Hyderabad: Lack of proper laws on fertility centres and exploitation of surrogates by private hospitals have forced the government to start its own fertility unit in Gandhi Hospital.

The centre was inaugurated on Thursday with a minimal staff. It requires trained specialists to ensure that the fertility centre operates properly.





Health minister, Dr Laxma Reddy, said, “We have taken this initiative for people who cannot afford costly fertility treatments. Fertility issues are increasingly being seen among people and clinics are exploiting them by charging a high fee. A feasibility study was carried out and it was found that people require a government sector unit.”

The unit will be fully operational from February 1 and the minister ensured that more doctors and paramedics will be appointed. To ensure that childless couples can opt for better, affordable facilities the government has started the first-ever fertility centre and will later expand it to other districts.