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In a significant move to address the issue of malnutrition, the Jharkhand government has introduced ‘Shishu Shakti’, a nutrient-rich food packet designed to combat malnutrition among children. The program was launched as a pilot project in Chakradharpur, located in the West Singhbhum district, with the goal of reducing malnutrition in children aged six months to six years.
The ‘Shishu Shakti’ packets, which form an enriched variant of the take-home ration, are packed with essential nutrients derived from local grains, pulses, nuts, and millet. These ingredients were carefully selected to provide a comprehensive nutritional boost to children suffering from severe malnutrition.
The initiative was officially launched by Minister Deepak Birua and Singhbhum MP Joba Majhi, who emphasized the importance of local resources in improving the nutritional status of children in the region. According to Sameera S, Director of the Women, Child Development, and Social Security Department, a total of 397 malnourished children in Chakradharpur will receive these food packets over the next four months as part of a feasibility study.
The success of this pilot project will determine whether ‘Shishu Shakti’ is expanded across Jharkhand. If successful, the program could scale up to benefit the approximately 3.9 lakh malnourished children in the state, as revealed by the National Family Health Survey (NFHS).
This initiative reflects the Jharkhand government’s commitment to improving child health and nutrition in the state, with hopes of eradicating malnutrition and ensuring better outcomes for future generations. The government has pledged to monitor the results closely and make adjustments as necessary to ensure the program’s effectiveness in the fight against child malnutrition.
