National Sickle Cell Anemia Mission Update
Subject: Health and Family Welfare
Topic: Economic and Social Development

Summary of the National Sickle Cell Anemia Elimination Mission Update

The National Sickle Cell Anemia Elimination Mission (NSCAEM) is a strategic initiative aimed at screening and providing healthcare to individuals affected by Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) primarily in tribal regions of India. Key developments include the following:

  • Screening Initiatives:

    • As of July 31, 2025, over 6.07 crore (60.73 million) screenings have been conducted across 17 states predominantly with tribal populations.
    • The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has approved 30 point-of-care tests (PoCT) and 5 non-rapid diagnostic tests (RDT) for SCD screening.
  • Cost Norms:

    • A standardized cost of ₹100 per person has been established for SCD screenings, which covers all associated costs including screening and record-keeping.
  • Healthcare Facilities and Services:

    • Screening facilities are available at multiple health levels from District Hospitals down to Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (AAMs).
    • Healthcare services provided include:
      • Regular follow-up consultations for patients with SCD.
      • Counseling on lifestyle, pre-marital, and pre-natal practices.
      • Nutritional support via folic acid tablets.
      • Wellness programs comprising yoga and health sessions.
      • Crisis symptom management with referrals to advanced medical facilities.
  • Awareness Programs:

    • The Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA) has developed and distributed awareness and counseling materials to States and Union Territories.
    • Monthly Ayushman Arogya Shivirs are organized to raise awareness about health programs, including SCD.
  • Centres of Excellence:

    • A total of 15 Centres of Excellence (CoEs) have been approved across 14 states to enhance facilities and services for SCD. Funding for these centers is provided by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, in accordance with established guidelines from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
  • Research and Development:

    • The ICMR has established the ICMR-National Institute for Research in Tribal Health (NIRTH) in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, and a specialized center in Chandrapur, Maharashtra, focused on the research and control of hemoglobinopathies including SCD.
  • Government Commitments:

    • Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Smt. Anupriya Patel, reiterated these developments in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha.

Important Points:

  • Over 6.07 crore screenings conducted in 17 tribal-dominated states as of July 31, 2025.
  • 30 PoCTs and 5 RDTs for SCD screening validated by ICMR.
  • Standard screening cost set at ₹100 per individual.
  • Services provided include follow-ups, counseling, nutritional support, wellness sessions, and crisis management.
  • 15 Centres of Excellence approved across 14 states with MoTA funding support.
  • Awareness programs organized through monthly Ayushman Arogya Shivirs.
  • Establishment of research facilities to support national SCD programs.

This mission reflects the government's commitment to addressing Sickle Cell Disease and improving healthcare for marginalized communities in India.

Key Terms, Keywords and Fact Used in the Article:
  • ICMR - Validates diagnostic tests
  • Ministry of Tribal Affairs - Provides funding support
  • Ayushman Arogya Mandir - Health facilities for screenings
  • Centre for Research Management and Control of Hemoglobinopathies - Supports national programs
  • NIRTH, Jabalpur - Research support for SCD
  • National Sickle Cell Anemia Mission Update
    National Sickle Cell Anemia Mission Update
    Subject: Health and Family Welfare
    Topic: Economic and Social Development

    Summary of the National Sickle Cell Anemia Elimination Mission Update

    The National Sickle Cell Anemia Elimination Mission (NSCAEM) is a strategic initiative aimed at screening and providing healthcare to individuals affected by Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) primarily in tribal regions of India. Key developments include the following:

    • Screening Initiatives:

      • As of July 31, 2025, over 6.07 crore (60.73 million) screenings have been conducted across 17 states predominantly with tribal populations.
      • The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has approved 30 point-of-care tests (PoCT) and 5 non-rapid diagnostic tests (RDT) for SCD screening.
    • Cost Norms:

      • A standardized cost of ₹100 per person has been established for SCD screenings, which covers all associated costs including screening and record-keeping.
    • Healthcare Facilities and Services:

