From 7.2 kg to 11.9 kg: Bhiyan’s inspiring transformation with nutritious meals
Raipur 28 July 2023// ‘Mukhyamantri Suposhan Abhiyan’ in Chhattisgarh is leaving no stone unturned to combat malnutrition and anaemia in the state. As part of this comprehensive initiative, Anganwadi centers are providing nutritious hot meals to children and women, yielding positive results and bringing smiles to many faces. Over the past four and half years, around 2.65 lakh children have been successfully freed from malnutrition, while 1.05 lakh women have recovered from anaemia. Among those who have benefited are Smt. Tomeshwari Patel and her son Bhiyan Patel from Baiga Khamariya village in Sector Patparpali of Mahasamund district.
Bhiyan Patel was once a victim of severe malnutrition, experiencing a constant decrease in weight, which plunged to a mere 7.2 Kg. The little one appeared sad and disinterested in eating. However, the intervention of an Anganwadi worker during a home visit brought hope. They provided valuable information about nutrition-related practices, and with the provision of hot nutritious meals at the Bagh Khamhariya Anganwadi under the Mukhyamantri Suposhan Abhiyan, Bhiyan’s weight witnessed a remarkable increase of two Kgs within five months, propelling him out of the severe malnutrition category.
Officials stated that in May 2022, Bhiyan’s weight was measured and found to be significantly below the expected weight for his age, classifying him in the severe malnutrition category. The Anganwadi center introduced him to ready-to-eat food and khichdi gradually, making sincere efforts to boost his interest in eating. Additionally, his parents received counselling and actively engaged with him during mealtime. Regular monitoring and follow-ups by officials further contributed to his progress. As a result, on October 10, 2022, he moved to the medium-weight category. This remarkable transformation has brought immense joy to his family. Bhiyan’s weight has now increased from 7.2 kg to 11.9 kg, marking a significant achievement in his journey towards better health.
