When was the National Goitre Programme launched?

DSSSB -28 August 2019 (Shift-2)

Community Health Nursing

Easy

Appeared in: DSSSB -28 August 2019 (Shift-2)

Explanation

The National Goitre Control Programme (NGCP) was launched by the Government of India in 1962.
The primary objective was to control and prevent goitre and other Iodine Deficiency Disorders (IDD), which were highly prevalent, especially in the sub-Himalayan regions.
This programme was a significant public health initiative aimed at addressing a major nutritional deficiency in the country.
In 1992, the programme was renamed the National Iodine Deficiency Disorders Control Programme (NIDDCP) to reflect a broader focus on all disorders related to iodine deficiency, not just goitre.

Option A: 1972 is incorrect. While various health initiatives were underway in the 1970s, the specific programme for goitre control had already been established a decade earlier.
Option C: 1952 is incorrect. In 1952, the focus of major health initiatives was on the Community Development Programme and the establishment of the Central Council of Health. The goitre programme was launched later.
Option D: 1982 is incorrect. In 1982, the National Health Policy was announced, but the goitre control programme had been active for two decades by then.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain National Health Programmes in India as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
A community health nurse plays a vital role in the success of the NIDDCP by educating families on the importance of consuming only iodized salt.
Nurses can use rapid test kits during home visits to check the iodine content of the salt being used by households, providing immediate feedback and reinforcement.
Patient education should include practical tips, such as storing iodized salt in an airtight container away from heat and moisture to prevent iodine loss.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core of the question, which is asking for the launch year of a specific national health program ('National Goitre Programme').
This is a factual recall question. Access your knowledge base regarding major public health initiatives in India.
Systematically evaluate each option. Recall or deduce the timeline of different health programs.
For example, you might remember that many foundational programs started in the decades following independence.
Eliminate the dates that are clearly incorrect. For instance, 1952 was more focused on community development, and by 1982, the focus was shifting to a comprehensive National Health Policy.
Select the year that correctly corresponds to the launch of the goitre program, which is 1962.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Comprehensive Textbook of Community Health NursingShyamala D part 1 (pp 26-389 of 389) p. 52-54