Jaipur. The Jaipur First health administration is set to observe National Newborn Week from November 15 to 21, 2026, with a primary focus on enhancing infant survival rates and long-term health outcomes. This year, the campaign operates under the theme of investing in regular follow-up care to protect the potential of every newborn. The initiative aims to strengthen the continuum of care for infants discharged from specialized units across the district.
Chief Medical and Health Officer Dr. Ravi Shekhawat has directed all medical facility heads to prioritize high-quality neonatal care and systematic health monitoring throughout the week. The campaign emphasizes the importance of timely medical interventions and consistent follow-up sessions to ensure that infants receive the necessary support during their most vulnerable developmental stages.
District Reproductive and Child Health Officer Dr. Mahesh Chaudhary highlighted that the program will specifically target infants discharged from SNCU, NICU, and NBSU facilities. Specialized attention will be directed toward screening for retinopathy of prematurity, hearing assessments, and developmental monitoring for preterm babies. These efforts are designed to identify potential health complications early and provide necessary medical support.
To bolster these efforts, the department is conducting intensive training for medical officers, community health officers, and auxiliary nurse midwives. Staff will be educated on recognizing danger signs in newborns, facilitating timely referrals, and promoting essential practices such as Kangaroo Mother Care and optimal breastfeeding techniques. These sessions aim to empower frontline workers to provide comprehensive guidance to families.
Community engagement remains a cornerstone of the initiative, with health awareness sessions planned at Ayushman Arogya Mandirs and through village health committee meetings. Officials will also utilize mobile health teams to conduct screenings and coordinate essential services for infants in remote areas. The health department urges parents to prioritize routine check-ups and vaccinations, emphasizing that proactive care is the foundation of a healthy childhood.