Sri Vijaya Puram (Port Blair), April 10: A special outpatient department (OPD) clinic dedicated to children with autism spectrum disorder was inaugurated at Ayush Hospital, Junglighat, as part of the observance of World Homoeopathy Day 2026. The initiative aims to provide structured and regular care for children diagnosed with autism through homoeopathy services.
The clinic was formally inaugurated in the presence of Director of Health Services H. M. Siddaraju, along with Sumitamol, Director of Composite Regional Centre (CRC), Brookshabad, and Deputy Director (AYUSH) Kalyan P. Kadbhane.
Addressing the gathering, Siddaraju acknowledged the effort to introduce a specialised facility for children with autism and called upon parents to utilise the service. He highlighted the importance of expanding accessible healthcare interventions tailored to specific developmental conditions.
Sumitamol, who attended as guest of honour, spoke on behavioural characteristics associated with autism spectrum disorder and stressed the need for broader awareness and early identification. She underscored the importance of community understanding in addressing the challenges faced by children and their families.
Medical Officer (Homoeo) Supria Arangi presented an overview of homoeopathy-based approaches in managing autism, outlining the role of alternative treatment systems in supporting developmental care. The session focused on the integration of treatment, monitoring, and patient engagement in managing long-term conditions.
Medical Officer In-Charge (Homoeopathy) Manabika Dutta encouraged public participation in activities organised by the AYUSH department as part of World Homoeopathy Day, emphasising continued engagement with preventive and therapeutic health initiatives.
Officials confirmed that the special OPD clinic will function every Wednesday, excluding public holidays, with timings scheduled from 8.30 am to 1.30 pm and 3 pm to 4 pm. The facility is designed to ensure consistent follow-up and dedicated consultation services for children undergoing treatment.
The initiative forms part of broader efforts to strengthen specialised healthcare services in the islands, particularly in areas requiring sustained medical attention and awareness. Authorities indicated that such focused interventions are essential for addressing specific health needs within the community.
