15/06/2026
Strengthening the Frontline for the successful establishment of a diagnosis and treatment pathway for Chronic Respiratory Diseases (CRDs)
--------------------------------------------
On 11th June 2026, as part of the ICMR StAr NCD Project, we successfully conducted an intensive, hands-on capacity-building training program focused on addressing Chronic Respiratory Diseases (CRDs), such as Asthma and COPD, for health care providers from the Umred Block of Nagpur District. Our mission is to bridge the healthcare gap, reduce out-of-pocket expenses for rural families suffering from CRDs, and save lives through standardized care at the grassroots level.
The training started with Dr. A Sujiv (Additional Professor, Department of Community Medicine, AIIMS Nagpur), who laid out the critical public health burden of CRDs and shared essential screening strategies. To ensure our primary care teams are fully equipped, Dr Devipriya S (Project Research Scientist) and Project Technical Staff, Ms Harsh*ta Dhusia, Mr Nikhil Puri, and Mr Aman Wasnik, led practical workshops on PC-based Spirometry and Mini Spirometry. Introducing this equipment at the primary and secondary levels can be a game-changer for rapid screening of CRDs.
Transitioning from diagnostics to therapeutics, Dr Udit Narang (Additional Professor, Department of General Medicine, AIIMS Nagpur) delivered a masterful session on standardising the clinical diagnosis and stepwise management of COPD and Asthma. Dr Narang wrapped up the day with a vital practical module on perfect inhaler techniques. Moving forward, our medical teams will audit and reinforce these correct techniques at every patient visit. By decentralizing respiratory care, we are bringing gold-standard medical treatment directly to our rural communities.
A total of 39 participants attended the training from Rural Hospital Umred and various PHCs and HWCs across the Umred block, comprising 9 Medical Officers (RH MOs, PHC MOs and RBSK MOs), 11 Community Health Officers, 9 nursing staff (including SNs, ANMs, LHVs), 3 Pharmacy Officers, and other health care providers.
We express our profound gratitude to Hon. Mr Vinayak Mahamuni (CEO, ZP), Dr Rajkumar Gahalot (DHO), and Dr Nivrutti Rathod (CS) for their steadfast support and guidance in successfully implementing the CRD program across Umred and Parshivni blocks.
The StAr NCD team extends its sincere appreciation to Dr Sandeep Dharamthok (THO), Dr Ajitsing Khandate (MS), and their dedicated team for their exceptional organisation, hospitality, and seamless facilitation of the event venues and arrangements.
A huge thank you to all the dedicated resource persons, technical staff, and all healthcare providers who actively participated in the training.
Thank You!
ICMR StAr NCD Project
Department of Community Medicine,
AIIMS Nagpur