Morung Express News
Kohima | July 23
The 69th Foundation Day of the Family Planning Association India (FPAI) was commemorated in Nagaland on July 23 at the RHFPC Satellite Centre, Kohima. The foundation day was celebrated under the theme 'The beginning: FPAI Branch'.
The FPAI was established in 1949 by a group of concerned women to address the issue of women's health, following India's independence which witnessed high fertility rates with minimal Public health facilities and a life expectancy that was just 40 years.
"Our mission is - To advocate for gender equality and empowerment for all including the poor and vulnerable people, ensure information, education, and services; powered by knowledge, innovation, and technology, towards sustainable development. While our Vision is that all People are empowered to enjoy their sexual and reproductive health choices and rights in India, free from stigma and discrimination," said James Liezietsu, President FPAI Nagaland Branch in his presidential speech.
Liezietsu also informed that at present, FPA India is associated with Australian Aid, Engineers India Limited, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, European Union, Bharat Cement and Government of India besides other funding partners with more than 23 different projects implemented across India. At the local level, the FPAI Nagaland Branch is working in tandem with different allied Government Departments of Nagaland in sponsoring Programs and activities.
"Today as we celebrate the 69th foundation day, I want to request you all to join us and support the Association as we continue to work on a very important mission on Adolescents education in human sexuality. We must work tirelessly with policy makers, young people through different mediums that our young people are empowered, safe and healthy to pursue their dreams and be successful in life as responsible adults, parents and be an asset to the society we live in," stated Liezietsu.
Vincent Belho, General Manager, FPA India, Nagaland Branch who spoke on the milestone of the FPAI Journey in Nagaland informed that the FPAI Nagaland Branch today runs a Clinic called Reproductive Health & Family Planning Clinic (RHFPC) at Daklane in the main town of Kohima city besides a Satellite Centre near NSF Martyrs Park. The RHFPC, Daklane is manned by full time medical team and provides services on Sexual reproductive Health issues, Gynecological matters, Contraceptives services and MTP services.
"RHFPC of FPA India Nagaland Branch is perhaps the only NGO service delivery point registered with Health Department to provide the services. Our focus continues with family planning and adolescents’ sexuality education both in formal and non-formal sector," stated Belho adding that the satellite centre provides all Mother & Child Immunisation services and free contraceptives services and counselling on family planning.
The Branch also conducts outreach medical and awareness services throughout Nagaland.
The Association also organizes a program called Top Acts, running its second season, which aims to provide a platform to young people under 25 years to showcase any of their performing art every 4th Saturday at the satellite centre. The program is currently functioning in collaboration with 4Life and LifePro Sound solution.
Clients also shared their views and benefits they received the services of the FPAI.
