Dimapur, July 4 (MExN): A training programme focused on ‘Rice Fortification for Better Nutrition Outcomes’ will be held on July 6 at the IDSP Conference Hall, Directorate of Health & Family Welfare (DHFW), Kohima.
The training is organised by Centre for Health Research and Innovation (CHRI) and National Stock Exchange Foundation (NSEF) in collaboration with Food Safety Authority, DHFW, with Principal Director Dr K Vikato Kinimi as special guest.
A concept note provided by the organisers on Monday highlighted that fortification is the most effective strategy to combat the problem of anemia and micronutrient deficiencies. With the introduction of fortified rice in the state, Food Safety Officers and Designated Officers need to understand the fortified rice in-depth, the key components, fortified rice kernels, production and consumption, safeties and implications etc., it said.
It stated that recent data as per National Family Health Survey-5(2019-2020) shows that in Nagaland, anemia affects 34% of women in reproductive age group (15-49 years), 10% of men and approximately 43% children under five years of age in the state. Additionally, the North-Eastern Regional Districts Sustainable Development Goal (SDGs) Index report published by NITI Ayog (2021-2022) shows that six out of sixteen districts(i.e., Dimapur, Longleng, Phek, Kiphire, Peren and Mokokchung) are bottom performing districts and need special attention in terms of achieving SDG 3 (Good Health and Well Being) and SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) in the state.
Towards, this, it stated that the event, among others, is a platform to find a way forward for partnering in creating mass awareness on rice fortification by leveraging the existing systems and platforms at district level and develop a comprehensive sustainable time bound action plan for the same.
