Closing Ceremony of the 7th Rashtriya Poshan Maah 2024 Celebrated in Ranchi, Jharkhand

The event showcased successful initiatives in nutrition awareness and the virtual inauguration of over 11,000 Saksham Anganwadi centers across 20 states.

The closing ceremony of the 7th Rashtriya Poshan Maah 2024 took place today in Ranchi, Jharkhand, attended by notable dignitaries, including Shri Santosh Kumar Gangwar, Governor of Jharkhand, and Smt. Annapurna Devi, Union Minister for Women and Child Development. Other senior officials from the Ministry of Women and Child Development, as well as representatives from the Jharkhand State Government, were also present.

The ceremony featured a film highlighting various mass sensitization initiatives conducted nationwide during the month-long celebrations. Attendees witnessed the Annaprashan Ceremony for children and the God Bharai ceremony for pregnant women.

A short film titled “Aao Toden: Kuposhan Chakra” was showcased, illustrating Jharkhand’s lifecycle approach to enhancing nutrition for children, adolescent girls, and pregnant and lactating mothers. A key highlight was the virtual inauguration of more than 11,000 Saksham Anganwadi centers across 20 states. A film illustrating how these centers can improve nutrition and Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) was also presented.

Engaging Conversations

The event included an online interaction with Shri Santosh Kumar Gangwar, Smt. Annpurna Devi, and Anganwadi Workers from Saksham Anganwadi Centers in Jamui district, Bihar, and Rajnandgaon district, Chhattisgarh.

In her address, Smt. Annpurna Devi expressed her appreciation for the enthusiastic participation of stakeholders during Poshan Maah. She highlighted that over 12.86 crore sensitization activities were conducted at 13.95 lakh Anganwadi Centers, focusing on various nutrition-related themes. The minister also mentioned the successful campaign “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam,” which saw 86 lakh activities aimed at promoting environmental sustainability.

She praised unique initiatives in different states, noting that Assam recognized adolescent girls with high haemoglobin levels as "Hemoglobin Queens," which inspired both adolescents and the broader community. Concluding her address, she emphasized the potential of Saksham Anganwadis in engaging communities and advancing the mission of making India a “Suposhit Rashtra” (well-nourished nation).

Keynote Address and Holistic Approach

In his keynote address, Shri Santosh Gangwar highlighted the significance of convergence and partnerships among various departments and stakeholders to create a comprehensive ecosystem for achieving a malnutrition-free India. He commended the critical role of Anganwadi Workers, stating, “With the help of these frontline workers, Saksham Anganwadi and concepts like Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi, we are progressing towards a strong and self-reliant country.” He encouraged the promotion of green vegetables, whole grains, and millets in daily meals.

Exhibition and Launches

The event also featured an exhibition showcasing various stalls focusing on themes such as Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi, ECCE, Palna Grih, Take Home Ration/Food & Nutrition, Health Camps, Anemia Testing, Child Protection, Self Help Groups, Social Security Schemes, and CMAM Protocol. Additionally, the third edition of the Poshan Dhara Magazine, which outlines strategies for transforming Jharkhand into a malnutrition-free state, was launched.

Month-long Celebrations

Throughout the month-long Poshan Maah celebrations, more than 12.86 crore sensitization activities related to nutrition were conducted across all 36 states and Union Territories. The initiatives included 2.4 crore activities focused on anemia and 2 crore activities related to growth monitoring.

The 2024 Poshan Maah celebrated the collective efforts of various stakeholders towards a healthier and nourished India. It acknowledged the dedication of participating states while emphasizing the importance of strengthening grassroots movements through continued Jan Andolans and enhancing stakeholder exposure through Saksham Anganwadi Centers.