News & Announcement

Poshan Pakhwada 2025 Begins with Community Participation in Rangpo

Date: 08-Apr-2025
Pakyong, April 08 (IPR): The Poshan Pakhwada 2025 celebration commenced today at the Rangpo Majhigaon Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) Centre with the Poshan Pledge, aiming to raise awareness on nutrition, health, and wellness among children, mothers, and the community at large.
During the programme several key speakers and resource persons shared vital insights on various aspects of nutrition and child development:
Mr Dinesh Shanker, Health Educator at the Health and Wellness Centre, Rangpo PHC, shed light on the pressing issue of malnutrition among children. He discussed its root causes—such as inadequate dietary intake, poor sanitation, and lack of awareness—and emphasised preventive strategies including balanced diets, exclusive breastfeeding, and timely weaning practices.
Mr Satyadeep Kiorala, Health Counsellor, spoke on the increasing prevalence of childhood obesity. He emphasised the importance of healthy lifestyle choices, including regular physical activity, reduced screen time, and avoidance of junk food, for maintaining a healthy weight in children.
Mr Gopal Dhak, Community Health Officer at Rangpo PHC, highlighted the critical role of immunisation in safeguarding children from life-threatening diseases. He explained how timely vaccinations contribute not only to individual health but also to public health by preventing outbreaks.
The Zonal Supervisor of Rangpo addressed the crucial topic of the first 1000 days of life—from conception to a child’s second birthday. This period is considered a golden window for ensuring optimal physical and cognitive development through adequate nutrition, healthcare, and nurturing care.
As part of the national campaign, POSHAN Pakhwada—observed from 8th to 22nd April 2025—seeks to eliminate malnutrition, promote healthy eating habits, and encourage positive behavioural changes at the grassroots level. This year’s theme centres on community participation and awareness-building to drive sustained improvements in health outcomes.
On this occasion, the Deputy Director of the Pakyong Rural ICDS Project outlined the strategic initiatives planned across all Anganwadi Centres (AWCs) under the project. These initiatives include awareness sessions, health check-ups, nutrition counselling, recipe demonstrations, and mother-child interaction activities to actively engage local communities.
The event concluded with a reaffirmation of the shared vision to nurture a healthier generation through informed choices, community support, and integrated healthcare services.