HFM January- June 2018: Darkness at Noon

Theme – Food and Nutrition

Darkness at Noon takes a comprehensive look at India’s most pressing public health concerns, with a particular emphasis on the growing crisis of non-communicable diseases. In light of these challenges, it also reflects on the nation’s ongoing battle with environmental degradation, maternal and child health, and adolescent well-being. The journal opens with a heartfelt tribute to the late Atal Bihari Vajpayee, celebrating his lasting impact on health reform initiatives in the country.

Highlights:

• A tribute to Atal Bihari Vajpayee, recognizing his pivotal role in supporting health reforms and establishing the Independent Commission on Development and Health in India.
• An in-depth exploration of India’s NCD crisis, which accounts for 5.2 million deaths annually, worsened by lifestyle changes, rapid urbanization, and environmental degradation.
• An analysis of maternal and child health under the RMNCH+A framework, with a focus on overcoming gaps in access to healthcare and addressing socio-economic disparities.
• Insights into the Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram (RKSK), an adolescent health initiative that underscores the importance of multi-sectoral collaboration for holistic healthcare.
• A strong emphasis on health promotion as a sustainable strategy to reduce the burden of NCDs and enhance overall healthcare delivery, particularly in underserved rural areas.

This journal provides a crucial overview of India’s health challenges, offering both data-driven insights and actionable strategies for improving healthcare outcomes. It is an interesting read for healthcare professionals and policy leaders committed to building a healthier future for India.