Mysuru/Mysore:  National Poshan Abhiyaan is not just a programme, it is a ‘Jan Andolan (People’s Movement)’, which aims to free the nation from malnutrition and reach every household with the message of ‘Nutrition.’

The goals of this Abhiyaan are to achieve improvement in nutritional status of children from zero to six years, adolescent girls, pregnant women and lactating mothers in a time-bound manner. In an effort to achieve this goal, Department of Women and Child Development together with other units of the Government is creating awareness among women in particular pregnant women.

For pregnant women: Proper nutrition plays an important role in development of babies. Women who are in good health are more likely to give birth to a healthy baby. Pregnant women should consume nutrient food with fortified milk and iodised salt. 

From fourth month to 100 days, they should take one Iron and Folic Acid (IFA) ‘red’ tablet and calcium supplements. Albendazole de-worming dose is to be taken only once during the second quarter of pregnancy. Throughout their pregnancy, Antenatal care (ANC) should start as early as possible in the first quarter, at least four times until delivery. They should also maintain personal hygiene.

For lactating mothers: Initiating breastfeeding within one hour of birth ensures that the infant receives much needed ‘yellow first milk’, which is rich in nutrients and should be continued for the next six months. Lactating mothers should wash their hands thoroughly before eating. After six months, together with breast milk, the babies should start on complementary foods of smooth consistency. Babies should receive vaccination as per schedule and de-wormed twice in a year.

For adolescent girls: Girls, in particular during adolescence, should maintain hygiene during menstruation, drink clean water, consume iron-rich vegetables and once in a week take one Iron and Folic Acid (IFA) ‘blue’ tablet.

It is the responsibility of all citizens to join hands and eradicate malnutrition with National Nutrition Mission, a flagship programme of Ministry of Women and Child Development.