11, 2013.
The Trans Singela area is a region across the Singela Pass. Situated 17,000 feet above sea level, the area contains around 6 small villages and hamlets that are isolated for half the year. The population of the Trans Singela area is very small and accessibility is very difficult. A team normally has to journey for 7 to 9 days under arduous conditions to get through the passes, though a road is currently being constructed to help with accessibility under PMGSY, the nationwide plan in India to provide roads to isolated populations.
Health care facilities in the Singela Pass comprise of one primary health centre and four sub-centres. Though some healthcare workers works in these facilities, doctors have never been posted. Due the harsh climate and difficult terrain, the people living in the area have been deprived of quality health care.
Because of the need to provide healthcare for all populations, this Geriatric Health camp was planned to provide different specialist services to the six villages of Singela Pass.
