Rajkot, June 20 — A young girl from Padwala village in Upleta taluka of Rajkot district has been given a new lease of life thanks to the government’s National Child Health Programme (RBSK). Navya Karotra, who was born with a serious congenital heart defect, underwent successful surgery under the scheme, free of cost.
Navya, born in 2017, comes from an economically disadvantaged family. Her father, Pankajbhai Karotra, works in animal husbandry, and the family had been struggling with her frequent illnesses since infancy. During a routine check-up in Bhalodia, Upleta, a paediatric specialist suspected a heart condition. She was then referred to the DEIC (District Early Intervention Centre) at Rajkot Civil Hospital for further evaluation.
Doctors at Rajkot Civil Hospital confirmed the diagnosis and referred Navya to U.N. Mehta Institute of Cardiology in Ahmedabad for advanced treatment. Initially overwhelmed by the anticipated cost of surgery, her parents found immense relief when the medical team informed them that the entire treatment, including surgery and follow-up care, would be fully covered under the government’s child health scheme.
Navya’s surgery was successfully performed at the U.N. Mehta Hospital, and her post-operative recovery was closely monitored under the programme. Today, she leads a healthy life thanks to the timely intervention.
Her parents expressed deep gratitude to District Development Officer Anandu Suresh Govind and Chief District Health Officer Dr. R.R. Fulmali for their support and guidance. They described the programme as a powerful example of the government’s humane approach to healthcare and a lifeline for underprivileged families.
Navya’s case has emerged as an inspiring example of how government health initiatives can make a tangible difference in the lives of children in rural communities, reaffirming faith in the public healthcare system’s reach and effectiveness.
