Mokokchung, 30 May (MTNews): The Department of Health & Family Welfare, Mokokchung successfully launched the First 1000 Days initiative today at Sangtemla Hall, Mokokchung. The event was graced by Shashank Pratap Singh, IAS, Deputy Commissioner of Mokokchung as the chief guest.
The First 1000 Days initiative refers to the critical period that begins with pregnancy planning and extends until the child reaches the age of two. This period plays a crucial role in shaping a child’s development, growth, and learning, not just in the present but throughout their entire life. It is during this time that proper nutrition has a lasting impact on the child’s future health and overall development, benefiting both the child and society as a whole.
Highlighting the importance of a healthy child in building a healthy society, Shashank Pratap Singh called upon allied departments, civil society, and various stakeholders to coordinate their efforts in creating awareness about the significance of the first 1000 days and the different schemes available, even at the village level.
During the program, Dr Longri from UNICEF delivered a presentation on the first 1000 days, while Dr Supongmeren, Sr. Specialist (OBG) IMDH, addressed the audience on the importance of antenatal care and hospital delivery. Aienla Longkumer from the Department of Social Welfare shed light on the PMMVY scheme and nutritional support during the 1000-day period.
Furthermore, presentations were made by Dr Imlisenba, a pediatrician from IMDH, Dr Takosunep, Ao DPO RCH & UIP, Moatoshi from NSRLM-RD, and Dr Maongkala, MO PHC Mongsenyimti. Their topics included the significance of breastfeeding as complete nutrition for early development, the importance of vaccination in children, social and behavior change communication (SBCC) through self-help group (SHG) institutions, and the convergence at village Health Sanitation and Nutrition Days.
The launching program was chaired by Watisenla Jamir, DCM, with an invocation by Yanglo Pongen, Associate Pastor of MTBA. Dr Kibangkumba, Chief Medical Officer of Mokokchung, delivered the welcome address.
The event saw the participation of government officials from the health, social welfare, and rural development (NSRLM) departments, as well as representatives from civil society organizations, faith-based organizations, media personnel, and development partners.