Rajasthan launches nutrition-focused programmes for women, children

Micronutrient crisis during pandemic has emerged as a major challenge for State government

A series of nutrition-focused welfare programmes launched in Rajasthan have sought to benefit women and children affected by disruption in the routine schemes, such as the Integrated Child Development Services and midday meal scheme, during the pandemic. The micronutrient crisis has emerged as a major challenge before the State government. Experts have called for adopting strategies to accelerate micronutrient supplementation and strengthen food fortification. Since the impending third wave is likely to worsen the situation, the policies should lay emphasis on an effective nutrition surveillance. State Commission for Protection of Child Rights chairperson Sangeeta Beniwal said here on Thursday the nutrition-focused programmes, such as the Indira Rasoi Yojana providing food to the poor and needy twice a day, had extended relief to people during the pandemic. A healthy lifestyle for pregnant women was also being promoted with the government’s support to enable them to give birth to healthy children.