RBSK 2.0 Guidelines: Expanding Child Health Screening and Care in India Context: The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare released the Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK) 2.0 Guidelines at the recently concluded National Summit on Good Practices and Innovations in Public Healthcare Service Delivery. RBSK 2.0: Strengthening Child Health Screening in India The revised Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram builds on over a decade of implementation, expanding its scope to meet emerging child health challenges. Continues and strengthens the 4Ds approach Defects at Birth, Diseases, Deficiencies, and Developmental Delays while adding focus on non-communicable diseases, mental health, and behavioural issues. Introduces a preventive, promotive, and curative continuum of care, covering children from birth to 18 years. Expanded Screening Coverage Includes developmental disorders and mental health conditions. Screens for risk factors of NCDs like diabetes and hypertension. Doorstep Screening Services Delivered through Mobile Health Teams. Conducted at Anganwadi Centres and schools for early detection and universal reach. Digital Health Integration Introduction of digital health cards. Use of real-time data systems and integrated platforms for monitoring and service delivery. Improves efficiency, transparency, and data-driven decisions. Multi-Sectoral Convergence Coordination between health, education, and women & child development sectors. Community platforms act as key points for awareness and follow-up care. Focus on Outcomes Promotes early identification and timely intervention. Aims to reduce disease burden and improve overall child well-being. Government Commitment: Reflects a strong push towards accessible, equitable, and quality healthcare for every child, ensuring holistic growth and long-term health outcomes. DME Pilot Project in Pune: Advancing Clean Fuel Alternatives in India Context: Oil and Natural Gas Corporation, in partnership with CSIR–National Chemical Laboratory, is planning to roll out an industrial-scale pilot project in Pune for the production of dimethyl ether (DME). This initiative aims to position DME as a substitute for liquefied petroleum…