      • Screening facilities are available at multiple health levels from District Hospitals down to Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (AAMs).
      • Healthcare services provided include:
        • Regular follow-up consultations for patients with SCD.
        • Counseling on lifestyle, pre-marital, and pre-natal practices.
        • Nutritional support via folic acid tablets.
        • Wellness programs comprising yoga and health sessions.
        • Crisis symptom management with referrals to advanced medical facilities.
    • Awareness Programs:

      • The Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA) has developed and distributed awareness and counseling materials to States and Union Territories.
      • Monthly Ayushman Arogya Shivirs are organized to raise awareness about health programs, including SCD.
    • Centres of Excellence:

      • A total of 15 Centres of Excellence (CoEs) have been approved across 14 states to enhance facilities and services for SCD. Funding for these centers is provided by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, in accordance with established guidelines from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
    • Research and Development:

      • The ICMR has established the ICMR-National Institute for Research in Tribal Health (NIRTH) in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, and a specialized center in Chandrapur, Maharashtra, focused on the research and control of hemoglobinopathies including SCD.
    • Government Commitments:

      • Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Smt. Anupriya Patel, reiterated these developments in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha.

    Important Points:

    • Over 6.07 crore screenings conducted in 17 tribal-dominated states as of July 31, 2025.
    • 30 PoCTs and 5 RDTs for SCD screening validated by ICMR.
    • Standard screening cost set at ₹100 per individual.
    • Services provided include follow-ups, counseling, nutritional support, wellness sessions, and crisis management.
    • 15 Centres of Excellence approved across 14 states with MoTA funding support.
    • Awareness programs organized through monthly Ayushman Arogya Shivirs.
    • Establishment of research facilities to support national SCD programs.

    This mission reflects the government's commitment to addressing Sickle Cell Disease and improving healthcare for marginalized communities in India.

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    Update on Sickle Cell Anemia Mission

    Summary of the National Sickle Cell Anemia Elimination Mission (NSCAEM)

    The National Sickle Cell Anemia Elimination Mission (NSCAEM) is a government initiative aimed at combating Sickle Cell Disease (SCD), particularly in tribal-dominated areas of India. Here's a comprehensive update on the mission as of July 2025:

    • Screening and Testing:

      • The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has validated 30 Point of Care Tests (PoCT) and 5 Non-Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) assays for the nationwide screening of SCD.
      • Over 6.07 crore screenings have been conducted in 17 tribal-dominated states as of July 31, 2025.
      • A standardized cost norm of ₹100 per screening has been established, which covers screening, record-keeping, and ancillary costs.
    • Healthcare Infrastructure:

      • The initiative encompasses screenings at all health facilities, ranging from District Hospitals to Ayushman Arogya Mandir (AAM) levels across the country.
      • 15 Centres of Excellence (CoE) have been approved in 14 states, funded by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs.
    • Patient Care and Support Services:

      • Patients with SCD receive enhanced quality of life through services facilitated by AAM, Sub Health Centres (SHC), and Primary Health Centres (PHCs). These services include:
        • Frequent follow-up for patients.
        • Counseling regarding lifestyle management and pre-marriage or pre-natal decisions.
        • Nutritional support via folic acid tablets.
        • Yoga and wellness sessions.
        • Management of crisis symptoms and referrals to higher-level facilities.
    • Awareness and Counseling Initiatives:

      • The Ministry of Tribal Affairs has created and distributed awareness and counseling materials to states and Union Territories (UTs).
      • Monthly Ayushman Arogya Shivirs are conducted to raise awareness about various health programs, including SCD.
    • Institutional Support:

      • The ICMR has set up the ICMR-National Institute for Research in Tribal Health (NIRTH) in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, and a Centre for Research Management and Control of Hemoglobinopathies in Chandrapur, Maharashtra, to support national healthcare initiatives related to SCD.
    • Government Oversight:

      • Detailed protocols and cost norms for establishing Centres of Excellence have been issued by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

    This comprehensive framework is demonstrative of the government's commitment to eliminate Sickle Cell Anemia and provide sustainable healthcare solutions to affected populations, particularly within tribal communities.

