USAID & Jhpiego Launch Udaan Collaborative To Enhance Youth Sexual Health In India

The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), through its MOMENTUM Country and Global Leadership: India-Yash project, in collaboration with Jhpiego, a Johns Hopkins Affiliate, has launched the Udaan Collaborative. 

In a press statement on Tuesday, the agency said that the initiative aims to improve access to quality Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) services and information for youth across India. The multi-stakeholder project includes over 900 obstetrician-gynecologists, 600 general physicians, and 7,200 pharmacists, focusing on both urban and rural regions of Jharkhand, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and Madhya Pradesh.

The Udaan Collaborative will support young people in making informed health decisions by providing a digital platform that offers comprehensive SRH information and products. Michelle Lang Alli, Director of the USAID/India Health Office, expressed, “USAID is privileged to partner with the Indian government and the private sector to develop innovative solutions for enhancing India’s family planning and reproductive health goals. The Udaan Collaborative will enable rural and urban youth to access accurate health information and products, fostering a healthier and more informed generation.”

Dr. Jaydeep Tank, President of the Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India emphasised the initiative’s importance, stating, “Recognising the significance of sexual and reproductive health is crucial for individual and community development. By expanding the Udaan Collaborative, we aim to unite our network of healthcare providers to drive meaningful change and empower young people with informed choices.”

Somesh Kumar, Country Director of Jhpiego India, highlighted the initiative’s transformative nature, noting, “Udaan is designed to meet the specific needs of youth, aligning with Jhpiego's vision of empowering individuals in their healthcare decisions. This initiative will contribute to healthier futures by providing knowledge and safe choices. Over the coming years, the expanded services and products will benefit all who engage with Udaan providers.”

Prachi Garg, External Affairs Lead at Organon, added, “We commend Jhpiego for the Udaan initiative. Creating a robust continuum of care with private sector partners is essential for improving access to quality healthcare services. Udaan is addressing key elements such as demand generation, youth awareness, provider training, contraceptive options, and building a respectful SRH service ecosystem.”

The Udaan Collaborative features a unified digital platform that integrates chatbots, helplines, and online consultations to deliver accurate SRH knowledge and easy access to services and products. The initiative’s mascot, “Futurika,” aids in facilitating meaningful discussions on safe SRH practices and encourages behaviour change, motivating youth to prioritise sexual health and informed decision-making.