Mission Indradhanush Reaches Remote Forests, Vaccinates Tribal Children and Women

“Efforts to Provide Healthcare Into Inaccessible Areas, Reaching Grassroot Level”

The ambitious Mission Indradhanush, focused on safeguarding the health of India’s future generation, has achieved a remarkable feat by extending its reach to the far-flung corners of the state. In a remarkable effort, health department teams have successfully vaccinated children and pregnant women residing in the remote forest villages of Dahod district.

These efforts recently culminated in a heartening accomplishment as 33 children from three villages—Pipergota, Bhuvero, and Alindra—situated on the Ratan Mahal mountain received crucial vaccinations, underscoring the program’s vital role in ensuring the well-being of underserved communities.

The picturesque Ratan Mahal forest, renowned for its bear sanctuary, hosts these secluded tribal communities, nestled within the hilltop villages. The challenging terrain, coupled with the presence of wildlife, adds to the complexity of reaching these remote locales, necessitating utmost caution. The resolute focus of the state government on these marginalized populations is a testament to its commitment to equitable healthcare access.

Dr. Kanjeta Primary Health Center in Dahod district played a pivotal role in executing this mission. A dedicated team led by Sanjay Baria, Sister Ushaben Baria, Health Worker Pushpaben Rathwa, Lalabhai Parmar, Priteshbhai Parmar, and Sumitraben Wankhal traversed challenging terrain to reach Pipergota. Here, children from scattered families were summoned to the Anganwadi center on foot, where they received vaccinations and their weights were meticulously recorded.

This successful initiative, part of the fifth phase of Mission Indradhanush, has so far vaccinated six children from Pipergota, thirteen from Bhuvero, and eleven from Alindra. These villages, perched atop Ratan Mahal’s slopes, provide a tranquil abode amidst nature’s embrace. The Ratnamahl forest not only boasts breathtaking beauty but also shelters these tribal families. The state government’s unwavering commitment to their well-being underscores the importance of healthcare in these remote corners.

This endeavor is emblematic of Mission Indradhanush’s broader success across Dahod district, where a total of 1596 children out of 1852 and 570 pregnant women out of 695 have been successfully vaccinated. To further accommodate mobile populations, special vaccination drives were strategically held during the Gat Holi festivals, leading to the immunization of 43121 children and 2292 pregnant women.

Since its inception in 2014, Mission Indradhanush has stood as a beacon of hope, with a staggering 9,16,937 children and 2,14,026 pregnant women receiving vaccinations across Gujarat. Continuously monitored by Chief Minister Shri Bhupendrabhai Patel and Health Minister Shri Rishikeshbhai Patel, this mission remains resolute in its mission to provide comprehensive healthcare to every corner of the state.