Nutritious Food Distribution Resumes for Pregnant Women at District Hospital After Six-Month Gap

Indore, Madhya Pradesh: Pregnant women visiting the District Hospital have begun receiving nutritious food again under Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA) after a six-month gap when food distribution came to a grinding halt due to delayed payments to the vendors, causing many expectant mothers to be deprived of crucial nutrition during visits.

Public concern and media attention led to the resumption of the food distribution program, held on the 9th and 25th of every month. The cause was given importance after the Free Press Journal wrote about it on January 12, bringing the plight of pregnant women to the notice of the authorities. On January 27, 90 women received dry fruit laddus, biscuits, and bananas during their antenatal checkups, bringing smiles and relief to many.

Many women appreciated and said they often left the hospital disappointed in the past months as they had filed complaints. 

According to reports, it was caused by pending payments made to the food vendor, who had halted services without informing the hospital authorities. "The payments have now been cleared from Bhopal, ensuring uninterrupted food supply moving forward," revealed Civil Surgeon Dr. G.L. Sodhi.

Experts have highlighted the importance of nutrition during pregnancy. A well-balanced diet helps reduce risks like low birth weight and pregnancy-induced hypertension. National programs such as PMSMA are implemented to address these issues by ensuring proper nutrition and access to healthcare for pregnant women, especially in underprivileged areas.^[1]

Resumption of food distribution underscores the need for seamless operations in maternal health programs. Hospital authorities have ensured that the process continues with full focus on service improvement and redressal of grievances to ensure that the well-being of the mother and her baby is optimised.

References:

1. National Health Mission. (2024). Importance of maternal nutrition under PMSMA. Retrieved from https://nhm.gov.in.

(Input from various sources)

(Rehash/Pragati Sakhuja/MSM)