Bihar Poshan Pakhwada: ASHA Workers Promote Exclusive Breastfeeding To Combat Malnutrition In Saran

Bihar Poshan Pakhwada: ASHA Workers Promote Exclusive Breastfeeding To Combat Malnutrition In Saran | Details

ASHA workers will visit newborns seven times within six weeks of birth to promote exclusive breastfeeding for six months. They will educate mothers on nutrition and breastfeeding practices as part of a joint initiative by the Health Department and ICDS during 'Poshan Pakhwada' (Nutrition Fortnight). The program aims to improve maternal and child health and address malnutrition through various activities.

By Kamakshi Bishnoi
Thu, 17 Apr 2025 04:23 PM (IST)
Source:JND

In Saran district, Bihar, the Health Department and ICDS are jointly observing 'Poshan Pakhwada' (Nutrition Fortnight) from April 8th to 23rd to improve maternal and child health and combat malnutrition.

ASHA workers will visit each newborn 6-7 times within 42 days of birth under the Home-Based Newborn Care program. They will counsel mothers on nutrition and promote exclusive breastfeeding for six months.

Civil Surgeon Dr Sagar Dulal Sinha stated that ASHA workers will also conduct home visits at 3, 6, 9, 12, and 15 months to monitor child development and prevent diseases like pneumonia and diarrhea. They will also advise on proper nutrition, hygiene, and continued breastfeeding for at least two years.

Community-level meetings will be held to educate pregnant women and mothers about early initiation of breastfeeding and its importance. District-level 'Mata Sammelan' (Mother's Conference) will reinforce these messages.

Timely registration of pregnant women, antenatal checkups, nutritional counselling, hemoglobin and nutrition level checks, and iron and calcium supplementation are also being ensured.

READ MORE: Bihar Govt Allocates Rs 300 Crore For School Cleanliness Drive, Hires Agencies For Sanitation