Intensified Mission Indradhanush: A Renewed Push for Full Immunization in India

The Intensified Mission Indradhanush (IMI) is a strategic initiative by the Government of India to accelerate the achievement of full immunization coverage for all children and pregnant women. Building on the successes of the original Mission Indradhanush, this program focuses on reaching underserved populations and addressing inequities in access to vaccination services.

Background and Objectives

The Universal Immunization Programme (UIP), launched in 1985, has been instrumental in reducing childhood mortality and morbidity in India. However, despite significant progress, a substantial number of children still remain unimmunized or partially immunized. To address this gap, the government launched Mission Indradhanush in 2014, and subsequently, Intensified Mission Indradhanush (IMI) to further accelerate progress.

The key objectives of IMI are:

• Accelerated Immunization: To rapidly increase full immunization coverage to more than 90% by December 2018 in identified districts and urban cities.

• Equity and Access: To focus on underserved populations, including urban slum dwellers, nomadic populations, and migrant families.

• Strengthening Routine Immunization: To integrate IMI sessions into routine immunization plans for long-term sustainability.

• Inter-Sectoral Coordination: To enhance collaboration among various government ministries and departments for a holistic approach.

• Community Mobilization: To increase community participation and awareness about the benefits of immunization.

Key Strategies of Intensified Mission Indradhanush

The IMI strategy involves two main interventions:

1. Intensified Mission Indradhanush Drive: A targeted immunization drive conducted in identified districts and urban areas.

2. Routine Immunization System Strengthening: Measures to strengthen the existing immunization system and ensure sustainable gains.

Operational Components of IMI

• Fixed and Outreach Sessions: Conducting immunization sessions at various locations, including health posts, PHCs, district hospitals, schools, anganwadi centers, and other accessible sites.

• Mobile Sessions: Utilizing mobile vaccination teams to reach underserved and hard-to-reach populations.

• Human Resource Mobilization: Engaging all ANMs in the district and utilizing local mobilizers and volunteers.

• Community Engagement: Involving community leaders, religious leaders, and other influencers to promote immunization.

• Microplanning: Developing detailed microplans at the block level to ensure comprehensive coverage.

• Data Monitoring: Using data from various sources, including HMIS, MCTS, and eVIN, to track progress and identify gaps.

• AEFI Management: Implementing protocols for managing Adverse Events Following Immunization (AEFI).

Financial Aspects

The scheme is fully funded by the National Fund under CAMPA. The funds will be released in two installments, with the first installment (70%) released after project approval and the remaining (30%) after 60% utilization of the first installment and submission of the utilization certificate and progress report.

Targeted Areas

IMI focuses on specific areas with low immunization coverage, including:

• Urban slums with migration.

• Nomadic sites.

• Brick kilns.

• Construction sites.

• Other migrant settlements.

• Underserved and hard-to-reach populations (forested and tribal areas, hilly areas, etc.).

• Areas with low routine immunization coverage identified through measles outbreaks and cases of diphtheria and neonatal tetanus.

Collaboration and Convergence

The IMI strategy emphasizes collaboration with various stakeholders:

• Government Departments: Collaboration with various departments, including Women and Child Development, Panchayati Raj, Urban Development, and Education.

• Partners: Engagement with key partners such as WHO, UNICEF, UNDP, Rotary International, and NGOs.

• Community Leaders: Involvement of community leaders, religious leaders, and other influencers to mobilize communities.

Monitoring and Evaluation

• Regular Monitoring: Regular monitoring of IMI activities at the district, state, and national levels.

• Data-Driven Approach: Utilization of data from various sources to track progress and identify areas for improvement.

• Independent Evaluation: Endline and follow-up surveys to assess the sustainability of the gains achieved.

Key Points for Successful Implementation

• Meticulous planning and microplanning at all levels.

• Intensive training of health officials and frontline workers.

• Effective communication and social mobilization efforts.

• Strong accountability framework.

• Timely release of funds.

• Active participation of community and stakeholders.

Conclusion

Intensified Mission Indradhanush is a crucial initiative that aims to achieve universal immunization coverage in India. By focusing on underserved areas, enhancing service delivery, and leveraging partnerships, the program strives to protect children and pregnant women from vaccine-preventable diseases and ensure a healthier future for the nation.