Behtar Qadam campaign reaches 90,000 people across Punjab, boosting maternal and child health awareness
World Bank-supported Punjab Family Planning Program completes the first phase of its flagship campaign after more than 650 community engagements across the province.
Participants attend a Behtar Qadam community awareness event in Punjab.
Lahore: The Behtar Qadam campaign has completed the first phase of its public awareness initiative after reaching more than 90,000 citizens through over 650 community engagement activities across Punjab.
The campaign is part of the Punjab Family Planning Program (PFPP), a World Bank-supported initiative of the Government of Punjab’s Health and Population Departments. A consortium of RIZ Consulting and Rayn (Private) Limited implemented the programme.
Community outreach expands across Punjab
Over the past six months, the campaign organised more than 650 activities across the province. These included university seminars, Sehat Melas and community meetings.
The events encouraged open discussions about maternal and child health. They also promoted responsible family planning, birth spacing and preventive healthcare.
More than 90,000 people took part in the campaign. Participants included students, young couples, parents and community leaders.
Focus on informed family decisions
The campaign provided evidence-based counselling on maternal and child health. It also highlighted the benefits of responsible family planning and informed family decisions.
Officials said the initiative has encouraged communities to discuss family wellbeing more openly. Young people showed strong participation throughout the programme.
The campaign also partnered with more than 100 educational institutions. These partnerships helped educate students about responsible life choices and healthy lifestyles.
Birth spacing remains a key priority
Captain Usman, Director Program of the Punjab Family Planning Program, said maternal and child health remains the programme’s highest priority.
He said maintaining at least a two-year gap between births helps protect mothers and children. It also reduces health risks and prevents nutritional deficiencies.
He added that every family deserves access to reliable health information and quality healthcare services.
Next phase to strengthen digital outreach
Following the success of the first phase, Behtar Qadam will expand its community engagement and digital awareness efforts.
Officials said the next phase will improve access to essential health information. They also aim to promote healthier families and stronger communities across Punjab.
