Reaching Out with Care: IRMA’s Medical, Educational, and Humanitarian Response During Crisis

Year: 2023–24
Organized by: Integrated Rural Management Association (IRMA)

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In Crisis, Compassion Leads the Way

As Manipur faced one of its most trying times due to ongoing ethnic violence since May 3, 2023, the Integrated Rural Management Association (IRMA) responded with urgency and empathy. This year’s efforts were marked by a multi-pronged humanitarian approach—combining medical aid, educational support, and psychological care for the displaced.

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🏥 Medical Camps: Healing the Body

Urgent Need for Medical Attention

Many relief camps across the region were critically short of medical care and supplies. In response, Dr. Prabhu and his team from Life Multi-speciality Hospital, Hyderabad collaborated with IRMA to launch targeted medical outreach efforts.

Strategic Coordination with IRMA

After IRMA’s ground team conducted surveys of affected areas, medical camps were quickly organized to ensure that the most vulnerable populations could access healthcare.

Key Interventions:

• Medical Camps in Saikul Sub-division:
  Over 10 relief camps were served with essential medical services, including free medicine distribution, health consultations, and sugar level tests for suspected patients.
• Extended Reach in Kangpokpi District:
  Camps were also held at ITI Kangpokpi Relief Camp and four other sites in the district.

Impact:

• ₹2 lakhs worth of resources were distributed across relief camps with the support of the Manipur Relief Committee, Hyderabad.
• Maranathan, Delhi, generously donated medicines.
• Nurses were deployed to assist with medication delivery and patient support.
• Campers expressed heartfelt gratitude for the compassionate service and care provided.

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📚 Educational Support: Learning Must Continue

The Impact of Violence on Education

With schools closed due to violence, thousands of children in relief camps faced the risk of interrupted learning. Recognizing this, IRMA initiated an educational outreach program aimed at keeping hope and learning alive.

Key Actions:

• Distribution of Educational Kits:
  Children received books, notebooks, pens, pencils, and colouring materials.
• Support from Mr. Prince (Hyderabad):
  Local volunteer Mr. Prince played a crucial role in mobilizing and distributing educational supplies to the camps.

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🧠 Psychological Support: Healing the Mind Through Play

Addressing Trauma Through Sports

IRMA’s surveys found that 70–80% of those in relief camps—including many children—were grappling with psychological trauma. To counter this, IRMA promoted sports and play as tools for healing.

Initiatives for Mental Well-Being:

• Sports Equipment Distribution:
  Camp residents received a wide range of sports items including:
  • Footballs
  • Volleyballs
  • Cricket sets
  • Rings
  • Ludo and chess sets
• Encouragement of Physical Activity:
  Organized games and friendly matches provided an emotional outlet, improved morale, and helped children and adults alike cope with stress and anxiety.

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Building Resilience, Together

Through these combined efforts—medical care, educational access, and mental health support—IRMA reaffirmed its commitment to holistic relief. This year’s humanitarian response was more than just aid; it was a testament to solidarity, compassion, and the unbreakable spirit of the people of Manipur.

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To support or learn more about IRMA’s ongoing initiatives, visit www.irma.org.in.