A cross sectional study to assess the utilization of Take Home Ration provided to children below the age of 3 years under ICDS scheme.

Dr. Yuvaraj B Chavan; Dr. Anusha C P; Dr. Aritra Kumar Bose; Dr. Milind Rasal

Volume : VII, Issue : III, March - 2018

A cross sectional study to assess the utilization of Take Home Ration provided to children below the age of 3 years under ICDS scheme.

Dr. Yuvaraj B Chavan, Dr. Anusha C P, Dr. Aritra Kumar Bose, Dr. Milind Rasal

Abstract :

Malnutrition is a major public health problem in India. THR is provided under ICDS scheme to supplement nutrition of children and women. This article assesses the proportion of mothers who are compliant with the utilization of THR and studies the factors affecting utilization of THR. A cross–sectional observational study was conducted in children between 6 months and 3 years of age enrolled in anganwadis. Primary caregivers of children were interviewed face to face. Anthropometry was used in children to assess the nutritional status. Utilization was compared against ICDS guidelines. High prevalence of under nutrition (44.64%) was found in participants. THR is under–utilized. THR utilization is not a felt need in majority of mothers and they avoid taking THR. Lack of Community participation, lack of diversity and THR not being child�s preference are the main factors leading to under–utilization.