On May 10, 2026, the National Neonatology Forum (NNF) marked the 35th anniversary of the NRP by conducting a simultaneous, country‑wide capacity‑building exercise.
Key Developments
- More than 21,000 healthcare providers across 1,070 centres received hands‑on training.
- The focus was on staff nurses, midwives, labour‑room interns, postgraduate trainees and respiratory therapists – the cadres most often present at deliveries.
- Training incorporated high‑fidelity simulation of the golden minute and the use of PPV.
- Collaborating agencies included the Indian Academy of Paediatrics, UNICEF, and the National Health Mission.
Important Facts
Birth asphyxia remains a leading cause of neonatal mortality and long‑term neuro‑developmental morbidity in India. The NSSK framework underpins the curriculum, ensuring that the training aligns with national standards. Simulation‑based learning, rather than pure didactic instruction, was employed because evidence shows it produces reliable performance under stress and sustains skill retention.
Beyond ventilation, the programme stressed thermal protection, early breastfeeding, vitamin K prophylaxis, and eye care – all