Raipur. To further strengthen the ongoing public movement against malnutrition in the state, the 8th Nutrition Fortnight will be organized from April 9 to 23. Organized by the Ministry of Women and Child Development, Government of India, under Mission Nutrition 2.0, this campaign aims to strengthen the resolve for a "malnutrition-free India" through public participation.
This year, the theme of the fortnight is "Maximizing Brain Development in the First Six Years of Life," which focuses on the importance of nutrition, health, and proper care during a child's early years. According to experts, the first six years of life lay the foundation for a child's physical, mental, and intellectual development, so proper nutrition is crucial during this period.

It is noteworthy that the Nutrition Campaign, which has been underway since 2018, is being promoted as a mass movement, with special emphasis on public awareness and behavior change. In this vein, this year's Nutrition Fortnight will also be organized with community participation at the center.

To ensure the successful implementation of the Nutrition Fortnight, an important meeting of nodal officers from various departments was held at the state level on April 7th at 4 p.m. The meeting was attended by Dr. Renuka Srivastava, Director of the Women and Child Development Department, D.S. Maravi, Joint Director, Shruti Nelkar, and Abhay Dewangan, along with other officials from various departments, including Panchayat and Rural Development, School Education, Urban Administration, Agriculture, Food, AYUSH, Water Resources, and the National Health Mission. Departments were instructed to prepare their own action plans and ensure active participation in the campaign.
During the Nutrition Fortnight, various activities will be organized at all Anganwadi centers across the state. These include health checkups for children and pregnant women, nutrition counseling, Annaprashan (first feeding), Godhbharai (baby shower), awareness programs on hygiene and balanced diets. Special attention will be given to promoting the use of locally available foods and influencing positive changes in nutritional behavior.

In line with the Ministry's guidelines, this campaign will not only ensure the all-round development of children but will also strengthen awareness and a sense of responsibility towards nutrition in society. Through this initiative in Chhattisgarh, the goal is to reduce malnutrition rates and improve maternal and child health indicators.
The state government has appealed to all departments, Anganwadi workers, and the general public to play an active role in making this campaign a successful mass movement, so that the dream of a "well-nourished Chhattisgarh" can be realized.