Director Mission Poshan attends Poshan Maah celebrations at Budgam

• Emphasizes universal coverage of ICDS services to make Budgam malnutrition-free

BUDGAM: Director, Mission Poshan J&K, Sajad Hussain Ganai, today attended the Poshan Maah celebrations organized at ICDS Office Budgam, wherein various activities were held to highlight the importance of nutrition, early childhood care and education, maternal health and the overall well-being of children.

Addressing the gathering, Director Mission Poshan J&K, said that the primary aim and objective of the programme is to ensure that the benefits and services of ICDS reach every eligible citizen. He said that the department is providing a range of services aimed at ensuring the holistic development of children and the well-being of mothers, including early childhood care and education, nutrition support and assistance in immunization of newborns in coordination with the Health Department.

The Director emphasized the importance of providing proper nutritional guidance and support to expectant and lactating mothers, stating that adequate nutrition and care during pregnancy and lactation play a vital role in ensuring the healthy growth and development of children.

As part of the celebrations, Director Mission Poshan administered an oath to the participants, urging them to work collectively towards the goal of making Budgam a malnutrition-free district. The participants pledged to contribute towards promoting healthy nutritional practices and ensuring that the benefits of various Poshan and ICDS initiatives reach all eligible beneficiaries.

Sajad Hussain further said that the department is committed to ensuring the enrolment of every eligible child under the programme so that appropriate care and support are provided from the early stages of life. He stressed that proper nutrition, healthcare, early childhood education and a supportive environment are essential for ensuring the mental, physical and overall healthy development of children. He also called upon field functionaries to strengthen community outreach and ensure that the intended benefits of various schemes and services reach the grassroots level.

Programme Officer, Budgam, Samar Naik, highlighted the significance of observing Poshan Maah. She stressed the need for creating greater awareness among the public regarding proper nutrition, child care, maternal health and the importance of early childhood development. She also underlined the role of the department in ensuring effective delivery of services to beneficiaries through the network of Anganwadi Centres across the district.

On the occasion, various speakers, including Child Development Project Officers (CDPOs), Supervisors and Anganwadi Workers, deliberated on the functions and responsibilities of the department. They highlighted the important role being played by the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) in providing nutrition support, early childhood care and education, maternal and child health services and creating awareness among communities about healthy practices.

During the programme, the Director also visited the stalls put up by Anganwadi Workers and Helpers, where various nutritious food items being served to beneficiaries were showcased. The stalls also showcased the importance of balanced and locally available nutritious food in addressing malnutrition and improving the health of children and mothers.

The Director also distributed gifts among the enrolled children and interacted with them, encouraging the young beneficiaries and appreciating the efforts of Anganwadi functionaries in providing a nurturing environment for their early growth and development. The programme was attended by all CDPOs of Budgam, Supervisors, Anganwadi Workers and Helpers, besides other concerned officers and officials of the department.