DRASS: Deputy Commissioner Drass Imteeaz Kacho (JKAS) on Wednesday visited the Anganwadi Centre at Muradbagh to review nutrition, hygiene and child-care arrangements during the Hot Cooked Meal (HCM) Demonstration Day being held under Poshan Maah.
The programme was organised around the theme “Fresh Hot Cooked Meals”, with emphasis on hygienic preparation, nutritional balance and appropriate serving of meals to children at Anganwadi Centres.
Kacho was accompanied by Child Development Project Officer, Drass, Abdullah Jan Mir. The concerned Supervisor, Anganwadi Workers and helpers were also present during the visit.
During his interaction with the staff, the Deputy Commissioner took stock of the functioning of the centre, including the children’s daily routine, preparation and serving of meals, learning activities and facilities available to them.
He enquired whether children were receiving adequate nutrition and essential facilities and reviewed arrangements made for the winter months. The staff informed him about the availability of dry fruits and other nutritious food items for the children.
Particular attention was given to the hygienic preparation and nutritional composition of fresh hot cooked meals. The programme also underlined the importance of healthy and balanced nutrition during the early years of childhood.
The Deputy Commissioner also enquired about the health and well-being of children in the village and stressed the need for Anganwadi Centres to provide a safe, healthy and supportive environment.
He expressed satisfaction over the availability of a digital interactive panel at the centre, which, he said, could support learning through interactive and engaging activities. He also informed those present that he intends to visit other Anganwadi Centres across the district during the remaining days of Poshan Maah.
The interaction also highlighted the role of Anganwadi Centres in preparing children for formal schooling by introducing them to basic learning, discipline, social interaction and creative activities. Children at the Muradbagh centre were also engaged in art and other educational activities aimed at encouraging creativity and learning.
Parents were advised to maintain a healthy balance in children’s use of mobile phones and other digital devices, while encouraging greater participation in physical, creative and educational activities.
As part of the HCM Demonstration Day, locally available food items were served to the children. The nutritional value and health benefits of local foods were also explained as part of efforts to encourage healthier eating habits and greater awareness about nutritious food available in the region. The programme concluded with an emphasis on strengthening Anganwadi services to ensure proper nutrition, hygiene, balanced meals and the overall development of children under Poshan Maah.
