New Delhi: Keeping the Government of India’s efforts towards ‘Antyodaya’,” empowering the last-mile person, aligning with the efforts of many individuals and organisations when it comes to public health. Dr Ashok Babu, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), in his address at the ‘Power of the Collective’ said, “We are indeed a country that believes in Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikaas. It has always been our objective to reach every citizen – the most vulnerable from the remotest corners of the country – and secure their health and well-being. Being a part of this Conclave reaffirms my faith in those who have tirelessly worked to mitigate COVID-19 and am sure will continue to support us even beyond the pandemic.”
The conclave showcased innovative interventions of the MoHFW and state health departments which were deployed with support from partner organisations including USAID to increase COVID-19 vaccination coverage in India. The conclave also saw the attendance of Dr Manohar Agnani, Former Additional Secretary, MoHFW; Patricia A Lacina, Deputy Chief of Mission, US Embassy; Dr Seth Berkley, CEO, Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance; Dr Veena Dhawan, Additional Commissioner (immunisation), MoHFW; Sangita Patel, Director, Health Office, USAID; Dr Sanjay Kapur, Managing Director, John Snow India, among other dignitaries. The conclave witnessed participation from 33 state health departments. Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) and John Snow India, supported by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) co-hosted the event. The conclave also brought together stakeholders to share reflections about the COVID-19 vaccination programme and its implications to further strengthen health systems.
“Our whole-of-society approach is well-reflected in many of the initiatives which were showcased today at the conclave. Vulnerable groups, be it the transgender community or the elderly, need our support. I congratulate the state immunisation officers and COVID-19 warriors who have persevered and ensured vaccines reach the last mile,” said Dr Babu. The conclave featured a photo exhibition showcasing the many innovative, disruptive ways in which India ensured vaccination at the last mile and a felicitation ceremony to recognize immunisation officials from states, COVID-19 warriors at the grassroots supporting the vaccination efforts and healthcare workers. A compendium capturing best practices from COVID-19 vaccination was also launched by Dr Babu and other dignitaries.
“Thanks to workers such as yourselves, India’s resounding success in administering over 2.2 billion doses of COVID-19 vaccination doses is an example of what strong political will, innovation, commitment, partnerships, and technological expertise can achieve, especially in moments of crisis. It is rewarding to see India’s achievements and contributions receive global acknowledgement for bringing relief to the world by supplying essential drugs, commodities, and vaccines to over 150 countries during the pandemic. Since the outbreak of the pandemic, the United States has supported the Government of India’s battle against the pandemic,” said Lacina.
“We are proud to have supported the MoHFW in its endeavours to increase vaccine coverage for the vulnerable in India. As implementation partners of USAID, we have been deeply committed to and have had the privilege of engaging grassroots organizations to ensure vaccines reach the last mile,” said Dr Kapur.
The meetings and panel discussions at the conclave saw participation from a range of representatives – from the Health Ministry and international organisations like USAID, WHO, John Snow India, UNICEF, GAVI,World Bank and UNDP among others.