    Key Points:

    • NSCAEM aims to eliminate Sickle Cell Disease, focusing on tribal areas.
    • Validation of 30 Point of Care Tests and 5 Non-Rapid Diagnostic Tests by ICMR.
    • Over 6 crore screenings completed; cost norm set at ₹100 per screening.
    • 15 Centres of Excellence established across 14 states.
    • Services include follow-ups, counseling, nutritional support, and management of symptoms.
    • Awareness programs facilitated through Ayushman Arogya Shivirs.
    • ICMR's support through dedicated research institutes.

    Health

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    Update on Sickle Cell Anemia Mission

    Summary: Update on National Sickle Cell Anemia Elimination Mission (NSCAEM)

    The National Sickle Cell Anemia Elimination Mission (NSCAEM), an initiative by the Indian government aimed at combating sickle cell disease (SCD), has achieved significant progress as of July 2025. Here are the key highlights:

    • Screening and Testing

      • The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has validated 30 Point of Care Tests (PoCT) and 5 Non-Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) assays for SCD screening.
      • A total of 6,07,30,111 screenings have been conducted across 17 tribal-dominated states. This extensive screening is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment of sickle cell disease.
    • Cost Norms

      • The government has standardized the cost of sickle cell disease screening to ₹100 per person. This cost includes expenses related to screening, record-keeping, and associated services aiming to ensure accessibility for the affected populations.
    • Healthcare Services and Support

      • Patients diagnosed with sickle cell disease receive various services through health facilities including:
        • Regular follow-ups.
        • Counseling on lifestyle management along with guidance on pre-marital and pre-natal decisions.
        • Nutritional support facilitated by the distribution of folic acid supplements.
        • Yoga and wellness sessions to promote health.
        • Management of crisis symptoms with necessary referrals to advanced healthcare facilities.
    • Awareness and Educational Efforts

      • The Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA) has developed awareness and counseling materials that have been distributed to relevant states and Union Territories (UTs).
      • Monthly Ayushman Arogya Shivirs serve as platforms to raise awareness about various health programs, including those targeting sickle cell disease.
    • Centres of Excellence

      • As part of capacity building, 15 Centres of Excellence (CoEs) have been approved across 14 states to enhance healthcare delivery for sickle cell disease. These CoEs are funded by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs and focus on specialized care and research.
    • Research and Development

      • The ICMR has established crucial research institutions, including the ICMR-National Institute for Research in Tribal Health (NIRTH) in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, and a Centre for Research Management and Control of Hemoglobinopathies in Chandrapur, Maharashtra. These entities play a vital role in supporting national programs, including those addressing sickle cell disease.
    • Government Oversight and Support

      • The Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Smt. Anupriya Patel, confirmed the ongoing efforts and achievements of the NSCAEM in a written reply to the Rajya Sabha, signifying the government's commitment to tackle SCD effectively.

    Key Points:

    • NSCAEM aims to eliminate sickle cell anemia through large-scale screenings and healthcare support.
    • Over 6 crore screenings done in 17 states as of July 2025.
    • Government has standardized screening costs to ₹100 per person.
    • Comprehensive patient support includes lifestyle counseling, nutritional aid, and yoga sessions.
    • 15 Centres of Excellence established for specialized care across 14 states.
    • ICMR plays a significant role in research and validation of diagnostic tests.
    • Enhancement of community awareness and education through established programs.

    This comprehensive approach under NSCAEM aims to improve the quality of life for those affected by sickle cell disease and significantly reduce its prevalence within the tribal populations of India.

