In an attempt to assess the nutritional status of children, thesocial welfare departmentwill measure the Body Mass Index (BMI) of 42.13 lakh children covered under the noon meal scheme in the state. Based on theBMI, those found to be undernourished will be provided with nutritional supplements.

With schools reopened, the department will take up the exercise at a cost of Rs2 crore, minister for social welfare and Women Empowerment PGeetha Jeevansaid in the assembly on Wednesday, while replying to the debate on the demand for grants to her department.

Going by the 2011 census, the Population of senior citizens inTNis expected to touch 1.5 crore by 2030 and the department is coming up with an exclusive policy to safeguard their rights and wellbeing.