Union Minister Applauds Meghalaya’s Health and Nutrition Innovations

Date of Visit: 2nd December 2024
Location: Nongpoh, Ri Bhoi
Led By: Development Commissioner & Principal Secretary Mr Sampath Kumar, IAS

Highlighting Maternal and Child Health Initiatives
The Hon’ble Union Minister for Women and Child Development, Smti. Annapurna Devi, visited Ri Bhoi District, Meghalaya, to engage with communities and review critical interventions in maternal and child health. The visit underscored the government’s commitment to addressing local needs while spotlighting Meghalaya’s innovative initiatives as scalable models for national development.

At the heart of the minister’s visit was a candid dialogue with community members and women’s groups, focusing on the Supplementary Nutrition Program (SNP) under ICDS. Community representatives highlighted concerns regarding limited coverage and the need for localized, culturally appropriate nutrition solutions. The minister assured the stakeholders, saying:
“Your voices have been heard. I will take this matter up with the highest authorities to ensure the SNP-ICDS is localized and its coverage extended to all uncovered villages.”

On-Site Reviews: Saiden Village and Byrnihat
Smti. Annapurna Devi visited the Anganwadi Centre in Saiden Village, where she interacted with caregivers and women SHG members, who advocated for revamping nutrition strategies. Additionally, the minister toured the Primary Health Centre and the Chief Minister’s Safe Motherhood Scheme (CM-SMS) Transit Home in Byrnihat.

Officials highlighted the transformative impact of these initiatives, with CM-SMS reducing maternal deaths by nearly 50% in four years. The minister praised the state’s Early Childhood Development (ECD) Mission, describing it as a potential national model for its innovative approach to child brain development through early interventions. In her interactions with SHG members, the minister commended their efforts in creating livelihood opportunities, stating: “Through SHGs, women are finding opportunities to uplift themselves and their families. The Government of India is committed to supporting such initiatives to empower women and strengthen communities.”

Strategic Review and the Way Forward
The district review meeting at the Deputy Commissioner’s Office brought together key officials, including Development Commissioner & Principal Secretary Mr Sampath Kumar, IAS, and Commissioner & Secretary of Social Welfare Pravin Bakshi, IAS. Discussions centered on enhancing connectivity, expanding the reach of welfare programs, and ensuring quality service delivery.

The minister reiterated her support for Meghalaya’s proposals, emphasizing interdepartmental collaboration and community involvement as critical drivers of progress.

A Vision for National Progress
Concluding her visit, Smti. Annapurna Devi lauded Meghalaya’s innovative development models, stating:
“Meghalaya’s efforts are a benchmark for India. We must work together to ensure no child or mother is left behind.”

This visit underscored the central government’s focus on localized solutions, community empowerment, and sustainable development, positioning Meghalaya’s initiatives as blueprints for broader national progress.