Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pune
(DEEMED TO BE UNIVERSITY)
More than 10 % of the global population lives in extreme poverty today; they struggle to fulfil the most basic needs like health needs, educational desires, and access to healthy water, sanitation, and clothing. Most people living on less than the minimum daily financial needs are common in rural areas. Worldwide, the poverty rate in rural areas is 17.2 %—more than three times higher than in urban areas. One child amongst five lives in extreme poverty. Ensuring social protection for all children, especially girls and other vulnerable groups, is critical to reducing poverty. It shows up as starvation and malnutrition, restricted access to healthcare and other necessities.
Alleviating poverty during and after the COVID-19 crisis has been a significant concern worldwide. Nitte (DU) strives hard to combat poverty by providing funds, food, and free medical assistance to people below the poverty line. They have successfully provided
The significance of SDG 1 lies in its foundational role in achieving all other Sustainable Development Goals. Eradicate Extreme Poverty is intertwined with various dimensions of human life, including health, education, gender equality, and economic growth. Eradicating poverty is crucial for promoting social stability, environmental sustainability, and human dignity. When individuals are lifted out of poverty, they can contribute more effectively to their communities and economies, creating a virtuous cycle of growth and development.
End Poverty is closely linked to other global challenges to reduce Global Poverty. For example, lack of access to quality education perpetuates the cycle of poverty, as individuals without education are less likely to secure stable employment. Similarly, poor health outcomes often exacerbated by inadequate access to clean water and sanitation can hinder productivity and economic participation.
To achieve SDG 1, a multi-faceted approach is necessary.
Distributional Effect towards SDG 1 involves various indicators, such as the number of people living in extreme poverty, the percentage of the population covered by social protection systems, and the availability of essential services.
Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth committed to NO POVERTY SDG1 in terms of well-being of community through 289 outreach and extension activities to 44952 population with 5436 active participations from student volunteers in health camps, awareness programs on a regular basis to educate residents about the significance of maintaining good health and hygiene. These initiatives encompass a wide range of topics, including commemorate days with 74 NSS activities, 65 Extension activities and 150 outreach activities with active involvement by students apart from curricular activities. As a leading health sciences institution, the Vidyapeeth places a strong emphasis on improving health outcomes and promoting holistic well-being for the local community. Through a comprehensive range of outreach programs, health awareness campaigns, and preventive healthcare initiatives, free food , access to clean water the university has made significant contributions towards improving public health, with a special focus on underserved and rural populations.
Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth is also committed to addressing the issue of poverty through a range of impactful initiatives towards Education to financially weak students through scholarshoip and other financial assistance. In addition to education support, Dr. D.Y.Patil Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University) also take care in fee waver, exam fees waver to under privileged childrenoffers valuable services to the underprivileged, such as free dental treatment camps, free health checkup camps, and multidiagnostic camps. These endeavors aim to improve the overall wellbeing of individuals below the poverty line by providing essential subsidized medical services through free food, free medication and free camps. Dr. D.Y.Patil Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University) strives to create a more equitable society, offering educational opportunities and essential healthcare assistance to those in need.
Training and health awareness sessions are conducted in rural and urban areas on:
Recognizing the importance of nutrition in promoting long-term health and preventing malnutrition, Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth has initiated several nutrition awareness and support programs targeted at both children and adults. These programs aim to educate the public on healthy eating practices and address nutritional deficiencies in vulnerable populations.
Breastfeeding plays a pivotal role in child development and maternal health. During World Breastfeeding Week (01-07/08/2022), the university held multiple awareness programs focusing on the benefits of breastfeeding. These included health talks and street plays at Alandi Dhanore and Solu subcenters, reaching 192 beneficiaries. The events aimed to educate new mothers and their families about the nutritional value of breastfeeding and its role in preventing infant mortality. By promoting exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life, the program contributed to healthier infant growth and reduced childhood malnutrition.
Children are a high-risk group for malnutrition, which can impact their physical and cognitive development. To address this, Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth organized 33 school health check-up camps across the region, screening a total of 3,560 children for signs of malnutrition, anemia, and other health concerns. These camps provided general health check-ups, dietary assessments, and referrals for children requiring further medical attention. The screenings included assessments for height, weight, and hemoglobin levels, offering critical early interventions to combat childhood malnutrition.
World ORS day 29/07/2023 and 31/07/2023 demonstration of ORS and awareness on importance of zinc to 102 beneficiaries.
Through calendar year hospital provides subsidized care in the form of free food, free medication, subsidized treatment to all indoor patients from Dr.D.Y.Patil Hospital and Research center and as well as Dental treatment with Minimal finance.
Hospital initiates in good health care with free distribution of food and contribution in poverty eradication.
Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pune, in a meaningful commitment to Sustainable Development Goal 1 (No Poverty), organized a large-scale food donation initiative for devotees visiting the pilgrimage center in Alandi. This event, held during a spiritually significant period, saw the Vidyapeeth mobilize resources to provide food to over 30,000 pilgrims over five days, addressing the immediate needs of vulnerable communities. Many devotees who undertake this pilgrimage come from rural backgrounds, often with limited access to affordable food along their journey. Recognizing this, the Vidyapeeth's initiative aimed to relieve food insecurity and create a safe, welcoming environment for all pilgrims.
Aligned with SDG 1’s aim to eliminate poverty in all forms, this initiative highlights the impact of local actions on global goals, particularly in combating hunger—a crucial aspect of poverty. The Vidyapeeth's organized approach ensured that the food was not only nutritious but also prepared and distributed under strict hygiene standards, prioritizing the health and well-being of the devotees. Volunteers, including students and faculty, actively participated, fostering a spirit of service and empathy within the institution’s community.
The event was an inspiring example of how educational institutions can extend their reach beyond academic duties and contribute meaningfully to social welfare, resonating deeply with the core values of compassion, service, and community support. This initiative reflects Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth’s ongoing commitment to sustainable development and its role as a socially responsible educational institution dedicated to improving the lives of the underprivileged.
The Vidyapeeth organized 126 health camps across rural and urban areas, providing free diagnostic screenings and medical consultations to 24,952 beneficiaries, with a particular focus on underserved populations. These camps offered a wide range of services, including general check-ups, blood pressure screenings, diabetes testing, and cancer screenings. For example, at a camp in Shelpimpalgaon (19/08/2022), over 670 beneficiaries received services such as ECGs, thyroid tests, and breast cancer screenings. The multi-diagnostic camps were essential in detecting chronic conditions early and ensuring referrals to appropriate medical facilities.
Aging populations face unique health challenges, including mobility issues, chronic diseases, and reduced access to healthcare. Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth’s outreach programs for senior citizens focused on preventive care, offering screenings for arthritis, diabetes, and hypertension. Special camps targeting elderly beneficiaries provided free consultations and health check-ups, ensuring that senior citizens could manage chronic conditions and maintain a higher quality of life. These initiatives included geriatric care camps that reached over 150 elderly beneficiaries.
Subsidized health camps for rural populations play a crucial role in addressing Sustainable Development Goal 1: No Poverty. These initiatives provide essential healthcare services to underserved communities, alleviating financial burdens associated with medical care. By offering free or low-cost screenings, vaccinations, and treatments, health camps improve overall health outcomes and reduce poverty-related vulnerabilities.
These camps often focus on common ailments and preventive care, empowering individuals with knowledge about health practices and access to necessary resources. Furthermore, by partnering with local organizations and leveraging community volunteers, these programs foster resilience and promote health literacy, enabling rural populations to advocate for their health needs.
Ultimately, specialized health camps not only improve individual well-being but also contribute to breaking the cycle of poverty, enhancing productivity, and fostering economic stability within communities. Investing in such initiatives is vital for achieving sustainable development and ensuring that no one is left behind.
The Vidyapeeth’s specialized health camps in rural locations such as Savala Taluka (04/11/2022) provided comprehensive care to 171 beneficiaries, addressing chronic health issues such as diabetes, hypertension, and malnutrition. These camps included referrals for patients needing further specialist consultations, bridging the gap between rural communities and essential healthcare services.
At Talegaon Dabade Taluka. Maval on 19/08/2022, beneficiaries 670, on 21/09/2022, beneficiaries 134, 12 cases referred, again on 14/10/2022, beneficiaries 630, 40 referred and on 15/10/2022, beneficiaries 877, 48 cases referred.
Health check-up camp for Ashadi wari devotees
Dr. D.Y.Patil Vidyapeeth apart from Medical other constituent units also contributed in health check-up camps like 06 eye screening camp by Optometry College, 57 Oral screening camp by dental with coverage of beneficiaries to 2980, Homeopathy college with Homeopathy treatment camp 10 with population coverage of 825.
College of Physiotherapy conducted Athritis Screening Camp on 12th and 29th October 2022. Sports gymnastic camp on 07/11/2022, Diabetes rehabilitation camp on 14/11/2022.
Ten free physiotherapy camp on 15/12/2022, 17/12/2022, 07/01/2023, 14/01/2023, 16/01/2023, 19/01/2023, 25/01/2023, 08/03/2023, 1/06/2023 and 29/07/2023 with wide coverage of population with approximately 280 with various arthritis condition.
Access to clean water and sanitation is a crucial aspect of Sustainable Development Goal 1 (SDG 1), which aims to end poverty in all its forms. While SDG 1 primarily focuses on poverty alleviation, access to water and sanitation is fundamental to achieving this goal, as water scarcity and poor sanitation exacerbate poverty. Without clean water, communities face health risks, limited educational opportunities, and hindered economic growth. Poor sanitation leads to the spread of diseases, further trapping people in cycles of poverty.
Ensuring access to clean water and sanitation promotes well-being, reduces inequalities, and fosters economic productivity by preventing water-borne diseases and supporting livelihoods. Investing in water infrastructure and sanitation services contributes directly to poverty eradication by improving health outcomes, increasing school attendance, and enhancing opportunities for income generation, particularly in vulnerable communities.
Rainwater harvesting is the practice of collecting and storing rainwater for various uses, such as gardining, drinking, and hospital kitchen activities. It’s an effective way to conserve water, reduce runoff, and manage stormwater. Water collected through rainwater harvest system is used to recharge the borewell system at the institute.
Water treatment plants play a crucial role in achieving Sustainable Development Goal 1 (SDG 1), which aims to eliminate poverty. Access to clean and safe water is essential for improving health, economic opportunities, and overall well-being, especially in impoverished communities. By providing purified water, treatment plants reduce the prevalence of waterborne diseases, lowering healthcare costs and improving productivity. This, in turn, allows families to break the cycle of poverty as they spend less on medical expenses and have more time for education and income-generating activities.
Additionally, reliable water infrastructure fosters local economic growth by supporting agriculture and ensuring food security. By addressing the basic need for clean water, water treatment plants serve as a foundation for broader development goals, contributing to a healthier, more prosperous society in line with SDG 1’s mission to end poverty in all its forms.
A WTP is a facility designed to treat water to make it safe for consumption and use. Two water treatment plants with total capacity of 650 m3/day, have been installed.
Dr. D.Y.Patil Vidyapeeth places a strong emphasis on practical exposure and experiential learning across all faculties, including Medicine, Dentistry, Nursing, Allied health Sciences, and Management Studies. Our commitment to providing students with real-world experiences helps them gain a deeper understanding of their fields and prepare for the challenges they has to face in their future careers.
Faculty of Medicine , Dentistry, Hoemopathy and Ayurveda: For students pursuing Medicine and Dentistry, hospital postings are an integral part of their education. These immersive experiences allow them to witness healthcare delivery systems in action. By working within healthcare facilities, our students encounter real-life medical scenarios, engage with patients, and learn how to address live healthcare challenges. This hands-on approach not only enhances their clinical skills but also instills a deep sense of empathy and compassion.
Faculty of Nursing: In the Faculty of Nursing, practical exposure is invaluable. Hospital and clinical postings provide students with an opportunity to interact with healthcare professionals, understand treatment management processes, and witness the role of care taker in patient care. These experiences are instrumental in bridging the gap between classroom learning and the practical realities in practice.
Faculty of Allied health Sciences: Allied Health Sciences students benefit from visits to various research institutions, laboratories, and industries. These field trips and visits allow them to observe cutting-edge advancements in their respective areas of study. Whether it's exploring research facilities or understanding the practical applications of life sciences in industries, these experiences enrich their academic journey and inspire innovation.
Faculty of Management Studies: In Management Studies, learning extends beyond the classroom through industry visits and exposure to real-world management challenges. These visits provide students with insights into how organizations operate, allowing them to apply their theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios. Such experiences are instrumental in identifying their problem-solving and decision-making skills, making them better-equipped future managers and leaders. Moreover, the department organizes visits to various hospitals and industries to supplement classroom learning. These visits are designed to expose students to the latest advancements and best practices in their respective fields. Whether it's witnessing state-of-the-art healthcare technologies in action or gaining insights into cutting-edge management strategies, these experiences are pivotal in broadening students' horizons and keeping them updated with the latest industry trends.
DPU firmly believe that practical exposure and hands-on learning are essential components of a well-rounded education. By combining theoretical knowledge with real-world experiences, we empower our students to excel in their chosen fields and make meaningful contributions to their respective industries. Our commitment to holistic education ensures that our graduates are not only academically proficient but also equipped with the practical skills and insights needed to succeed in their careers.
Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth (DPU) is actively committed to addressing Sustainable Development Goal 1 (SDG 1) – eradicating poverty in all its forms – through impactful measures focused on supporting low-income students. One of the institution's significant initiatives is its financial aid program, which currently benefits 2,180 students from poor backgrounds. This initiative enables these students to pursue quality education without the financial strain that often hinders educational attainment.
DPU’s financial aid program not only covers tuition fees but also extends to essential resources such as study materials from Library under Alumni book donation category, accommodation, and daily living expenses. By alleviating these financial burdens, the institution promotes equal opportunities and ensures that financial limitations do not prevent students from reaching their full academic potential. This approach empowers students with the skills and qualifications they need to secure well-paying jobs and achieve economic independence, directly contributing to poverty reduction.
