Prataprao Jadhav presides over NIHFW’s 49th Annual Day, highlights strengthening of digital health and public health systems
Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Prataprao Jadhav on Monday presided over the 49th Annual Day celebration of the National Institute of Health and Family Welfare (NIHFW) in New Delhi, highlighting the institute’s role in building skilled health professionals and supporting national health programmes.
The event was held at the NIHFW auditorium in Munirka and was attended by Sunita Sharma, Director General of Health Services, who joined as the guest of honour.
Addressing the gathering, Jadhav emphasised the importance of strengthening public health institutions and said the institute has played a key role in capacity building, training and research in health and family welfare.
He noted that the government is expanding digital health infrastructure under the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission and strengthening primary healthcare services through Health and Wellness Centres across the country.
“We are also scaling up immunisation efforts, introducing new vaccines and making disease surveillance systems more effective,” the minister said, highlighting the government’s efforts to improve healthcare delivery and population health outcomes.
Speaking on the occasion, Sharma appreciated the institute’s continued contribution to public health research, training and policy support for the government. She said NIHFW has played an important role in strengthening the capacity of India’s health workforce and supporting the effective implementation of national health programmes.
Presenting the institute’s annual report, NIHFW Director Sunil Vilasrao Gitte highlighted key achievements over the past year, including progress in public health training programmes, research initiatives and collaborations aimed at strengthening India’s health systems.
During the event, dignitaries also released the institute’s annual publications, including “Dharna,” the HPPI Journal and “Prospects of Placement Cell.” Awards were presented to outstanding employees, students and sports achievers in recognition of their contributions and excellence.
The celebration also featured cultural performances by students, reflecting the institute’s vibrant academic environment.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by NIHFW Dean V. K. Tiwari, reaffirming the institute’s commitment to advancing public health education, research and policy support to strengthen healthcare systems across the country.
