Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (MS)

Mangaluru, Jun 20: Anganwadi centers in Mangaluru are facing criticism as traditional food supplies for pregnant women and children have been disrupted. Recent changes have replaced essential items like rice, green gram, chana, jaggery, sugar, and milk powder with wheat powder, which reportedly contains worms.

Anganwadi workers express dismay over these developments, citing difficulties in providing adequate meals to children. One worker stated, "Food supply has changed for the worse in the last three months. We're now receiving only wheat powder, often infested with worms. Additionally, the provided Sambaru and Uppittu masalas are too spicy for consumption."

The switch to wheat powder has not been well-received among children, prompting concerns about their nutrition. Some centres have managed to procure rice after persistent requests, but overall dissatisfaction remains high.

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Previously, pregnant and lactating women received items like channa and green gram, which are now limited to children in the form of powder laddus. The lack of supplies has led to children returning home without eating, exacerbating worries among Anganwadi workers about their welfare.

Officials respond to these concerns by promising a return to rice supply next month. However, workers question the effectiveness of delayed supplies, particularly noting the inadequate provision of boiled kat sambar rice from May being delivered in June.

The issue extends beyond food to allowances for vegetables. After being halted previously, a monthly allowance of Rs 15 was reinstated in April, drawing criticism from workers who deem it insufficient for pregnant women's needs.

Usman A, deputy director of the Women and Children Development Department, addresses the situation, stating, "The menu is based on guidelines from the Defence Food Research Laboratory. Rice shortages have prompted the use of wheat, but we plan to revert to rice supply in the coastal regions starting next month."

The inconsistent supply and quality issues have reportedly impacted Anganwadi centre enrollments, as families hesitate to enroll children due to concerns over nutrition and care.

This situation underscores the urgent need for improved food supply management and enhanced support for Anganwadi centers to ensure the well-being of children and pregnant women in Mangaluru.