Scheme for ASHA workers to be launched soon

The ASHA Nirogi Maharashtra initiative is making significant progress, with officials confirming that the project, aimed at improving public healthcare and strengthening grassroots health services, will be launched soon.

- Vicky Pathare

PUNE:

Maharashtra has as many as 63,000 ASHA workers actively working in the state. The program aims to equip them with advanced training, digital resources, and innovative learning platforms.

They serve as the backbone of the public health system, assisting in maternal and child health, immunization, disease prevention, and health awareness programmes. However, challenges such as limited training, lack of recognition, and resource constraints often hinder their effectiveness, said the officials.

The program is being implemented in collaboration with the State IEC Bureau, Maharashtra, and the IICARE Foundation.

Dr Kailas Baviskar, deputy director of health services, IEC Bureau, said, "For capacity building and skill development, ASHA workers will receive structured training on maternal health, child health, immunization, TB prevention, and general health promotion through quarterly workshops and refresher courses."