Hans News Service Khammam

Highlightingthe need for better healthcare protection for fishermen and other traditional occupational workers, the doctors have appealed to the government to recognize and include occupational diseases in the Aarogyasri health scheme.

A special awareness and felicitation programme was organised to mark National Fishermen’s Day at the Integrated Veg and Non-Veg Market under the Khammam Municipal Corporation limits on Friday, with speakers highlighting the need for better healthcare protection for fishermen and other traditional occupational workers.

The programme was organised by the Sriraksha Health Services Team, led by Sriraksha Hospital Chairman Dr. Gongura Venkateswarlu (G.V.), along with senior physician Dr. Shaik Yedukondalu and members of the organisation.

Fishermen’s representatives were felicitated during the event in recognition of their contribution to food security, nutrition and the economy.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Gongura Venkateswarlu said fishermen play a vital role in ensuring food security and generating livelihoods, and called for greater societal recognition of their contribution. He urged the government to recognise occupational diseases affecting fishermen and other traditional workers and include them under the Aarogyasri health insurance scheme.

He said the Sriraksha Health Services Team had been conducting a sustained public campaign seeking healthcare protection for workers engaged in traditional occupations, many of whom are exposed to long-term occupational hazards. He appealed to fishermen, occupational workers and the public to support the initiative.

Senior physician Dr. Shaik Yedukondalu created awareness about common health issues faced by fishermen and fish vendors, including skin ailments, respiratory illnesses, joint and back pain, infections and other conditions associated with prolonged exposure to water and strenuous physical work. He stressed the importance of personal hygiene, periodic health check-ups, preventive measures and balanced nutrition in reducing occupational health risks.

The programme concluded with National Fishermen’s Day greetings to the fishing community and a renewed call for policy measures to strengthen occupational healthcare and welfare for traditional workers.