The government is set to set up "Shishu Swargo" centers across 22 districts this fiscal year to provide integrated medical and rehabilitation services to children living with cerebral palsy (CP), State Minister for Health Dr MA Muhit announced on Tuesday.
Speaking as the chief guest at an event marking World Cerebral Palsy Day at the National Institute of Neurosciences and Hospital (NINS) in Agargaon, the minister highlighted the critical gap in existing healthcare coverage for children with neurological conditions.
Citing research data, Dr Muhit noted that at least 350,000 children in Bangladesh live with cerebral palsy, yet NINS—the country's apex neurological institution—could treat only 3,300 children in its outpatient department last year.
"The vast majority of these children remain essentially invisible, isolated at home due to family limitations and social stigma," Dr Muhit said. "As a state, we are committed to restoring their rights and dignity."
Following directives from the prime minister, the health sector has received prioritized budgetary support, facilitating the establishment of these specialized district care centers, he added.
Dr Muhit also highlighted a pilot program recently launched in the Korail slum area, where around 300 identified children are currently receiving specialized care.
Emphasizing early intervention, the state minister stressed the need for community-based early case detection systems to identify pediatric neurological disorders in rural and underserved communities.
State Minister for Housing and Public Works Ahmed Sohel Manjur also addressed the program as a special guest, alongside senior health officials and medical specialists.