RURAL HEALTH STATISTICS 2020-21 January 25, 2023 at 5:24:40 AM Rural Health, National Health Mission Each Community Health Centre (CHC) serves a population of 80000 - 120000. Under the National Health Mission, a CHC requires to be manned by 4 medical specialists: surgeon, physician, obstetrician/gynaecologist, paediatrician; along with paramedical staff. As per the RURAL HEALTH STATISTICS 2020-21 report, there is a shortfall of 83.2% surgeons, 81.6% paediatricians, 79.1% physicians and 74.2% obstetricians and gynaecologists. Overall, there is a shortfall of 79.9% specialists at the CHCs as compared to the requirement for existing CHCs with 67.8% of the sanctioned posts remaining vacant. The shortfall (which excludes the existing surplus in some of the States) in the posts of Health Worker (Female) / Auxillary Nurse Midwife is 2.9% of the total requirement as per the norm of one HW(F) / ANM per Sub Centre and PHC (Primary Health Centre). Previous Next

Public Health Daily News Snippets WHO Bulletin Releases Special Edition on Traditional Medicine Ahead of Global Summit The WHO Bulletin published its first special issue on traditional medicine since 1977, featuring research and policy analyses. This release precedes the 2nd WHO Global Summit on Traditional Medicine scheduled for December 2025 in New Delhi. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Global Health, Traditional Medicine Integration Read More Global Summit in Geneva Intensified Efforts to Curb Toxic Mercury Pollution A major international conference was held in Geneva from 3rd to 7th November 2025 to strengthen the global fight against mercury pollution . Delegates collaborated to accelerate the phase-out of this toxic metal from products and industrial processes, aiming to protect human health and the environment. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : United Nations Environmental Health, International Policy Read More Fitness & Nation-Building: Insights from the National Fitness & Wellness Conclave 2025 The first-ever National Fitness & Wellness Conclave 2025 in Mumbai brought together policymakers, athletes, and industry leaders to reaffirm one message: India’s progress towards becoming a Viksit Bharat by 2047 depends on how seriously we take fitness today. With icons from sports and cinema joining the conversation, the conclave highlighted fitness as both a cultural shift and a public health necessity. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : Press Information Bureau (PIB) Fit India Movement, Physical Activity, Non-Communicable Diseases, Viksit Bharat Read More Global Evidence Review of the Inequality- Pandemic Cycle: UNAIDS report The UNAIDS established the “Global Council on Inequality, AIDS and Pandemic ” in 2023. Its report “Breaking the inequality-pandemic cycle ” released in November 2025 is based on evidence from more than 1500 peer-reviewed literature and reports from government agencies and research institutions across multiple pandemics and its own empirical studies over the past 2 years. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), 2025 Pandemic preparedness, Social inequality, Global Health Read More Decomposition Analysis of Factors Driving Global Maternal Mortality Reduction A new Lancet Global Health paper highlights evidence that combining family planning with quality maternity services has driven a 41% global decline in maternal deaths since 2000. The study shows how contraception alone prevented more than 77,000 maternal deaths in 2023. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : The Lancet Global Health Maternal Health, Reproductive & Sexual Health, Gender Equality, Family Planning, Declining Global Maternal Mortality Read More Delhi’s Air Quality Sees Noticeable Improvement: CAQM 2025 Report The 2025 update from the C ommission for A ir Q uality M anagement (CAQM ) highlights significant enhancements in Delhi's air quality and a marked reduction in stubble-burning incidents in nearby states. The report offers data-backed evidence of collaborative efforts to reduce pollution through the use of cleaner fuels, improved waste management, and more stringent regulatory measures. Published on : Tuesday, November 18, 2025 Source : Press Information Bureau, New Delhi Air Pollution, Environmental Health, Public Health Policy Read More Genomic Collaboration for a Safer Future: India and Italy Unite for Pandemic Preparedness The International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) round table in New Delhi emphasized the power of genomic research and collaboration in strengthening pandemic preparedness. Experts called for sustained global surveillance and rapid translation of genomic data to safeguard public health. Published on : Friday, November 14, 2025 Source : Press Information Bureau, New Delhi Genomic Surveillance, Pandemic Readiness Read More WHO Unveils Global Agenda to Strengthen Paediatric Clinical Trials The World Health Organization has unveiled a new global research agenda to close gaps in evidence on child health. It prioritizes equitable, high-impact paediatric trials to ensure that treatments for children are safe, effective, and grounded in sound science. Published on : Friday, November 14, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Health Research, Pediatric Health, Clinical Trials Read More WHO refutes Tylenol-Autism Link: Urges Evidence-Based Care A statement by the current US President, which linked Tylenol use during pregnancy to autism, prompted an immediate response from the World Health Organization. The WHO clarified that no scientific evidence supports this claim and urged reliance on medical guidance. Published on : Friday, November 14, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Maternal and Child Health, Health Communication, Global Health Governance Read More 2025 Lancet Countdown Report on Climate Change and Health Impacts of climate inaction have led to a 23% increase in heat-related deaths since the 1990s. Food insecurity affected 124 million more people due to extreme weather in 2023, with losses reaching $1.35 trillion. Addressing climate change has prevented 160,000 premature deaths from coal pollution and supported 16 million jobs in renewable energy. With COP30 ahead, WHO, along with member states, plans to emphasize climate action and a swift transition away from fossil fuels. Published on : Friday, November 7, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Climate change, food insecurity, Sustainability Read More WHO Introduces New Global Framework to Enhance National Health Emergency Response The World Health Organization has unveiled a new global guide, the National Health Emergency Alert and Response Framework, to bolster countries' readiness for health crises. Developed from lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic, it provides a standardized approach for managing emergencies. Published on : Friday, November 7, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Global Health Security, Emergency Preparedness Read More Training Modules to Strengthen Chemical Emergency Preparedness and Response in India The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has introduced three specialized training modules to enhance India’s capacity for managing chemical emergencies. This initiative aims to build a skilled, coordinated response system across healthcare and disaster management sectors. 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NGT and UPPCB row over Ganga Water Quality Concerns at Maha Kumbh 2025 NGT and UPPCB row over Ganga Water Quality Concerns at Maha Kumbh 2025 Content Editor: PHC Editor February 27, 2025 National Green Tribunal Ganga water quality, NGT report, Maha Kumbh, CPCB, faecal coliform A recent National Green Tribunal report from Uttar Pradesh has raised alarm bells over the Ganga’s water quality ahead of the Maha Kumbh Mela. Findings reveal that the river water fails to meet the safety standards established by the C entral P ollution C ontrol B oard, with exceptionally high levels of faecal coliform bacteria detected. While some parameters remain within acceptable limits, the elevated bacterial contamination poses significant health risks for devotees and participants. The report urges authorities to adopt stringent remedial measures and continuous monitoring to ensure safe water conditions during the mega event. Experts emphasize the need for immediate pollution control interventions to restore the river’s ecological balance and protect public health.

Older clade of Avian Influenza (H5N1) wreaks havoc in Cambodia Older clade of Avian Influenza (H5N1) wreaks havoc in Cambodia Content Editor : Dr. Prachi Goswami December 7, 2023 WHO - Disease Outbreak News Infectious Disease, H5N1, Avian Influenza The Cambodian Health Ministry Reported two cases of avian influenza in Kampot Province in late November, from the same village (but most likely no human-to-human transmission). The first case, a 21-year old woman died while the second case, a 4-year old girl is being treated at the hospital. Genetic sequencing suggested that the older Asian clade - 2.3.2.1c, which has been circulating in the country’s poultry 2013-14 for over a decade is similar the present one spreading globally in wild birds and poultry and it's highly pathogenic. The ministry launched an investigation to look for more cases, distribute oseltamivir to people at risk.

Teleophthalmology: The environmental and economic impact Content Editor: Dr. Manu Goel April 17, 2024 at 12:30:00 PM Teleophthalmology, Telemedicine, Carbon Emissions, Research findings A study conducted by the LV Prasad Eye Institute at Hyderabad, Telangana assessed the economic and environmental impact of teleophthalmology services provided by them at their primary (rural) and tertiary (urban) eyecare networks . The findings from the study were as follows - The environmental impact was assessed by the “carbon emissions saved” by various potential transport methods utilized by the patients. The economic impact was calculated by the “potential direct (travel expenses) and indirect (wages lost, food expenses) costs saved” by the patient . Among 173 patients seen at the primary setup, 2.89 kg of CO2 emissions and 80 km of travel were saved per person, while INR 19970 and INR 29100 were saved in direct and indirect costs, respectively. For 151 patients seen at the urban setup, 176.6 kg of CO2 emissions and 1666 km of travel per person were saved, while INR 758870 and INR 347800 were saved in direct and indirect costs, respectively. Thus, the authors called for greater emphasis on telemedicine as an economically and environmentally viable mode of treatment. Click here to read more Previous Next

Vaccination of Pregnant women help reduce infant transmission of SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination of Pregnant women help reduce infant transmission of SARS-CoV-2 Content Editor: Dr. Rajat Sharma April 18, 2023 American Academy of Paediatrics COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2 The incidence rate of positive SARS-Cov-2 test in infants born to mothers infected with SARS-Cov-2 during omicron predominance was 5 times higher than the preceding period. The same period coincide with increase in hospitalisation of infants. The study highlights the importance of preventing SARS-CoV-2 transmission through vaccination of pregnant and postpartum mothers.

