Effectiveness of POSHAN Abhiyaan in Improving Nutritional Outcomes Among Children Under Five, Pregnant Women and Lactating Mothers in In­dia

Sanjeev Kumar; Shweta Mehra; Amol Ohol; Priyamvada

doi:10.69968/ijisem.2026v5i3321-332

Authors

Sanjeev Kumar Senior Consultant All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi
Shweta Mehra Guest faculty NCWEB University of Delhi
Amol Ohol Assistant professor COL, Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidhyapeeth Pune
Priyamvada Healthcare Researcher and Data Analyst, Clarivate

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.69968/ijisem.2026v5i3321-332

Keywords:

POSHAN Abhiyaan, Malnutrition, Nutrition Outcomes, Maternal and Child Health, Jan Andolan

Abstract

POSHAN Abhiyaan, India’s National Nutrition Mission, represents a comprehensive multi-sectoral initiative aimed at addressing malnutrition and improving nutritional outcomes among vulnerable population groups. The mission focuses particularly on children aged 0–5 years, pregnant women, lactating mothers, adolescent girls, and women of reproductive age. This research examines the development, objectives, implementation framework, and significance of POSHAN Abhiyaan in addressing nutritional challenges in India. A mixed-methods approach incorporating quantitative and qualitative perspectives is considered to assess nutritional indicators, programme implementation, stakeholder experiences, and regional variations. The study emphasizes the roles of government institutions, Anganwadi Centres, frontline workers, NGOs, and communities in delivering nutrition-related interventions. Technology-enabled monitoring, inter-sectoral convergence, behavioural change, and community participation through the Jan Andolan approach are identified as important components of the mission. The study highlights POSHAN Abhiyaan as an integrated framework for strengthening nutrition services, improving maternal and child health, reducing malnutrition, and supporting sustainable human and national development.

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