In a significant public health initiative, Bengaluru has become the epicenter for a major statewide oral health campaign. The Indian Dental Association (IDA), in collaboration with the Karnataka state government, the Indian Prosthodontic Society (IPS), and the Rotary Bangalore Social Club, has officially launched Ssmileathon. This innovative program combines a comprehensive oral health awareness drive with an engaging smile contest, aiming to transform dental care conversations across the state.
Making Oral Health a Daily Priority
Designed to integrate oral care into everyday discussions, Ssmileathon addresses a critical gap in India's healthcare landscape. National data reveals a startling statistic: approximately 90% of Indians grapple with dental issues, yet a mere fraction seek regular professional care. This initiative directly confronts this challenge by offering free dental screenings at IDA-affiliated clinics, targeting over one lakh participants. The core objective is to foster early disease detection and promote healthier lifestyle choices among the populace.
Contest Details and Grand Finale
The Ssmileathon contest is open to both men and women aged between 18 and 45 years. It seamlessly blends essential healthcare services with digital engagement, encouraging widespread participation. The culmination of this event will be a grand finale scheduled for March 1 at Palace Grounds in Bengaluru. Winners stand to gain attractive rewards, including cash prizes totaling Rs 6 lakh, along with grooming kits and comprehensive dental wellness packages. Interested individuals can visit the official website for registration and detailed information.
Karnataka Expands Reproductive Health Coverage
In a parallel development enhancing healthcare accessibility, the Karnataka government has made a landmark decision. Advanced Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) procedures, specifically In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF) and Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI), have now been included under the Ayushman Bharat – Arogya Karnataka (AB-ArK) scheme. This move is strategically aimed at assisting Below Poverty Line (BPL) families in overcoming infertility challenges.
Eligibility and Financial Support
Eligibility for this benefit extends to BPL cardholders, specifically those from Priority Households (PHH), aged 21 to 55 years, who do not have biological children. Qualified beneficiaries will be entitled to up to three free lifetime cycles of these advanced treatments. The state government will cover substantial costs, providing Rs 1.2 to 1.3 lakh per IVF or ICSI cycle and an additional Rs 35,000 for Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET). These services will be accessible at district hospitals, government medical colleges, and empanelled private healthcare centers across Karnataka.
Administrative Shift in Bengaluru North
On the civic front, the Bengaluru North City Corporation is implementing an administrative relocation. The revenue department offices of the Hebbal division are being moved from their current location in JC Nagar to a new address on RT Nagar Main Road.
New Office Location and Functionality
According to an official release from the Bengaluru North City Corporation, this shift includes the office of the Revenue Officer (Hebbal) and the offices of Assistant Revenue Officers for both Hebbal and JC Nagar sub-divisions. These offices, presently situated on Munireddypalya Main Road in JC Nagar, will commence operations from their new premises starting February 2. The new location is specified as RT Nagar Main Road in Nrupatunga Layout, conveniently near the Indira Canteen, ensuring continued public service accessibility.