World Environment Day focuses on Mission LiFE Content Editor: Dr Nivetha S May 12, 2023 at 5:29:28 PM Environmental day, Climate change World Environment Day 2023 – Mission LiFE This year, on account of World Environment Day on June 5, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change will be celebrating the same highlighting the Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) across the country. The initiatives include: Swachhata Actions by the National Museum of Natural History (NMNH) in collaboration with the National Zoological Park. Mask Making activities, conducted by RMNH , Mysore -NMNH-MOEFCC along with a green pledge. Awareness talks on Water pollution, Save water, the Significance of Marine Ecosystems, and Climate by RGRMNH . The Director , of Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) gave an awareness talk on themes like ‘Save water’ and ‘Say no to plastics’ . ‘Signature campaign’ and ‘Green Pledge’ by NCSCM as a part of a world bank workshop where international delegates shared their experiences on coastal management and sustainable agricultural practices and emphasized the need to live in harmony with nature. Previous Next

MoHFW Refutes Link between Sudden Deaths and COVID-19 Vaccines Content Editor: Dr. Shubham July 16, 2025 at 11:53:41 AM COVID-19 vaccine, AEFI, Sudden Cardiac Deaths India’s Health Ministry has refuted claims linking COVID-19 vaccines to sudden cardiac deaths in young adults, based on extensive research and evidence. Large-scale studies by ICMR and AIIMS , using varied methodologies and analyzing over 300 cases , found that most sudden deaths were due to genetic factors or pre-existing heart conditions , not vaccination. Those who received two doses of the vaccine also had a 49% lower risk of unexplained sudden death than those who did not, according to the AIIMS-ICMR study. Medical experts highlight that myocardial infarction remains the leading cause of death in adults aged 18–45, with rhythm disturbances and structural heart diseases like hypertrophic cardiomyopathy being common contributors in younger people. In response to public concern, Karnataka’s Chief Minister called for further inquiry and made sudden deaths under age 45 a notifiable condition , mandating autopsies to ensure accurate reporting. Health authorities and experts continue to urge the public not to fall for misinformation , reaffirming that India’s COVID-19 vaccines remain safe and are not responsible for sudden cardiac deaths. Previous Next

Maharashtra’s medical college expansion: The challenges Maharashtra’s medical college expansion: The challenges Content Editor: Dr. Anamika August 5, 2024 Social trends Medical college, Medical education, Education, Health coverage Maharashtra's ambitious plan to add ten new medical colleges and 1,000 MBBS seats this year is encountering delays. The National Medical Commission (NMC) has flagged concerns over faculty, infrastructure, and equipment. Hence, only three or four colleges are expected to receive approval soon, with others potentially facing a year-long wait. Issues also include inadequate college buildings, insufficient faculty, a lack of hostels and libraries, and basic attendance tracking systems in other colleges. Click here to read more.

