Port Blair, August 6, 2025 — TSG Bhasker, Chairman of the ANTCC Campaign Committee, has publicly flagged a critical shortage of urological and surgical equipment at G.B. Pant Hospital, Port Blair, following a surprise inspection conducted over the weekend. The visit, aimed at assessing patient care and infrastructure readiness, revealed alarming gaps in essential medical supplies, prompting calls for immediate administrative intervention.
Bhasker, accompanied by ANTCC President Rangalal Halder and NSUI National Secretary Mamatha Nerlige, interacted with patients and medical staff during the evening walkthrough. According to hospital sources, the urology department is grappling with a lack of basic surgical items such as catheters, stents, gloves, and diagnostic tools — forcing patients to procure materials externally, often at inflated prices.
“The absence of critical equipment not only delays procedures but also places undue financial and emotional stress on patients,” Bhasker stated. He urged the hospital administration and the Central Purchase Authority (CPA) to expedite procurement and ensure uninterrupted supply chains.
Hospital insiders cited inconsistent deliveries from the CPA and budgetary constraints as contributing factors. While some senior officials claimed inventory levels were adequate, frontline staff contradicted this, highlighting frequent shortages and the inability of Jan Aushadhi counters to meet demand.
The issue has reignited concerns over healthcare accessibility in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, where G.B. Pant Hospital serves as the primary tertiary care center. Bhasker emphasized the need for transparency in inventory management and called for a comprehensive audit of medical supplies.
The administration has yet to issue an official response, though sources indicate the matter is under review. Meanwhile, patient advocacy groups have welcomed Bhasker’s intervention, hoping it will lead to systemic reforms and improved healthcare delivery.
