Gilgit-Baltistan Chief Secretary Reviews National Immunization Drive — Vows to Achieve Polio-Free Region

Independent Report

GILGIT, Nov 3: Chief Secretary Gilgit-Baltistan Abrar Ahmed Mirza chaired a high-level steering committee meeting at the Chief Secretary Office to review the October National Immunization Days (NIDs) campaign. Senior officials from the Health, Home, Education, and Information Departments, as well as all Commissioners, Deputy Commissioners, the EPI Director, and other stakeholders attended the meeting.

The meeting comprehensively reviewed the progress, field performance, and follow-up actions taken during the immunization campaign across Gilgit-Baltistan. Officials presented detailed briefings on the implementation, coverage, and challenges encountered during the drive.

Chief Secretary Abrar Ahmed Mirza emphasized that a polio-free Gilgit-Baltistan is a national commitment, reaffirming the government’s full resolve to utilize all available resources to eliminate the virus. He directed all district administrations, the health department, and partner organizations to ensure that no child is left unvaccinated.

Expressing displeasure over the slow performance of some vaccination teams, the Chief Secretary warned that negligence would not be tolerated and instructed strict disciplinary action against those responsible. He further directed the Commissioner Gilgit to submit a detailed report on the teams’ shortcomings.

Director Health Services briefed the meeting that the upcoming polio campaign will be conducted from November 17 to 22, 2025, while the next National Immunization Days will be launched in December.