Udupi, June 28: The National Pulse Polio Immunization Drive was launched on Sunday at the Government Mother and Child Hospital in Udupi. The program was organized by the Udupi District Administration, District Panchayat, District Health and Family Welfare Department, National Health Mission, in collaboration with various departments and voluntary organizations.

Inaugurating the drive, Udupi MLA Yashpal Suvarna stated that India is a polio-free nation and stands as a global model in effectively eradicating the disease. He emphasized that the immunization drive is conducted to ensure that children remain healthy and strong. He noted that while India has achieved polio-free status, precautionary annual drives are essential since polio cases are still reported in other parts of the world. More than 60,000 children are targeted to be vaccinated across the district during this campaign.

Speaking on local healthcare infrastructure, MLA Yashpal Suvarna mentioned that plans are underway to upgrade the infrastructure of the Mother and Child Hospital at a cost of 50 lakh INR following discussions with the Health Minister. He added that the Health Minister is scheduled to visit the district soon, during which a memorandum will be submitted to resolve the pending site-related issues of the District Hospital.

Coastal Development Authority Chairman M.A. Gafoor addressed the gathering, stating that effective implementation of health programs has successfully made the nation free from smallpox and polio. He added that joint efforts by the central and state governments, doctors, health workers, and social organizations are now focused on making the country tuberculosis-free.

District Health and Family Welfare Officer Dr. Basavaraj Hubli, BBMP Deputy Director Dr. Mamata M.S., District Surgeon Dr. Ashok H., and Rotary Plus Committee President Subramanya Basri were present. District RCH Officer Jyotsna B.K. welcomed the gathering, Field Health Education Officer Shashidhar H. compered the program, and Rotary President Suraj Kumar Hegde delivered the vote of thanks.

GangolliNews