Kathua Pulse Polio Drive: DC Rajesh Sharma Targets 92,000 Children for 100% Immunization Coverage

KATHUA, DECEMBER 21, 2025: Deputy Commissioner Kathua, Rajesh Sharma, officially launched the district-wide Pulse Polio Immunization Programme today at the Government Mahatma Gandhi Child and Maternity Hospital. Initiating the three-day health drive by administering oral drops to toddlers, the DC revealed that the district has set an ambitious target to immunize approximately 92,000 children under the age of five.

To ensure seamless execution, the administration has made 580 institutional booths operational across the district for the first day, followed by an intensive door-to-door vaccination campaign scheduled for December 22 and 23. This multi-layered approach is designed to catch any children who might be missed during the initial booth-based activity, ensuring no child is left behind.

The Deputy Commissioner emphasized that the success of the drive relies on the tireless efforts of a dedicated workforce, including ASHA workers, Anganwadi staff, and specialized mobile and transit teams, with a particular focus on high-risk and remote areas.

Accompanied by ADC Vishavjeet Singh and Chief Medical Officer Dr. Vijay Raina, the DC issued a heartfelt appeal to parents and guardians to proactively visit their nearest centers.

He stressed that community participation is the cornerstone of maintaining a polio-free society, urging citizens to fully cooperate with the visiting health teams over the coming days to safeguard the health and future of the district’s children.