    Economic and Social Development

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    Strengthening Rabies Treatment Nationwide

    The Ministry of Health & Family Welfare is implementing significant steps to combat rabies in India through the National Rabies Control Program (NRCP). Below is a detailed summary of the program's initiatives:

    Summary and Key Initiatives:

    • National Rabies Control Program (NRCP):

      • Focuses on strengthening the nationwide surveillance of animal bites and rabies cases across all States and Union Territories (UTs).
      • Utilizes the Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP) for reporting cases of dog and other animal bites along with related fatalities.
    • Financial Support Under National Health Mission (NHM):

      • States and UTs receive support for implementing NRCP, which includes capacity building for healthcare staff, procurement of rabies vaccines, and the creation of educational materials.
      • Budgetary provisions facilitate the establishment of Model Anti-Rabies Clinics and wound-washing facilities.
    • Access to Vaccines and Treatment:

      • The NHM provides Anti-Rabies Vaccine (ARV) and Rabies Immunoglobulin (RIG) free of charge at public health facilities as part of the National Free Drug Initiative.
      • These critical drugs are listed in both the National and State Essential Drug Lists.
    • Central Sector Initiatives:

      • The National Centre for Disease Control is engaged in implementing rabies control activities encompassing awareness campaigns, laboratory strengthening, and distribution of guidelines and training materials.
    • One Health Programme:

      • The “National One Health Programme for Prevention and Control of Zoonosis” enhances collaboration between human and veterinary health sectors.
      • Committees in all states and veterinary laboratories are established to fortify the diagnosis of animal rabies.
    • Public and Professional Awareness:

      • The program emphasizes public awareness through various training videos, Dog Bite Management protocols, and the dissemination of Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials regarding dog-bite prevention.
    • Official Statement:

      • Shri Prataprao Jadhav, the Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, articulated these measures in a written response to the Rajya Sabha on August 19, 2025, emphasizing the government's commitment to tackling rabies as a public health concern.

    Important Points:

    • The NRCP is focused on improving surveillance and treatment in line with the goal of rabies control within the framework of public health.
    • Free access to critical Anti-Rabies treatments is assured to the populace under the NHM.
    • The 'One Health' initiative signifies the importance of integrating human and animal health strategies to address zoonotic diseases like rabies.
    • The effective collaboration between human and veterinary health sectors through dedicated committees is critical for early diagnosis and control of rabies.
    • The initiative aligns with broader public health efforts to ensure education and accessibility in dealing with rabies and associated risks effectively.

    The combined efforts of these programs illustrate a comprehensive strategy to enhance rabies management and ultimately reduce its incidence and impact in India.

    Polity and Governance

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    Measures Against Adulterated Drug Sales

    Comprehensive Summary of Measures Taken to Prevent Sale of Adulterated Drugs in India

    The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has undertaken significant initiatives to combat the issue of adulterated and spurious drugs in India. The following measures have been implemented to enhance drug quality, ensure regulatory compliance, and strengthen the framework for drug safety monitoring:

    • Risk-Based Inspections: Since December 2022, CDSCO and state regulators have conducted inspections of 905 drug manufacturing units, resulting in 694 enforcement actions including Stop Production Orders, servicing Stop Testing Orders, and license cancellations. These actions were taken in response to non-compliance with regulatory standards.

    • Amendments to Drugs Rules: Key amendments to the Drugs Rules, 1945 have been put into effect:

      • Barcodes and QR Codes: Effective from August 1, 2023, manufacturers of the 300 most prominent drug formulations must incorporate barcodes or Quick Response Codes on packaging. This measure aims to facilitate authentication and traceability of drugs.
      • Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs): From January 18, 2022, all APIs must also display QR Codes, detailing critical data such as unique product identification codes, batch numbers, manufacturing, and expiry dates.
    • Public Monitoring and Alerts: CDSCO has introduced public monthly Drug Alerts for transparency about quality issues. Drug samples failing quality checks are published on their website to inform consumers, and firms are mandated to recall these products immediately.

