‘One Health’ Pavilion at IITF 2024: Transforming Health Awareness and Community Engagement
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare’s ‘One Health’ Pavilion at the 43rd India International Trade Fair (IITF) in Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, has emerged as a beacon of education, healthcare, and entertainment. Inaugurated by Dr. V.K. Paul, Member (Health), NITI Aayog, on November 14, 2024, the pavilion reflects the government’s unwavering commitment to preventive, promotive, and curative healthcare.
Since its opening, the pavilion has captivated visitors with its immersive and interactive approach. It offers a range of free health services, from screenings for children under the Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK) to comprehensive health checks for adults. Children undergo evaluations for height, weight, BMI, and dental, eye, and ear health. For adults, the pavilion provides hemoglobin, blood pressure, and sugar level testing, along with personalized counseling sessions on diet and mental health. These services cater to diverse health needs, underscoring a holistic approach to well-being.
A standout feature of the pavilion is its Universal Immunization Programme (UIP) stall, which highlights the U-WIN digital platform for vaccination scheduling and documentation. Visitors are guided through the benefits of the app, which simplifies booking slots, downloading vaccination certificates, and receiving SMS alerts for upcoming schedules. The initiative has been met with enthusiasm, with numerous parents appreciating the convenience of the digital platform. To further enhance awareness, pocket calendars outlining the National Immunization Schedule are distributed to visitors.
At the National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organization (NOTTO) stall, visitors gain insights into organ donation and participate in screenings such as blood pressure and BMI tests. The engagement extends to pledging organ donations, fostering a culture of generosity and awareness about organ and tissue transplantation.
The pavilion also creates a vibrant cultural atmosphere with engaging street plays (nukkad nataks) and performances on topics like tuberculosis, food safety, and vector-borne diseases. These creative displays blend education with entertainment, leaving a lasting impression on visitors. The Gaming Zone, featuring virtual reality explorations of human anatomy and health-themed quizzes, has become a favorite among attendees, offering a unique blend of fun and learning. A ‘One Health’ Memory Wall allows visitors to leave heartfelt messages and photo memories, making their experience truly memorable.
The ‘One Health’ Pavilion embodies the Ministry’s vision of integrating human, animal, and environmental health to address shared challenges. The approach emphasizes collaboration across sectors to tackle zoonotic diseases, environmental health issues, and sustainable coexistence. This is particularly relevant for India, with its rich biodiversity, large livestock population, and dense human settlements, which demand a coordinated response to health and conservation challenges.
The pavilion stands as a testament to the government’s efforts to bring healthcare closer to communities while inspiring healthier lifestyles. By seamlessly combining health services, cultural engagement, and educational initiatives, the ‘One Health’ Pavilion reinforces the mission of achieving ‘Health and Wellness for All.’