Mission Indradhanush: A Magic Wand of Our Frontline Health Soldiers

Abstract

Mission Indradhanush was launched by the Union Health Minister, J. P. Nanda on 25^th December 2014 with the aim to immunize all children against seven vaccine preventable diseases, namely diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, polio, tuberculosis, measles and hepatitis B by the year 2020. In addition to this, vaccines for Japanese encephalitis (JE) and Haemophilus influenzae type B (HIB) are also being provided in selected states. Mission Indradhanush consists of special immunization drives that are driven by the accredited social health activists (ASHAs), auxiliary nurse midwives (ANMs), and Anganwadi workers (AWWs). For the mission to be a success, their role is paramount.