PANAJI
Health Minister Vishwajit Rane has attributed Goa's 5.84% child stunting rate, the lowest in the country, to the State's record in child nutrition.
“Goa is setting a remarkable benchmark in child nutrition, with the lowest child stunting rate in India at just 5.84%,” Rane said, adding that the child nutrition record is visible in the State's extremely low malnutrition indicators, with just 2.18% underweight children and wasting at 0.85%.
He said the achievements reflect the Goa government's effective nutritional policies and its commitment to ensuring a healthier future for the State's children.
Rane said that with access to quality education, nutritious food, opportunities in social-emotional learning, and a safe environment, the tiny tots can aspire to reach their full potential and thus contribute meaningfully to society.
Speaking further, Rane said that the Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakaram, a comprehensive scheme designed to safeguard the health of pregnant women and newborns across the State, is a wonderful programme.
“Under this initiative, expectant mothers are entitled to free delivery services, including caesarean sections, along with free drugs, consumables, and essential diagnostic tests like blood work, urine tests, and ultrasonography,” the Minister said.
He also listed the State's interventions in children's nutrition, pointing out that free dietary support is provided for three days post the child's normal delivery and for seven days in the case of a C-section.
Rane also highlighted the 100 Days TB Elimination Programme, where the DHS' National Tuberculosis Control Programme cell has coordinated 1,685 'nikshay shivirs' across the State through the primary health centres and other health facilities.
"Along with screenings, we are providing food baskets and spreading awareness among high-risk groups. We remain committed to making Goa TB-free at the earliest," Rane said.
He said 35,420 individuals from high-risk groups have been enrolled for essential care, and 1,289 among them are being given food baskets.
"Additionally, 7,902 individuals have undergone NAAT testing, and 1,712 TB patients have been assessed for differentiated care, ensuring personalised treatment for better outcomes," Rane added.
