A recent government assessment has uncovered a grim picture of child malnutrition in Rewari district, with 303 children identified as suffering from Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) — a critical condition that can lead to death if not treated promptly.
According to official data collected from 53,060 children enrolled in Anganwadi centres, the malnutrition statistics are as follows:
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303 children with Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM)
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2,123 children with Moderate Acute Malnutrition (MAM)
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8,047 moderately stunted children
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4,332 severely stunted children
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3,950 moderately underweight
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603 severely underweight
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1,157 overweight children
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680 obese children
Health experts say stunting and wasting are indicators of chronic and acute undernutrition respectively and can severely impact a child’s physical and cognitive development.
DC Abhishek Meena Reviews Anganwadi Services
In light of these findings, Deputy Commissioner Abhishek Meena visited an Anganwadi centre in Anand Nagar on Wednesday to inspect the facilities and review the nutritional support being provided. He emphasized the urgent need to ensure regular supply of protein, calcium, and iron-rich food supplements to combat malnutrition.
“Special focus is being placed on Anganwadi centres where malnutrition numbers are high,” Meena said. “Senior officials have been directed to adopt one Anganwadi centre each to help improve infrastructure, services, and child development outcomes.”
Long-Term Monitoring and Parental Involvement
The deputy commissioner instructed officials to conduct monthly visits to their adopted centres to monitor progress and address gaps in services. He also interacted with Anganwadi workers and addressed parents, urging them to make full use of the services offered, especially nutritious meals provided by the government.
He stressed the importance of early childhood nutrition, stating, “The first five years of a child’s life are critical. Timely intervention can prevent and even reverse malnutrition.”
The administration’s intensified efforts come at a time when several industrial and rural families in the district are facing economic challenges, making government-run childcare and nutrition services essential.
Officials say the goal is not only to bring malnourished children back to health but also to create a learning-friendly, safe, and supportive environment for all children enrolled in Anganwadi centres.
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