National Workshop Launched to Combat Anemia in India
The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare hosted a National Workshop on the Anemia Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (AMB) in New Delhi on August 12-13, 2026. This two-day event gathered over 160 participants from across India, including representatives from various ministries, experts, and partners involved in development and implementation. The focus was on enhancing the revised AMB strategies and effectively executing the 7×7×7 policy framework nationwide.
During the workshop, the revised AMB Operational Guidelines were introduced, marking a significant shift in India’s approach to tackling anemia. Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Shri J.P. Nadda, unveiled these guidelines on June 29, 2026, during the Conference of Central Health and Family Welfare (CCHFW). Unlike the previous program, which primarily concentrated on supplementation, the new strategy incorporates a holistic, evidence-based methodology. This includes testing, case management, treatment adherence, and promoting a diverse, nutritious diet supported by digital tracking systems for monitoring beneficiaries.
Smt. Punya Salila Srivastava, Secretary of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, emphasized the need for enhanced cooperation among health programs. She urged for aligned interventions and comprehensive service delivery platforms to effectively address anemia. Srivastava also stressed the importance of public awareness and extending supplementation to younger populations as part of a life-course approach.
Smt. Aradhana Patnaik, Additional Secretary & Mission Director of the National Health Mission, highlighted the necessity of implementing the revised AMB framework at various levels, including state and community. She explained the shift from the 6×6×6 to the 7×7×7 strategy, which aims to improve participation in iron supplementation and foster state-level innovations that enhance program outcomes.
Dr. Rajiv Bahl, Director General of the Indian Council of Medical Research, spoke on the significance of an evidence-based approach in managing anemia. He underscored the necessity for timely testing and appropriate treatments based on severity and causes, as well as promoting iron-rich diets.
Dr. M. Srinivas from NITI Aayog advocated for a comprehensive and multi-sectoral strategy in anemia management, emphasizing dietary diversity and understanding clinical conditions that affect treatment outcomes. Collaborative engagement was also highlighted to ensure effective treatment and digital tracking.
A standout feature of the workshop was the launch of the Anemia Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan Application and Portal. This platform is designed to facilitate beneficiary tracking and management, ensuring that individuals receive necessary follow-ups and interventions. It will help identify gaps in treatment and generate essential data for program evaluations.
The workshop also showcased the collaboration of various stakeholders and introduced technical sessions on anemia screening, digital applications, and compliance frameworks. By fostering community ownership and inter-ministerial cooperation, the initiative is set to enhance national efforts in combating anemia.
The second day concluded with structured group discussions, emphasizing community involvement and innovative solutions for AMB implementation. Participants exchanged valuable experiences and strategies that can help scale the impact of the Anemia Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan.
This concerted effort across government departments, health professionals, and communities aims to lead India towards a healthier future with the Anemia Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan contributing to a Swasth Viksit Bharat.
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