The Jharkhand chapter of the National Health Mission (NHM) has launched a significant initiative called ‘Umang Diwas’. This program, beginning on the first Saturday of every month, aims to foster an adolescent healthy lifestyle among young people aged 10 to 19 years across all Ayushman Arogya Mandirs in the state. Consequently, it represents a proactive step towards promoting preventive healthcare and well-being for a crucial demographic. [8]
Encouraging an Adolescent Healthy Lifestyle
Adolescence marks a pivotal phase in life, shaping future health outcomes. Therefore, timely guidance empowers teenagers to make informed decisions and embrace healthier habits. NHM Mission Director Sashi Prakash Jha emphasizes that prevention is always better than cure, highlighting the program’s foundational philosophy. This initiative specifically targets key health challenges prevalent among adolescents, including concerns such as mental health issues, nutritional deficiencies, and substance misuse. [3, 8]
Moreover, the ‘Umang Diwas’ initiative is not a standalone effort but aligns with broader national programs like the Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram (RKSK). RKSK, launched in 2014, significantly expanded the scope of adolescent health programming in India. Initially focusing on sexual and reproductive health, it now encompasses nutrition, injuries, violence, non-communicable diseases, mental health, and substance misuse. The program champions a health promotion approach, reaching adolescents within their communities and schools. [3, 9]
Community Engagement and Program Implementation
The success of ‘Umang Diwas’ heavily relies on robust community-level health initiatives. Notably, Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs), Anganwadi workers, Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANMs), and adolescents themselves play vital roles in this implementation. These frontline workers offer crucial support and guidance directly within communities. Furthermore, state-level consultations have been convened, involving officials and partners like UNICEF, to refine preparation strategies, enhance awareness, and ensure effective coordination. [4, 8]
These consultations also address rising concerns among youth such as suicidal tendencies, mobile addiction, child marriage, and teenage pregnancy, advocating for open dialogue and counselling. Experts stress the importance of regular health screenings and addressing issues like stress and obesity. The program strives to build life skills among students, helping them navigate complex social issues and make sound decisions for their health and well-being. [4, 14]
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is ‘Umang Diwas’?
A: ‘Umang Diwas’ is an initiative by the National Health Mission (NHM) in Jharkhand, aiming to promote healthy lifestyles among adolescents. It is observed on the first Saturday of every month in all Ayushman Arogya Mandirs across the state. [4, 8]
Q2: Who is the ‘Umang Diwas’ initiative aimed at?
A: The ‘Umang Diwas’ initiative targets adolescents aged 10 to 19 years, encouraging them to adopt healthy behaviors and make informed choices for their well-being. [4, 8]
Q3: What are the key health areas addressed by adolescent health programs in India?
A: Adolescent health programs in India, such as the Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram (RKSK), address a wide range of issues including sexual and reproductive health, nutrition, mental health, non-communicable diseases, injuries and violence, and substance misuse. [3, 5, 9]
References
- NHM plans prog to encourage healthy lifestyle among teens – ETHealthworld
- Adolescent Health – National Health Mission. Retrieved from https://nhm.gov.in/index1.php?lang=1&level=2&sublinkid=1073&lid=547
- Jharkhand to Observe ‘Umang Diwas’ Monthly at Ayushman Arogya Mandirs – Lagatar24.com. Retrieved from https://lagatar24.com/jharkhand-to-observe-umang-diwas-monthly-at-ayushman-arogya-mandirs/
- Adolescent Health – UNFPA India. Retrieved from https://india.unfpa.org/en/areas-work/adolescent-health
- NHM plans prog to encourage healthy lifestyle among adolescents | Ranchi News – Times of India. Retrieved from https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/ranchi/nhm-plans-prog-to-encourage-healthy-lifestyle-among-adolescents/articleshow/112675971.cms
- Adolescent health programming in India: a rapid review – PMC – PubMed Central. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7268808/
- 10to19: Dasra Adolescents Collaborative – In partnership with National Health Mission, Jharkhand. Retrieved from https://www.dasra.org/assets/uploads/Adolescent-Health-in-Jharkhand-Key-Learnings-and-Recommendations.pdf
- Umang – lifeskillsumang – Life Skills Education. Retrieved from https://lifeskillsumang.in/umang
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