Mission Director HADP launched Intensive Pulse Polio Immunization Programme at SDH Bhaderwah. As part of the Nationwide Pulse Polio Immunization Programme, the Intensive Pulse Polio Immunization (IPPI) drive was launched today at Sub-District Hospital Bhaderwah in Jammu and Kashmir. The programme was formally inaugurated by Mission Director HADP J&K, Sandeep Kumar, in the presence of Director Horticulture Gul Syed, Additional Deputy Commissioner Bhaderwah Sunil Kumar Bhutyal, and Block Medical Officer Bhaderwah Dr Varsha Sharma. The initiative aims to ensure complete protection of children against the polio virus, especially those in the 0 to 5 years age group, through mass immunization. During the launch, ADC Bhaderwah Sunil Kumar Bhutyal informed that a total of 90 polio vaccination booths have been set up across Additional District Bhaderwah. These booths will cater to around 11,000 registered children, ensuring that no child is left out of the immunization coverage. ADC Bhaderwah Sunil Kumar Bhutyal said, “90 booths have been established across Additional District Bhaderwah to cater to nearly 11,000 registered children in the age group of 0 to 5 years.” The ADC further highlighted that although India achieved the historic milestone of becoming a Polio-Free Nation in 2014, the government continues to conduct polio immunization drives as a preventive measure, keeping in view the fact that polio cases are still being reported in some neighboring countries. He emphasized that continued vigilance is crucial to prevent any re-emergence of the disease and to maintain India’s polio-free status. ADC Bhaderwah, “Keeping in view the situation in neighboring countries, the Government of India has decided to continue the Pulse Polio Immunization Programme.” Health officials present on the occasion appealed to parents to actively participate in the campaign and bring their children to the nearest polio booths. They stressed that polio drops are safe, essential, and lifesaving, and play a vital role in securing a healthy future for children. The district administration and health department have assured that adequate arrangements have been made to ensure smooth conduct of the immunization drive, with trained staff deployed across all booths. With sustained efforts and community participation, the administration aims to strengthen child healthcare and keep Bhaderwah polio-free, in line with the national commitment to eradicate the disease completely.