The National Nutrition Mission, popularly known as POSHAN Abhiyaan (Prime Minister’s Overarching Scheme for Holistic Nutrition), is a flagship program launched in 2018 by the Government of India. It represents a concerted effort to tackle the multi-faceted problem of malnutrition in the country.
India’s Malnutrition Challenge
India faces a unique challenge referred to as the ‘triple burden of malnutrition’:
- Undernutrition: Marked by stunting (low height-for-age), wasting (low weight-for-height), and underweight in children.
- Micronutrient Deficiencies: Deficiencies of vital vitamins and minerals, impacting growth and development.
- Overweight and Obesity: Rising concern of non-communicable diseases related to diet and lifestyle.
Goals of the National Nutrition Mission
- Reduce Stunting: Significant reduction in stunting among children below the age of 6 years.
- Prevent Anaemia: Address anaemia among women and children.
- Reduce Low Birth Weight: Decrease incidences of low birth weight among newborns.
- Holistic Approach: Emphasize a lifecycle approach to nutrition, focusing on pregnant women, lactating mothers, and children.
Key Strategies of POSHAN Abhiyan
- Convergence and Collaboration: Bringing together various ministries and departments for coordinated action.
- Technology-Driven Monitoring: Leveraging ICT (Information and Communication Technology) for real-time monitoring and data-driven interventions.
- Capacity Building: Strengthening frontline workers like Anganwadi workers and ASHAs (Accredited Social Health Activists).
- Jan Andolan (People’s Movement): Creating a mass movement for awareness about nutrition and healthy practices.
Components of the National Nutrition Mission
- Anganwadi Services: Enhancing the quality and reach of Anganwadi services for supplementary nutrition and early childhood care.
- Targeted Interventions: Addressing specific nutritional needs of adolescent girls, pregnant women, and lactating mothers.
- Behaviour Change Communication: Intensive campaigns to promote healthy dietary practices and combat misconceptions.
FAQs About POSHAN Abhiyan
- What is the target timeline of POSHAN Abhiyaan?
- The mission aims to achieve specific targets in reducing malnutrition by 2022.
- How can individuals contribute?
- Promoting breastfeeding, diverse diets, hygiene and sanitation, and by delaying early marriage of girls.
MCQs
Which of these is NOT a target group of POSHAN Abhiyaan?
A. Pregnant women
B. Children under 6 years
C. Adolescent girls
D. Senior citizens
POSHAN Abhiyaan emphasises the importance of:
A. Convergence of different schemes
B. Use of technology
C. Community participation
D. All of the above
One of the focus areas of POSHAN Abhiyaan is:
A. Preventing anaemia
B. Promoting organic farming
C. Increasing food exports
D. Construction of roads and highways
Conclusion
The National Nutrition Mission (POSHAN Abhiyaan) embodies India’s commitment to combatting malnutrition and securing a healthy future for its citizens. By focusing on a holistic approach, leveraging technology, and building community awareness, the mission aims to create lasting change. As POSHAN Abhiyaan progresses, its success will be critical in shaping a generation of well-nourished Indians and unlocking the nation’s full potential.
Answers to MCQs
- D
- D
- A