Furthermore, DPU's commitment to providing accessible education fosters social mobility and supports a more equitable and inclusive society. By enabling students from low-income backgrounds to succeed academically and professionally, the institution aligns with the broader objectives of SDG 1. DPU's initiatives not only transform individual lives but also contribute to breaking the cycle of poverty for future generations. Through these sustained efforts, DPU strengthens communities and supports the vision of a world where educational opportunities are available to all, regardless of economic background, paving the way for a poverty-free society.
DPU is committed to ensuring that students from all socioeconomic backgrounds have equal opportunities to pursue their education and successfully complete their programs in various disciplines, including medicine, dentistry, Nursing, life sciences, and management studies. Specifically, for students who fall into the bottom 20% of the household income group in India, Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth (DPU) has implemented a range of targeted support and initiatives to help them achieve their graduation and completion targets.
Over the years, many students who faced economic challenges have not only completed their programs but have also gone on to achieve impressive milestones:
Dr. D. Y. Patil College of Physiotherapy Pimpri, Pune organized a campus interview by Qi Spine, Pune headed by Jyotsna Sable, Lead Talent Acquisition, Dr. Pallavi Rawat (PT), Consulting Physiotherapist and Vinita K, Manager Talent Acquisition at Qi Spine, Mumbai on 23rd February 2023 from 3 to 5 pm at the Conference Hall of Dr. D. Y. Patil College of Physiotherapy.
The placement session was coordinated by Dr. Sanjivani Kamble, Dr. Rucha Choudhari and Dr. Shruti Dhokpatil. Twenty two Interns & five PG students attended the interview. Miss. Jyotsna Sable gave introduction to the various equipment and research tools used at Qi Spine to evaluate and treat patients. An overview of several patients with musculoskeletal disorders, including spinal cord injury, spondylosis, and spondylolisthesis at Qi Spine, was given to the candidates.
Participants were also briefed about the work profile, clinical exposure of the patients and about the stepwise growth at the Clinic. The valuable benefits and advantages of joining Qi Spine were also discussed by Dr. Pallavi Rawat (PT). The session was followed by 2 rounds of one-to-one interview of the students conducted by Miss. Jyotsna Sable and Dr. Pallavi Rawat. In Accordance to the results, 3 candidates were selected as Consultant Physiotherapist, while 6 candidates were recruited as Assistant Physiotherapist.
The session ended by a felicitation program by Dr. Manisha Rathi Madam to Miss. Jyotsna Sable, Dr. Pallavi Rawat and Vinita K. Madam also expressed her gratitude towards Qi Spine Team for accepting the invitation & giving their valuable time and opportunity to our students.
A training session was organized on Friday, Jan 6, 2023by Dr. D. Y. Patil Biotechnology & Bioinformatics Institute along with IQAC on the ICT facilities available at the University and there usage. Ms. Sheetal Shirke from the software development cell provided training to the non-teaching staff on Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system accessed by all Vidyapeeth employees. She updated the staff with the latest developments on the system. Further the staff was made aware of the advantages of using the system on a regular basis and how it will ease their work on a long term basis.
Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth has undertaken a significant initiative aligned with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 1, which aims to eliminate poverty. In a progressive effort to empower underprivileged communities, the university has employed a substantial number of local community members in various roles such as peons, attendants, sweepers, gardeners, and security guards. This initiative not only fosters local economic development but also provides stable, dignified employment opportunities to individuals who face economic hardships.
The employment breakdown includes 877 male and 1,225 female workers in roles such as peons, attendants, sweepers, and gardeners, ensuring gender inclusivity in employment opportunities. Additionally, the university has employed 202 male and 174 female security guards, reinforcing a commitment to workforce diversity, and offering equitable opportunities to both men and women in the community. This gender-balanced approach exemplifies the institution's dedication to inclusive economic growth and social equity.
Beyond providing jobs, Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth promotes skill development and a sense of community among these employees, fostering a supportive work environment. By prioritizing local hires, the university directly addresses poverty and supports families from underserved backgrounds, enhancing their financial security and overall quality of life. Through these efforts, Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth is not only helping to alleviate poverty but is also setting a benchmark for community-focused, sustainable employment practices within the educational sector, thereby contributing positively toward SDG 1.
In conclusion, achieving Sustainable Development Goal 1 (SDG 1), aims to eradicate poverty in all its forms, directly addressed the needs of the most vulnerable populations. Implementing free health camps provided essential medical services, while targeted malnutrition programs ensured that individuals, particularly children, received the necessary nutrients for healthy development. Scholarships empowered youth by providing educational opportunities, breaking the cycle of poverty. Free treatment initiated to alleviate financial burdens on families, promoting overall health and well-being. Access to clean water is vital for preventing disease and supporting healthy living conditions, while the free distribution of food helped combat hunger and food insecurity. By integrating these strategies, we can create a comprehensive framework that not only addresses immediate needs but also fosters long-term resilience and sustainable development for all.