    • Updated Manufacturing Guidelines: As of December 28, 2023, the Drugs Rules were revised concerning Good Manufacturing Practices under a newly updated Schedule M, which takes effect on June 29, 2024. Manufacturers with a turnover exceeding Rs. 250 crores are bound to comply. Those under this threshold have a conditional extension to December 31, 2025, provided they submit an upgrade plan.

    • Drug Sampling Guidelines: CDSCO published guidelines in February 2024 that systematic methodologies for drug inspectors for sampling drugs to ensure quality. These guidelines emphasize risk-based sample selection covering diverse locales, including rural areas.

    • Integration of Drug Testing Labs: An online portal, SUGAM Labs, launched in September 2023, aims to automate and manage the workflow of drug testing, ensuring compliance with quality specifications.

    • Enhanced Penalties and Special Courts: The Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 was amended to establish stringent penalties for offenses related to adulterated and spurious drugs. Special courts in States and Union Territories have been established to expedite cases under this Act.

    • Ongoing Training Programs: The CDSCO has significantly increased the number of sanctioned posts and conducts regular training for its officials and state regulatory agencies on Good Manufacturing Practices. Training figures indicate that 22,854 individuals were trained in FY 2023-24 and 20,551 in FY 2024-25.

    • Joint Inspections for Manufacturing Licenses: The amendment to the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules mandates that all manufacturing establishments be jointly inspected by state and central Drugs Inspectors prior to the issuance of a manufacturing license.

    • Certificate Requirements for License Issuance: Amendments stipulate that applicants must submit biosafety data and evidence for the stability of excipients to relevant licensing authorities before the grant of licenses.

    • Coordination with State Authorities: The central government coordinates the activities of State Drug Control Organizations and engages in regular meetings with State Drugs Controllers to ensure uniformity in the administration of drug regulations.

    These comprehensive measures aim to bolster the drug regulatory framework in India, ensuring consumer safety and enhancing the integrity of drug manufacturing practices.

    Key Points:

    • Risk-based inspections of 905 drug units; 694 actions taken.
    • Mandatory integration of barcodes and QR codes in drug packaging since August 2023.
    • Monthly public alerts on drug quality issues published by CDSCO.
    • Enhanced Good Manufacturing Practices effective for larger manufacturers by June 2024.
    • Structured drug sampling methodology introduced in February 2024.
    • Special courts established for swift prosecution of drug-related offenses.
    • Training for CDSCO and state officials significantly increased over the past two fiscal years.
    • Joint inspections mandated for manufacturing license grants.
    • Regulatory coordination between central and state authorities reinforced.

    Polity and Governance

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    Measures Against Adulterated Drugs Sales

    Summary: Steps Taken to Prevent Sale of Adulterated Drugs in India

    The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) and the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) have implemented a comprehensive regulatory framework to ensure drug safety and combat the sale of adulterated and Not of Standard Quality (NSQ) medications in India. This initiative comes as a response to persistent issues related to the quality of pharmaceuticals in the market.

    Key Measures:

    • Risk-based Inspections: Since December 2022, CDSCO along with state regulators initiated risk-based inspections across drug manufacturing and testing firms. As of the date of the report, 905 units were inspected leading to 694 enforcement actions. These include:

      • Stop Production Orders (SPO)
      • Stop Testing Orders (STO)
      • License suspensions and cancellations
      • Issuance of warning letters and show cause notices.
    • Mandatory Barcodes and QR Codes: To enhance drug traceability:

      • An amendment to the Drugs Rules, 1945 (G.S.R. 823(E)), effective from August 1, 2023, mandates that the top 300 drug brands include a barcode or QR code on their packaging for consumer verification.
      • Further amendments (G.S.R. 20 (E) dated January 18, 2022) require all Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) produced or imported to bear QR codes for tracking essential information such as unique product ID, batch number, manufacturing date, and expiry date.
    • Public Alerts: Monthly Drug Alerts published on the CDSCO website notify the public of drugs failing quality tests. Recalled products are also listed to keep consumers informed.

