Kudumbasree provides Amrutham Nutrimix to 5.67 lakh children; UP to learn from Kerala

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Amrutham powder prepared by Kudumbasree to cure malnutrition in children is gaining popularity.

The suppliment is given to 5.67 lakh children between the ages of six months and three years. A child is given 3.375 kg of powder per month.

States like Uttar Pradesh, Orissa and Jharkhand have approached Kudumbasree to learn about this scientific nutrition program of Kerala called Amrutham Nutrimix.

The project, which provides nutritious food to children, also won the Glenmark Nutrition Award from the 2022 UN World Food Program.

Demand for this powder increased during the pandemic situation. Before Covid, the annual production was 16,000 tons. Now it has risen to 23,000 tons. Distribution is through Anganwadi under the supervision of ICDS Supervisors of the Department of Social Justice. The powder was delivered to homes during Covid period.

The distribution of Amrutham powder started in 2006. The powder mixture was prepared by Dr. Niloofar of the Central Planning Crop Research Institute in Kasaragod. In 2019, more nutrients were added.

The incredients include wheat (45 grams), soya chunks (10 grams), Bengal gram (15 grams), groundnut (10 grams) and sugar (20 grams).

Out of 241 Kudumbasree units, 1569 women prepare this powder. There are five to ten people in each unit. Monthly income ranges from 8000 to 18000 rupees. The cost is Rs 73.50 per kg. Central and State share Rs. 4 per child. The rest will be provided by the local body. The exact amount for each month does not reach the Kudumbasree units. The crisis is that they have to wait for more than three months to get the money.

Production units will be strengthened. New machines will be set up, said PI Srividya, Executive Director Kudumbasree