Kheda District Shows the Way: From Malnutrition to Recovery - A Case Study in Gujarat

Gandhinagar - In the fight against childhood malnutrition, Gujarat's 'Malnutrition Free Gujarat Maha-Abhiyan' (KMGA) program has emerged as a beacon of hope. One district, Kheda, stands out as a shining example of transformative change, where once-malnourished children are now thriving thanks to a dedicated and comprehensive approach.

Grim Statistics, Determined Action:

The National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) paints a stark picture of Kheda in 2019-20: 30.9% of children under five were underweight, and 12.1% suffered from severe acute malnutrition (SAM). Recognizing the urgency, the Kheda district administration, in collaboration with the Gujarat government, launched the 'Malnutrition Free Kheda Campaign' in Galteshwar, Mahudha, and Thasra tehsils.

Targeted Interventions, Measurable Results:

This pilot project targeted 150 severely malnourished children and high-risk pregnant women. Here's how they tackled the challenge:

• Primary Screening: 35 RBSK teams screened all registered children aged 0-6 across Anganwadis, identifying vulnerable cases.
• **CMTC Admission & ** Children meeting the SAM criteria received intensive 14-day treatment at Child Malnutrition Treatment Centers (CMTCs). Regular fortnightly checkups ensured sustained weight gain.
• Nutritious Meals: To combat protein-energy deficiency, the project, with local donor support, introduced three daily meals in these tehsils' Anganwadis. Children enjoyed a variety of protein-rich meals like Hyderabad Mix, Bajra Raab, laddus, milk, fruits, and special laddoos made with take-home ration.
• Daily ASHA & Anganwadi Worker Visits: ASHA workers and Anganwadi workers assessed the nutritional needs of children and pregnant women at their homes, monitored food intake, and administered multivitamins and iron syrup.
• RBSK Follow-up Screening: Every fortnight, RBSK teams monitored the malnourished children, recording and reporting their progress.
• Close Monitoring & Review: Under the dedicated District Development Officer's leadership, grassroots workers, district, and tehsil officials reviewed the project's progress every 10 days.
• Empowering Communities: The National Livelihood Mission (NLM) formed Self Help Groups (SHGs) to enhance economic security for vulnerable families. The Health Department facilitated Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Cards (PMJAY Cards), Nikshay Poshan Yojana benefits, and Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY) for eligible individuals. Taluka Development Officers intensified Antyodaya Anna Yojana implementation, issued ration cards, and collaborated with local donors to expand the three-meals-a-day initiative.

Success Breeds Expansion:

The pilot project's resounding success led to the 'Malnutrition Free Kheda' campaign's expansion to cover 500 SAM children across 10 tehsils in the district. Amul Limited's partnership further strengthens the program with nutrition kits for each child and milk supply from local milk circles in villages, impacting over 150 Anganwadis.

A Model for Others:

Kheda's journey from despair to recovery serves as a testament to the power of concerted efforts, targeted interventions, and community engagement. With unwavering support from the Gujarat government and active participation from individuals and organizations, Kheda has shown the way in tackling childhood malnutrition. Its story holds valuable lessons for other districts and states grappling with similar challenges, offering hope for a future where every child thrives.