The Barpeta district in Assam officially launched National Deworming Day at Barpeta Town High School on February 7, reinforcing the state’s commitment to child health and well-being. The event was presided over by Geetashri Lachit, Additional District Commissioner (Health), Barpeta, who highlighted the importance of deworming in combating malnutrition and improving overall health.
This initiative is part of a statewide effort to administer Albendazole tablets to children aged 1 to 19 years across Assam through schools and Anganwadi centres.
Importance of National Deworming Day
National Deworming Day (NDD) is observed across India to address the widespread problem of parasitic worm infections among children and adolescents. The Government of India, in collaboration with state health departments, implements this initiative to improve nutrition levels, immunity, and overall growth in children.
Worm infections are a serious public health concern as they:
- Cause malnutrition by consuming nutrients from the host
- Affect cognitive development and school performance
- Lead to anaemia, fatigue, and other health complications
By administering Albendazole tablets, the Assam Health Department aims to reduce worm infections, which can otherwise hinder the physical and mental development of children.
Statewide Deworming Drive in Assam
The Assam Health Department, in association with local schools, Anganwadi centres, and healthcare institutions, is conducting National Deworming Day across the state. Barpeta district has been actively participating in the campaign, ensuring that maximum children benefit from the initiative.
During the event, ADC (Health) Geetashri Lachit reassured the attendees that all necessary measures had been taken to ensure the successful execution of the program. She emphasized the vital role of deworming in safeguarding children’s health and improving nutritional intake. “Deworming plays a crucial role in enhancing children’s health, fighting malnutrition, and promoting overall well-being. We have taken all necessary steps to ensure the maximum coverage of children under this initiative,” said Lachit.
Mass Deworming Program: Beneficiaries in Assam
As part of National Deworming Day 2025, approximately 5,37,731 children, including those from Bajali District, will receive Albendazole tablets through:
- Government and private schools
- Anganwadi centres
- Community health programs
The large-scale initiative is expected to have a significant impact on the health and well-being of children, helping them lead stronger and healthier lives.
Implementation of National Deworming Day in Barpeta
The Health Department of Assam has deployed health workers, teachers, and Anganwadi workers to facilitate the smooth administration of deworming tablets. The process involves:
- Distribution of Albendazole tablets at schools and Anganwadi centres
- Monitoring of children post-administration to ensure no adverse reactions
- Health awareness campaigns to educate parents and caregivers on the benefits of deworming
Role of Schools and Anganwadi Centres in Deworming Campaign
Schools and Anganwadi centres play a crucial role in the successful implementation of National Deworming Day. Teachers and healthcare workers are trained to administer the deworming tablets safely and educate students on:
- The importance of hygiene and sanitation
- Preventive measures to avoid worm infections
- Nutritional benefits of deworming
The program ensures that children in remote and underserved areas also receive the necessary medical attention to protect them from parasitic infections.
Assam’s Commitment to Child Health & Nutrition
The Government of Assam has been actively working towards improving child health and nutrition through various healthcare programs. The National Deworming Day initiative aligns with the state’s larger health mission to ensure:
- Better healthcare access for children
- Reduction in malnutrition and anaemia rates
- Enhanced cognitive and physical development
With the support of schools, healthcare workers, and the community, Assam is taking major strides toward a healthier future for its younger generation.
The launch of National Deworming Day in Barpeta, Assam, is a major step towards improving child health and combating parasitic infections. By administering Albendazole tablets to over 5.37 lakh children, the initiative aims to eradicate worm infections, promote nutritional well-being, and enhance cognitive development among children.
With continued efforts from the Assam Health Department, schools, and Anganwadi centres, the state is committed to achieving better healthcare outcomes for its children, ensuring a healthier and brighter future for the next generation.
