Jhabua health centres exposed: Collector finds gaps in child vaccinations and maternal care

Collector Neha Meena conducted an unannounced visit to health facilities in Jhabua, Madhya Pradesh, this week. She inspected Village Health, Sanitation and Nutrition Day (VHSND) sessions at Vadlipada and Kharakui Anganwadi centres, uncovering several shortcomings in service delivery.

At Vadlipada, Meena reviewed records for antenatal care (ANC) registrations, vaccination coverage, and monitoring of high-risk pregnancies. She found that only two of the 24 children due for vaccination had received their shots. Among 146 pregnant women tracked, 25 were classified as high-risk, while five of the 22 newly registered women had missed ANC appointments.

The collector also examined online entries on the U-WIN and Nutrition Tracker systems. After tasting meals provided to children, she instructed staff to ensure proper food distribution. She criticised ASHA workers for failing to mobilise communities on time.

During her visit to Kharakui Anganwadi centre, Meena noted its poor structural condition. She ordered officials to relocate the facility to a rented, safer building without delay. Before leaving, she directed the Chief Medical and Health Officer to submit a full report on the issues observed.

The inspection highlighted gaps in vaccination coverage, ANC follow-ups, and infrastructure at local health centres. Officials must now address these concerns, with detailed reports expected soon. The collector's directives aim to improve service quality for pregnant women and young children in the district.