PASIGHAT, Apr 23: The 8th Rashtriya Poshan Pakhwada 2026 concluded in East Siang district with a call for continued community participation to ensure improved health and nutrition outcomes.
In this direction, the Department of Women and Child Development, East Siang district in collaboration with the District Administration organized the closing ceremony of the event at the DC’s office conference hall, Pasighat.
Rashtriya Poshan Pakhwada is a nationwide 15-day nutrition awareness campaign observed annually across India during March–April, aimed at promoting better nutritional practices and improving health outcomes among women and children.
The programme was graced by East Siang Deputy Commissioner Sonalika Jiwani as chief guest.
The campaign focused on key themes including maternal and child nutrition, early stimulation for brain development (0–3 years), play-based learning for children (3–6 years), the role of parents and community in minimizing screen time, and strengthening Anganwadi centres through community participation.
Various activities were conducted during the Pakhwada, including Poshan rallies, awareness sessions on the harmful effects of junk and packaged food, demonstrations of nutritious locally available food, play-based learning activities, and low-cost toy-making using household materials. Sessions were also held to encourage the involvement of male caregivers in child development, along with activities promoting physical and motor development among children.
A key highlight of the programme was the felicitation of beneficiaries under the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY) and adolescent girls under the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) scheme.
In her address, the DC emphasized the importance of proper nutrition and early childhood care. She advised avoiding packaged foods containing high levels of palm oil and sugar, and encouraged the consumption of fresh, locally available food. She highlighted that the first five years are crucial for brain development, with nutrition and stimulation playing a vital role.
She also informed that the Human Papilomavirus (HPV) vaccine has been introduced in India for the prevention of cervical cancer, and urged adolescent girls to avail the vaccine.
The programme also included awareness sessions on the prohibition of child marriage and child labour. The event concluded with a review of activities conducted during the Poshan Pakhwada and a call for continued community participation to ensure improved health and nutrition outcomes. (DIPRO)