The exam’s Comprehension Text
[1] Lifeline Express is the world’s first hospital on a train. It started with a simple idea: take the hospital to people who do not have access to health care services in rural areas. An Indian foundation proposed the idea to the Ministry of Railways. Shortly after, the Railways and the foundation signed an agreement in which the Railways would offer a three-coach train, provide water and electricity while the foundation would provide medical services.
[2] There are fewer than 10 doctors to every 10,000 inhabitants in India. Many people must travel hundreds of miles to reach the nearest hospital. So, the train hospital is their only hope for medical treatment. For 26 years, Lifeline Express has been travelling through India to bring health services to millions of Indians who are in need of health care. It has helped many patients with sight, hearing or movement problems.
[3] The train hospital regularly camps in different parts of the country. Each camp lasts 35 days and involves treating patients, training local doctors and raising health awareness among rural population. Dr. Sarin, Lifeline Express chairman, said: “Now, the train hospital is operating with only three coaches. Soon, two new coaches will be added. A lot of help comes from companies, individuals and doctors across the country. But, we still need to improve our medical services. We need a blood bank and sophisticated equipment to do major surgeries. Hundreds of villagers are in urgent need of help.”
[4] The train hospital is not only treating patients, but changing their social lives as well. Dr. Nagda is a surgeon who has volunteered to work on the train for the last 16 years. He remembers receiving a wedding invitation from Sajida, a girl he once treated. “When she came to me as a child, she had a foot deformity. I told her father that after treatment she would be able to go to school, but he was more worried about her marriage. After the surgery, she could walk normally. She even finished her studies and got married.” The train hospital has saved over a million lives across the country and has inspired similar experiences in many other countries.
Adapted from: www.thehindu.com & www.middleasteye.net
National exam | Scientific Streams | Catch-up Session 2017 with Answers
