Poshan Maah initiative greatly impacted malnutrition challenge: Govt

The Poshan Maah initiative, under the Poshan Abhiyaan, has significantly advanced India’s fight against malnutrition, the Union government said.

Launched in March 2018 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Rajasthan's Jhunjhunu, Poshan Abhiyaan is a flagship multi-ministerial convergence mission designed to place nutrition at the forefront of India’s national development agenda.

The Poshan Maah initiative has played a key role in building a healthier and stronger nation through nutrition, reducing stunting among children.

The National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5, 2019-21) reports reduced stunting among children under five from 38.4 per cent to 35.5 per cent. As per the NFHS-5 report, underweight prevalence in children dropped from 35.8 per cent to 32.1 per cent.

“The Poshan Maah initiative, a cornerstone of the Poshan Abhiyaan, has significantly advanced India’s fight against malnutrition by promoting dietary diversity, community engagement, and technology-driven solutions,” the government said.

"Poshan Maah empowers communities and schools to foster sustainable nutritional practices for a healthier, stronger nation," it added.

On Wednesday, PM Modi launched the 8th Rashtriya Poshan Maah, along with the Swasth Nari Sashakt Parivar Abhiyan, aligning strongly with his vision of Sashakt Nari and Suposhit Bharat.