In a proactive response to the global theme of World Health Day 2025, “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures,” the 5 Air Force Hospital in Jorhat spearheaded a series of initiatives on April 7, 2025, aimed at enhancing maternal and newborn health. This initiative seeks to inform, educate, and engage the hospital’s community, particularly focusing on the health outcomes for mothers and their newborns.
The hospital organized informative lectures specifically for unit Sanginis, targeting women of childbearing age. These sessions underscored the significance of regular antenatal checkups, postpartum care for newborns, and the importance of proper nutrition during lactation. By empowering women with essential knowledge about healthy behaviors during pregnancy, the hospital addressed critical gaps in maternal and newborn survival, aligning with the World Health Organization’s year-long campaign that commenced on World Health Day.
Among the event’s prominent features was the unveiling of a new child health record book. This initiative aims to facilitate better tracking and management of children’s health milestones. In a celebration of pediatric care, the hospital also inaugurated a new playroom within its pediatric ward, designed to create a nurturing and cheerful atmosphere for young patients. The playroom, decorated with vibrant murals of popular cartoon characters such as Winnie the Pooh, is equipped with swings, slides, and an assortment of toys to promote the emotional well-being of children receiving care.
The event was marked by the participation of Mrs. Deepika Kinra, President of the Air Force Wives Welfare Association (AFWWA) (Local), who officiated the launch of the playroom and the child health record book. In attendance were medical professionals, air force personnel, and families, all reflecting a unified commitment to enhancing healthcare for women and children.
These initiatives arrive at a crucial moment, given recent data from UNICEF indicating that only 58% of pregnant women in South Asia—India included—receive the recommended minimum of four antenatal care visits. In response, the WHO is advocating for at least eight visits to reduce perinatal mortality rates and improve maternal care. The efforts made by 5 Air Force Hospital highlight the critical need for programs that address these issues, particularly in areas facing high maternal mortality rates. This commitment contributes to the larger global movement aimed at fostering healthier families and communities.
Established in 1959 and located in Nowsolia Gaon, Jorhat, 5 Air Force Hospital remains a vital component of healthcare for the air force community in the region, continuously building on its legacy of service through meaningful celebrations such as World Health Day 2025.
