by Alok Mishra
Patna: The second day of Health Fair 2025 – ‘Arogya Parv’ at Gyan Bhawan, Patna, witnessed an overwhelming public response, with over 10,000 patients availing medical services. The fair, aimed at enhancing the quality and reach of healthcare in Bihar, turned into a powerful blend of awareness, diagnosis, consultation, treatment, and public engagement.
Health Minister Mangal Pandey personally visited the fair, inspected stalls, and interacted with patients and medical teams. He said that under Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s leadership, Bihar’s health infrastructure is undergoing transformational changes, and this fair is a living example of that vision. The government, he added, is focused on ensuring inclusive, accessible, and quality healthcare for every citizen.
A large number of patients crowded the orthopedic and ophthalmology counters, with free spectacles distributed to many, especially senior citizens and students. At 25 nursing counters, more than 7,000 people underwent tests for BP, sugar, and hemoglobin, while 1,741 individuals availed of pathology services. The blood donation center also saw significant participation, reflecting strong public spirit.
A notable initiative was the HPV vaccination drive, where 1,206 girls were vaccinated. The fair also facilitated over 1,100 consultations under AYUSH, including Ayurveda (408), Homeopathy (425), and Unani (355) methods. Panchkarma therapy was conducted on 32 individuals, and over 1,500 medicinal plants were distributed over the two days.
Mental health was another major focus, with the Tele-Manas digital service drawing attention, especially among the youth. Many young participants openly discussed issues like depression and OCD, receiving professional guidance. A dedicated seminar on mental health was also held, featuring experts from AIIMS Patna and NMCH.
Cancer screening at the fair proved impactful—a four-year-old child was referred for biopsy on suspicion of cancer, while a separate case of oral cancer was identified for further investigation.
A street play on safe motherhood effectively spread awareness about the importance of institutional delivery, antenatal checkups, and vaccination, drawing strong appreciation from the audience. Meanwhile, interactive models by BMSICL, PMCH, Jehanabad Sadar Hospital, Model Hospital Munger, and Bihar Health University showcased the state’s ongoing innovations and health infrastructure upgrades.
To keep the fair lively and inclusive, cultural programs and a magician’s show added a festive touch, especially delighting children and families.
Health Fair 2025 is being hailed as a landmark initiative that combines awareness, prevention, early diagnosis, treatment, innovation, and public participation. It reinforces the state government’s commitment to building a ‘Healthy Bihar, Prosperous Bihar’ through innovation, inclusion, and empowerment. The massive turnout and positive public feedback highlight Bihar’s growing success in transforming its healthcare ecosystem.
