Mumbai, India –29th September 2023 United Way Mumbai (UWM) announced the successful conclusion of their dedicated campaign in observance of Rashtriya Poshan Maah (National Nutrition Month). This event, held as part of the Government of India’s National Nutrition Mission (Hon’ble Prime Minister’s Overarching Scheme for Holistic Nutrition), saw its highlight with the Poshan Mela (Nutrition Fair) on September 27, 2023, at Bhisegaon Village in Karjat.
The event achieved its mission of raising awareness among tribal and rural communities about the critical importance of proper nutrition for children. Distinguished guests, including Dr. Bharat Bastewad, CEO of Raigad Zilla Parishad; Nirmala Kuchik, Deputy CEO of ICDS; Dr. Manisha Vikhe, District Health Officer; and Chandrakant Sable, Block Development Officer of Karjat, graced the occasion with their presence.
George Aikara, CEO of United Way Mumbai, says “Poshan Mela strives to build a movement among community members to ensure nutritious foods are locally available, accessible, and affordable. The effort is to deliberate on nutritious recipes that can be made locally with local raw materials.”
“It feels great to be at the culmination of Poshan Maah in Karjat. I want to appreciate the efforts of United Way Mumbai, all Anganwadi workers and healthcare workers for making it a success. While malnutrition has been a major public health challenge, we can fight it by ensuring convergence of credible information and timely response. I trust all of you, will give your best in coming year and take Karjat towards malnutrition free community.” said Dr. Bharat Bastewad, CEO, Raigad Zilla Parishad.
The Poshan Mela featured informative stalls, arranged by Anganwadi workers and Self-Help Group (SHG) members. These stalls showcased healthy and locally available recipes prepared by Anganwadi workers and SHGs, complemented by educational posters focusing on health and nutrition. The event also recognized and celebrated excellence within the community by honouring the Best Anganwadi Center, Outstanding ASHA Worker, and the winners of recipe competitions, posters, and slogans created by school children.
United Way Mumbai’s initiative, implemented as part of Project Poshan, was dedicated to addressing the critical issue of child malnutrition in rural and tribal areas of Karjat.