Meghalaya Reports Significant Reduction in Child Stunting Rates
NFHS-6 shows decline in stunting among children in Meghalaya
The Times Of IndiaImage: The Times Of India
The National Family Health Survey (NFHS-6) reveals that Meghalaya has successfully reduced stunting among children under five from 46.5% to 36.8%. This improvement is attributed to enhanced maternal health services and community involvement in nutrition initiatives.
- 01Stunting among children under five has decreased from 46.5% in NFHS-5 to 36.8% in NFHS-6.
- 02Breastfeeding practices have improved, with 76.4% of children breastfed within one hour of birth.
- 03The survey indicates that 97.1% of infants under six months are currently breastfeeding.
- 04Meghalaya has expanded maternal health services, including antenatal care and nutrition counselling.
- 05Community engagement, particularly through women’s groups and self-help groups, has played a crucial role in improving nutrition.
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The latest National Family Health Survey (NFHS-6) has highlighted a notable improvement in child nutrition in Meghalaya, with stunting rates among children under five decreasing from 46.5% in the previous survey (NFHS-5) to 36.8%. This positive trend is complemented by an increase in breastfeeding practices, as 76.4% of children are now breastfed within one hour of birth, and 97.1% of infants under six months are currently breastfeeding. The state government has prioritized maternal health services, promoting early antenatal registration, regular health check-ups, and providing iron and folic acid supplements. Additionally, community involvement has been pivotal, with local women’s groups and families actively participating in growth monitoring and awareness campaigns. The report emphasizes that households are increasingly adopting kitchen gardens and integrating traditional nutrient-rich foods into their diets, which further supports the improvement in nutrition indicators.
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The decline in stunting rates indicates improved child health and nutrition, which can lead to better educational and economic outcomes for families.
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