ITANAGAR, Oct 29: Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Anjaw organised a two-day skill development training programme (SDP) under PMDDKY (Pradhan Mantri Dhan-Dhaanya Yojana) and Khet Bachao Abhiyan for Anganwadi workers (AWWs) and helpers (AWHs) on the assessment of nutritional status, identification of clinical signs and symptoms of malnutrition, the importance of breastfeeding, and appropriate complementary feeding practices for infants and young children.
A total of 25 participants attended the training programme at Yatong under Manchal circle in Anjaw district.
The training aimed to enhance the knowledge and practical skills of AWWs and AWHs in assessing the nutritional status of children and promoting better nutrition and health at the community level. It also highlighted the importance of early identification of malnutrition and the role of Anganwadi centres (AWCs) in improving child health and nutritional security.
Pooja Singnale, Subject Matter Specialist (Home Science), KVK Anjaw, explained the principles and procedures of anthropometric measurements through practical, hands-on demonstrations. She demonstrated the proper use of weighing balances, stadiometers and measuring tapes for accurately measuring the height and weight of children.
The participants were trained in measuring and interpreting anthropometric indicators, including height, weight, mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC), ideal body weight and Body Mass Index (BMI), wherever applicable.
She also explained the importance of assessing children’s growth using World Health Organization (WHO) Child Growth Standards and Z-scores to identify growth faltering, undernutrition and other nutritional concerns at an early stage.
The participants were sensitised on the identification of clinical signs and symptoms associated with nutritional deficiencies and the importance of timely referral of children requiring further assessment and care.
The programme also emphasised the importance of exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of life, followed by the introduction of adequate, safe and nutritious complementary foods along with continued breastfeeding up to two years of age or beyond. The role of AWWs and AWHs in counselling mothers on appropriate infant and young child feeding practices was also highlighted.
Another important component of the training was the promotion of Poshan Vatika (Nutritional Kitchen Garden) at AWCs to improve access to fresh, locally available and nutrient-rich vegetables, fruits and other edible plants.
Further, Singnale highlighted how kitchen gardens can contribute to dietary diversity, nutrition awareness and household food security.