Govt to extend the distribution of iron-rich millet-based foods to women residing in welfare hostels, anganwadi centres and other institutions

kiranmai tutika I hyderabad

In a survey it was found that over 18,000 women in NTR district were identified as anemic. The AP Government is planning to extend the distribution of iron-rich millet-based foods to women residing in welfare hostels, anganwadi centres and other institutions, a step aimed at improving overall nutrition and health.

Currently, the district provides millet-based foods, such as sajja laddu and ragi malt, alongside iron supplements to pregnant women as part of its anemia mitigation strategy.

This program will soon be scaled to include lactating mothers, adolescent girls, and other women living in welfare hostels, ensuring a broader impact on vulnerable groups.

A recent survey conducted by the district administration revealed showed that 7,870 women recorded hemoglobin levels between 8 and 10 g/dL, highlighting the urgent need for intervention.

Speaking to Metro India, NTR District Collector G. Lakshmisha reaffirmed the administration’s determination to achieve the status of an “Anemia-Free District” by the end of 2025 a first in the state.

“We have started distributing millet-based foods to pregnant women and will soon extend this to welfare hostels, Anganwadi centers, and other institutions. Our approach combines nutrition, awareness campaigns, counseling, and regular health checkups to tackle anemia comprehensively,” he stated.

In collaboration with the Women and Child Welfare Department (WCWD), the district administration is also crafting customized meal plans tailored to the nutritional needs of women in hostels.

“We’ve observed that anemia significantly impacts teenage girls and women in welfare hostels. Addressing this issue is critical not only for improving health outcomes but also for reducing maternal and infant mortality rates.

Our multi-pronged strategy includes balanced diets, medical support, and awareness programs to eradicate anemia at its root,” said K. Krishnakumari, Project Director of WCWD for NTR district.