Healing hands in tribal Rajasthan: Inside a clinic that's redefining rural health

By Bharat Dogra

Nothing is more hope-giving for those committed to bringing quality healthcare to rural areas than to see a well-functioning hospital or clinic nestled among very remote villages. The Amrit clinic, located in Kojawada village of Udaipur district (Rajasthan), is one such inspiring medical center.

Doctors who have earned widespread acclaim for their work in rural healthcare—such as Dr. Pavitra Mohan, Dr. Sanjana Mohan, and Dr. Vidit Panchal—visit this hospital once a week. On other days, a team of well-trained nurses manages the facility, supported by the doctors who are available for consultation via phone or video conferencing. In addition, community health workers support the clinic by conducting health awareness meetings in villages and visiting households that need priority attention. Several important diagnostic tests are also available on-site.

The clinic charges a nominal fee: ₹50 for a week’s treatment, including medicines; ₹100 for two weeks; and ₹200 for a month. For hospitalization, the cost is ₹200, and for child delivery, ₹500. Many complex cases have been successfully managed here, and when necessary, patients are referred to larger government hospitals in Udaipur and Dungarpur for advanced care. Since these small fees cover only a fraction of the expenses, most of the costs are borne by Seva Mandir, a leading voluntary organization.

The clinic is also a strong example of collaboration between two voluntary organizations. While Seva Mandir manages the clinic, the doctors and technical medical support are provided by Basic Health Services (BHS), another voluntary organization working in the region. Seva Mandir also maintains close ties with various government health and nutrition programs.

Another key strength of this initiative is its integration with broader nutrition and livelihood efforts. A common frustration among doctors in remote areas is that they can recommend better nutrition, but in conditions of widespread poverty, they have no means to ensure access to it. At Seva Mandir, however, the situation is different. The organization runs several significant programs focused on nutrition and sustainable livelihoods. In remote villages, balwadis (child care centers) have been established to provide daily nutrition to children. Other initiatives—such as watershed development, pasture regeneration, community forestry, youth guidance, and vocational training—help improve livelihoods and increase earning opportunities.

This comprehensive approach to health is further strengthened by special programs aimed at empowering women, which in turn contribute to better health outcomes.

The dedication and enthusiasm of the staff reflect the strength of this initiative. In many remote healthcare facilities, staff often feel uncomfortable and long to move to cities. Yet even during my short visit, conversations with the team at the Amrit clinic revealed a very different level of motivation. The nurses and other personnel understand the vital role they play in the lives of the local communities—especially the tribal populations spread across a wide, scattered area. This clinic has earned the trust of the people, and the staff feel a deep sense of responsibility to uphold it.

The complexity of rural health challenges has also become evident through the clinic’s experiences. On one hand, the clinic addresses malnutrition-related illnesses and diseases like tuberculosis. On the other, a significant number of patients suffer from diabetes and hypertension. Recently, the number of mental health cases has also risen noticeably. These trends highlight the need for a far more comprehensive response to rural health issues than is commonly recognized.

Clinics like Amrit deserve greater support so that their community-based approach and other strengths can be more fully harnessed for a holistic healthcare response. Such support would also enable them to address neglected areas of rural health, such as reducing accident-related injuries. Tackling alcohol consumption should also be a critical component of public health efforts. The Amrit clinic could further explore hidden problems, such as the possible prevalence of silicosis in the mining belt within the same block, helping patients access benefits from government schemes.

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The writer is Honorary Convener of the Campaign to Save Earth Now. His recent books include Man over Machine, Protecting Earth for Children, A Day in 2071, and Navjeevan

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