Over 19.85 lakh children set to get Pulse Polio dose in J&K: Dr. Poonam Sethi

Jammu : A media sensitization meeting regarding the upcoming National Immunization Day (NID) 2025 – Pulse Polio Campaign was Tuesday held here at Government Hospital Gandhi Nagar to mobilize media support and ensure widespread public awareness.
Director Family Welfare MCH & Immunization J&K, Dr. Poonam Sethi addressed the media in the presence of Dr. Narinder Bhutiyal, Medical Superintendent GHGN; Dr. Shahid Hussain, State Immunization Officer J&K; Dr. Azmat Khan, SMO WHO–NPSN Jammu; Rakesh Sharma, State Mass Media & Information Officer J&K and Parshotam Kumar, State Cold Chain Officer J&K.
Speaking to the media persons, Dr. Poonam Sethi informed that National Immunization Day (Pulse Polio Campaign) 2025 would be observed on December 21, 2025, followed by house-to-house activities on Dec 22 and Dec 23 to ensure that no child is missed. She shared key operational details, stating that a total of 19,85,736 children (0–5 years) are targeted across Jammu & Kashmir for immunization against Polio. “For successful implementation, 10,993 booths and 248 transit points have been established across the UT,” she informed and added that 518 mobile teams have also been deployed to conduct the drive.
The Director appealed to the media fraternity to disseminate the message extensively so that every eligible child receives two drops of Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV) and the goal of a polio-free J&K is sustained.
State Immunization Officer, Dr. Shahid Hussain elaborated on the availability of OPV and assured that cold chain systems are fully functional and strictly monitored to maintain vaccine potency throughout the campaign.
Dr. Azmat Khan, (WHO–NPSN Jammu) briefed media persons about micro-planning, monitoring and supervision mechanisms, highlighting the role of field supervision to ensure quality implementation and zero missed children.
Rakesh Sharma, State Mass Media & Information Officer outlined the IEC/BCC activities planned by the department and acknowledged the proactive support of the Information Department in strengthening public outreach and awareness.
In her concluding remarks, Dr. Poonam Sethi appealed to parents and community members to enthusiastically participate in the campaign to ensure a healthy future for children and the Nation.
The Family Welfare MCH & Immunization Department reiterated its commitment to protecting every child from polio and sought continued cooperation from the media to make NID 2025 a resounding success.