Immunization Highlighted in Indian National Telethon

JSI India Executive Director, Dr. Sanjay Kapur, was invited to speak about the importance of immunization on the NDTV Banega Swasth India telethon on October 2, 2019.

The telethon examined “how to build a healthy nation” and highlighted various aspects of health, from sanitation—a significant area of focus for India—to nutrition and strong health systems.

Dr. Kapur highlighted the commitment of the Government of India through the Mission Indradhanush initiative, and shared insights on the importance of immunizing children. He also spoke of JSI’s work with the government to improve immunization coverage, train frontline health workers, strengthen data analysis for use, which includes using the data for evidence to policy.

JSI is also a primary technical assistance partner to the Government of India with the national introduction of the rotavirus vaccine. The government has used a phased approach throughout 2018-2019 to introduce the vaccine across India, with JSI assisting with a learner-centric approach to better empower trainees and enhance immunization skills.

The event was hosted by campaign ambassador and Bollywood Megastar, Amitabh Bachchan, who said “Swachh (clean) India will be incomplete until it transforms into a Swasth (healthy) India. We have to build a nation where children are healthy, and are born without any vulnerabilities to threats to their survival.”

The event was the launch of the NDTV-Dettol Banega Swasth India. Dettol NDTV’s has shifted after a successful five-year Swachhta (cleanliness) Initiative campaign, to move the conversation from Swachh to Swasth (Health). Through Banega Swasth India, they will to spearhead a sustainable five-year campaign linked to health.