Aligarh: Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) observes a special nutrition month from July 10, 2010 to August 15, 2010. It is being observed in connection with project titled Strengthening implementation of Child Health and Nutrition Month in U.P. The project was given to Department of Community Medicine at AMU by the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF).
Under this project, the faculty members of the Department monitor the routine immunization sessions, coverage of Vitamin-A in children under five years of age and Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) activities in various blocks of Lakhimpur Kheri, Sitapur and Aligarh.
As per sources, a team of State Observer cum Monitoring Trainers (SOMT) comprising Dr. M. Athar Ansari, Chairman of the Department & Nodal Person of the Scheme, Dr. A.R. Siddiqui, Associate Professor, Dr. M. Salman Shah, Assistant Professor and Dr. S.N.A. Hashmi, Medico-Social Worker visited villages of these districts.
Other than supervision rounds, the team also imparted health education to the families especially the ones belonging to poor sections of society at the Anganwadi centres regarding Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF) practices, prevention of malnutrition and consumption of iodized salt.
In addition, elaborate sessions in the schools were carried out in these districts to promote the consumption of iodized salt. Iodine testing was done in front of children. It has been documented that the performance of children at school is better in areas where more of iodized salt is consumed as it increases the IQ level by 13 points. The main purpose behind the above activities is to improve the physical, social and mental health status of young children, so, that they can enjoy a better stimulating environment and be a part of healthy society and healthy nation.