    • Revised Good Manufacturing Practices: An amendment to Schedule M of the Drugs Rules, amended on December 28, 2023, stipulates that manufacturers with a turnover exceeding ₹250 crores must comply with stringent Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) effective from June 29, 2024. A conditional extension until December 31, 2025, is provided for smaller manufacturers who submit a compliance plan.

    • Regulatory Guidelines: In February 2024, CDSCO introduced systematic guidelines for drug, cosmetic, and medical device sampling to standardize practices among inspectors, including rural engagement and risk-based selection.

    • SUGAM Labs Portal: Launched in September 2023, this online portal automates the testing workflow for drugs and medical products, enhancing quality control processes.

    • Legal Framework and Penalties: Under the Drugs and Cosmetics (Amendment) Act 2008, stringent penalties for spurious drugs manufacture are enforced. Special courts have been established in states/UTs to expedite such cases.

    • Training Programs: CDSCO has conducted extensive training programs, enhancing the competency of over 43,000 officials in Good Manufacturing Practices over two fiscal years.

    Legislative Framework:

    • The Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 and the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945 are pivotal in establishing regulatory compliance in drug manufacturing and distribution.
    • The Drugs and Cosmetics Act emphasizes the importance of rigorous inspection processes, alongside amendments mandating bioequivalence studies and stability evidence for new drug applications.

    Regulatory Coordination:

    • The CDSCO collaborates closely with state drug control organizations, facilitating a uniform approach to drug regulations across India. This coordination is particularly evident through the Drugs Consultative Committee (DCC) meetings, which aim to assure consistency and quality in the enforcement of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act.

    Economic Implications:

    • The amendments and initiatives reinforce the confidence of stakeholders, including manufacturers and consumers, in pharmaceutical quality, thereby potentially boosting the country's pharmaceutical sector and its market reputation globally.

    Important Sentences:

    • CDSCO and MoHFW have implemented regulatory and enforcement measures to combat NSQ and adulterated drugs.
    • 905 drug units inspected leading to 694 enforcement actions taken.
    • Mandatory QR/barcodes are required on packaging to ensure drug traceability.
    • Revised Good Manufacturing Practices effective from June 29, 2024, for large manufacturers.
    • CDSCO published comprehensive guidelines for drug sampling ensuring uniform quality control.
    • Legal amendments have imposed stringent penalties for drug adulteration.
    • Training workshops have enhanced skills of over 43,000 officials in recent years.

    Polity and Governance

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    Update on Vaccination Campaign for Children

    Summary of the Vaccination Campaign for Children

    The vaccination campaign for children in India has been significantly strengthened over the past several years, with multiple strategies and initiatives aimed at improving immunization coverage across the country. The campaign administers 11 essential vaccines free of charge to children and pregnant women, ensuring access to critical health measures.

    Key Aspects of the Vaccination Campaign:

    • Vaccines Provided: The campaign includes the following vaccines:

      • Hepatitis B Vaccine
      • Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV)
      • Bacillus Calmette-Guérin Vaccine (BCG)
      • Injectable Polio Vaccine (IPV)
      • Pentavalent Vaccine
      • Rotavirus Vaccine (RVV)
      • Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV)
      • Measles & Rubella Vaccine (MR)
      • Diphtheria, Pertussis, and Tetanus Vaccine (DPT)
      • Tetanus & Adult Diphtheria Vaccine (Td)
      • Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine (JE).
    • Routine Immunization Sessions:

      • Organized weekly in both rural and urban areas, these sessions aim to vaccinate children and pregnant women.
      • Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHA) conduct door-to-door outreach to inform beneficiaries about vaccination sessions.
    • Strategic Interventions:

      • The government undertakes several measures to enhance immunization rates, including advocacy and social mobilization, interpersonal communication within families, and media engagement.
      • Information Education and Communication (IEC) strategies are disseminated through various media channels, including television, radio, and social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook.
    • Mission Indradhanush:

