A Quasi-Experimental Study To Assess The Effectiveness Of Educational Package On Level Of Knowledge And Attitude Regarding Mission Indradhanush Among Mothers Of Under Five Children In Selected Urban Slum Area

Abstract

Background

Immunization remains one of the most cost-effective and critical public health interventions aimed at reducing childhood morbidity and mortality associated with vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs). In India, despite significant improvements in immunization coverage over the past decades, a large proportion of children still remain either unimmunized or partially immunized, particularly among marginalized populations such as urban slum dwellers. To address this, the Government of India launched Mission Indradhanush in December 2014. The mission aimed to increase full immunization coverage to at least 90% by 2020, focusing on underserved, hard-to-reach, and high-risk populations. The initiative emphasized systematic planning, micro-mapping, community engagement, and targeted catch-up campaigns. However, the success of this mission is largely dependent on the awareness, knowledge, and attitudes of caregivers—particularly mothers—who are the primary decision-makers for children's health in Indian families.

In the urban slums of Bengaluru, gaps in immunization coverage have been reported due to various socio-cultural, economic, and informational barriers. While government programs have attempted to bridge these gaps, there exists a pressing need to educate mothers effectively about the immunization schedule, the benefits of vaccines, and their role in child survival. This study sought to assess the effectiveness of a structured educational package on improving the knowledge and attitudes of mothers regarding Mission Indradhanush and its benefits in immunization.