The percentage of infants and women suffering from anaemia and malnutrition is higher in Odisha as compared to other States.
According to a survey, out of 1.40 crore people suffering from anaemia and malnutrition in the State, around 30 lakh are infants below six years of age and 60 per cent of them are girl children.
The State of Food Insecurity in the World-2015 in its report stated that around 20 crore people are suffering from anaemia and malnutrition in the country out of which 1.40 crore are in Odisha, which amounts to more than 30 per cent of the State’s population.
As per data provided by the State Women and Child Development Department, at least 67 per cent female babies are affected with anaemia in Odisha.
The National Family Health survey in its report indicated that a large number of infants are suffering from malnutrition in the State.
Besides, at least 62 per cent pregnant women are affected with anaemia and malnutrition across the State. Apart from Madhya Pradesh and Assam, the percentage of infant mortality is higher in Odisha where 51 babies die against 1,000 births.
The Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR) too is comparatively higher in Odisha due to anaemia and malnutrition.
In view of the high percentage of MMR and IMR in the State, the Government is providing nutritional supplements and food to over 45 lakh infants and pregnant women through Anganwadi Centres under nutrition programmes for which `700 is spent annually.
The Centre bears half of the expenses incurred in the scheme. Despite the programme, a large number of newborn babies are found to be underweight in Odisha, states the report.
However, the percentage of people suffering from anaemia and malnutrition has declined in the State due to various Government initiatives.
But the situation remains grim in the KBK and other tribal-dominated areas. Poverty, backwardness and illiteracy are the primary reasons behind the increased rate of anaemia and malnutrition in Odisha, stated the agencies working in field of women and child development.
