By Neeraj Kumar
Patna: Anuradha Kumari, an Auxiliary Nurse Midwife (ANM) posted in the Bhagwanpur block of Vaishali, Bihar, is set to be honoured by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the occasion of Independence Day for her exemplary service. Anuradha is the first ANM from Bihar to receive this recognition on the occasion of the 78th Independence Day, and she expresses great happiness about this achievement.
Anuradha has been diligently working in the labour room of the Bhagwanpur Community Health Center for the past six years. Her dedication has earned her widespread appreciation from both the health department and the general public. Her commitment and effective working style in government health services have made her a respected name in the community. She actively educates women about the importance of breastfeeding and provides guidance on the Kangaroo Mother Care method.
In recognition of her outstanding service, Anuradha has previously been honoured with the National Florence Nightingale Award. Her name has also been recommended for the prestigious President’s Award.
One notable instance of her dedication was in 2019 when she saved the life of a newborn weighing only 900 grams. Anuradha provided continuous follow-up for a month, advising the mother on breastfeeding and Kangaroo Mother Care, which resulted in the child’s weight increasing to 2 kg.
Another commendable case involved a mother whose vital signs had ceased after childbirth. Anuradha’s relentless efforts revived the mother, ensuring both she and the baby recovered healthily. Her work in the labor room has been life-saving for many women and newborns.
Anuradha’s commitment extends beyond her professional duties. She has been a mentor for Vaishali district and received special training on the occasion of Women’s Day in 2021. Despite her demanding job, she has managed her responsibilities with unwavering dedication, often leaving her own children to serve others.
Her accomplishments have been recognized through a documentary broadcast on a national channel. In an interview, Anuradha credited her family, especially her husband, for their support, which has been instrumental in her success.
Anuradha’s dedication during the COVID-19 pandemic has also been noteworthy, further solidifying her reputation as a dedicated healthcare professional. She shared that being honored by the Prime Minister at the Red Fort on Independence Day is a matter of great pride and good fortune for her.
In addition to Anuradha, an Asha worker named Jyoti from Bihar will also be honoured on this occasion. Anuradha’s achievements have not only brought her joy but have also made her family extremely proud.