In a monumental stride towards revolutionizing oral health practices in India, the Oral Health Collaborative spearheaded the inauguration of the 'National Oral Health Task Force' on December 14, 2023.

Backed by Haleon (formerly GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare), the event, organized by Taru Leading Edge, unfolded in New Delhi with a resolute mission to enhance oral health standards.

The Task Force's central objective revolves around driving widespread awareness about oral health, facilitating better access to dental care, and empowering individuals across India to proactively manage their oral health.

Key discussions at the event centered on three pivotal agendas: awareness, access, and empowerment, acknowledging these as critical pillars for substantial progress in oral healthcare.

Gracing the occasion were notable figures such as Dr. R. K. Srivastava, Former DGHS, Former Chairman of MCI, and Advisor to the WISH Foundation, serving as the Chief Guest. Dr. L. Swasticharan, Addl. Deputy Director General (NCD) at the Government of India's Dte. GHS led the session as the Chairperson. The event also welcomed Navneet Saluja, GM of Haleon ISC BU, and Manu Prakash, CEO of Taru.

Dr. Srivastava emphasized the indisputable link between oral health and overall well-being, acknowledging the Indian government's commendable strides while advocating for innovative solutions to sustain progress. He stressed the significance of integrating oral health awareness models with AI-based tools and adopting a collaborative approach to rewrite the oral health narrative for the nation's benefit.

Dr. Swasticharan's keynote address highlighted the commitment to sustained improvement, emphasizing continuous education, infrastructural investment, and technological integration. The Task Force, with its aim to promote awareness, prevention, and accessible care, emerges as a pivotal strategy to comprehensively address oral health challenges, uniting diverse stakeholders and fostering innovation.

Navneet Saluja expressed Haleon's dedication to supporting this crucial initiative aimed at preventing oral diseases, promoting awareness, and enhancing access to care. The collaboration with the National Oral Health Task Force aligns with Haleon's mission to prioritize action against oral diseases and strategize reform opportunities to elevate oral health standards in India.

Dr. Prashant Narang, Director of Medical Affairs at Haleon India Subcontinent, highlighted the multifaceted nature of India's oral health landscape. The Task Force's collective vision aims to bridge gaps, enhance oral health literacy, tackle preventable oral health challenges, and empower communities across urban and rural India.

The launch of the 'National Oral Health Task Force marks a pivotal moment in India's journey towards comprehensive oral well-being. With a united front, collective expertise, and innovative strategies, this initiative promises to reshape oral healthcare, fostering healthier smiles and empowering communities nationwide.