NYKS launches safe motherhood programme in Orissa

Bhubaneswar, May 3 (UNI) Over 12000 advocates representing 6000 youth clubs of Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan(NYKS) in Orissa's fifteen districts will be sensitized to ensure Safe Motherhood in the state.

The NYKS, an autonomous body under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, has joined hands with UNICEF, and announced the launch of a project 'Matrutwa Sahayak Yuva Seva Sangha' - 'Youth Advocacy For Reduction of Maternal&Neonatal Mortality in Orissa -2006'.

The youths present at a programme yesterday took oath to spread awareness on Safe Motherhood and Neonatal mortality in Orissa. The main objective of the programme was to make responsive cadre of youth advocates on Safe Motherhood in Orissa.

The districts where the project to be taken up are Khurda,Nuapada, Ganjam,Puri,Koraput,Kalahandi,Cuttack,Bolangir,Balasore,Mayurbhanj, Phulbani,Dhenkanal,Sambalpur,Sundergarh and Keonjhar.

Community linkage would be established with increased interface of Youth Advocates with secondary stake holders like media, PRIs, health functionaries, field level workers like Anaganwadi workers.

Linkages would be built for monitoring pregnancy and birth ensuring Safe Motherhood in their community. The project would also focus on compiling available government schemes, funds and services on Safe Motherhood, discuss and make a copy available to each youth club.

The youth clubs, sources said would map resources (Safe Motherhood) available at the village, Gram Panchayat and Block level and maintain an up-to-date contact list. It would also enable Youth groups define their roles and responsibilities and produce their own action plan 2006-07 for reduction of maternal mortality in their own community.

A state level core committee with seven members has been formed for the purpose with representatives from NYKS and UNICEF.

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