The famous center for oral health at the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) known as Oral Health Services Center (OHSC) is gearing up for a phenomenal program called “Anant Muskaan” whose main objective is enhancing oral hygiene knowledge and practices among primary school pupils in India.
With funding from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), “Anant Muskaan” will concentrate on putting into practice a multi-site research program that is oriented toward oral health education and school-based teeth brushing. The initiative is aimed at elementary school students in eight different national districts.
Panchkula to Pioneer the National Program:
A meeting of stakeholders involving the initiation at a national level will be held on Monday at PGIMER to officially launch it. The program has designated Panchkula district in Haryana as its principal center, including every primary school within its boundaries.
The National Resource Centre for Oral Healthcare of Children and Elderly (NRC-FORCE) housed within the OHSC, under the leadership of Professor Ashima Goyal, will spearhead this unique national drive.
Bringing Stakeholders Together:
The Haryana Governor Bandaru Dattatreya is expected to be the chief guest at the launch event. Other persons to attend include Dr. Vivek Lal, the Director of PGIMER, health experts from ICMR, representatives from the Haryana health and education departments, NGOs and civil society organizations.
This high-profile gathering underscores the importance placed on collaborative efforts to ensure the success of “Anant Muskaan.” Collaboration between various stakeholders, including government bodies, healthcare professionals, educational institutions, and community organizations, is crucial for creating a sustainable and impactful program.
Significance of “Anant Muskaan”:
“Anant Muskaan,” which translates to “endless smiles,” represents the program’s long-term goal of encouraging young children to practice proper dental hygiene. Early adoption of good practices can greatly lower an individual’s lifetime chance of developing dental issues.
The initiative seeks to provide children with the information and resources they need to maintain excellent oral hygiene by teaching them effective brushing practices and giving them access to education about them. This enhances their general wellbeing and encourages self-assurance and a beautiful smile.
The success of “Anant Muskaan” in Panchkula will pave the way for its future implementation across the other seven districts. This initiative holds immense potential for creating a significant positive impact on the oral health of children throughout India.
