Shillong: Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Tuesday launched the Mission 1000 Days initiative aimed at ensuring proper nutrition for infants and pregnant women across the state.
The programme will be implemented through coordinated efforts among various government departments, including the Meghalaya Human Development Council, Social Welfare, Health & Family Welfare, Community & Rural Development, Education, and Planning departments.
Speaking at the launch, the Chief Minister said the issue is one that is deeply close to his heart, especially after witnessing the nutritional challenges faced by infants and expectant mothers. He said it was this concern that led to the introduction of the programme.
Sangma further stated that over the past three years, the government’s sustained efforts have resulted in a 50 per cent reduction in maternal deaths during childbirth in the state.
He said the initiative aims to ensure that children, from the time they are in the mother’s womb through their early years, receive adequate nutrition so that they grow with healthy weight, height, and overall well-being.
Under the Mission 1000 Days, the Chief Minister announced an allocation of ₹127 crore for the current year.
He also called upon dorbar shnong, local leaders, and various community groups to work together with the government to eradicate this pressing social challenge.
Others who spoke on the occasion included Sampath Kumar, Additional Chief Secretary and Development Commissioner, Dr. Rupal, and other officials.
The Chief Minister also distributed essential care kits to mothers who had recently given birth.
The Mission 1000 Days is being implemented in collaboration with multiple departments and agencies, including the Meghalaya Early Childhood Development Mission (MECDM), Meghalaya State Rural Livelihoods Society (MSRLS), National Health Mission, Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), Jal Jeevan Mission, and several other government departments and agencies.
