Navi Mumbai: On World Health Day (April 7), NMMC Commissioner Dr Kailas Shinde felicitated doctors, nurses, and frontline medical staff at a special event organised by NMMC's Health Department at Maasaheb Meenatai Thackeray Hospital in Nerul.

This year’s theme, “Healthy Start and Promising Future,” focuses on improving early childhood health. Dr Shinde stressed the need to concentrate efforts on children aged 0–4 years and advocated for enhanced awareness among expectant mothers and their families to reduce infant and maternal mortality to zero.

Highlighting India’s health indicators, he urged officials to ensure Navi Mumbai remains a leading example in child health and immunisation. He emphasised the crucial role of ASHA workers and Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANMs) in grassroots healthcare delivery and monitoring.

Shinde recommended launching Nutrition Rehabilitation Centres (NRCs) in civic-run hospitals and fast-tracking implementation of NRC units to combat malnutrition. He also directed that health screenings in both public and private Anganwadis be prioritised to ensure no child is left behind.

Distinguished guests included Dr Prashant Jawade, Medical Health Officer, Dr Dhanwanti Ghadge, Joint Health Officer, and Dr Ajay Gadade, Deputy Commissioner, Solid Waste Management, along with medical superintendents and senior staff from NMMC hospitals.

Airoli and Vashi hospitals were recognised as best-performing municipal hospitals, while Nerul Phase 1, CBD Belapur, and Nosil Naka received accolades as top urban health centres. Among 477 ASHA workers, Pratiksha Panchal, Sushila Kokane, and Anisha Sheikh were specially honoured for their exemplary service.

“Frontline workers are the bridge between policy and people. Through their dedication, we will continue to build a healthier Navi Mumbai,” said Shinde.