Sri Vijaya Puram, April 24: A series of awareness activities and community programmes under 8th Poshan Pakhwada 2026 concluded across multiple regions of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands on April 23, with a continued focus on improving early childhood nutrition and development outcomes.
Under the ICDS Project Ferrargunj, the campaign culminated with a Poshan Walk held at the Tehsil Office, Ferrargunj. The walk was flagged off by Tehsildar Gopa Kumar, with active participation from Anganwadi workers who highlighted the role of collective community efforts in strengthening child nutrition and development.
This year’s campaign centred on the theme “Maximizing Brain Development in the First 6 Years of Life,” drawing attention to the importance of early childhood care. The initiative focused on five key areas, including mother and child nutrition, early stimulation for brain development, play-based learning, reducing screen exposure among children, and strengthening community support for Anganwadi services.
In Car Nicobar, the valedictory function was held at the Community Hall in Perka, marking the conclusion of activities conducted between April 9 and April 23 across Anganwadi centres in the Nicobar district. The programme was attended by Special Rapporteur of the National Human Rights Commission K. Padma Kumar and Assistant Commissioner Naveen Kumar.
During the campaign period, Anganwadi centres organised multiple outreach initiatives aimed at promoting holistic child development. Speakers at the event highlighted the importance of nutrition awareness and public participation in improving health outcomes for children and mothers. The programme also featured visits to early childhood care and education stalls and food stalls showcasing traditional nutritious foods.
As part of the concluding event, nutrition kits were distributed to pregnant and lactating mothers, while baby kits were provided for newborn girl children under the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao initiative, aimed at supporting maternal and child health.
In Diglipur, the ICDS Project concluded its Poshan Pakhwada activities with a valedictory programme held at the Administrative Building. The campaign included awareness sessions, growth monitoring, home visits, and nutrition demonstrations conducted across Anganwadi centres. Special emphasis was placed on improving infant and young child feeding practices, addressing anemia, and promoting the use of locally available nutritious food.
Officials at the Diglipur event underlined the importance of coordinated efforts between departments and community participation in achieving nutrition goals. Health experts also stressed the need for behavioural change and sustained awareness to address long-term nutritional challenges.
The conclusion of Poshan Pakhwada across these regions reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen nutrition awareness and early childhood care through coordinated community-based initiatives.
