30/08/2025
Last week, I had the privilege of joining a powerful dialogue at the Round Table Conference organized by the Institute for Inclusive Policy and Governance (IIPG) in Chandigarh on āPunjabās Transformation: From Grain Bowl to Nutrition Bowl for Holistic Health.ā
š IIPG is a reputed think tank that works at the intersection of policy, governance, and inclusive development, bringing together diverse stakeholders to co-create sustainable solutions.
I was invited as a speaker to share Sanjhi Sehatās work and how our on-ground experiences can help shape a practical policy framework for tackling non-communicable diseases (Diabetes, Hypertension) in Punjab.
Sitting alongside doctors from AIIMS, PGI & Fortis, senior government officials, NGO leaders, Ayurveda experts, researchers, and activists ā I was reminded of the strength of collective wisdom.
What stood out to me most was the power of bringing diverse voices to the same table ā doctors, policymakers, NGOs, and community workers. True transformation for Punjabās health will only happen when policy and grassroots practice move hand in hand. The conversations reminded me that while policies give direction, it is the lived realities from the ground that make them effective. When evidence from communities meets the will of decision-makers, real change becomes possible. Punjab has both ā a strong legacy of resilience and a growing network of committed changemakers. The challenge ahead is to channel this collective energy into building a model of health that is preventive, inclusive, and sustainable.
Grateful to IIPG for creating this platform, and looking forward to contributing further towards a healthier, more inclusive Punjab. šæ
