Nutrition Programmes Operating in Our Country
This section discusses the various nutrition programmes in India designed to improve public health by addressing malnutrition, which affects a significant portion of the population, especially vulnerable groups such as children and women. Key programmes include:
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Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS): An outreach initiative that offers comprehensive early childhood care and development for pregnant and nursing mothers, infants, and young children up to 6 years.
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Nutrient Deficiency Control Programmes: These include:
- National Prophylaxis Programme for the prevention of blindness due to Vitamin A deficiency.
- National Nutritional Anemia Prophylaxis Programme focusing on preventing iron deficiency anemia.
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National Iodine Deficiency Disorder Control Programme aimed at eliminating iodine deficiency related disorders.
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Food Supplementation Programmes: Programs like the Mid-Day Meal Programme provide nutritious meals in educational institutions to improve child nutrition.
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Food Security Programmes: Initiatives such as the Public Distribution System, Antodaya Anna Yojana, and Annapurna Scheme, aimed at ensuring access to food for the economically disadvantaged.
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Self-employment and Wage Employment Schemes: These are social safety nets that help improve the economic condition of families and thereby contribute to better nutrition.
Each of these programmes plays a crucial role in addressing nutritional challenges and improving overall health outcomes in India.