Christian Medical College, Vellore, was honoured with the Public Health Champion Award by the World Health Organization in India on last week in New Delhi at the National Consultation on Food Safety, which was jointly organized by the WHO and the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare of the Government of India.

Acknowledging the outstanding contributions to public health in India, the Community Health and Development Programme, Community Health Department, Christian Medical College, Vellore was recognised and honoured as a Public Health Champion for providing primary care to the rural, urban and tribal communities in its vicinity. Building upon what was initiated by our Founder Dr. Ida Scudder almost 108 years ago, the department has been a training ground for medical, nursing and paramedical students and an example in community based service, teaching and research.

This award is recognition of the sustained effort of many who have worked to make this department as one of the leaders of public health in the country. A special mention must be made of the outstanding contribution of  Dr. Abraham Joseph who provided leadership to this for 2 decades from 1982- 2003. This award also showcases the seamless cooperation between primary, secondary and tertiary care at the Christian Medical College, Vellore.