MLA Dr. Bharat Bhushan, DC Rajesh Sharma Emphasize Balanced Nutrition for Family Well-being
KATHUA: The closing ceremony of the 8th Rashtriya Poshan Maah was held today at Government Degree College for Women, Kathua. MLA Kathua, Dr. Bharat Bhushan, graced the event as the Chief Guest, while Deputy Commissioner Rajesh Sharma was the Guest of Honour.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Bhushan commended the ICDS Department for successfully observing Poshan Maah across the district. He said the Poshan initiative plays a vital role in spreading health and nutrition awareness, particularly among women and children. He highlighted the importance of incorporating fresh vegetables and locally available nutritious foods into daily diets, which significantly contributes to family health and overall well-being. Dr. Bhushan added that such sustained efforts help reduce Maternal and Infant Mortality Rates (MMR and IMR), advancing the vision of a healthy and self-reliant nation.
In his address, DC Rajesh Sharma underscored the importance of the Poshan Abhiyaan in ensuring proper nutritional care for pregnant women, lactating mothers, and young children. He emphasized that community participation is key to achieving the goals of the campaign and urged all stakeholders to work collectively to strengthen nutrition and health service delivery at the grassroots level. The DC lauded the dedicated efforts of ICDS staff, Anganwadi Workers, and community volunteers for their active role in spreading awareness and organizing diverse activities during the Poshan Maah.
This year’s Poshan Maah focused on several key themes, including promoting limited intake of sugar and edible oils to combat obesity, integrating nutrition with Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE), encouraging Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF) practices, increasing men’s involvement in nutrition and childcare, promoting the use of locally available nutritious food, and enhancing coordination through digital tools.
A theme-based Nukkad Natak was also presented, showcasing government schemes such as Laadli Beti Yojana, Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, Gender Equality, and Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana.
On the occasion, the MLA and DC handed over appointment letters to 11 newly appointed Anganwadi Helpers.
Prominent attendees included PO ICDS Mohammad Syeed Khan, CMO Dr. Vijay Raina, DEPO Anjana Manyal, CDPOs from various blocks, Supervisors, Anganwadi Workers, and Helpers.
The programme concluded with a collective pledge by participants to continue promoting awareness about nutrition, health, and gender equality within their communities.
