Implementation of PCPNDT Act reviewed at Kupwara

KUPWARA : A meeting under the chairmanship of Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Kupwara who is District Appropriate Authority for implementation of Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (Prohibition of Sex Selection) Act, 1994. The Act aims to provide for the prohibition of sex selection, after conception and for regulation of prenatal diagnostic techniques for the purposes of detecting genetic abnormalities or metabolic disorders or chromosomal abnormalities or certain congenital malformations or sex-linked disorders and for the prevention of their misuse for sex determination leading to female feticide which declines sex ratio in India.
The Act mandates compulsory registration of all genetic counseling centers, genetic laboratories, genetic clinics and ultrasound clinics.
It was informed that since April 2023, 42 USG centres have been registered in the district and 18 USG Centres have been sealed due to deficiencies as per the PCPNDT Act which has been allowed to reopen after fulfilling the criteria as per the various provisions of the act. It was also informed that Medical Officers and CHOs/MLHPs have been trained under the Act to raise awareness at the grassroots level during VHND, VHSNC and Immunization Day activities.
On the occasion, the CMO enjoined upon all the member officers to work in tandem with concerted efforts to ensure proper implementation of the PCPNDT Act across the district. The CMO presented a detailed PowerPoint presentation and informed the participants about the important provisions of the PCPNDT Act and role of each member.
The meeting was attended by MS District Hospital Kupwara, DHO, DIO, Sr. gynecologists from ADH Handwara/Kupwara, Sr. Pediatrician ADH Handwara, Sr. Radiologist, representative from social welfare department and member from Judiciary.