Nashik:
The Maharashtra health department has reported a decline in the infant mortality rate among children under five years of age in Nashik district, attributing the improvement to free health check-ups and timely treatment provided to children. The initiative covers all children, from those enrolled in Anganwadis to adolescents up to 18 years of age.
Free Check-ups Under National Programme
Under the National Child Health Programme (Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram – RBSK), children studying in Anganwadis and schools across the district are receiving free health screenings through mobile health teams. The programme, implemented under the National Health Mission, focuses on early diagnosis of birth defects, diseases, nutritional deficiencies, and developmental delays and disabilities.
High Screening Coverage Achieved
According to the district health department, health screenings of nearly 98 per cent of children in Nashik district have already been completed. Currently, 80 RBSK mobile health teams are operational in the district, each comprising two AYUSH doctors, a nurse and a pharmacist, ensuring wide outreach even in remote areas.
Treatment and Free Surgeries Provided
Children identified with health issues during screenings are referred to the District Early Intervention Centre and tertiary-level hospitals for further care. Primary treatment is being provided at the District Government Hospital and Dr Vasantrao Pawar Medical College and Hospital, while complex and specialised surgeries are carried out free of cost at empanelled super-speciality hospitals, including Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital and Fortis Hospital.
Control of Major Childhood Disorders
Health officials said the programme has shown notable success in controlling conditions such as thalassemia and cleft lip and palate through early detection and timely intervention. The sustained focus on preventive and curative child healthcare, officials added, has played a key role in reducing infant and under-five mortality rates in the district.
