Interview: Dr. Daman Ahuja, Public & Community Engagement Expert

An interview with Dr. Daman Ahuja, Public & Community Engagement Expert

His work spans grassroots activism, academic contributions, and policy advocacy, particularly in HIV/AIDS control, reproductive health, and community health initiatives in Uttar Pradesh. 

Notably, he has collaborated with figures like Swami Agnivesh and Kailash Satyarthi to combat bonded and child labor, organized public dialogues on health and education, and championed breastfeeding while challenging exploitative infant food practices.

Additionally, Dr. Ahuja has authored four books, including one recognized by Haryana Sahitya Akademy, and has published numerous peer-reviewed articles, serving as the Associate Editor of the International Journal of Political Activism Engagement. 

Can you share your journey into public health and what inspired you to focus on community engagement?

Dr. Daman Ahuja: My journey into public health began with a deep-rooted desire to address social inequities. Early in my career, while working on child labor issues at VV GIRI National Labour Institute, a joint founder of  Naya Prayas with Mr Amod Kanth ( Ex- Add. Police Commissioner, Delhi), with Swami Agnivesh  and at Delhi University I realized the profound impact of community-level interventions.

This inspired me to pursue a PhD in Public Health and focus on community engagement. I saw that sustainable change could only happen when communities were empowered and involved.

Whether it was the Red Ribbon Express campaign at National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO)  or my work with the Population Foundation of India, I’ve always prioritized grassroots participation. Community engagement isn’t just a strategy; it’s the heart of effective public health initiatives.”

Can you discuss a specific project where community involvement significantly impacted health outcomes?

Dr. Daman Ahuja: The Red Ribbon Express project stands out as a prime example of community involvement significantly impacting health outcomes.

As the National In-charge Field Planning, I witnessed firsthand how engaging local communities transformed HIV/AIDS awareness across India. We traveled to hundreds of locations, conducting public meetings and health camps.

By involving local leaders, youth, and diverse community members, we broke down stigma and increased HIV testing and prevention practices. The project’s success lay in its community-driven approach – we didn’t just deliver information, we fostered local ownership of health issues.

Secondly being the State ASHA Manager in National Health Mission, Haryana I witnessed the impact of community presence of ASHAs in the field, thirdly while I was posted in Population Foundation of India as Senior Specialist ( Community Engagement and Capacity Building )

I could train more than 3000 medical fraternity on community action for health under the guidance of a National Level Committee called Advisory Group on Community Action (AGCA), the approach was to reach to community structures like Village Health Sanitation and Nutrition Committee (VHSNC) , Jan Arogya Samities (JAS) and Rogi Kalyan Samities (RKS) and empower them to seek for their rights.

This community involvement led to sustained behavior change and improved health-seeking behaviors long after the train had passed.”

What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in engaging communities in public health efforts?

Dr. Daman Ahuja: One of the biggest challenges in community engagement has been overcoming deeply ingrained social and cultural barriers. For instance, when addressing issues like child labour or reproductive health, we often encountered resistance rooted in economic necessities or traditional beliefs.

Another significant challenge has been maintaining sustained engagement beyond initial enthusiasm. It’s crucial to build local capacity and leadership to ensure long-term impact.

Additionally, navigating the complex dynamics between various stakeholders – from government bodies to local power structures – requires delicate balancing.

Lastly, in resource-limited settings, managing expectations and delivering tangible results within constraints has been a constant challenge. Overcoming these hurdles requires patience, cultural sensitivity, and adaptive strategies.”

What role do you believe public health professionals should play in shaping health policy at the local or national level?

Dr. Daman Ahuja: Public health professionals play a crucial role in shaping effective health policies as well as in its execution. Our on-ground experience provides invaluable insights into community needs and implementation challenges.

For example, In Innovations in Family Planning services in Uttar Pradesh, the acceptance of family planning was never considered as the unmet need of the communities, in community action for health Gujarat started late, but due to extensive trainings , it has become the role model to implement community action for health across the state. 

We should actively bridge the gap between policymakers and communities, ensuring policies are evidence-based and locally relevant. It’s our responsibility to advocate for equitable, inclusive policies that address social determinants of health.

We must also contribute to policy evaluation, providing real-time feedback on effectiveness.  AGCA use to provide a clear feedback to GOI on all community programmes under National Health Mission. 

Additionally, public health professionals should foster intersectoral collaboration, recognizing that health is influenced by various sectors. Ultimately, our role is to be the voice of communities in policy discussions, ensuring that health policies truly serve those they’re designed for.”

What innovative tools or approaches do you see as the future of community engagement in public health?

Dr. Daman Ahuja: The future of community engagement in public health lies in leveraging technology while maintaining human connections. Digital platforms and mobile apps can enhance participation and data collection, enabling real-time community feedback.

Social media and digital storytelling can amplify community voices and experiences. We’re also seeing promising results with gamification in health education and behavior change. 

In Red Ribbon Express there were many games installed inside the train which pulled huge school going adolescents.

However, technology should complement, not replace, face-to-face interactions. Participatory action research and co-design approaches will become increasingly important, empowering communities as equal partners in health initiatives.

Additionally, integrating traditional knowledge systems with modern public health practices can lead to more culturally resonant and effective interventions. The key is to innovate while ensuring inclusivity and accessibility.

What advice would you give to young professionals interested in pursuing a career in public health and community engagement?

Dr. Daman Ahuja: To young professionals aspiring to enter public health and community engagement, I’d say: immerse yourself in communities.

Theory is important, but real learning happens on the ground. Develop strong communication skills and cultural sensitivity. Be prepared to listen more than you speak. Cultivate empathy and resilience – this field can be challenging but immensely rewarding.

Stay curious and open to interdisciplinary approaches, as public health intersects with various sectors. Build a strong network and seek mentors. Most importantly, maintain your passion and commitment to social justice.

Remember, in this field, you’re not just building a career, you’re contributing to societal wellbeing. Your work can truly change lives.”

Read more Success stories of Indian entrepreneurs, Women Entrepreneurs & startups stories at SugerMint. Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn