USAID and Jhpiego launch Udaan Collaborative to improve access to quality sexual reproductive health

The US Agency for International Development (USAID) MOMENTUM Country and Global Leadership: India Yash project, led by Jhpiego, a Johns Hopkins Affiliate, announced the launch of the Udaan Collaborative initiative. This multi-stakeholder collaboration of private sector players includes 900+ obstetrician-gynecologists, 600+ general physicians, and 7200+ pharmacists. It aims to strengthen access to quality Sexual Reproductive Health (SRH) services and products and promote accurate health information among young people. The initiative works in both urban and rural areas of Jharkhand, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and Madhya Pradesh.

Michelle Lang Alli, Director, USAID/India, Health Office, said, “The Udaan Collaborative will support rural and urban youth to make informed decisions about their health and well-being through a digital platform, providing comprehensive sexual and reproductive health information and products, thereby fostering a healthier and more knowledgeable generation.”

Udaan Collaborative will offer a unified digital platform that blends chatbots, helplines, and online consultations to provide accurate knowledge and easy access to SRH products and services. Udaan’s mascot, “Futurika”, aims to facilitate meaningful dialogues on safe SRH practices and subtly induces behaviour change, motivating youth to prioritise sexual health and informed decision-making. 

Dr Jaydeep Tank, President, Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India, said, “Recognising the significance of sexual and reproductive health is fundamental to the overall development and welfare of individuals and communities. Through the expansion of Udaan Collaborative, we aim to bring together our network of healthcare providers to drive meaningful change, empowering young people with informed choices.” 

Somesh Kumar, Country Director, Jhpiego India said, “Udaan is tailored to the specific needs of the young and youth. Over the next few years, the expanded service and product offerings would enable the health and well-being of all who come across Udaan providers”.

Prachi Garg, External Affairs Lead, Organon added, “Building a strong continuum of care involving private sector partners is important for ensuring wider access to quality healthcare services. Udaan is delivering on important elements such as demand generation, increasing awareness among youth, training of healthcare providers, widening the basket of contraceptive choices, and most importantly building an ecosystem to deliver sexual and reproductive health services respectfully.”