In a stride towards tackling the pressing issue of malnutrition, a fifteen-member team from the Global Program India embarked on an insightful journey to the UNICEF intervention area in Krityanand Nagar block of Purnea, Bihar, on August 23, 2023. The purpose of this visit was to gain firsthand knowledge about the innovative interventions and strategies conducted by the UNICEF team, with a particular focus on the community-based management of severe acute malnutrition (SAM) children, and to adapt these strategies within the program area.

The team consisted of a diverse group of individuals, including community members, animators, program coordinators, and thematic associates from Caritas India, who were guided by Mr. Debasish Ghosh, an experienced District Program Manager leading the UNICEF team. The journey commenced with a determination to learn and implement best practices.

The two prominent Aganwadi centres situated in Sosa and Chakla villages, respectively, within the Gowasi Panchayat served as the backdrop for this visit. These centres were at the heart of the community’s effort to tackle malnutrition by providing a nurturing environment for the growth and development of the children.
The team engaged in crucial discussions with the resource person and the villagers. The core focus was on the identification of moderate acute malnutrition (MAM) and severe acute malnutrition (SAM)—critical insights for timely and targeted intervention. Anthropometric measurements emerged as potent tools in this endeavour, unlocking vital information about a child’s nutritional status.

The team had witnessed the effectiveness of a community-based management strategy that emphasised uniting the community in a collective effort against malnutrition. By empowering the community with knowledge and resources, this approach aimed to address the root causes of malnutrition.

Later, the team witnessed a remarkable demonstration of local nutritional solutions. The locals shared their food and recipe techniques, including native resources like moringa powder and linseed, offering a fresh perspective on preparing nutritious meals.

The day concluded with a visit to the Nutritional Rehabilitation Centre, a place offering care and rejuvenation to malnourished children. This centre displayed dedication and compassion from the carers and experts working together to nurse malnourished children back to health.

The exposure visit was a productive experience that left an indelible mark on the team with its newfound insights, knowledge, and determination. The Global Program India team departed Purnea with a clear mission: to adapt the successful interventions observed and weave them into the fabric of their own initiatives. The visit highlighted the urgent need to address malnutrition and stressed the power of collaboration and community involvement in meaningful change.