Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Sunday launched the state-level Intensified Pulse Polio Campaign at Kamla Nehru Hospital in Shimla on the occasion of National Immunization Day, underlining the state government’s firm resolve to protect children from preventable diseases and sustain Himachal Pradesh’s polio-free status. The Chief Minister personally administered polio drops to young children, marking the beginning of the statewide drive.
Highlighting the importance of the campaign, the Chief Minister said that Pulse Polio vaccination remains one of the most effective public health interventions to safeguard children from lifelong disability. He noted that ensuring every child receives polio drops is not just a health responsibility but a collective social commitment. The campaign, he said, reflects the government’s sensitivity towards child health and its focus on preventive healthcare.
Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu appreciated the coordinated efforts of doctors, anganwadi workers, ASHA workers, ANMs, Panchayati Raj institutions, school teachers and the district administration, stating that their dedication at the grassroots level has played a crucial role in the successful implementation of immunization programmes across the state. He emphasized that such teamwork ensures that no child is left out, especially in remote and difficult areas.
Under the Intensified Pulse Polio Campaign, nearly six lakh children in the age group of zero to five years will be administered polio drops across Himachal Pradesh. For this purpose, 5,793 polio booths have been set up throughout the state, supported by 11,706 vaccination teams to ensure smooth and wide coverage. Special attention is being given to migrant families, high-risk zones and hard-to-reach areas.
The Chief Minister informed that mop-up days would be observed on December 22 and 23, during which door-to-door visits would be conducted to cover any missed children. He said all necessary arrangements, including adequate vaccine supply, cold-chain equipment and logistical support, have already been ensured in all districts to make the campaign effective and safe.
While speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister reiterated that strengthening the healthcare system remains a top priority of the state government. He announced that an Advanced Pediatric Centre would be established at the Atal Institute of Medical Super Specialities, Chamiyana, to provide world-class treatment facilities for children with modern infrastructure. He also announced the introduction of special OPD consultation slots for senior citizens above 70 years of age to ensure timely and hassle-free treatment.
Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said the government is continuously upgrading health services from primary health centres to medical colleges, with a strong focus on modern technology and infrastructure. He said vacant posts in the health department are being filled in a phased manner to improve service delivery.
Highlighting major reforms, the Chief Minister said that robotic surgery has been introduced at AIMSS Chamiyana in Shimla and Tanda Medical College in Kangra, calling it a historic step in the state’s healthcare journey. Old and outdated machines are being replaced across medical colleges and civil hospitals, with nearly Rs. 3,000 crore being spent on installing MRI, CT scan and X-ray machines. He added that healthcare services in Himachal Pradesh are being upgraded on the lines of AIIMS Delhi, with modern trauma centres established to provide advanced medical care.
During his visit, the Chief Minister also interacted with patients and their attendants at Kamla Nehru Hospital and issued necessary directions to the concerned officers to further improve patient facilities.
Health Minister Dr. (Col.) Dhani Ram Shandil, MLA Harish Janartha, Secretary Sandeep Kadam, Managing Director NHM Pradeep Thakur, Director Health Dr. Gopal Beri, Director Health Education Dr. Rakesh Sharma and other senior officers were present on the occasion.
