In Kevadia, Gujarat state, stands the Statue of Unity monument, dedicated to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. An annual parade is held here in honor of Unity Day, featuring servicemen from various regions of the country. However, concerning information has emerged regarding the health of the parade participants.
Over the past ten days, 87 servicemen from BSF, CRPF, and ITBP were admitted to Gandhinagar Civil Hospital. These soldiers suffered from health issues such as fever and dengue. Fifty of them were discharged after treatment, while 37 remain hospitalized. One serviceman passed away during treatment.
The servicemen traveled to Gujarat from several states across the country to participate in the Unity Day parade. According to Health Minister Praful Pansheri, the BSF, CRPF, and ITBP servicemen who arrived from Odisha, Jharkhand, Delhi, West Bengal, and Chhattisgarh were hospitalized at Gandhinagar Civil Hospital after showing symptoms of fever and other ailments. A total of 87 soldiers were admitted to the hospital over the last ten days. Of these, 50 showed improvement and were released. Treatment for the remaining 37 continues.
The Health Minister stated that the condition of the hospitalized individuals is currently stable, and their health is improving. Although initial reports indicated dengue infection, reports confirming dengue among all 87 servicemen have not yet been published following checks.
The sad news is the death of one serviceman. In the hospital, he suddenly complained of severe chest pain. Doctors immediately conducted necessary examinations, including an ECG, and transferred him to the intensive care unit. Despite all medical efforts, he could not be saved. Health Minister Praful Pansheri expressed deep regret over the soldier's death, noting that the loss of a person serving the country is extremely sorrowful. He also extended condolences to the deceased's family on behalf of the state government.
According to the minister, based on preliminary doctor assessments, the soldier experienced severe physical exertion despite having a fever and general malaise. It was suspected that this might have led to heart problems. Confirmation of whether the soldier suffered a heart attack or cardiac arrest will only be possible after receiving the final autopsy report. After learning of the soldier's deterioration, Gujarat Health Minister Praful Pansheri visited Gandhinagar Civil Hospital, met with the hospitalized patients, and inquired about their treatment from the doctors.
Following this, he met with Medical Director Dr. Mita Parikh and the team of doctors. The Minister instructed that there should be no lapses in the treatment. Special attention was given to ensuring the soldiers had adequate water and nutrition according to doctors' recommendations. Orders were also given to provide fresh fruits, fruit juices, and salads for breakfast. Considering that some patients might require platelets during dengue treatment, the hospital's blood and platelet stocks were checked. A team of specialized residents was deployed to ensure timely assistance to the soldiers.
The Health Minister noted that insecticide spraying and fumigation are being carried out twice daily at the soldiers' residences to prevent mosquito spread. A special group from the health department is monitoring sanitary and medical conditions. This work is being done under the directive of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel. Currently, 50 soldiers have been discharged from the hospital, and treatment for 37 continues. According to the Health Minister, the condition of the hospitalized remains stable, and their health is improving.