Abhay and Rani Bang

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Dr. Abhay and Rani Bang 3

Abhay and Rani Bang are an Indian social activist and researcher couple known for their pioneering work in community health in the Gadchiroli district of Maharashtra, India. They founded the Society for Education, Action and Research in Community Health (SEARCH) in the 1980s, which is a non-profit organization aimed at improving the health and well-being of rural and tribal communities in India through community engagement, research, and advocacy.

Early Life and Education

Abhay Bang was born in Wardha, Maharashtra, and Rani Bang is from Nagpur, Maharashtra. Both were influenced by the philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi and his approach to health and development. Abhay completed his medical degree from the Government Medical College, Nagpur, and later went to Johns Hopkins University for further studies in public health. Rani Bang also pursued her medical degree from the Government Medical College, Nagpur, and has been an active researcher and practitioner in community health.

Career

The Bangs' work has been primarily focused on addressing the health needs of the marginalized communities in Gadchiroli, one of the most remote and underdeveloped districts in India. They have been instrumental in developing a community-based health model that involves training local villagers, especially women, as health workers to provide primary healthcare services. This model has significantly improved health outcomes in the region, particularly in reducing infant mortality rates and controlling infectious diseases.

Their research on home-based neonatal care has been internationally recognized and has influenced national and international health policies. The World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF have incorporated their findings into global guidelines for managing neonatal health.

Key Contributions

• Community Health Model: The Bangs developed a low-cost, effective community health model that has been replicated in other parts of India and in other countries.
• Home-Based Neonatal Care: Their research on providing neonatal care at home by trained community health workers has helped in reducing neonatal mortality rates in resource-limited settings.
• Public Health Advocacy: They have been vocal advocates for the health rights of the rural and tribal populations, influencing policy at both national and international levels.

Awards and Recognition

Abhay and Rani Bang have received numerous awards for their contributions to community health, including the prestigious Padma Shri awarded by the Government of India. Their work has also been recognized by various national and international organizations dedicated to health and development.

Legacy

The Bangs' work in Gadchiroli has set a benchmark for community health globally. Their approach to healthcare, which emphasizes local participation, low-cost interventions, and rigorous research, has been a model for health systems strengthening in resource-poor settings around the world.

See Also

• Community health
• Public health in India
• Society for Education, Action and Research in Community Health
• Padma Shri in social work