POSHAN Abhiyaan: India’s National Nutrition Mission Explained for Government Exam Preparation

Introduction to POSHAN Abhiyaan

POSHAN Abhiyaan, also known as the National Nutrition Mission, is a flagship initiative launched by the Government of India to improve the nutritional outcomes for children, pregnant women, and lactating mothers. It was launched on 8th March 2018 on International Women’s Day by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan. The initiative aims to ensure a malnutrition-free India through a comprehensive and targeted approach.

Objectives of the POSHAN Abhiyaan

The primary objective of POSHAN Abhiyaan is to reduce the levels of stunting, under-nutrition, anaemia, and low birth weight in children. The program sets ambitious targets such as:

Reducing stunting in children (0–6 years) to 25% by 2022.
Decreasing anaemia among young children, women, and adolescent girls.
Improving the nutritional status of children and women through convergence, technology, and community engagement.

Key Features of the Mission

POSHAN Abhiyaan uses technology such as the ICDS-CAS (Common Application Software) to track real-time data on nutrition indicators and ensure better service delivery. It emphasizes community mobilization through initiatives like POSHAN Maah and Jan Andolan, encouraging active participation from local stakeholders.

Role of Various Stakeholders

The mission promotes convergence across ministries including Women and Child Development, Health and Family Welfare, Drinking Water and Sanitation, Education, and Panchayati Raj. Anganwadi workers and ASHAs play a crucial role in spreading awareness and ensuring last-mile implementation of nutrition services.

Achievements and Progress

As per government data, POSHAN Abhiyaan has significantly improved the infrastructure and outreach of nutrition services in rural and tribal areas. Millions of beneficiaries have been registered through the integrated platform. Campaigns under POSHAN Maah and POSHAN Pakhwada have enhanced community-level awareness of healthy food practices, breastfeeding, and hygiene.

Why This News Is Important

Vital for Government Exam Preparation

POSHAN Abhiyaan is a frequently asked topic in exams like UPSC, State PSCs, SSC, and banking due to its role in addressing key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being). Aspirants should know its launch year, objectives, and implementation model.

Relevant for Health and Social Sector Questions

The program is crucial for questions related to government schemes, women and child welfare, nutrition, and public health governance. It reflects India’s commitment to a welfare-based governance model and demonstrates how technology is being leveraged for social good.

Historical Context

India’s Long-Standing Nutrition Challenge

India has historically faced challenges related to malnutrition. Initiatives like Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) were launched in 1975 to tackle the issue. However, the need for a more coordinated and tech-enabled platform led to the creation of POSHAN Abhiyaan in 2018.

Global Alignment and National Strategy

The Abhiyaan aligns with the Global Nutrition Targets set by the World Health Organization (WHO). It is part of India’s strategy to fulfil international commitments like the United Nations Decade of Action on Nutrition (2016–2025).

Key Takeaways from POSHAN Abhiyaan: Nutrition Mission of India

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is POSHAN Abhiyaan?

POSHAN Abhiyaan is India’s flagship nutrition mission launched to improve nutritional outcomes for children, pregnant women, and lactating mothers by reducing malnutrition-related indicators.

Q2. When was POSHAN Abhiyaan launched and by whom?

It was launched on 8th March 2018 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan.

Q3. What are the key targets of POSHAN Abhiyaan?

Reduce stunting to 25% by 2022
Reduce anaemia among children, women, and adolescent girls
Reduce low birth weight and under-nutrition

Q4. What is the technology component used in POSHAN Abhiyaan?

The ICDS-CAS (Common Application Software) is used for real-time monitoring and service delivery in Anganwadi centres.

Q5. What is POSHAN Maah?

POSHAN Maah is a month-long campaign conducted every September to promote awareness about nutrition and mobilize community participation under POSHAN Abhiyaan.