SHUBHANGI SHIFA
Ranchi, March 16: The District administration is prepared to launch a seven-day Swasth ‘Balak Balika Spardha Campaign’ on March 21 in Anganwadi centers all over the district.
Informing of the age group to be checked along with the criteria for measurement, Additional Director of Social Security (ADSS) Shatrunjay Kumar said, “This reason behind the initiative is to check the nutrition levels and monitor the growth of children in the district between the age group of 0-6 years. The children’s age, height, weight, and nutrition levels will be checked and monitored.”
When enquired of the officials who will be observing children and whether they will be trained medical officials, the ADSS said, “Instead of doctors and nurses being involved, the campaign will be organized through community mobilization. Under this, not only children enrolled in Anganwadi Kendra will be checked, but those children that are not enrolled will be reached.
He further added, “Field functionaries of the Social Welfare Department have been instructed to be present at the centers to monitor and record the children’s nutrition levels. These will include Sevika-Sahayika along with health workers of the region.”
Kumar further continued stating, “Parents of children found healthy and fit will also be honored and provided with certificates at the centers.”
He also explained that the initiative also aims to help spread awareness regarding nutrition among children of the age group along with community mobilization in villages and other regions in the district.