Link Between Nutrition and Disability
Poor nutrition can lead to health issues that increase disability rates, including weakened immunity and developmental delays.
Maternal malnutrition can cause prenatal disabilities, and vitamin deficiencies (e.g., Vitamin A) can lead to blindness.
Some disabilities, such as cerebral palsy and Down syndrome, increase the risk of malnutrition, making nutrition services crucial.
National Initiatives for Disability-Inclusive Nutrition
Anganwadi Protocol: Launched in 2023, this protocol helps Anganwadi workers identify disabilities early and monitor children's development using the POSHAN Tracker.
Haryana introduced the Divyang Protocol and the ‘Nanhe Farishtey’ podcast to raise awareness and improve disability inclusion at the community level.
The World Food Programme supports Haryana's disability inclusion efforts by training 25,000 Anganwadi workers on social and gender equality, including disability inclusion.
Role of Anganwadi Workers
Anganwadi workers play a crucial role in identifying disabilities and referring individuals for medical, educational, and social support.
They help families access disability certificates, pensions, and other government services.
Anganwadi workers help dispel disability stigma and provide essential nutrition services.
Collaborative Programs and Support Services
Early intervention, accessible therapy, and support services, such as trained specialists and assistive devices, are needed for children with disabilities.
Developing accessible schools, transportation, and communication systems tailored to the needs of persons with disabilities.
Collaboration between health organizations, governments, and development actors is key to creating a supportive environment.
Shared Responsibility for Disability Rights
Ensuring the nutrition of persons with disabilities, especially children, is vital for their well-being and equal opportunity.
The responsibility of promoting disability rights and creating an inclusive society falls on all sectors — from community members to frontline workers and policy makers.
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