New Delhi, April 8 The Ministry of Women and Child Development will observe the eighth edition of Poshan Pakhwada from Wednesday, with a focus on nutrition and early childhood development.
The theme for this year will be "Maximizing Brain Development in the First Six Years of Life," reaffirming the government's commitment to improving nutritional outcomes across the country, the ministry said in a statement.
Poshan Pakhwada (nutrition fortnight) will be observed from April 9 to 23. The program will be held under the leadership of Union Women and Child Development Minister Annapurna Devi and in the presence of Minister of State Savitri Thakur and Women and Child Development Secretary Anil Malik.
According to the ministry, the theme recognizes that early childhood, particularly the first 1,000 days, is critical for brain development, physical growth, and overall well-being.
"Scientific evidence indicates that over 85 per cent of brain development occurs by the age of six, underscoring the importance of optimal nutrition, responsive caregiving, and early learning," it said.
Key focus areas under this year's theme include maternal and child nutrition through the promotion of optimal nutrition during pregnancy, exclusive breastfeeding, and age-appropriate complementary feeding.
The program will also focus on early stimulation for brain development among children in the 0-3 years age group by encouraging responsive caregiving and early learning interactions.
Another focus area is play-based education for children in the 3-6 years age group to support holistic development and school readiness.
The ministry said the role of parents and communities in minimizing screen time among young children will also be highlighted to promote healthy habits and active engagement.
Special emphasis will also be laid on strengthening anganwadi centers through community participation, Jan Bhagidari (people's participation), and corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives to improve infrastructure and service delivery.
The inaugural program will showcase best practices from states and Union territories, launch key initiatives, and highlight the contribution of frontline workers, particularly anganwadi workers, in strengthening early childhood care and nutrition services.
During the Pakhwada, activities will be organized across states and Union territories through anganwadi centers with participation from mothers, caregivers, families, community institutions, and local bodies.
These will include Poshan Panchayats (nutrition councils), awareness sessions, early stimulation activities, play-based learning initiatives, and campaigns promoting healthy lifestyles and reduced screen time among young children.