Lucknow: On the occasion of World Health Day, a community awareness programme held in Mubarakpur Gram Panchayat of Kakori block witnessed active participation from over 50 women, young girls, and local residents, who openly shared their health-related concerns and experiences.
During the dialogue, participants highlighted key challenges such as long distances to healthcare facilities, unavailability of doctors on time, and the practice of prescribing medicines from outside, which often discourages them from seeking regular medical care. Women and adolescent girls also pointed out that malnutrition remains a serious issue at the rural level, particularly among females.
The lack of access to affordable or free sanitary pads and the absence of regular health check-up camps were also raised as major concerns. Participants stressed the need to expand government healthcare services at the Gram Panchayat level in view of the growing population, ensuring timely and accessible treatment for all.
Speakers at the event emphasized that women’s and adolescents’ health must be treated as a priority. The programme coordinator noted that health is not just about treatment but a fundamental human rights issue, and meaningful change can only come when rural communities, especially women, become aware of their rights.
Health rights activists Mithilesh and Sunita highlighted that the issues emerging at the grassroots level reflect not only gaps in services but also the need for systemic improvements. They stressed the importance of taking community voices to the policy level.
A young participant, Laxmi, shared that limited access to healthcare and lack of proper information in villages often create difficulties, but such programmes are helping women understand and speak up about their rights.
The programme concluded with an awareness rally led by community mobilisers Hema and Rabia, along with community leaders Surbhi and Divya, and volunteers including Laxmi, Mithilesh, and Sunita. The rally spread messages of health, hygiene, and empowerment across the village, reinforcing the link between awareness, participation, and sustainable change.
