Maharashtra: Health Department Launches “Vatsalya” Initiative for Maternal and Child Health Improvement

Pune, 26th January 2024: The Public Health Department of Maharashtra State has initiated the “Vatsalya” program aimed at improving the health of pregnant women and children up to two years of age. This scheme, designed to enhance the accessibility of health services for pregnant women, postnatal mothers, and children up to the age of two, has garnered attention and received official approval.

During his statewide tour, Health Minister Tanaji Sawant discussed the challenges faced by pregnant women, leading to the introduction of the “Vatsalya” program. The initiative is set to be implemented across the state, focusing on the effective management of essential health services for pregnant and postnatal women, as well as infants.

The “Vatsalya” program, recently launched, aims to manage and supervise all positive health outcomes for pregnant women and infants up to the age of two. The comprehensive program encompasses health directives for expectant mothers and postnatal care, ensuring essential health services are provided to beneficiaries adhering to vital health benchmarks.

Under the program, prenatal and postnatal care, along with comprehensive health guidance, will be made available to pregnant women and infants up to two years of age. The initiative also addresses the significant concern of low birth weight and congenital anomalies in infants. Through “Vatsalya,” efforts will be made to reduce these health risks and provide timely intervention.

The program encompasses regular health check-ups for pregnant women, family planning consultations for couples, counselling for couples not utilizing family planning methods, and necessary treatment or counselling for any identified health risks in mothers or infants. The “Vatsalya” initiative, through systematic health assessments, aims to identify and address health challenges, contributing to the overall well-being of mothers and infants.

Health Minister Tanaji Sawant expressed his commitment to the success of the program, emphasizing its role in reducing maternal and child mortality rates. The program’s launch follows a government decision to prioritize maternal and child health, reinforcing the government’s dedication to public health improvements.