As part of a nationwide initiative to combat malnutrition and promote nutritional awareness, ‘Poshan Pakhwada’ was observed in Visakhapatnam, with a special focus on pregnant and lactating women. The event, organized under the Poshan Abhiyaan scheme, aimed to highlight the importance of maternal and child nutrition through community outreach, education, and health services.

Held across various Anganwadi centers and primary health care units, the fortnight-long campaign included nutrition awareness drives, health check-ups, distribution of iron and folic acid supplements, and interactive sessions on balanced diets. Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers were educated on essential nutritional practices that can significantly improve maternal health and infant development.

 

Health professionals, ASHA workers, and Anganwadi staff actively participated in the campaign, conducting home visits and small group counseling sessions. Emphasis was laid on exclusive breastfeeding, early initiation of complementary feeding, and the importance of micronutrient supplementation during pregnancy.

Speaking on the occasion, health officials in Visakhapatnam reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing malnutrition through grassroots efforts. “Nutrition is not just about food; it’s about education, access, and sustained awareness. Campaigns like Poshan Pakhwada are vital in empowering mothers to make informed health choices for themselves and their children,” said one senior official.

Special exhibitions, recipe demonstrations using local, affordable ingredients, and distribution of nutrition kits were also part of the awareness activities. These interactive components helped bridge the gap between nutritional science and everyday dietary habits in the community.

 

‘Poshan Pakhwada’ continues to be an important pillar of India’s flagship nutrition mission, reinforcing the need for preventive healthcare and community participation in tackling malnutrition.