Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 24 July 2024
In a dedicated effort to combat malnutrition among children, the District Administration of North & Middle Andaman has distributed nutritional kits to all identified malnourished children across the district’s three sub-divisional levels. This initiative coincided with the launch of the ‘Kuposhan Mukt Panchayat’ campaign by the Chief Secretary of A&N Administration, Mr. Keshav Chandra, IAS.
During the launch event, Deputy Commissioner of North & Middle Andaman, Mr. Dilkhush Meena, IAS, emphasized the importance of providing immediate nutritional support to malnourished children. He described this measure as crucial in the broader fight against malnutrition. The nutritional kits, which contain essential vitamins, minerals, and food supplements, are part of the Administration’s commitment to improving the health and well-being of the younger population. “Ensuring that our children receive the necessary nutrition is our top priority. The distribution of these nutritional kits is a tangible action that reflects our dedication to fostering a healthier and brighter future for the N&MA District,” stated Mr. Dilkhush Meena.
To ensure the smooth implementation of the initiative, a Standard Operating Protocol has been established, outlining the roles and responsibilities of different stakeholders. Emphasis is placed on the involvement of Panchayats and public representatives to enhance implementation and awareness at the grassroots level. A three-tier committee will oversee the initiative, ensuring regular assessment and monitoring.
Approximately 2,000 nutritional kits have been procured by the District Administration through CSR contributions. Each month, 650 kits will be distributed to Aanganwadi Workers for the identified children over the next three months. Monthly assessments will be conducted to evaluate the children’s nutritional levels and determine further intervention points.
Incentives will be provided to the best-performing Aanganwadi Workers under this initiative, and at its conclusion, the best-performing Panchayats will be awarded by the District Administration. The initiative aims to create a robust support system at the grassroots level, ensuring sustainable nutritional health for all children in the region.