Poshan Pakhwada key to tackling malnutrition, says Palla Srinivasa Rao

Stressing that the fight against malnutrition requires sustained community effort, TDP State president and Gajuwaka MLA Palla Srinivasa Rao on Monday said Poshan Pakhwada would serve as a crucial platform to improve maternal and child health outcomes across Andhra Pradesh.

Inaugurating the Poshan Pakhwada programme in Gajuwaka under the ICDS Pendurthi project limits, the MLA said maternal and child welfare remain the foundation of a healthy society. “The State government is moving forward with a firm resolve to eradicate malnutrition,” he said.

After releasing awareness posters, Srinivasa Rao noted that the initiative goes beyond a conventional health programme, as it focuses on pregnant women, lactating mothers, and young children — the most vulnerable groups. He emphasised that creating awareness at the grassroots level is essential for long-term impact.

He said anganwadi centres are being leveraged to educate mothers and caregivers on nutrition and healthy practices. “Through Poshan Pakhwada, efforts are being made to promote healthier lifestyles, discourage junk food consumption and encourage traditional, home-cooked diets,” he said, adding that awareness is also being raised about the harmful effects of packaged foods.

Highlighting the importance of early childhood engagement, the MLA said activities such as conversation, play, and storytelling contribute significantly to a child’s holistic development. He also called for greater involvement of men in fostering health awareness within families, noting that shared responsibility is key to building a healthier society.