On National Deworming Day, Punjab health minister urges students to become ‘cleanliness ambassadors’

Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr Balbir Singh today called upon students to become “cleanliness ambassadors”, stressing that healthy children are crucial for building a prosperous Punjab. He was addressing a state-level function organised by the Health Department at Government Senior Secondary Smart School, Tripuri, Patiala, to mark National Deworming Day.

Singh said the state aims to eradicate stomach worms from children and adolescents between 1 to 19 years of age. “For this, approximately 73 lakh Albendazole tablets have been distributed to students in government, aided, and private schools across Punjab. A Mop-up Day has also been scheduled for August 14 to ensure complete coverage,” he added.

Emphasising the dangers of stomach worms, the Minister said they can lead to anemia, malnutrition, physical and mental weakness, and poor school attendance. He advised children to maintain personal hygiene, avoid walking barefoot, wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly, and drink boiled water.

To further promote hygiene and disease prevention, Singh urged all residents to become part of campaign to raise awareness about dengue and “War Every Friday”, encouraging weekly cleanliness drives.

He also announced that students, teachers, and health workers actively contributing to clean surroundings will be specially honoured.

Speaking to the media, Dr Balbir Singh highlighted that cheese, ghee, and spices are among the most adulterated food items. A state-wide sampling campaign is underway ahead of festivals, with a focus on products coming from outside Punjab. He added that flying squads and a “Food Safety on Wheels” van are conducting surprise checks, including on food supplements, which were previously unchecked.

He added that the Department is working with partners to investigate rising cases of sudden cardiac deaths and has issued relevant advisories.