Thampu tribal collective seeks study into infant deaths in Attappady
The group has urged the Kerala government to address social, cultural and economic causes of infant deaths in the region.
The Thampu tribal collective has urged the Kerala government to conduct a scientific study into the social, cultural and economic causes of increasing infant deaths in Attappady, according to The Hindu.
A delegation led by Thampu convener K.A. Ramu met Health Minister K. Muraleedharan in Attappady on Saturday to demand a comprehensive assessment of the deaths.
The collective noted that 124 child deaths were reported between 2012 and 2026, despite nearly ₹500 crore being spent on health-care interventions.
The group sought a two-phase action plan to address recurring health issues, such as low birth weight, heart conditions and breastfeeding-related complications.
Thampu also raised concerns regarding the loss of traditional relationships with land, the need for Forest Rights Act implementation and a lack of awareness about welfare schemes.
Other demands included strengthening Integrated Child Development Services, recruiting staff from local settlements and providing awareness programmes in tribal languages.