Origin: Launched in 2005 under the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) to strengthen grassroots healthcare in rural areas.
Who Are ASHAs: Female volunteers from local communities trained to promote health awareness and access to healthcare services.
Functions:
- Maternal and child healthcare.
- Immunization drives.
- Health education on sanitation, hygiene, and nutrition.
- Support under national health programs like tuberculosis and family planning.
Role of ASHAs in Developing India:
Improving Maternal and Child Health: Promoting institutional deliveries and antenatal care has reduced maternal and infant mortality rates.
E.g.: Institutional delivery rate increased from 47% (2007) to 79% (2022).
Enhancing Immunization Rates: Mobilizing communities to participate in vaccination programs has improved child immunization rates.
Disease Surveillance: Reporting outbreaks and promoting early diagnosis under programs like Revised National Tuberculosis Control.
Advocacy and Behaviour Change: Creating awareness of sanitation, nutrition, and lifestyle diseases has led to improved public health behaviour.
Bridging Healthcare Gaps: Acting as a liaison between rural communities and public health facilities.
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