CBC Shillong promotes women and child nutrition through outreach event in West Khasi Hills

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaOctober 2, 2024

The Central Bureau of Communication (CBC) Shillong, under the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, celebrated Rashtriya Poshan Maah 2024 on October 1 by organizing an outreach programme on nutrition at Jaidoh village in West Khasi Hills District. This programme was also part of the ongoing Swachhata Hi Seva campaign.

To mark the closing ceremony of Poshan Maah 2024 and raise awareness about government health schemes, CBC Shillong collaborated with the Child Development Project Officer (ICDS Nongstoin), and departments like Health & Family Welfare, C&RD, Horticulture, and the Office of the DPO (ICDS-CELL). The event focused on improving the nutritional status of women, pregnant and lactating mothers, children under six, and adolescent girls.

Running from September 1 to 30, 2024, the 7th Rashtriya Poshan Maah addressed issues such as anaemia, growth monitoring, complementary feeding, and the “Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi” initiative, while incorporating technology for better governance. The campaign also promoted environmental sustainability through the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ initiative, encouraging tree planting at Anganwadi centers. Across the country, approximately 12 crore activities were organized during Poshan Maah by various states and union territories.

The Chief Guest, Evanmi Lyngdoh, EAC of West Khasi Hills, emphasized the significance of Poshan Abhiyan, urging the public to actively participate in its activities. He noted that the success of government schemes in villages depends on the health of the residents, which begins with proper nurturing from conception. He also advised following the dietary guidelines provided by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare and the Ministry of Women & Child Development.

OC Nongbri, DPO (ICDS-CELL), highlighted the importance of consuming locally available nutritious foods, food diversity, and focusing on the health of women, children, and adolescents for a better society. She announced the release of a pamphlet on “Constituents of Food, Meal Plan, and Dietary Recommendations” prepared by their office.

The event included cultural programmes and activities such as a competition on healthy mothers and children during the first 1000 days, and a display of nutritious foods by Anganwadi workers, Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs), and Self-Help Groups. Health check-ups and anaemia testing for pregnant women, children, and adolescent girls were conducted by the Nongkynjang Health and Wellness Centre under the Department of Health & Family Welfare.

ICDS beneficiaries aged 3-6 years, students from St. Anthony’s Hr. Sec. School, Jaidoh, and SHG members participated in cultural performances, adding vibrancy to the event. Anganwadi workers and Lady Supervisors from West Khasi Hills and Eastern West Khasi Hills districts were felicitated for their exceptional contributions to improving health and nutrition in rural communities. Prizes were awarded to competition winners, and financial aid was provided to a family with a child suffering from Severe Acute Malnutrition.

B Rynjah, CDPO of ICDS Nongstoin, welcomed the attendees and outlined the objectives of the programme. Gopajit Das, Media & Communication Officer, Shillong, expressed his satisfaction with the large public turnout and encouraged continued outreach efforts in rural areas. Health Department representative R Nongsiej, LHV, discussed the causes, symptoms, and prevention of anaemia and raised awareness about the dangers of rabies, urging timely vaccination for pets and livestock.

The programme concluded successfully with a vote of thanks from DM Syiemlieh, Lady Supervisor of ICDS Nongstoin.