In Gandhinagar, the ‘Nutrition Sangam’ programme was launched by the Minister for Women and Child Development, Bhanuben Babaria. This initiative aims to improve the health of children enrolled in Anganwadi centres throughout Gujarat. Minister Babaria stated that the ‘Nutrition Sangam’ will serve as a milestone in the mission to ensure all children are healthy and well-nourished. She emphasised that nutrition is not just about food; it is about building a lifestyle that promotes health. Collective efforts from the community are essential to ensure children receive proper nourishment.
The programme is a joint effort between the Women and Child Development Department and the Health and Family Welfare Department. It focuses on addressing malnutrition in children by implementing a community-based management (C-MAM) approach. The initiative will regularly monitor the weight and height of children up to six years old, conduct hunger tests, and provide necessary health services to undernourished children.
Minister Babaria highlighted the significance of the programme, saying it aims to keep track of growth issues in young children. To help with this, 12.74 lakh Early Growth Monitoring (EGF) cards have been distributed to all Anganwadi centres for children from birth to six months. Additionally, 700 copies of the programme’s guidelines have been shared with Anganwadi centres, block offices, and district offices.
The programme also includes records for malnourished children who will be enrolled in the community-based management programme. Parents will be actively involved in their child’s nutrition, with 11.15 lakh C-MAM cards and 11.15 lakh Parent cards distributed across Anganwadi centres.
The Mayor of Gandhinagar, Miraben Patel, remarked on the importance of nutrition for a healthy life. She praised the government’s efforts to provide nutritious food for pregnant women, mothers, and children. The Mayor congratulated the Women and Child Development team for launching such a vital programme.
Rakesh Shankhar, Secretary of Women and Child Development, detailed how the Gujarat Government is contributing to the nationwide goal of ensuring every child is well-nourished. The programme is coordinated meticulously by the ICDS and health department teams, which will facilitate its success. An innovative application called ‘Nutrition Sangam’ has also been developed to monitor the programme’s activities and ensure timely intervention for children’s health.
Over 50,000 employees from the ICDS and health departments have been trained to implement the programme in all districts. District officials have received two days of training from master trainers to ensure effective execution.
During the launch event, the Minister distributed food to infants and provided THR (Take Home Ration) to adolescent girls. A film about the Nutrition Sangam, the application, and various programme materials were also unveiled. Attendees pledged to support the cause of nutrition for children.
This programme is expected to bring significant improvements in the nutritional status of children in Gujarat through timely intervention and community involvement. The presence of various dignitaries and Anganwadi workers at the launch showcases the importance and support for this initiative.
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