KHONSA, SEP 15:
The Khonsa Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) Project organised a programme at the Lapnan village Anganwadi Centre as part of Rashtriya Poshan Maah, highlighting the importance of nutrition, maternal health, child welfare and community participation.
Tirap Deputy Commissioner Badonlum Tawsik attended the programme along with Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (APSCPCR) Member Ngurang Achung and Deomali Child Development Project Officer (CDPO) Pakar Nomuk, who is also holding additional charge as Deputy Director, ICDS Khonsa.
The programme was attended by local Panchayati Raj representatives, Self-Help Group (SHG) members, Anganwadi Workers and Helpers, field functionaries, ministerial staff of the Khonsa CDPO office, Lazu field functionaries and a large number of mothers and women from Lapnan village.
Addressing the gathering, Tawsik encouraged Anganwadi workers to enhance their culinary skills by combining traditional knowledge with modern practices. He said nutritious food prepared innovatively could improve health outcomes while also creating livelihood opportunities through better market linkages. He also heard the concerns faced by field functionaries in implementing Anganwadi and ICDS programmes and assured that the issues would be taken up for necessary action.
Achung highlighted child rights and welfare and urged parents, particularly mothers, to remain vigilant about the safety and well-being of their children. He also stressed the need to sensitise children about their rights so that they grow up informed, confident and protected.
A nutritious food preparation competition among Anganwadi Workers was also organised to promote awareness that healthy food could be both nutritious and appealing. The competition was judged by District Information and Public Relations Officer (DIPRO) Dr Ponung Tasing and District Veterinary Officer (DVO) Dr Chagan Lowang Tinkhatra.
Old Tupi secured the first prize, followed by New Tupi in second place and Noksa in third place.
The programme was led by Khonsa CDPO Chate Lowangcha, who is also holding additional charge as CDPO Lazu. The event concluded with a renewed emphasis on community participation in promoting better nutrition, maternal health and the safety and well-being of children. (DIPR)
