Govt launches India's first adolescent health programme

The government on Tuesday launched the nation's first comprehensive adolescent health programme, which will include a sharp focus on adolescents' sexual health.

Speaking at the launch of the Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram here, Union Health and Family Welfare Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad said the government stands committed to addressing the health needs of 243 million adolescents, who constitute 21 per cent of the total population in India.

The programme envisions that all adolescents in India are able to realize their full potential by making informed and responsible decisions related to their health and well-being.

Azad highlighted various programmes and initiatives by the government, which have brought about a transformational change in the health of the country.

Her also informed that India will be declared a polio free country by the World Health Organization on January 13 which is a milestone for the country.