The Telangana government has launched a new program to reduce the increasing cases of anaemia and iron deficiency among teenage girls. It has been decided to distribute 15 millet and palli patties per month to young girls aged 14-18 through Anganwadis. The scheme, which will be implemented initially in Khammam, Mulugu and Asifabad, will provide nutrition and create awareness on women’s safety.
Due to changing lifestyle and eating habits, many teenage girls are suffering from anaemia and iron deficiency in the current era. Anaemia is a problem that arises due to the decrease in hemoglobin levels in the body. Due to anaemia, many health problems occur due to insufficient oxygen supply to the body. Teens are an age when rapid changes occur in the body. At this time, the body needs blood and iron in large quantities. However, many teenage girls do not take proper nutrition. Iron deficiency occurs due to excessive consumption of junk food, processed foods, and low consumption of fruits, vegetables, and iron-rich foods. Along with these, deficiency of micronutrients like folate, vitamin B12, and vitamin A also leads to anaemia.
According to a study, anaemia is prevalent among teenage girls studying in residential schools in Telangana. 81.6 percent of the girls were found to be suffering from anaemia. Of these, 32.7 percent are suffering from severe anaemia, 31.8 percent are suffering from moderate anaemia, and 17.1 percent are suffering from mild anaemia. If teenage girls suffer from anaemia, it will have a serious impact on their future pregnancy and the health of the baby. There is a possibility of low birth weight and miscarriage. In this context, the Telangana government has taken a key decision. Telling good news to young girls, it is ready to bring a new scheme for them.
The government has launched another innovative program to reduce iron deficiency and anaemia problems in Telangana. It has been decided to distribute millet patties and palli patties to improve the health of young girls between the ages of 14 and 18. Each girl will be provided 15 packets of these food items per month through Anganwadi centers. The name ‘Indiramma Amrutham’ is being considered for this scheme, and the final decision on this will be taken soon by CM Revanth, officials said.
This scheme will be implemented first in Khammam, Mulugu and Asifabad districts. In the villages there, Anganwadi teachers and nurses will identify young women and call them to the centers to distribute millet patties and palli patties. In addition, awareness programs will be organized on protection from atrocities against women. Tenders have already been completed and a contractor has been selected. The authorities are preparing to start distribution from June. Under the Arogya Lakshmi scheme, pregnant and lactating women are being provided with nutritious food like rice, lentils, milk and eggs. Recently, a new scheme has been prepared to reduce anemia and iron deficiency among teenage girls.
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