New Delhi, April 8: Union Minister for Women and Child Development Annpurna Devi will spearhead the national launch of the eighth edition of Poshan Pakhwada on April 9, with the initiative set to run until April 23, aiming to strengthen nutritional awareness and outcomes across the country.
The campaign this year centres on the theme of enhancing brain development during the first six years of life, a phase widely regarded as critical for a child’s physical and cognitive growth. The programme will be inaugurated at Vigyan Bhavan in the presence of Minister of State Savitri Thakur and Women and Child Development Secretary Anil Malik.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has consistently highlighted the importance of proper nutrition, stating that a healthy child forms the backbone of a strong nation while describing the nutrition mission as a people driven movement for the well being of mothers and children.
Officials noted that scientific findings indicate a significant portion of brain development takes place before the age of six, making early nutrition, responsive caregiving, and learning activities essential during this period. The initiative will therefore promote better maternal and child nutrition, early childhood stimulation, play based learning, and reduced screen exposure among young children.
Activities under the programme will be conducted nationwide through Anganwadi centres, involving families, caregivers, and local communities. These will include awareness drives, community discussions, and interactive sessions aimed at encouraging healthier lifestyles and improved childcare practices.
The ministry also plans to showcase successful practices from different states and union territories while recognising the efforts of frontline workers who play a key role in delivering nutrition and early childhood services at the grassroots level.
Poshan Pakhwada continues to serve as a major component of the government’s broader nutrition mission, encouraging public participation and collective action to move towards a malnutrition free India.
The Impressive Times
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