Mangalore : State minister for health and family welfare U T Khadar said that new born children must get best care and this must reach every corner of the state with public private partnership.

He was speaking to over 250 pediatricians after inaugurating two day 17th Karnataka State Neonatology Conference ‘Karneocon 2014’ at Dr. TMA Pai International Convention Centre on October 11, Saturday.

Khader also said that, although the state compares of infant mortality statistics with less developed states, we must compete with states which have achieved better progress to maintain our high benchmark.

Prior to the conference, the workshops in various subjects were also held on 10th October at five locations including Kasturba Medical College, K. S. Hegde Medical Academy, Yenepoya Medical College, Father Muller Medical College and Indiana Hospital & Heart Institute.

Health and Family Welfare Director Dr. Ramesh, appreciated various professional bodies like National Neonatology Forum and Indian Academy of Pediatrics for rendering their co-operation.

Manipal University Pro Vice Chancellor Dr. V. Surendra Shetty, urged the doctors to keep themselves updated on the latest technology and information.

Two stalwarts Dr. P. P. Maiya and Dr. Swarna Rekha Bhat, in the field of neonatal care were honoured on the occasion.

Conference chairman and state NNF President Dr. B. Shantharam Baliga delivered the presidential address.

Dr. (Major) Rajesh S. M, organizing secretary of the conference welcomed the gathering and NNF Sate Secretary Dr. Archana Bilagi, read the forum’s annual report. Dr. Kiran Baliga, Joint Organizing Secretary proposed the vote of thanks.