Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 22 October 2025
The Directorate of Health Services, in association with the UT Health Mission, organized a State-Level programme on the National Iodine Deficiency Disorders Control Programme (NIDDCP) on Tuesday at PHC Garacharma. The event aimed to assess progress in eliminating iodine deficiency disorders and promote the use of adequately iodized salt.
In her inaugural address, Dr. Suja Antony, Director of Health Services and chief guest, highlighted that iodine deficiency remains a preventable cause of brain damage and mental retardation. She stressed the need for continued efforts to ensure universal access to iodized salt, crucial for the healthy development of children and future generations. Dr. Antony also encouraged field functionaries to continue household salt testing using salt testing kits.
Ms. Radhika, Vice-Chairperson (SVPMC) and Councillor of Ward No. 24, serving as guest of honour, appreciated the Directorate’s efforts to reduce iodine deficiency disorders in the Islands and lauded the ANM trainees for their informative skit. Mr. Chandra Sekhar, President of the Andaman & Nicobar Chamber of Commerce & Industry, assured full support to the administration in strengthening public health initiatives by ensuring the availability of iodized salt in all markets. He urged the business community to take social responsibility in providing only iodized salt to consumers.
Dr. H.M. Siddaraju, Deputy Director (FW) and Programme Officer (NIDDCP), spoke on the importance of iodine during pregnancy, explaining its critical role in the mental and physical development of the foetus. He also briefed participants on the Directorate’s ongoing awareness campaigns.
Dr. M. Joy, Chief Medical Officer In-Charge of PHC Garacharma, detailed the NIDDCP programme and emphasized proper storage of iodized salt in airtight containers and adding salt at the end of cooking to prevent iodine loss.
The event featured a skit by ANM trainees highlighting the significance of iodine during adolescence and pregnancy, supplemented by informative placards. Dr. Shalini Lall, Technical Officer (NIDDCP), welcomed the gathering, and the programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Mr. P. Yusuf, Health Educator.
