Chhattisgarh's Divyang Mitanin has helped vaccinate over 5,000 children, inspires inclusive healthcare
Raipur, August 5
For nearly two decades, Rupa Sahu, a Divyang community health worker from Baroda village in Abhanpur block of Raipur district, has been ensuring that children are protected against polio. A polio survivor herself, Sahu has dedicated her life to public health as a Mitanin, Chhattisgarh's community health worker, since 2006. During this period, she has helped administer polio vaccine drops to more than 5,000 children.
Driven by her own experience of living with a disability caused by polio, Sahu says she joined the Mitanin programme with a single mission to ensure that no child has to face the difficulties she has faced.
"Ever since I became a Mitanin, I had one goal: that no child should ever have to suffer the pain I went through. I have a disability due to polio myself, and I know how difficult life can be for a person with a disability," she said.
Apart from participating in every pulse polio campaign, Sahu also provides primary healthcare services in her village. She regularly checks blood pressure, identifies patients requiring medical attention, and refers them to the nearest health facility. If required, she personally accompanies patients to the Community Health Centre (CHC) in Abhanpur, ensuring they receive timely treatment.
Explaining the vaccination campaign, Sahu said that when the government launches a pulse polio drive, she and other health workers first administer polio drops at designated booths before visiting homes the following day to ensure that no child is left behind.
She also plays a key role in counselling parents. Explaining her own experience, she tells families that the two drops of the polio vaccine can save a child from a lifetime of disability.
Reflecting on the challenges faced by persons with disabilities, Sahu said life becomes more difficult with age. She spoke about her challenges, dependence on others, and the difficulties of travelling, especially during the rainy season.
Despite this, Rupa Sahu continues to serve her community; her work stands as a powerful reminder of the role a health worker plays in India's fight against preventable diseases and in ensuring that every child receives lifesaving vaccines.
— ANI
Reader Comments
It's heartwarming to see how community health workers, especially Mitanins, form the backbone of our healthcare system in rural India. Rupa Sahu's dedication to ensure no child is left without vaccination is a great example. Hope state governments provide better support and infrastructure for such workers — they truly deserve it.
I'm from a nearby district and I've seen the enormous struggle our rural health workers face. What Rupa ji has achieved over 18 years is phenomenal. She could have easily given up due to her physical challenges, but instead she's vaccinated 5000+ children. If that's not heroism, I don't know what is! 🇮🇳
This is what public health success stories look like! The Mitanin program is often cited in global health circles as an exemplary community-based healthcare model. Rupa Sahu's work in Chhattisgarh is a testament to the power of local, accessible healthcare. She's not just a health worker, she's a public health icon.
As a woman from a village in Telangana, I understand how tough it is for women health workers. Rupa ji's commitment in the rainy season, travelling through mud and difficulty, is beyond commendable. Government should ensure better mobility aids and compensation for such brave souls. She deserves Padma Shri! 💪
This story is a powerful reminder of the intersectionality of disability and healthcare accessibility. Rupa Sahu's life and work show us that disability doesn't limit capacity to contribute. She's breaking stereotypes and saving lives simultaneously. H
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.