Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK)

Plain-Language Summary

A systematic child health screening and early intervention initiative identifying and managing the 4Ds (Defects, Deficiencies, Diseases, and Developmental delays) in children from birth to 18 years.

Documented Benefits

• •Systematic screening by dedicated Mobile Health Teams for the 4Ds: Defects at Birth, Deficiencies, Diseases, and Developmental Delays.
• •Early diagnostic evaluation and specialized therapeutic management at District Early Intervention Centres (DEIC).
• •Free corrective surgical interventions for congenital heart defects, cleft lip/palate, club foot, and congenital cataract.
• •Zero cost to parents for screening, diagnostic tests, therapy, and surgical corrections.

Eligibility & Required Identity Proofs

• •All children from birth to 18 years residing in Maharashtra.
• •Enrolled in Anganwadis or government/aided schools across the 34 operational health districts.

Important Limitations & Exclusions

• •Routine walk-in screening requires scheduled mobile team visits or referral to the District Hospital DEIC.
• •Coverage currently documented across 34 districts with DEICs established under NHM Maharashtra.

How to Access / Apply

1. 1Screening is conducted bi-annually at Anganwadi Centres and annually at government schools by Mobile Health Teams.
2. 2If a condition is identified, the child is given a referral slip to the District Early Intervention Centre (DEIC) at the District Hospital.
3. 3Parents can also directly bring children with suspected congenital delays to the nearest DEIC.