Topic: Nutrition, nutritional diseases / disorders & Nutrition Programmes.
Question: Write a short note on national nutritional programs.
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Introduction
Malnutrition remains a major public health problem in India. The Government of India has implemented various nutritional programs and schemes to combat malnutrition.
Major Nutritional Programs
1. Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS)
– Launched in 1975, provides food, preschool education, and primary healthcare to children under 6 years and their mothers.
– Services provided through Anganwadi centers for supplementary nutrition, immunization, health check-ups, referral services, nutrition and health education.
– Foods provided include take-home rations, hot cooked meals, 5 and 6 Fortified Food.
2. Mid-Day Meal Scheme
– Initiated in 1995, provides free lunches on working days for children in primary and upper primary classes in government schools and aided schools.
– Aims to improve nutritional levels and school enrollment and attendance.
– Involves serving grains, pulses, vegetables and oils to meet at least 450 calories and 12 grams protein per day.
3. Public Distribution System
– Provides food grains like wheat, rice, coarse grains at subsidized prices through a network of fair price shops.
– Households are divided into priority and non-priority groups.
– Antyodaya Anna Yojana introduced in 2000 targets poorest of poor families.
4. National Food Security Act, 2013
– Legal right to food security for 75% rural and 50% urban population.
– Coverage of up to 75% of the rural population and up to 50% of the urban population for receiving subsidized foodgrains under Targeted Public Distribution System.
Conclusion
The nutritional programs play a key role in addressing malnutrition and food security. However, challenges persist in effective implementation and coverage
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