      • The Intensified Mission Indradhanush is a special catch-up vaccination campaign targeting areas with low immunization coverage. This initiative seeks to immunize children and pregnant women who were previously left out or have dropped out of the vaccination program.
    • National Immunization Days (NIDs):

      • These special vaccination campaigns, part of the Pulse Polio program, are conducted annually to ensure that every child receives the necessary vaccines.
    • Village Health and Nutrition Days (VHND):

      • Designated days focused on immunization activities are organized to strengthen community engagement and outreach.
    • Administrative Support:

      • The effective implementation of these campaigns is supported by the State Task Force on Immunization (STFI), District Task Force on Immunization (DTFI), and Block Task Force on Immunization (BTFI).
    • Digital Innovations:

      • The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has launched the U-Win portal for the digital registration and documentation of vaccination events for children and pregnant women, enhancing accountability and tracking.

    On August 1, 2025, the Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Smt. Anupriya Patel, provided this information in response to a query in the Lok Sabha, emphasizing the government’s commitment to improving childhood vaccination rates through comprehensive strategies.

    Important Points:

    • 11 free vaccines for children and pregnant women.
    • Weekly vaccination sessions conducted in various communities.
    • Strategic measures utilized to target and improve immunization rates.
    • Special campaigns, including Mission Indradhanush and National Immunization Days, are critical components.
    • Digital tools, such as the U-Win portal, are introduced to streamline vaccination processes.
    • Increased community involvement through ASHA workers and localized health initiatives.

    This campaign reflects India’s commitment to strengthening public health infrastructure and achieving widespread child immunization to prevent communicable diseases.

    Polity and Governance

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    Improving Mental Healthcare in India

    Summary of Steps Taken to Improve Mental Healthcare in India

    The Indian government has initiated several measures to enhance mental healthcare services through the National Mental Health Programme (NMHP). The key steps encompass a robust framework involving the District Mental Health Programme (DMHP), the establishment of Centres of Excellence, tele-mental health services, and increased educational provisions in mental health specialties.

    Key Initiatives and Developments:

    • District Mental Health Programme (DMHP):

      • The DMHP is operational in 767 districts and provides a wide array of services at Community Health Centres (CHCs) and Primary Health Centres (PHCs).
      • Services include outpatient treatment, assessment, counseling, psycho-social interventions, and ambulatory services.
      • The program also features a 10-bedded inpatient facility at the district level for severe mental disorders.
    • Tertiary Care Component:

      • Under the NMHP, 25 Centres of Excellence have been established to increase intake in postgraduate (PG) mental health specialties and to provide advanced treatment facilities.
      • Additionally, 19 governmental medical institutions are receiving support to bolster 47 PG departments in mental health disciplines.
    • Educational Programs:

      • The Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI) currently approves 69 institutions/universities for Clinical Psychology courses and 9 for Rehabilitation Psychology courses.
      • New programs like B.Sc. and M.A. in Clinical Psychology are set to commence from the academic session 2024-2025.
    • Online Training for Professionals:

      • To address workforce shortages, the government is offering online courses to healthcare professionals across various levels to enhance skills in mental healthcare.
    • Public Awareness and Mental Health Promotion:

      • The NMHP includes extensive Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) activities aimed at raising awareness about mental illness and reducing stigma.
      • Initiatives encompass counseling in educational institutions, workplace stress management, life skills training, and suicide prevention services.
    • Ayushman Bharat Integration:

      • Over 1.77 lakh Sub Health Centres (SHCs) and Primary Health Centres (PHCs) have been upgraded to Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, incorporating mental health services into their health packages.
      • Operational guidelines and training manuals for mental, neurological, and substance use disorders (MNS) have been released.
    • National Tele Mental Health Programme:

      • Launched on October 10, 2022, the National Tele Mental Health Programme aims to enhance the accessibility of mental health services through telecommunication.
      • As of July 17, 2025, 36 States and Union Territories (UTs) have set up 53 Tele MANAS Cells, facilitating tele-mental health services and handling over 2.38 million calls on the helpline.
      • The Tele MANAS Mobile Application was introduced on World Mental Health Day (October 10, 2024), offering comprehensive support for mental health issues, including a video consultation feature alongside audio calls.
    • Government Statements:

      • The Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Shri Prataprao Jadhav, reported these initiatives in a written response to the Lok Sabha, emphasizing the government's commitment to improving mental healthcare.

