District Development Commissioner Pulwama, Ghulam Mohammed Dar launched the National Deworming Day at a function at Lyceum International School Pulwama here today.Speaking on the occasion he said, Jammu and Kashmir Government is committed to ensuring high quality healthcare, accessible to every child and upto the last mile.Chief Medical officer Dr Mohammad Jaffar, Block Medical officer Dr Ramesh, Principal Lyceum International school and other officials from Health Department were also present on the occasion.Urging all the stakeholders to come forward and participate in this initiative, District Development Commissioner Pulwama stated that the aim of a worm-free India can be true only if we all join hands to make this program a success. “I would request all health functionaries and health leaders to participate in the program and see to it that we make this program a success.He said the National Deworming Day will mobilize health personnel, state governments and other stakeholders to prioritize investment in control of Soil Transmitted Helminth (STH) infections—one of the most common infections. Further he said, “It aims to create mass awareness about the most effective and low-cost STH treatment— administering Albendazole tablets. Along with Albendazole administration, behaviour change practices in terms of cleanliness, hygiene, use of toilets, wearing shoes/chappals, washing hands etc. is also important to reduce incidents of re-infection”.On the occasion CMO Pulwama said that Anganwadi and school-based mass deworming program is safe, cost-effective, and can reach crores of children quickly.