Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh launches Intensified Mission Indradhanush 5.0
The Department of Health & Family Welfare Punjab, has launched the Intensified Mission Indradhanush 5.0 (IMI 5.0) and Media Sensitisation Meeting was also organised along with launch by Department of Health& Family Welfare in Collaboration with MOMENTUM Routine Immunization Transformation and Equity Project. The event was presided over by Dr Balbir Singh, Health Minister, Punjab and Dr Abhinav Trikha, IAS Secretary Health-cum-Mission director, NHM, Punjab also graced the occasion. The launch was undertaken under the guidance of the Immunization Division, Govt. of Punjab.
The event highlighted the importance of vaccinating eligible children and strengthening immunity in the face of existing challenges. The event witnessed active participation from prominent media representatives, health officials, and community stakeholders, all coming together in their endeavors to support the success of Intensified Mission Indradhanush 5.0.
In his address Dr. Balbir Singh said that IMI 5.0 aims to overcome barriers such as Vaccine Hesitancy , Myths and Taboos relating to vaccination that have hindered vaccination coverage by focusing on populations that have been left out of Routine Immunization efforts. The state has conducted comprehensive training at various levels to emphasize the importance of reaching those who have not been vaccinated or are only partially vaccinated and incorporating them into the immunization program. “Punjab Health Department has planned 6156 sessions to target 60670 children (0-5) and 10163 pregnant women.
He also emphasized that this campaign prioritizes children aged 0 to 5 years who have not received any vaccines, with the ultimate goal of providing life-saving vaccinations to all eligible children. “Additionally, it represents a significant step towards nationwide Measles & Rubella elimination, ensuring that every child under 5 years completes the crucial two-dose schedule of Measles and Rubella Containing Vaccine (MRCV).” he added.
Applauding the collaborative endeavors of Momentum Routine Immunization Project, immunization partners, our dedicated healthcare teams, and the support of our community, “we are resolutely working towards making a lasting impact on the health and welfare of our children, nurturing a more resilient and healthier state as envisioned by our CM Bhagwant Mann.” the Minister stated.
Dr. Abhinav Trikha underlined the integration of technology via the U-WIN portal. “This state-of-the-art platform enables healthcare professionals to effectively track and document the vaccination status of children and expectant mothers, ensuring complete coverage and prompt interventions.” he stated.
Director Health and Family Welfare Dr. Adarshpal Kaur appealed to the health staff to reach out to the marginalized communities for the success of this campaign.
Director Health Services (Family Welfare) Dr. Hitinder Kaur presented a detailed overview of the campaign and she assured the Health Minister for hundred percent achievement of the targets in the campaign.
Dr Gopal Krishna Soni, Project Director, USAID supported Momentum Routine Immunization Transformation & Equity project, said, “The project under the guidance of the Punjab State Government has successfully administered COVID-19 vaccines to vulnerable and marginalized populations in the state. The project has actively engaged vulnerable communities, tackled vaccine hesitancy through innovative community engagement strategies such as partnering with faith-based organisations like Shiromani Gurudwara Prabhandak Committee, engaging schools and school children as vaccine ambassadors, and using customized IEC materials for community engagement program, resulting in encouraged community participation in the vaccination process in Punjab. The knowledge gained from this vaccination campaign will be leveraged to improve Routine Immunization for children.
Director ESI Dr. Seema, Director NHM Dr.S.P. Singh, Director Principal AIMS Dr. Bhavneet Bharti,Civil Surgeon Mohali Dr Mahesh Ahuja and State Immunization Officer Dr. Balwinder Kaur were also present on the occasion.
