Suttur, September 30, 2026: As part of National Nutrition Month 2026, ICAR–JSS Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Suttur, in association with the Child Development Project, Biligere, Department of Women and Child Development, Nanjangud Taluk, organised a training programme titled “From Nutrition to Prosperity: Training Programme for Anganwadi Workers on Health and Nutrition” at the Kupparavalli Anganwadi Centre on September 30, 2026.
The programme was inaugurated by Shri N. M. Shivashankarappa, Director of Horticulture, JSS Mahavidyapeetha. Speaking on the occasion, he stressed the important role of Anganwadi workers in ensuring that children receive a balanced and nutritious diet. He also urged them to take appropriate measures to improve nutrition among children and work towards the prevention and elimination of anaemia.
The Chief Guest, Shri Raghavendra, Child Development Project Officer, spoke about the various schemes implemented by the department and explained the significance of National Nutrition Month. He said that improving the nutritional status of children, pregnant women and lactating mothers is one of the major objectives of the department and Anganwadi workers. He also provided information on various departmental schemes related to maternal and child health and nutrition.
Smt. Shweta Hanchinmani, Nutritionist and Assistant Child Development Project Officer, said that National Nutrition Month is observed every year from September 1 to 30 as part of the Government of India’s Poshan Abhiyaan. She explained that the primary objective of the campaign is to create awareness among people about the importance of consuming a balanced and nutritious diet for a healthier life and to address problems such as malnutrition and anaemia.
She highlighted the importance of a balanced diet in improving the health and nutritional status of children, pregnant women and women in general. She also explained how families can improve their nutritional security by making effective use of locally available nutritious food items.
Smt. Sudha, Supervisor of the Biligere Child Development Project, spoke about establishing nutrition gardens in schools and Anganwadi centres in rural areas. She encouraged the cultivation of a variety of vegetables and green leafy vegetables and emphasised their regular use in daily meals.
Shri Shanthakumar, Development Officer of Biligere Panchayat, said that several welfare and development programmes are being extended to rural families through Gram Panchayats, either independently or in coordination with various government departments. He particularly highlighted initiatives aimed at improving the nutrition and living standards of women, children, pregnant women, adolescents and economically weaker families.
Presiding over the programme, Dr. B. N. Gnanesh, Senior Scientist and Head of ICAR–JSS Krishi Vigyan Kendra, said that the daily diet should contain adequate quantities of cereals and grains, pulses, green leafy vegetables, other vegetables, fruits, milk and milk products, along with other protein-rich foods. He emphasised that dietary diversity is essential because the body receives different nutrients only when a variety of foods are included in everyday meals.
Dr. Deepak, Subject Matter Specialist at the Centre, created awareness among the participants about the importance of a nutritious and balanced diet for children, along with child health and hygiene. He said that one of the key objectives of Poshan Maah is to encourage healthy eating habits and bring about necessary positive changes in lifestyle.
More than 50 women and children participated in the programme, contributing to its success.
Dr. Deepak welcomed the gathering, Smt. Divya H. V. compered the programme, and Dr. Vinayji M. proposed the vote of thanks.