Port Blair, Nov. 17: SAANS Campaign starting from Nov. 12, 2023 to Feb. 29, 2024 and National Newborn Week from Nov. 15 to 21, 2023 is being observed by all the Health Facilities in A&N Islands. To mark the event, a State Level programme was organized by the Directorate of Health Services in association with UT Health Mission yesterday at New Pahargaon with an aim to create (Social Awareness & Action to Neutralize Pneumonia Successfully) - SAANS campaign to ensure health system strengthening and community awareness towards childhood pneumonia.

The SAANS campaign will carry the tagline ‘Pneumonia nahi, toh bachpan sahi’, which clearly establishes the positive impact of a Pneumonia Free Childhood and National Newborn Week with the theme of ‘Nurturing Newborn lives through Community - Facility Engagement’.

Smt. Pandi Selvi, Councilor Ward No. 20 who was the chief guest on the occasion emphasised on responsibility of the community in prevention of childhood pneumonia and early newborn care. Dr. Arun Pal Singh, Chief Medical Officer, HWC Garacharma was also present on the occasion.

Earlier, M. Ashwini, Yoga Instructor, HWC Garacharma welcomed the gathering. Dr. S. Sunil Kumar, Chief Medical Officer (NFSG)/ Deputy Director (HE) through a powerpoint presentation briefed the participants about SAANS Campaign and National Newborn Week. The ANMs and all Medical staff of HWC Garacharma, Anganwadi Workers, ASHAs participated in the programme.