To enhance nutrition among children between six months and six years of age in anganwadis, the State government is preparing to provide eggs six days weekly. An announcement is expected during the year's budget presentation, per officials from the Department of Women and Child Development.
January 18 Order — Expansion from SC/ST to All
The government issued an order on January 18 extending eggs to children from SC/ST communities in anganwadis statewide, plus those experiencing malnutrition. Expansion to encompass all children is anticipated, promoting equal treatment during meal distribution.
Eggs distributed to anganwadi children under Karnataka's nutrition expansion
Current Coverage — 3 Days a Week
During a workshop, Uma Mahadevan, Principal Secretary of Women and Child Development, noted the department currently distributes eggs thrice weekly to moderately malnourished children in five backward north Karnataka districts and all malnourished children across the state.
Tracking Growth via Software & SMS
The department is developing specialised software to monitor children's developmental progress and growth. Mothers will receive SMS updates regarding their children's immunisation schedules.
"This will ensure that every child undergoes the universal immunisation programme and is also tracked for malnutrishment."
— Uma Mahadevan, Principal Secretary, Women and Child Development
IFA for Pregnant Women
A dedicated initiative provides hot meals with iron and folic acid (IFA) tablets for pregnant women in five backward north Karnataka districts. IFA tablets will follow meal consumption.