Nashik's Rural Health Research Unit Earns Prestigious National Recognition
The Model Rural Health Research Unit (MRHRU) located in Vani village, within Nashik district's Dindori taluka, has achieved a significant milestone by securing the first prize for Outstanding Performance among 38 such units across India. This national accolade highlights the unit's exemplary contributions to rural healthcare and research.
A Collaborative Initiative Making Strides Since 2023
Established in 2023, MRHRU Vani is a collaborative effort between the Public Health Department and the Directorate of Medical Education and Research of the Government of Maharashtra, in partnership with the Indian Council of Medical Research-National Institute for Research in Reproductive and Child Health (ICMR-NIRRCH). The unit focuses on critical health issues prevalent in the region, including snakebite envenomation, sickle cell anaemia, leprosy, and other locally relevant disease burdens. Additionally, it conducts comprehensive population-based health surveys to gather vital data.
Impactful Research and Community Engagement
Dr. Rahul Gajbhiye, Scientist E and Nodal Officer at MRHRU Vani, emphasized the unit's proactive role. "Since its inception in Vani, the centre has been highly active in addressing cases related to snakebites, sickle cell, and leprosy. By leveraging expertise from national-level specialists like Dr. Sadanand Raut, we have conducted extensive awareness programs for ASHA workers and medical officers, leading to a transformative approach in managing snakebite incidents," he stated.
This dedicated work has drawn attention from both the state government and the Government of India, prompting greater awareness of the severe impacts of snakebites on victims and their families. The award specifically acknowledges MRHRU Vani's excellence in several key areas:
- High-quality research output
- Effective field implementation of health initiatives
- Strong inter-sectoral coordination
- Successful translation of evidence into actionable public health strategies
The unit's success is largely attributed to the invaluable contributions of frontline health workers and community partners, who play a central role in its field-based research activities.
National Recognition at Prestigious Forum
The award was presented during the Population Health Dialogue held on January 22 at the Chanakya Auditorium, Sushma Swaraj Bhavan, in New Delhi. The ceremony was graced by distinguished dignitaries, including:
- Dr. V. K. Paul, Member (Health) of NITI Aayog, who conferred the award
- Punya S. Srivastava, Secretary (Health) of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
- Dr. Rajiv Bahl, Secretary of the Department of Health Research and Director General of ICMR
- Dr. V. M. Katoch, former Secretary of the Department of Health Research and former Director General of ICMR
This recognition not only celebrates MRHRU Vani's achievements but also sets a benchmark for rural health research units nationwide, inspiring continued efforts to improve healthcare outcomes in underserved communities.
