DIMAPUR: Along with the rest of the country, healthcare workers in Nagaland observed Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) Day on May 10, as part of a landmark nationwide initiative by the National Neonatology Forum (NNF) India to improve newborn survival.
Led under the vision of Dr. Lallan Kumar Bharti, president, NNF India, the synchronized training programme is among the largest healthcare skill building efforts in India, with 998 courses conducted simultaneously across the country and nearly 20,000 healthcare providers participating. The initiative aims to ensure that every newborn receives timely and effective resuscitation support at birth.
Newborn mortality continues to be a major public health challenge in India, with a significant proportion of deaths occurring due to inability of babies to establish breathing immediately after delivery. Experts emphasized that the first few minutes after birth are critical, and simple, evidence based interventions by trained providers can prevent avoidable deaths.
In Nagaland, the training was conducted at Zion Hospital, Dimapur, under the coordination of Dr. Akumtoshi, with 20 healthcare providers participating. Dr. Apong and Dr. Temjenpokba were also present during the session. The hands on training was provided free of cost and included participants from both government and private sectors, ensuring inclusivity and wider reach.
The synchronized nationwide effort is expected to set a record for the highest number of neonatal resuscitation skill trainings conducted in a single day, marking a historic milestone in India’s journey toward strengthening newborn care services and reducing neonatal mortality.
