About Ladakh
In Ladakh, the Union Territory, the diverse geographical landscape is characterized by three prominent zones: (i) Sub-mountain and semi-mountain plain, (ii) the majestic peaks of the Himalayas, and (iii) the high mountain zone. In response to emerging challenges in immunization, the MOMENTUM Routine Immunization Transformation and Equity project, generously funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), collaborated closely with the local government. Ladakh faced unique challenges, including vaccine hesitancy within economically and educationally underserved communities, navigating challenging terrains, and a perceived lack of community ownership of vaccination initiatives. Undeterred, the project team diligently tackled these hurdles by disseminating accurate information regarding COVID-19 vaccination, mobilizing local health professionals such as medical practitioners, health workers, and Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANMs) for prioritized vaccination efforts, and actively involving community and faith leaders to raise awareness about the importance of vaccination.