Over 500 receive free health checkup and medical treatment

GUATEMALA CITY (TIP): The Embassy of India, in collaboration with the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin Charitable Foundation (AAPI-CF), the Ministry of Health, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in El Salvador, successfully organized medical camps at Zacamil National Hospital. This event, held on January 10-11, 2025, aimed to provide healthcare services to underserved communities in the region, enhancing access to quality medical consultations, treatments, and essential medicines. The camp was a significant humanitarian initiative, underscoring the strong bilateral relations between India and El Salvador, and was supported by generous donations from Caplin Point Laboratories and AAPI-CF.
Over 500 plus individuals from various localities in and around San Salvador were provided with free medical consultations and treatments. A team of volunteer doctors and healthcare professionals from AAPI conducted medical assessments, diagnosed illnesses, and provided consultations in various specialties, including internal medicine, cardiology, oncology, otorhinolaryngology, surgery, gastroenterology, and gynecology. The generous donation of medicines from Caplin Point Laboratories and AAPI-CF ensured that patients received necessary medications for a range of health issues, from chronic conditions like hypertension and diabetes to acute infections and ailments. This donation was instrumental in offering long-term relief to the community. In addition to medical consultations, healthcare professionals from both AAPI and El Salvador engaged with the community to provide valuable health education. Topics included hygiene practices, nutrition, the importance of regular health check-ups, and the prevention of common diseases.

The inauguration ceremony was graced by Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Adriana Mira, who underlined the growing partnership between India and El Salvador, calling it a testament to the shared commitment to improving the lives of the Salvadoran people. She highlighted the importance of collaboration in healthcare as a bridge for stronger bilateral relations. Vice Minister of Health Carlos Gabriel Alvarenga Cardoza also delivered remarks, expressing his excitement for the medical camp and its potential to address critical healthcare needs in the region. He highlighted how India has emerged as a valuable partner for El Salvador, particularly in the healthcare sector, through initiatives like this one.

Dr. Manoj Mohapatra, Ambassador of India, in his opening remarks, emphasized India’s capability to contribute meaningfully to global healthcare needs. He added that in the wake of the recent storm that severely impacted El Salvador, the government of India, in a gesture of solidarity and humanitarian support, provided a substantial donation of medicines and medical devices to assist in the ongoing relief and recovery efforts. This timely contribution was aimed at addressing the increased healthcare needs arising from the storm’s aftermath, which left many people injured and vulnerable to waterborne diseases and other health issues. The support from India is a testament to the strong bilateral ties between the two nations and underscores India’s commitment to standing by El Salvador during times of crisis, ensuring that the affected communities receive the necessary medical care and resources for their recovery. Medical assistance has been instrumental in alleviating the strain on local healthcare facilities, enabling them to provide better care to storm victims and accelerate the recovery process.

Dr. Ajeet Raj Singhvi, representing AAPI-CF, applauded the Salvadoran government for its proactive support in organizing the medical camps. He reaffirmed the foundation’s commitment to expanding its outreach in Central America. “This initiative is part of our long-standing mission to bring quality healthcare to those in need. We look forward to continuing this journey in collaboration with India and El Salvador,” he said. Dr. Singhvi also highlighted the foundation’s previous successes in Guatemala, which served as a model for the current initiative.

The success of the medical camps at Zacamil National Hospital reflects the power of collaboration between governments, charitable organizations, and local stakeholders in creating a lasting impact on communities. This initiative showcases India’s dedication to fostering meaningful relationships with countries in Central America, using healthcare as a cornerstone for building trust and goodwill. It also aligns with India’s broader commitment to South-South cooperation, ensuring that developing nations work together to address shared challenges. The Embassy of India and AAPI-CF have expressed their willingness to organize similar initiatives in other parts of El Salvador, further solidifying the partnership between the two nations.
(Based on a press release issued by Ramesh Khulbey)