This month, India observes ‘Swachhata Hi Seva 2024’, a fortnight-long campaign commencing on the 74th birthday of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and running until the end of September. During this time, we reflect on the accomplishments of the Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM), otherwise known as the Clean India Mission, which took off on October 2, 2014. The past decade under this initiative has pushed evolutionary changes forward in society and gave a new lease of life to people.
One notable triumph is evidenced in the Urban Primary Health Centre (UPHC) of Shivaji Nagar, situated in Karnataka’s Kalaburagi district. This healthcare facility has seized the Kayakalp Award for an impressive sixth term in a row. The honor comes in recognition of the Centre’s substantial contributions to hospital cleanliness, hygiene, and infection control. Notably, UPHC is the only Centre in Kalyan selected for the Kayakalp Award this year. As a testament to consistent service excellence, the team awaits the possibility of distinction under the SBM’s ‘Best Urban Health Centre’ category.
As UPHC’s staff and health professionals anticipate retaining the Kayakalp Award, Dr. Sandhya Rani Pauranik shared insight on it. Six runs of achievements have been logged since 2017. Designed to encourage hospitals to uphold the highest standards of cleanliness and organization, this Award is seen as a testament to UPHC’s unwavering commitment. One critical facet of Kayakalp’s cause is ensuring patients do not carry diseases outside the hospital environment, revealed Dr. Pauranik.
Besides recognition, the award brings with it an annual grant of Rs 2 lakh for the hospital, and yearly inspections by a medical team. From the perspective of UPHC’s health inspector, Mehmood Sen, increased accessibility, matched with improved facilities, appeals to people. Nafisa Begum, a newly transferred staff, sees Kalaburagi UPHC surpassing her previous village centre workplace in terms of facility quality. Cleanliness and sanitation remain at the forefront of the Centre’s focus, creating a conducive setting for patients.
The Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare bestows the Kayakalp Award as an integral part of the Swachh Bharat Mission. The award grants recognition nationally to two district hospitals, two community health centres, and one primary health centre per district. Factors contributing to a healthcare facility’s eligibility include upkeep of the hospital, effective waste management measures, stringent infection control, and more.