    Important Points to Note:

    • Implementation: DMHP in 767 districts aims to manage mental health effectively.
    • Educational Expansion: 25 Centres of Excellence and 19 institutions enhance mental health education.
    • Tele-Mental Health Services: 36 States/UTs using Tele MANAS for over 2.38 million calls by mid-2025.
    • Awareness Efforts: IEC activities to destigmatize mental illness are crucial.
    • Integration with Ayushman Bharat: Mental health services now part of the Ayushman Arogya Mandir initiative.

    This systemic approach illustrates the government's multifaceted strategy to improve mental healthcare accessibility, quality, and awareness across India.

    Economic and Social Development

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    Update on Ayushman Arogya Mandir

    Summary of Ayushman Arogya Mandir Update

    The Ayushman Arogya Mandir (AAM) initiative is a healthcare program in India, which successfully operationalized more than 1.78 lakh centers across the nation, including advancements in comprehensive primary healthcare and innovations in diagnostic services.

    Key Highlights:

    • Total Operational AAMs: As of July 15, 2025, a total of 1,78,154 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (formerly Ayushman Bharat Health and Wellness Centres) are active.

    • Comprehensive Primary Healthcare: AAMs aim to strengthen Sub Health Centres (SHCs) and Primary Health Centres (PHCs) by providing a broad range of services including preventive, promotive, rehabilitative, and curative healthcare for communicable and non-communicable diseases, reproductive and child health, and more.

    • Healthcare Services Offered: Each AAM provides 12 packages of primary healthcare services, ensuring that care is closer to the communities. Centers are equipped with upgraded infrastructure and additional human resources.

    • ‘Free Diagnostics Service Initiative’ (FDSI): Launched under the National Health Mission (NHM) in 2015, this initiative aims to ensure accessible and affordable diagnostic services. The FDSI provides free pathological and radiological diagnostic tests, with 14 tests at Sub Centres and 63 tests at Primary Health Centres.

    • Wellness Activities: The AAMs also focus on wellness through activities such as yoga, cycling, and meditation. As of June 30, 2025, 5.73 crore wellness sessions have been conducted.

    • Digital Health Initiatives: The Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) intends to create an interoperable online health data platform for citizens.

      • ABHA IDs: 79.75 crore ABHA IDs have been generated.
      • Electronic Health Records: 65.34 crore Electronic Health Records have been linked across various health portals, thereby facilitating a continuity of care.
    • Financial Details: The establishment and maintenance cost for each AAM is approximately Rs. 17.03 lakhs, which includes both the one-time and recurring expenses for a year. The total budget is approved under the NHM Record of Proceedings (ROP) as per the Program Implementation Plan (PIP) submitted by respective State/UTs.

    • Government Oversight: This information was highlighted by the Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Shri Prataprao Jadhav, in a written reply in the Lok Sabha.

    Key Points:

    • More than 1.78 lakh AAMs operational across India.
    • AAMs provide 12 packages of comprehensive healthcare services.
    • Free Diagnostics Service Initiative established under NHM since 2015.
    • 5.73 crore wellness sessions conducted promoting health and wellness.
    • Significant digital health developments with 79.75 crore ABHA IDs created.
    • Estimated cost for AAM establishment is Rs. 17.03 lakhs.
    • Information shared by Shri Prataprao Jadhav in Lok Sabha.

    This program exemplifies India's commitment to enhancing healthcare access, digital health integration, and community wellness in alignment with the objectives of universal healthcare coverage.

    Economic and Social Development

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