Niti Aayog's Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) is a relatively new metric introduced in 2021 that aims to capture the complex and multifaceted nature of poverty in India Public Health News Analysis Measuring Poverty Beyond the Monetary Metrics: Exploring the Nuances of Niti Aayog's Multi-Dimensional Poverty Index (MPI) Image Credits: Dr. Thamizhmaran Author: Dr. Thamizhmaran. S Updated on : February 15, 2024 Global Health, SDG, Poverty, Poverty indices, MPI MPI offers a valuable complement to traditional income-based poverty measures by capturing the complex interplay of deprivations individuals face simultaneously in health, education, and living standards. Multidimensional Poverty: Individuals experiencing poverty describe their hardship as encompassing far more than just financial limitations. They navigate a web of deprivations affecting health, nutrition, access to basic resources, education, and job quality. Viewing poverty solely through the lens of income risks fails to capture its multidimensional reality. Multidimensional poverty measures offer a more nuanced perspective , considering deprivations across various dimensions. This paints a richer picture of who is affected and reveals the true scope of hardship beyond a single poverty figure. Additionally, it enables disaggregated analysis , highlighting variations in poverty across regions and demographics(1) Global Multidimensional Poverty Index: With the goal of assessing poverty beyond income limitations, the Global Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) was developed in 2010 by the Oxford Poverty & Human Development Initiative (OPHI) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) . The Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) serves as a globally recognized tool for measuring acute multidimensional poverty across more than 100 developing nations. It offers a valuable complement to traditional income-based poverty measures by capturing the complex interplay of deprivations individuals face simultaneously in health, education, and living standards. MPI offers a distinct outlook on poverty by examining deprivations beyond income at the individual level. Individuals experiencing deprivations in at least one-third of the ten weighted indicators included in the global MPI are classified as "MPI poor." Notably, the MPI not only identifies those living in poverty but also measures the intensity of their hardship based on the percentage of deprivations they face.(2) Niti Ayog's MPI: Niti Aayog's Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) is a relatively new metric introduced in 2021 that aims to capture the complex and multifaceted nature of poverty in India. The national MPI model retains ten indicators of the global MPI model, with the addition of two indicators , viz., Maternal Health and Bank accounts in line with national priorities. (Figure 1) Figure 1. showing indicators and their weights of Niti Ayog’s MPI National MPI: A Progress Review 2023 The National Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) Progress Report published in 2023 reveals a drastic reduction in multidimensional poverty between 2015-16 and 2019-21. India's fight against poverty has scored a resounding victory, exceeding expectations and putting the nation firmly on track to achieve the critical Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 1.2: at least halving multidimensional poverty by 2030 . This remarkable feat signifies a 135 million-strong exodus from the clutches of poverty, a testament to the country's unwavering commitment to social and economic upliftment. Rural areas have emerged as the champions of this transformation , showcasing the strongest decline in multidimensional poverty. This targeted approach underscores a conscious effort to bridge the gap and empower traditionally disadvantaged populations. The success story unfolds through crucial indicators : Enhanced nutrition : Hunger pangs are fading, replaced by the promise of improved health and well-being. Educational attainment : Knowledge is spreading its wings, paving the path for a brighter future and increased opportunities. Sanitation access : Hygiene and sanitation standards are rising, creating a healthier and more dignified environment for all. Cleaner cooking fuel : Kitchens are no longer shrouded in harmful smoke, thanks to the adoption of cleaner fuel sources, benefiting both health and environmental sustainability. These improvements are reflected not just in numbers, but also in the intensity of poverty: the average deprivation score among the multidimensionally poor has decreased significantly from 47.14% to 44.39%, highlighting a broader and more profound enhancement in well-being. Variations of MPI at State-level: The battle against poverty is not uniform across the country and differs from one state to the other. Notably, Uttar Pradesh , Bihar , Madhya Pradesh , Odisha , and Rajasthan are leading in this race, witnessing the steepest declines in the number of individuals classified as multidimensionally poor. These states serve as inspiring examples of effective policy implementation and targeted interventions. India's Multidimensional Poverty Reduction Inspires Global Progress India's multidimensional poverty triumph is a beacon of hope, not just for its own citizens but for the entire world. It demonstrates the transformative power of concerted efforts, strategic investments, and an unwavering commitment to leaving no one behind. As the journey towards SDG 1.2 continues, the lessons learned from this remarkable achievement can guide other nations on their own paths to eradicating poverty in all its forms.