Jharkhand chief minister Hemant Soren inaugurated a slew of health projects in the state on Wednesday evening.

At a function in Ranchi, Hemant launched 206 new ambulances, oversaw the signing of MoU between the health department and Smile Foundation for the launch of five new mobile medical units (MMU) in partnership with MSD Pharmaceuticals, inaugurated regional blood transmission centre and blood storage centres along with release of apps for booking of Mamata Vahans and Swasthya Jyoti app to avail treatment under the chief minister critical illness treatment scheme.

The government is using 337 such ambulances and with the launch of these new ambulances, the total strength would increase to 543.

Hemant also flagged off MMUs to be operated in five districts of West Singhbhum, Sahebganj, Chatra, Dumka and Garhwa. The programme, ‘Smile on Wheels,’ aims to benefit more than 2 lakh people. The initiative will reach nearly 60 villages across these districts.

“The programme’s primary objective is to strengthen and supplement the government’s healthcare system and enhance accessibility, availability and affordability of quality primary healthcare services in rural areas. Each mobile medical unit will be equipped with qualified doctors, para-medical staff, point-of-care and diagnostic services, and medicines,” said a spokesperson of the foundation.

The Smile on Wheels programme deploys well-equipped mobile medical units with specialised doctors, nurses, medical staff, and medicines to villages and underserved communities.