Kargil, December 21: Chairman and Chief Executive Councillor, LAHDC Kargil, Dr. Mohd Jaffer Akhoon, today kick-started the Intensified Pulse Polio Immunization (IPPI) Programme, under which Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV) is being administered to all children below five years of age on National Immunization Days (NIDs).
On the occasion, Additional Deputy Commissioner/Joint Director Information, Imteeaz Kacho; Chief Medical Officer Kargil, Dr. Liyakat Ali; Deputy CMO Kargil, Dr. Fatima Banoo; State Leprosy Officer Kargil, Dr. Fatima Nissa; Block Medical Officer Kargil, Dr. Jalil; District Programme Manager, Mohd Ishaq, along with polio beneficiaries, their parents, and paramedical staff, were present.
Speaking on the occasion, the CEC lauded the medical fraternity for playing a pivotal role in eradicating polio from India. He congratulated all stakeholders and said that without the collective and coordinated efforts of health workers, administration, and the community, achieving the polio-free status would not have been possible. He added that vaccination drives are continuing as a precautionary measure to ensure sustained immunity.
Dr. Mohd Jaffer Akhoon also appreciated the efforts of the Health Department Kargil for providing essential medical facilities to people residing in far-flung areas like Itchoo, stating that witnessing such healthcare outreach in remote regions is highly satisfactory.
He further emphasized that health and education remain top priorities of LAHDC Kargil. Several developmental works aimed at strengthening the healthcare sector have already been completed, while many more are in the pipeline. The CEC appealed to the public to participate in large numbers and ensure that all eligible children receive the polio vaccination.
ADC Kargil Imteeaz Kacho also commended the dedication of paramedical staff and acknowledged their tireless efforts in achieving and sustaining India’s polio-free status. He assured full support from the District Administration to the Health Department at all levels.
Deputy CMO Dr. Fatima Banoo presented a detailed block-wise plan and overview of the programme. As per the data shared, the total number of beneficiaries (0–5 years) is 12,495, with 386 IPPI booths, 1,544 P-teams and 76 supervisors, 2 mobile teams, 13,742 vaccines required, and 688 vials allocated for the drive.
