Reduction in Malnutrition through implementation in partnership with I.C.D.S

Aahar program in Dharavi, is an innovative program to reduce acute malnutrition in children 0-36 months old. We collaborate with the Government of India (GOI) Integrated Child Development Services (I.C.D.S.) in 300 Anganwadi... [ view full abstract ]

Aahar program in Dharavi, is an innovative program to reduce acute malnutrition in children 0-36 months old. We collaborate with the Government of India (GOI) Integrated Child Development Services (I.C.D.S.) in 300 Anganwadi centres.

Purpose
We believe partnership with the government for the prevention and treatment of malnutrition is critical for a sustained reduction in acute malnutrition.

Methods
We conduct joint monthly growth monitoring activities to identify the malnourished children, refer malnourished children with complications for treatment, pregnant and lactating mothers to ICDS for provision of hot cooked food and take-home-rations (THR), undertake joint mobilization of mothers for complete immunization of their children in municipal outreach camps, adhere to a protocol of joint home visits to follow up on acutely malnourished children, monitor their health and weight gain, observe home based feeding of a 56 days course of Ready to Use Foods (RUTF), counsel mothers on child care and feeding practices and inform them on local public health services. We accompany mothers and support them to negotiate access of public health services. We facilitate peer learning in group meetings and community sensitization events. We build the capacity of ICDS staff to plan and implement effectively.

Findings
Preliminary results of Phase I show that growth monitoring by I.C.D.S. increased from 27% to 41.6%, overall coverage increased from 70 % to 80 %, children consuming THR increased from 20 % to 28 %, women reported an increase in receipt of THR from 11 % to 21 %.
End line results are forthcoming which will shed more light on the results of the partnership.

Conclusion
SNEHA'S experience shows that demonstrated credibility and trust lead to greater acceptance and responsible action by the ICDS and communities. We plan to accelerate supportive supervision in ICDS to promote interaction and partnership with communities.