Bengaluru : Apollo Hospitals, in collaboration with the National Neonatology Forum (NNF) and the Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP), conducted a Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) in Bengaluru, aimed at strengthening pediatricians’ capabilities in managing critical newborn emergencies.
Also known as the First Golden Minute Programme, the training focused on equipping doctors with essential resuscitation skills to address birth asphyxia, a leading cause of neonatal mortality and long-term neurological complications.
The program, attended by pediatricians from across the country, was inaugurated by Akshay Oleti, CEO – Karnataka, Apollo Hospitals, and coordinated by Dr. Prashanth S Urs, Senior Consultant, Neonatologist and Pediatrician at Apollo Hospitals, Bengaluru. It followed protocols established by the American Academy of Pediatrics and adapted for India by NNF and IAP.
Birth asphyxia, the failure to initiate and sustain breathing at birth, accounts for nearly 24% of neonatal deaths globally, with a significant number occurring within the first 24 hours. In developing countries, incidence ranges between 4.6 to 26 per 1,000 births, with case fatality rates as high as 40%. Timely intervention during the first few minutes after birth can significantly reduce the risk of mortality, brain damage, cerebral palsy, and other long-term neurological conditions.
The workshop emphasised hands-on learning, maintaining a ratio of one certified instructor for every six participants to ensure personalised training. Pediatricians were trained in key resuscitation techniques required when newborns fail to breathe or cry immediately after birth, a critical competency for all doctors attending deliveries.
Participants underwent both pre- and post-training assessments, with successful candidates receiving internationally recognised certification, reinforcing standardised neonatal care practices.
Commenting on the initiative, Dr. Prashanth S Urs said, “The first few moments after birth are critical, and timely intervention can significantly improve outcomes for newborns. Through structured, hands-on training, we are ensuring that pediatricians are equipped to respond with confidence and precision. Strengthening these skills is essential to reducing preventable complications and improving newborn survival rates.”
All sessions were conducted by certified instructors affiliated with NNF and IAP, with several experts travelling from across India to facilitate the training.
The Neonatal Resuscitation Program, introduced globally in 1995, continues to play a vital role in advancing neonatal care by ensuring that every pediatrician attending deliveries is equipped to manage emergencies during the critical first minutes of life.
