Modalities of distributing fortified food to children, pregnant women to change

RANCHI: The Jharkhand government has decided to change modalities of providing fortified energy food to newborns after six months and expecting mothers.

Currently, self-help groups (SHGs) of Jharkhand State Livelihood Promotion Society (JSLPS) provide the monthly requirement of fortified food to 38,432 aanganwadis, who further distribute it to the families in need.

However, as per the new plan, the government would rope in private parties for distribution of food.

Confirming the same, welfare department secretary Avinash Kumar on Monday said the government would soon float a tender in this regard to select interested parties. It is expected to take shape by February-end or March, he said.

According to welfare minister Joba Manjhi, the government decided to change the modalities following complaints of erratic distribution by SHGs. “We are committed to ensure good health of our children and mothers,” she said.

Giving details, social welfare department officials said the government provides fortified energy food to children between the age of 6 and 36 months, pregnant women and expecting mothers. For malnourished children, the maximum age is 72 months.

The scheme aims at making Jharkhand healthy by providing nutritional food to children and mothers. Officials concerned said fortified rice, pulses, potato, peanuts, and molasses are provided by sevikas of 38,432 anganwadis of the state.

The govt would soon float a tender to select interested parties. It is expected to take shape by Feb-end or March. AVINASH KUMAR , welfare department secretary