( 3) MPI – A Mirage? A departure from the singular metric of income, the MPI attempts to portray a subtle image, capturing deprivation across health, education, and living standards. Yet, amid initial applause, whispers of dissent have begun to stir, questioning the index's efficacy as a true measure of poverty. Unearthing Methodological Conflicts: (4) India's MPI Progress: A Call for Continued Improvement in Poverty Measurement Nevertheless, there has been a significant decline in India’s Multidimensional poverty as measured by MPI, concerns regarding the methodology still exists. These reservations, in no way intends to diminish the remarkable progress, underscore the importance of rigorous scrutiny and continual improvement in poverty measurement tools. Headcount Inflation in MPI: Masking Poverty's True Impact? One key concern arises from the deprivation cut-off : experiencing any deprivation in any dimension automatically classifies an individual as "multidimensionally poor." Hence, critics argue that this might potentially lead to overestimating of the headcount, masking the true depth of the poverty's impact. Lack of transparency Adding to the scepticism, is the lack of transparency surrounding the selection and weighting of indicators. This critical factor, determining who falls below the poverty line, remains shrouded in ambiguity, hindering accountability and hence, raises questions about the MPI's fairness and accuracy. Moreover, some critics argue for a stronger emphasis on health, particularly in a public health context, questioning whether the current MPI adequately captures the complexities of health-related deprivations. Data Aggregation Furthermore, concerns exist about the aggregation of data across diverse districts. Critics argue that such broad strokes might unwittingly mask significant regional disparities, obscuring the pockets of persistent poverty within seemingly improved state and national averages. Finally, the reliance on self-reported data introduces a potential layer of uncertainty. While acknowledging the strengths of this approach in capturing lived experiences, robust validation mechanisms are crucial to mitigate the risk of inaccuracies and ensure data integrity. Beyond the Concerns: Unveiling the MPI's Power as a Compass (5) While legitimate worries surround the MPI methodology, dismissing it as an illusion would be a grave misstep. Indeed, its disaggregated data provides invaluable insights, not just in the headline numbers, but in the granular terrain of deprivation across dimensions and districts . This granular map transcends the limitations of traditional income-based measures, transforming poverty from a monolithic shadow into a multi-hued mosaic . MPI Unveils Pockets of Need Imagine this mosaic: not a barren wasteland of uniform poverty, but a landscape where clusters of high health deprivation reveal communities crying out for primary healthcare infrastructure or targeted outreach programs. Clusters of low educational attainment highlight areas in dire need of school initiatives and literacy campaigns. This precision targeting is the MPI's true strength, guiding our interventions and resource allocation like a laser, ensuring no pocket of despair remains unseen or unheard. MPI as Roadmap for Action: Targeting Investments, Maximizing Impact By identifying specific deprivations within geographical areas, the MPI becomes a roadmap for action, guiding investments towards where they are most needed and maximizing their impact. This targeted approach allows us to address the unique challenges faced by different communities, fostering a more equitable and sustainable path towards poverty eradication. Charting a New Course: Refining the Compass of Progress (6) Like a compass in shifting sands, MPI requires continuous calibration. Rigorous critique, as advocated is essential to identify and address methodological shortcomings. The MPI's true value lies not in its headline numbers, but in its potential to catalyze action. It can be a stepping stone, a bridge between academic discourse and concrete policy decisions Public health professionals must leverage its insights to advocate for holistic interventions that address not just income, but the entire web of deprivations that trap communities in poverty's cycle. The MPI, used judiciously, can be a roadmap, not a definitive destination. Refine, Learn, Act, Evolve : Building a Future Free from Poverty The MPI, though imperfect, presents a significant step towards understanding poverty's complexities. Public health professionals and biostatisticians can contribute by: Engaging in rigorous critique: Identifying methodological flaws and advocating for data strengthening and transparency. Emphasizing context: Analyzing the MPI alongside income measures and understanding its limitations in specific scenarios. Using it as a tool, not a target: Focusing on the MPI's potential to guide targeted interventions and policy adjustments, not as a standalone measure of progress. Emphasizing open dialogue, diverse perspectives, and ongoing evolution to enhance the MPI's accuracy and effectiveness. The MPI is not a panacea, but a stepping stone. By acknowledging its limitations and actively improving its methodology, we can ensure that it becomes a valuable instrument for guiding India's journey towards a truly multidimensional vision of poverty reduction and equitable health for all. References: What is Multidimensional Poverty? | MPPN [Internet]. 2016 [cited 2024 Feb 4]. Available from: https://www.mppn.org/multidimensional-poverty/what-is-multidimensional-poverty/ Global Multidimensional Poverty Index | OPHI [Internet]. [cited 2024 Feb 12]. Available from: https://ophi.org.uk/multidimensional-poverty-index/ National Multidimensonal Poverty Index. A Progress Review 2023. Niti Ayog. Government of India [Online]. 2023 (Accessed on 07 Jan 2024). Available from: https://niti.gov.in/sites/default/files/2023-08/India-National-Multidimentional-Poverty-Index-2023.pdf Sen, A. The Multidimensional Poverty Index: A critical appraisal. Journal of Social Policy. 2019. 48(2), 293-322. Joshi, P., & Sahu, P. K. Multidimensional poverty in India: An assessment of the MPI 2019 . Journal of Social Indicators Research. 2021. 154(1), 277-304 Ghosh, A. Multidimensional Poverty Index: A statistical critique. Journal of Quantitative Economics. 2021. 19(1), 1-42. comments debug Comments Rated 0 out of 5 stars. 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