A tragic incident last week has cast a harsh spotlight on the state of paediatric healthcare infrastructure in Rajasthan. A one-day-old newborn died while being transported from Bharatpur to Jaipur, a journey necessitated by the absence of critical paediatric surgery services at the district level.
A Fatal Journey and Systemic Failure
The infant was referred to the state-run JK Lon Hospital in Jaipur on December 12 after doctors in Bharatpur found no paediatric surgeon available in any government hospital within the district. This emergency transfer underscores the grave risks involved in moving critically ill newborns over long distances for basic specialised care. Sadly, the baby succumbed during the transit.
District Medical Colleges Lack Vital Specialisation
Despite the establishment of medical colleges in several districts across Rajasthan, a crucial component remains missing: dedicated paediatric surgery units. Health officials openly acknowledge this deficit, admitting that such delays in accessing emergency surgical care can prove fatal for infants and children.
A senior official from JK Lon Hospital confirmed the widespread nature of the problem. "Medical colleges exist, but paediatric surgery facilities are lacking, which is why children are routinely referred to JK Lon Hospital," the official stated. The hospital receives a significant influx of surgical cases from various districts, including patients visiting its outpatient departments.
The Push for Decentralised Care and Current Efforts
The incident raises serious questions about the effectiveness of funds allocated under the National Health Mission to reduce infant mortality. While substantial investments are being made, the persistent absence of paediatric surgery units in district hospitals continues to be a major concern.
Authorities emphasise that developing these facilities locally would serve a dual purpose. It would reduce the immense trauma faced by families forced to travel and significantly improve survival chances for children by providing timely intervention. In a positive step, JK Lon Hospital itself is working to expand its capacity. Notably, in September 2025, it launched Rajasthan's first government-run paediatric cardiothoracic vascular surgery unit, aimed at treating children with heart conditions.
However, as the heartbreaking case from Bharatpur shows, the urgent need is for such specialised capabilities to be replicated and made accessible at the district level to prevent further loss of young lives.
