Celebrating Infant Protection Day 2024- Importance, History, and Global Initiatives

November 7 is the annual celebration of Infant Protection Day. Protecting newborns from health hazards and other physical or emotional problems is the main focus of this significant day. It highlights how important it is to provide a safe environment in addition to the care and support that communities and families can provide. In order to improve the lives of newborns and young children, the day encourages everyone, individuals, families, and communities to participate in campaigns and take proactive measures. We can guarantee that every child has the chance to develop in a caring and secure environment by increasing knowledge and encouraging healthy habits.

History of Infant Protection Day

Infant Protection Day is a global observance dedicated to promoting the health and safety of infants and young children. In the 20th century, the United States took significant steps to reduce infant mortality rates, improve sanitation, and ensure access to clean drinking water. Various European nations collaborated to raise awareness about childcare services.

As newborns are particularly vulnerable to diseases, these countries and the US introduced 7th November as Infant Protection Day. The day is marked by international initiatives aimed at child protection and welfare. Various national and global organizations join forces to run awareness campaigns that address issues like child abuse and enhance living conditions for infants. They ensure equal access to healthcare for children.

Importance of Infant Protection Day: Awareness for Nurturing Health of the Infants

• Protecting Future Generations: Infants are the future citizens. Safeguarding their well-being contributes to building a stronger nation.
• Critical Development Stages: Infancy is crucial for important physical developments, such as hearing, communication, and vision. Proper care during this time is crucial for their growth.
• Vaccination Advocacy: This day emphasises the importance of vaccinating infants to shield them from infections and diseases.
• Healthcare System Improvement: Infant Protection Day highlights the need for high-quality healthcare systems globally to support infant health.
• Raising Awareness: The observance aims to inform the public about the nurturing and protection that infants need for a healthy start in life.

Major causes of infant mortality

Major Highlights of Child Health Awareness 2024

Child health awareness campaigns are more crucial than ever today. The Child Health Awareness programs in 2024 will focus on-

Nutrition- Proper nutrition is highly important for the growth and development of infants. The campaigns will be majorly focused on educating parents about breastfeeding, solid foods, and ensuring a balanced diet rich for infants.

Vaccinations- Immunization is one of the most potential ways for preventing serious diseases in infants. Through the program health authorities will highlight the importance of following vaccination schedules and educating parents on the vaccination benefits.

Mental Health- The mental well-being of both infants and parents is essential. On the Child health awareness campaigns 2024 support groups and educational programs will address postpartum depression. They will also address topics like parenting stress and the importance of nurturing environments for infants.

Government Schemes for Infant Protection and Maternal Health in India

• Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY)

This is a centrally-sponsored scheme that combines cash assistance with delivery and post-delivery care. It aims to lower maternal and infant mortality rates by encouraging pregnant women to opt for institutional deliveries.

• Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram (JSSK)

JSSK was introduced to eliminate out-of-pocket expenses for pregnant women and sick infants seeking treatment in public health facilities. It offers free and cashless services for normal deliveries, caesarean sections, and care for sick newborns (up to 30 days old) at government health institutions in both rural and urban areas.

• Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY)

This maternity benefit program provides a cash incentive of ₹5,000 in three instalments. The amount is transferred directly to the bank or post office accounts of pregnant women and lactating mothers.

• Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyaan

This initiative ensures fixed-day access to comprehensive and quality antenatal care for all pregnant women. This care is provided universally on the 9th of every month.

• LaQshya

The program is designed to enhance the quality of labour rooms in the country. It covers over 2,100 health facilities including medical institutes.

• Universal Immunization Programme (UIP)

UIP is aimed at providing vaccinations to children against life-threatening illnesses like tuberculosis and diphtheria. Vaccinations are also provided for pertussis, polio, tetanus, hepatitis B, measles, rubella, pneumonia, and meningitis under this program.

• Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK)

The scheme is designed for health screening and early detection of birth defects and diseases. RBSK targets children between the ages of 0 to 18 years. It provides services for deficiencies, developmental delays, and early interventions.

Infant Protection Day 2024 will raise awareness about protecting infants which is important for securing the nation's future. The day is also important from the aspect of promoting the development of health infrastructure in the country.