ICAR–KVK, North and Middle Andaman organized a three-day training programme on
“Maternal Nutrition and Wellness for Pregnant and Lactating Mothers” from 17 th to 19 th
November, 2025. The programme targeted extension functionaries, including Anganwadi
Workers from Basantipur Gram Panchayat.
Mr. Yatharth Sharma (SMS, Home Science) delivered the welcome remarks and highlighted
the need to strengthen community-level support systems for maternal nutrition. He
emphasised the role of frontline workers in improving health outcomes for mothers and
children in rural and tribal areas. Er. Manoj Kumar, In-charge, ICAR–KVK N&M Andaman,
encouraged participants to use the training to strengthen nutrition awareness in their field
areas. He noted that improving maternal nutrition is a priority for KVK and stressed the need
for coordinated efforts at the community level. Dr. S. Triveni Manju, GDMO (Ayurveda),
PHC Billyground, graced the inaugural session as the Chief Guest. She highlighted the
importance of early identification of nutritional risks, timely referral of high-risk pregnancies,
and the role of frontline workers in supporting maternal health in rural areas.
The programme featured detailed technical sessions led by Mr. Yatharth Sharma, who spoke
about the importance of maternal nutrition, dietary needs during pregnancy, common
deficiencies, hygiene and safe food practices, and IYCF guidelines. He also highlighted how
extension functionaries/ Anganwadi Workers can strengthen nutrition awareness in their
communities. Mr. Rakesh Dawar, SMS (Agronomy), discussed locally available nutritious
foods and approaches to planning nutrition gardens, with emphasis on crops that improve
dietary diversity. Mr. Subam Debroy, SMS (Aquaculture), explained the value of fish and sea
foods in maternal diets and encouraged the use of locally available sea food to enhance
nutritional intake.
The technical sessions encouraged active participation and improved the participants’ grasp
of maternal health, balanced diets, and community-level nutrition counselling. Participants
expressed that the training strengthened their confidence in delivering accurate nutrition
advice during field activities.The program was conducted under the overall guidance of Dr.
Jai Sunder, Director (Act.), ICAR-CIARI, Sri Vijayapuram. About 20 extension
functionaries, including Anganwadi Workers participated in and benefited from the training.