PASIGHAT, 29 Jun: Joining the nationwide health initiative aimed at eradicating polio, the East Siang District Health Society launched the Intensive Pulse Polio Immunisation (IPPI) campaign on 28 June at the urban primary health centre (UPHC) in Banskata.

The launch programme was held in the presence of PMC Chief Councillor Tagom Padung, along with several key officials and community leaders. The event was attended by Adi Bane Ane Kebang (ABAK) president M Megu Perme, DMO Dr Yagling Perme, DRCHO Dr Nidak Angu, and District Epidemiologist Dr Kentaii Pangkam.

Representatives from the district programme management unit, various vertical programme officers, and UPHC staff were also present on the occasion.

The campaign aims to eradicate polio by administering two oral drops of the oral polio vaccine (OPV) to all children below five years of age.

The campaign is being implemented across the entire district, with health teams actively carrying out the drive in Pasighat, Mebo, and Ruksin subdivisions.

Local health authorities have appealed to all parents and guardians to visit their nearest immunisation booths and ensure that no child is left unprotected.

AR Bn conducts polio immunisation drive 

Meanwhile, the Khonsa Battalion of the Assam Rifles organised a sub-national polio immunisation drive at the unit hospital here in Tirap district on Sunday.

The initiative was undertaken in support of the Government of India’s mission to eradicate poliomyelitis by ensuring that every eligible child receives the oral polio vaccine (OPV).

The immunisation drive witnessed participation of the families of Assam Rifles personnel, the Indian Army, CRPF, and members of the local community. A total of 47 children were administered the OPV, including 33 children from Assam Rifles families, one child each from the Indian Army and CRPF families, and 12 children from the local civilian population. (DIPROs)