Himanta Biswa Sarma Links Maa Kushmanda Worship with Fight Against Anaemia, Malnutrition

In a message posted on X, Sarma said Maa Kushmanda, worshipped on the fourth day of Navratri, symbolises the source of life, health, nourishment and energy. Drawing a connection between the religious occasion and public health, he emphasised the importance of proper nutrition during pregnancy and throughout a child's early years.

Sarma said Anganwadi centres across Assam provide supplementary nutrition, hot cooked meals, health check-ups and counselling to pregnant women, lactating mothers, adolescent girls and children below six years of age under POSHAN Abhiyaan.

He also highlighted the role of Anganwadi workers and helpers in identifying beneficiaries and ensuring that mothers and children receive the support available through the programme.

Referring to this year's Poshan Maah campaign, the Chief Minister reiterated the message, "Hamari Anganwadi, Hamari Jimmedari", calling for collective responsibility in improving nutritional outcomes across the state.

Sarma said nutrition should not be viewed merely as a government initiative but as a shared responsibility involving families and communities. He stressed that maternal health and child nutrition are closely linked, adding that healthy mothers and well-nourished children are essential to Assam's future well-being.

The Chief Minister urged people to use the occasion of Navratri to renew their commitment to eliminating anaemia and malnutrition among women and children.

Concluding his message, Sarma invoked the blessings of Maa Kushmanda and expressed hope that every household would enjoy good health.

His message brought together the religious significance of Navratri and the importance of sustained efforts to improve maternal and child nutrition across Assam.