Pune: In a pioneering move to prioritize maternal health, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has launched a unique initiative under the Janani Shishu Yojana, a central government program, aimed at providing expectant mothers with a seven-day free food plan following delivery. This progressive service is currently accessible in eight major hospitals and maternity homes across the PMC.
PMC’s Assistant Medical Officer, Dr. Vaishali Jadhav, heralded the implementation of the initiative, emphasizing its importance in ensuring the well-being of new mothers. In the initial phase, the free food service will be available in prominent hospitals such as Kamala Nehru Hospital, Matoshree Ramabai Ambedkar Maternity Hospital, Dr. Dalvi Hospital, Sonawane Maternity Hospital, Bharat Ratna Late Rajiv Gandhi Hospital, Savitribai Phule Maternity Hospital, Late Malti Kachi Maternity Home, and Rajmata Jijau Nursing Home.
Components of Janani-Shishu Suraksha Karyakram:
- Free Food: Expectant mothers will receive a meticulously crafted diet plan for seven days post-delivery, comprising two servings of tea, one breakfast, and two servings of lunch. Mothers undergoing normal delivery will benefit for three days, while those with cesarean deliveries will receive the service for seven days.
- Ambulance Services: PMC will facilitate ambulance services to safely transport new mothers to their homes after delivery.
- Medicines: PMC remains committed to covering the cost of medicines and necessary tests for the well-being of both mothers and newborns.
- Various Check-ups: Regular check-ups will be conducted to monitor the health and recovery of mothers post-delivery.
PMC has allocated a budget of Rs 1 crore 11 lakh for the food provision under the diet plan, reflecting a substantial commitment to the health and well-being of new mothers in the region.
