Health

Shashwat has been working to improve child and maternal health in rural Uttar Pradesh by reaching people who are often left out of the formal health system.

When WHO and UNICEF recommended that childhood diarrhoea should be treated with ORS and zinc, it became clear that many rural Registered Medical Practitioners (RMPs) and neighbourhood medical store personnel did not know about these guidelines. Since most rural families first turn to these providers, Shashwat stepped in to bridge the knowledge gap.

The effort began in Mishrikh block of Sitapur district in 2008. As the results were encouraging, the initiative soon expanded to 13 districts, helping hundreds of local practitioners adopt safer and more effective diarrhoea treatment.

Shashwat has also been working to improve maternal and newborn care in 15 villages of Hardoi district. The focus is on changing everyday health behaviour within families. Trained women animators regularly visit pregnant and lactating mothers, offering simple, practical advice on nutrition, immunisation, prevention of infections, breastfeeding and recognising danger signs.

These visits ensure that no mother is left without guidance during a crucial phase of her life. The programme also encourages families to opt for institutional deliveries and to make full use of available health services. Through steady engagement, Shashwat is helping mothers and newborns lead healthier lives.