Campaign promoting nutrition for mothers and children held across Mizoram’s Anganwadi Centres

A state-wide awareness campaign focusing on the importance of nutritious food for mothers and children—Poshan Maah—is currently being carried out in various Anganwadi centres across Mizoram.

Mizoram Women and Child Development Department, Deputy Director Pi Sailopari, told Tribal Mirror that Poshan Maah is an initiative launched under the Ministry of Women and Child Development, Government of India. The key objectives of the programme include monitoring children’s growth, particularly their height and weight, identifying signs of anemia, and addressing stunted growth. Observed annually in September, the campaign aims to raise awareness on the critical need for proper nutrition for both mothers and their young children.

Pi Sailopari further mentioned that an educational booklet is being developed to help raise awareness among children aged 3 to 6 about the importance of consuming nutritious food. She added that nutritional food items are also being distributed in various parts of the state as part of the initiative.

Highlighting the importance of maternal and child health, Pi Sailopari emphasized that the period from conception until the child reaches the age of two is especially vital. During this time, mothers require essential nutrients like iron and calcium, as well as consuming nutritious food. She noted that exclusive breastfeeding is sufficient for the first six months, after which it is advisable to introduce nutrient-rich foods and fruits in liquid form to support the child’s growth and development.