- – Raising awareness among parents through ‘Poshan Pathshala’
- – Targeted strategy to combat stunting across the state
- – Over 9.80 lakh measurements conducted in 75 districts, marking a major step towards stunting elimination
Lucknow: In a determined effort to tackle the challenge of stunting and malnutrition among children, the Yogi Adityanath-led Uttar Pradesh government has pledged to reduce stunting under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. Through Sambhav Abhiyan 5.0, the state has made stunting elimination its central focus this year, recognising its serious impact on both physical and cognitive development in children. Launched in July, the campaign has already shown encouraging state-wide results within a month.
The Poshan Pathshala initiative further strengthened this mission by aligning with the theme of World Breastfeeding Week (1–7 August) — “Invest in Breastfeeding, Invest in the Future” — with a special focus on maternal and child nutrition.
A targeted plan to curb stunting
The government has adopted a comprehensive “Six Months, Seven Times” strategy to combat stunting. This includes regular monitoring of infants under six months, illness management, and breastfeeding support for mothers. Exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months, followed by balanced nutrition, is being promoted as key to healthy child growth.
In 75 districts, 7,500 Anganwadi centres have conducted over 9.80 lakh measurements of children aged 0–5 years to track and address developmental gaps. For the first time in the state, a simultaneous stunting measurement drive was held on 14–15 July, deploying 7,500 nodal officers for rigorous growth monitoring and nutrition tracking. This Stunting Validation Campaign is enhancing data accuracy and ensuring timely interventions, supported by joint efforts from the Health, Education, and Women & Child Development departments.
Poshan Pathshala empowering mothers
During World Breastfeeding Week, Anganwadi workers and health staff trained mothers on breastfeeding and balanced diets, stressing the importance of the first 1,000 days of life in preventing stunting.
Intensive monitoring and integrated approach
At both block and district levels, 100 nodal officers have been appointed in each district to ensure strict monitoring of Anganwadi centres. District Magistrates are holding monthly review meetings to assess progress. The core aim of Sambhav Abhiyan 5.0 is to identify children under five suffering from severe acute malnutrition, provide medical treatment, and reduce stunting. The programme adopts an integrated approach to improve nutrition among pregnant women, lactating mothers, and young children.
With structured strategies, grassroots awareness, and inter-departmental coordination, the Yogi government’s efforts mark a significant step towards achieving the SDG nutrition targets in Uttar Pradesh.
