The Goa Minister for Health Vishwajit Rane launched 181 universal Women Helpline Number at a function held to mark completion of ten years of 108 Ambulance Services at Kala Academy in the city on September 10.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Rane said with the mission of saving lives, 108 Ambulance service was started in the state in the year 2008. The service would continue to save thousands of the lives of the people of the state. He also lauded the initiative of Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar for his visionary guidance and support and said earlier the service was started with basic facilities but now ambulance is equipped with advanced life saving systems, cardiac care among others to improve the health care facilities. He also informed about the recently launched bike ambulances.

Mr Rane also congratulated and appreciated the team of GVK EMRI (Emergency Management and Research Institute) for their dedication and commitment for their prompt and quality pre-hospital care facilities before admitting the patient to the hospital for further treatment.

Ashok Kumar IAS, Secretary to Health, appreciated the service rendered by GVK EMRI. He said that the fleets of 108 ambulances has increased manifold and services offered by GVK are being extended in the state right from urban to remote places.

On the occasion, the contract with 108 GVK EMRI was also renewed for another period of 10 years. K Krishnam Raju, Director, GVK EMRI, also spoke on the occasion. Deepak Desai, Director of Women and Child Development, said toll-free helpline number would be operated under GVK EMRI for every woman in danger or in need.

It would help in having a positive impact on women empowerment and rights in the state of Goa, he said, adding Department of Women and Child was implementing various schemes like Ladli Laxmi and Griha Adhar for the betterment of women.

Professor Shaila D’souza, Head of the Department of Women’s Studies, Goa University, informed that to support women in need, 181 helpline had been initiated which would provide counselling, guidance, information and also to help in various threatening situations, including domestic violence. On the occasion, two vehicles were provided to the services of 181 helpline. Mr Rane also flagged off 108 ambulance donated by Goa Shipyard Limited.