Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel directs a multi-pronged district-level crackdown to address sex ratio imbalance, improve child healthcare, and promote school enrolment.

During a review meeting of the Red Cross Society in Pilibhit, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel called for urgent action on issues affecting the state’s social and health indicators. She directed the district magistrate, chief medical officer, and Red Cross officials to conduct inspections at ultrasound centres to curb female foeticide. This decision aims to strengthen monitoring under the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act and counter the declining female birth ratio. Governor Patel also urged the launch of awareness campaigns in rural areas to make people aware that gender-based foetal testing is a punishable offence.

Alongside, the governor underlined the importance of improving access to healthcare for children, suggesting that regular health camps be organised throughout the district. Special attention was placed on the use of homeopathic medicine for infants and children, citing its ease of use, lower cost, and fewer complications in administration. The focus was on building a sustainable model for preventive care that families can access across economic backgrounds.

On the issue of cervical cancer prevention, she directed the CMO to ensure that all 900 students of government-run Kasturba Kanya Vidyalayas in the district receive HPV vaccinations. Since this vaccine is not included in government supply chains, its cost will be covered by the Red Cross Society. Administered in two doses over six months, this vaccine can be vital in reducing risks of cervical cancer among adolescent girls.

Governor Patel also discussed the need to improve literacy and reduce dropout rates, particularly among primary school students. She cited Gujarat’s success under the Pravesh Utsav campaign, which led to a sharp rise in enrolment and retention. She encouraged the district administration to design a similar action plan that ensures every child begins and completes primary education. Noting the disparities in male and female literacy rates between Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh, she emphasised the need for urgent intervention to bridge the gap.

As part of her visit, the governor also reviewed ecological conservation efforts at Chuka Ecotourism site and assessed the status of wildlife protection at the Pilibhit Tiger Reserve, signalling a broader commitment to integrating public health, education, and environment into district development priorities.