Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) Kargil organised a one-day awareness program on community management of malnutrition in children at Auditorium Hall, Kargil on November 14.

Chairman/CEC, LAHDC, Kargil, Dr. Mohd Jaffer Akhoon along with Executive Councilor, Social & Tribal Welfare, Aga Syeed Mujtaba Mussavi; Director Social and Tribal Welfare, UT Ladakh, Tashi Dolma; CMO Kargil, Dr Munnawar Wazir; District Program Officer, ICDS Kargil, Nargis Banoo; State Awardee, Dr Norden Odzer and Child Specialist Dr Anwar were also present.

CEC Kargil emphasized the urgent need to eliminate Moderately Acute Malnourished (MAM) and Severely Acute Malnourished (SAM) cases. Acknowledging the pivotal role of mothers in child growth, he commended the efforts of Anganwadi workers, health department ANMs, and ASHA workers in reducing infant mortality rate.

Calling for a multi-disciplinary approach, CEC advocated collaborative efforts in health screenings and community engagement programs to address the root causes of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs). He pledged full support from the Council for these initiatives.

The Executive Councillor for Social Welfare appreciated the ICDS Department for organizing the program and urged its extension to block levels.

Director Tashi Dolma pledged to eradicate Moderately Acute Malnourished by December 2023, emphasizing supplementary nutrition and committing to making Ladakh free from MAM/SAM. She highlighted the success of the ICDS Mission through departmental coordination.

During the event, the issue of honorarium for Anganwadi workers was brought to light, to which the CEC assured of a resolution. 

Dr Norden Odzer focused on the adoption of local foods, while Dr Anwar stressed the importance of breastfeeding.