Has Maharashtra Achieved a Significant Decrease in Malnutrition?
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Synopsis
Maharashtra's commitment to combating child malnutrition has seen significant progress over the past two years. Minister Aditi Tatkare reveals the successful strategies that have led to a remarkable drop in malnutrition rates, aiming for further improvements in the coming years.
Key Takeaways
- Significant reduction in child malnutrition rates in Maharashtra over two years.
- Implementation of the UCDC scheme to combat urban malnutrition.
- Continued recruitment for child development positions enhances service delivery.
- Aiming to reduce malnutrition rates below 0.50 percent in the next two years.
- Collaborative efforts across departments are crucial for success.
Mumbai, July 14 (NationPress) Maharashtra's Minister for Women and Child Development, Aditi Tatkare, stated during the state council meeting that the collaborative efforts under the Integrated Child Development Service Scheme and associated departments have led to a remarkable decrease in malnutrition rates among children over the past two years.
Her remarks came in response to a calling attention motion introduced by member Sanjay Kenekar. Other members including Shashikant Shinde, Chitra Wagh, Pravin Darekar, and Sanjay Khodke also contributed to the discussion.
“In 2023, from a total of 41,67,180 children assessed for their weight and height, 2,12,203 were found to be moderately malnourished, a reduction of 5.09 percent. By 2025, this number dropped to 1,51,643 out of 48,59,346 children measured, reflecting a 3.16 percent rate.
“Thus, an overall decrease of 2.74 percent has been noted. The number of severely malnourished children in 2023 was 80,248, which was 1.93 percent of the total assessed. This figure fell to 30,800 in 2025, translating to a 0.64 percent rate, marking a decrease of 1.3 percent,” explained Minister Tatkare.
According to her, a significant decline has also been observed in suburban Mumbai.
There were 5,580 severely malnourished children in 2023, which has now decreased to 2,088 in 2025, demonstrating a drop of 1.23 percent.
“The State Government has enhanced service delivery by filling vacant positions for Anganwadi Workers, Helpers, and Child Development Project Officers. Out of 18,265 positions, 15,064 have been filled, with the recruitment process for 2,318 posts finalized. Overall, 17,382 posts have been successfully filled, achieving 95.16 percent completion,” she stated.
In addition to the previously implemented VCDC (Village Child Development Centre) scheme in rural areas, the new UCDC (Urban Community Child Development Centre) scheme is now active in urban and suburban locations.
“This initiative aims to address the issue of malnutrition in urban environments,” she remarked. She further emphasized that the state maintains a lower malnutrition rate compared to the national average.
“No child should endure malnutrition. With this objective, all departments are collaborating to reduce this metric below 0.50 percent within the next two years,” she concluded.
Point of View
The significant reduction in child malnutrition rates in Maharashtra showcases the effectiveness of targeted government initiatives and inter-departmental collaboration. The focus on both rural and urban areas indicates a comprehensive approach to tackling this critical issue. Continued efforts are essential to ensure that no child is left behind in the fight against malnutrition.
NationPress
14/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What measures have been taken to reduce malnutrition in Maharashtra?
The state has implemented various strategies under the Integrated Child Development Service Scheme, including filling vacant posts in child development roles and launching the Urban Community Child Development Centre scheme.
What are the current malnutrition statistics in Maharashtra?
As of 2025, moderate malnutrition affects 1,51,643 out of 48,59,346 children, while severe malnutrition affects 30,800 children, indicating a steady decline.
How is the state government addressing malnutrition in urban areas?
The introduction of the UCDC scheme specifically targets malnutrition in urban and suburban areas, aiming to provide focused support where it is needed most.
