ASHA sisters are first ray of health in remote villages: LS Speaker

IANS May 20, 2025 454 views

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla celebrated ASHA workers as the backbone of India's rural healthcare system during a recent event. He highlighted their extraordinary commitment, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, where they risked their own safety to support communities. These frontline health workers have been instrumental in reaching the most remote and underserved populations across India. Birla emphasized their role in nurturing a healthier and more dignified future generation through their tireless service.

"They work tirelessly, day and night, for every pregnant woman, newborn, and person in need" - Om Birla
ASHA sisters are first ray of health in remote villages: LS Speaker
Jaipur, May 19: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla lauded ASHA workers as the strongest pillar of the nation’s health system, asserting that during times of crisis, when many step back, ASHA sisters step forward with unwavering commitment and selfless service.

Key Points

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ASHA workers crucial in delivering healthcare to remote villages

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Played pivotal role during COVID-19 pandemic

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Recognized for compassion and community service

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Critical in supporting marginalized populations

Speaking at the event organised by Promising Indian Society in collaboration with GAIL (Gas Authority of India Limited) at the UIT Auditorium, Birla said that if essential health services are reaching India's most remote villages today, much of the credit goes to these frontline health workers. “They work tirelessly, day and night, for every pregnant woman, newborn, and person in need,” he said.

Recalling the COVID-19 pandemic, Birla highlighted the dedication of ASHA sisters who, despite the risks, went door-to-door identifying the sick, delivering medicines, and connecting people to medical care, even as many were reluctant to step out. Their contribution, he said, is vital in nurturing a healthier, more self-reliant, and dignified future generation.

Birla described the ASHA workers as embodiments of compassion, self-confidence, and dedication. He noted that the dialogue was more than just a formal gathering; it was a collective resolve that every citizen in the Kota-Bundi parliamentary constituency should enjoy good health, every expecting mother and child should be safe, and even the most marginalised individuals should live with dignity.

Acknowledging their significant role in the Suposhit Maa Abhiyan, Birla applauded the efforts of ASHA sisters in reaching the most underserved sections of society. He urged them to identify pregnant women lacking adequate nutrition or medical care, so they can be supported effectively.

Referring to the newly inaugurated Pradhan Mantri Divyasha Kendra in Kota, Birla mentioned that essential assistive devices will now be delivered to the homes of Divyangjans (persons with disabilities). He appealed to ASHA workers to help identify such individuals in their areas and inform the MBS Hospital or Lok Sabha office to ensure timely assistance.

Reader Comments

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Priya K.
ASHA workers are truly the backbone of our rural healthcare! 👏 My sister-in-law in Bihar is alive today because an ASHA didi identified her anemia during pregnancy and got her medical help. They deserve better pay and recognition for this life-saving work.
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Rahul S.
While I appreciate their work, why doesn't the government provide ASHA workers with proper employment benefits? They're doing government work but treated as volunteers. This is exploitation disguised as praise.
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Anjali M.
During COVID, our village ASHA didi walked 5km daily to check on my elderly parents when we couldn't visit. She didn't even take the tea my mother offered! These women are real-life angels without wings. 🙏
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Vikram P.
Good words by Speaker ji, but actions speak louder. ASHA workers need proper salaries, insurance coverage, and safety gear - not just speeches. Their work is as important as any government doctor's.
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Sunita R.
In our Odisha village, ASHA didis have reduced infant mortality by half! They teach new mothers about breastfeeding, hygiene, and nutrition. Their training should include more first aid skills too.
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Karan D.
The Pradhan Mantri Divyasha Kendra initiative is good, but will ASHA workers get extra training to identify disabilities? Many rural families hide disabled members due to stigma. Sensitization is needed.

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