Media Workshop Enhances Reporting on Childhood Health Issues
Mumbai, 14 July 2026 – A two-day workshop aimed at improving media coverage of childhood non-communicable diseases (NCDs) concluded today at AIIMS, Nagpur. More than 30 journalists from Western India participated in this event, designed to bolster awareness and reporting on critical health issues affecting children.
The workshop was organized collaboratively by UNICEF India, the Press Information Bureau (Western Zone), and AIIMS Nagpur. Journalists engaged directly with medical professionals, gaining insights into the diagnosis, treatment, and management of childhood NCDs, as well as learning best practices for health reporting.
Focused on the increasing prevalence of NCDs among children aged 5 to 9 and adolescents aged 10 to 19, the workshop shed light on a dual reality. In rural and tribal regions of Western and Central India, children face challenges related to limited access to health diagnostics and specialist care. Meanwhile, urban areas are grappling with rising cases of obesity, diabetes, and mental health disorders, often linked to lifestyle changes, increased screen time, and dietary habits.
During the session, Smita Vats Sharma, Director General of the Press Information Bureau (Western Zone), emphasized the vital role media plays in informing the public. She stated, “Public health reporting shapes awareness and public action. Journalists have an important responsibility to present evidence-based information that helps citizens understand health challenges affecting children.”
Dr. Prashant Joshi, Executive Director of AIIMS Nagpur, highlighted the urgency of early diagnosis and continuous care for childhood NCDs. He remarked, “These diseases can develop over time, so it’s essential to recognize symptoms early and establish strong public health systems. AIIMS Nagpur is committed to creating scalable models of care, and the media can help families seek assistance promptly.”
Moreover, Zafrin Chowdhury of UNICEF India noted that accurate and compassionate reporting on childhood NCDs not only brings attention to this often-overlooked issue but also aids in reducing stigma surrounding these conditions. “Together, we can inform and inspire action to ensure children not just survive but thrive,” she added.
The government has taken significant steps to address this issue. Earlier this year, Maharashtra’s government signed a Memorandum of Understanding with AIIMS Nagpur, supported by UNICEF India, to enhance the prevention and management of childhood NCDs across the state. This partnership established AIIMS Nagpur as a Centre of Excellence in this crucial field.
Sanjay Singh, Chief of UNICEF Maharashtra, asserted that childhood NCDs are becoming an emerging public health priority. “Through our collaboration with AIIMS Nagpur and the Government of Maharashtra, we aim to improve early detection and quality care for every child,” he said.
As part of the workshop, journalists visited the Centre of Excellence for childhood NCDs at AIIMS Nagpur, where they interacted with healthcare professionals, children, and caregivers, gaining firsthand insights into long-term care processes. Additionally, an interactive quiz enhanced their understanding of childhood NCDs, enabling them to brainstorm story ideas and reporting angles for their respective newsrooms.
The initiative will continue its outreach leading up to NCD Week in September 2026. This workshop marks a promising start towards improving public understanding of childhood NCDs and enhancing evidence-based health reporting.
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