PM Poshan Shakti Nirman Abhiyaan (PM-POSHAN) in India

The PM Poshan Shakti Nirman Abhiyaan (PM-POSHAN), launched in 2021, is a transformative initiative by the Government of India. It builds upon the legacy of the 1995 Midday Meal Scheme, ensuring access to one hot, cooked lunch for children in government and government-aided schools across India.

PM-POSHAN goes beyond just addressing hunger. It recognizes the critical role nutrition plays in a child's development. The program aims to:

• Improve the nutritional status of school children.
• Reduce stunting, a critical indicator of malnutrition in early childhood.
• Combat under-nutrition and anemia.
• Break the cycle of low birth weight babies.

Investing in the next generation: PM-POSHAN provides a strong foundation for a child's well-being. By ensuring proper nourishment, the program fosters:

• Improved learning outcomes: Good nutrition enhances a child's ability to concentrate and learn effectively.
• Enhanced school attendance: Regular nutritious meals incentivize children, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, to attend school regularly.
• Healthier future generation: Proper nutrition during childhood contributes to a healthier adulthood for these children.

PM-POSHAN - Key features

• Wider dietary options: States can now include ingredients like milk and eggs in the meal plan, catering to specific regional needs.
• Focus on aspirational districts: The program provides additional support for children in aspirational districts with a high prevalence of malnutrition.
• Support during emergencies: In drought-affected or disaster-stricken areas, PM-POSHAN ensures continued meals for children even during summer vacations.

Empowering Communities

1. Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) and Women Self Help Groups (WSHGs):

The scheme encourages the involvement of FPOs and WSHGs in procuring and supplying ingredients. This empowers local communities and women entrepreneurs.

2. Nutrition Gardens:

PM-POSHAN promotes the development of vegetable gardens within schools. This fosters a sense of ownership and allows students to learn about healthy eating habits.

Transparency and Accountability

• Social Audit: The program mandates social audits at the district level to ensure transparency and address any issues related to meal quality and delivery.

• Technology Integration: PM-POSHAN encourages the use of technology for monitoring and tracking purposes.

Holistic Approach

• PM-POSHAN works in conjunction with other government initiatives like Anganwadis (child care centers) to provide a holistic approach to child nutrition across different age groups.

• The program includes training programs for cooks and helpers involved in preparing meals. This promotes better hygiene practices and food safety.

Conclusion

The PM Poshan Shakti Nirman Abhiyaan (PM-POSHAN) stands as a powerful symbol of the Government of India's commitment to nurturing its young minds and bodies. By addressing childhood hunger and malnutrition, PM-POSHAN paves the way for a healthier, more educated future generation. The program's emphasis on balanced nutrition, flexibility for regional needs, and support for vulnerable populations positions it as a critical tool for long-term social and economic development.