Vol. 10, Issue 2 (2021)

Author(s):
Vahini S and Aparna Kuna

Abstract:
Malnutrition is one of the major causes of child's ill health, child mortality and morbidity rate in India. In this study, an attempt was made to find out the impact of supplementary nutrition provided via ICDS on the nutritional status in below 6 years children in the Anganwadi centres. To meet the objectives of the study, the selected anganwadi centres were covered using respective questionnaire was developed for evaluation and strengthening of Anganwadi centres. Anthropometric data of children from Anganwadi centres was collected on the spot. The primary data on the weights, heights of preschool children were recorded and data was analyzed. A total of 242 children aged from birth to 59 months registered in 7AWCs, one from each districts namely Warangal, Nizamabad, Adilabad, Mahbubnagar, Nalgonda and Karimnagar and one more centre from Nalgonda as control formed the study sample. The results of weight and height gain among children below 6 years after education intervention and observed feeding showed that not much improvement has occurred except for weight gain in the age group of 12-35months in Warangal. The results suggest the need for evaluating and monitoring the feeding practices at home and educating mother to give proper breakfast, inclusion of milk, balanced meal and diet plans in future. Mere monitoring of AWCs is not sufficient to bring improvement in child’s growth and development. Improvement with attitudinal change in health and nutrition habits of the mothers and children shall positively and constructively improve their nutritional status.