Khawaja Imran Nazeer, the Minister for Primary and Secondary Healthcare Punjab, has unveiled the Benazir Nashonuma Programme in the province, aimed at tackling child malnutrition and enhancing their overall well-being. The announcement was made during the inauguration ceremony of the program, presided over by Minister Nazeer at a local hotel.
Initiative Overview
The Nashonuma Programme entails the establishment of Nashonuma Centers in government hospitals across 26 districts of Punjab. These centers will provide children with micro-nutrition supplements free of charge, addressing the critical issue of malnutrition among children in the province.
Inauguration and Attendees
During the ceremony, Minister Nazeer inaugurated the first Nashonuma Centre, with esteemed attendees including Dr. Ilyas Gondal, Director-General of Health Services, Dr. Khalil, Programme Director of IRMNCH, Dr. Amara Khan from the World Food Programme, Ms. Sabahat from UNICEF Punjab, and representatives from the World Food Programme and WHO, alongside numerous social media mobilizers.
Emphasis on Parental Awareness and Societal Behavior Change
Minister Nazeer emphasized the importance of parental awareness and societal behavior change in positively impacting children’s health and nutrition. He underscored the need to prioritize preventive programs to ensure the well-being of children and criticized past administrations for corrupt practices that compromised the healthcare system.
Collaborative Efforts and Future Plans
The Minister called upon the National Nutrition Task Force, stakeholders, and the media to develop recommendations for promoting healthy lifestyles among children, which will be integrated into school curriculums. Additionally, Minister Khawaja Salman Rafique inaugurated the Fistula Centre and ROP Telemedicine at Government Shahdara Teaching Hospital, highlighting the government’s commitment to enhancing healthcare facilities across the province.
Conclusion
The launch of the Benazir Nashonuma Programme signifies a significant step towards addressing child malnutrition in Punjab, demonstrating the government’s dedication to improving the health and well-being of its young population. Through collaborative efforts and preventive measures, the program aims to build a healthier and more resilient future for children in the province.
