Sri Vijaya Puram, June 10: Health facilities across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands organised special screening programmes, awareness activities and nutrition initiatives on Monday as the Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA) completed ten years of implementation.
The nationwide observance was held under the theme “10 Years of PMSMA: Safer Pregnancies, Healthier Mothers, Stronger India,” highlighting the programme’s contribution to strengthening maternal healthcare services and promoting safe motherhood.
As part of the celebrations, Ayushman Arogya Shivirs were conducted across the islands, providing healthcare services and screening support to expectant mothers. Health officials said the activities were aimed at encouraging early detection of pregnancy-related complications and ensuring timely access to healthcare services.
One of the major events was organised at Dr. R.P. Hospital in Mayabunder in coordination with the District Health Society (DHS), North and Middle Andaman. The programme brought together healthcare professionals, health workers and pregnant women to mark the milestone.
The event was attended by Samiti Member Meena as chief guest along with officials and medical specialists from the hospital and district health administration. Medical teams conducted antenatal check-ups and provided specialist consultations and counselling services to pregnant women attending the programme.
Health experts delivered awareness sessions on a range of maternal and child health issues, including antenatal care, nutrition during pregnancy, institutional delivery, newborn care and breastfeeding practices.
Officials said such awareness programmes play a crucial role in ensuring healthy pregnancies by helping women understand the importance of regular check-ups, balanced nutrition and timely medical intervention.
Addressing participants, speakers encouraged expectant mothers to make full use of antenatal healthcare services available through government health institutions and to follow healthy lifestyle practices throughout pregnancy.
A major highlight of the programme was the launch of a nutritious laddu distribution initiative for pregnant women. Under the initiative, specially prepared nutrient-rich laddus made from wholesome ingredients were distributed to beneficiaries.
Pregnant women also received nutrition kits containing dry fruits, dates, jaggery and other nutritious food items. The initiative was undertaken under the guidance of the Chairman of the District Health Society, North and Middle Andaman.
Health officials said maternal nutrition remains one of the most important factors influencing both maternal and infant health outcomes. Adequate nutrition during pregnancy helps reduce health risks, supports fetal development and contributes to healthier births.
The nutrition initiative was designed not only to provide supplementary nutritional support but also to raise awareness about healthy dietary habits during pregnancy.
The PMSMA programme, launched by the Government of India in 2016, seeks to provide assured, comprehensive and quality antenatal care to pregnant women across the country. Over the past decade, it has become a key component of India’s maternal healthcare framework.
Officials said the anniversary celebrations served as an opportunity to reinforce awareness about maternal health services while recognising the importance of nutrition, preventive care and regular medical monitoring for ensuring healthier mothers and healthier babies.
