The Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) has launched the Nashonuma Programme in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) to combat stunting in children under two years old and improve maternal nutrition. The initiative also aims to reduce anemia and micronutrient deficiencies, promote awareness of maternal and child health, and encourage the use of essential health and nutrition services.
A collaborative meeting, organized by the World Food Programme (WFP) in partnership with BISP, UNICEF, and WHO, underscored the need for coordinated efforts to achieve these objectives.
Dr. Abdul Aziz Qureshi, Zonal Director of BISP, emphasized that strong partnerships are crucial for the success of the Benazir Nashonuma Programme. He provided updates on the progress of 28 Functional Centers (FCs) operating in AJK under this initiative.
WFP’s Nadeem Baig called for better resource integration to enhance the programme’s reach and impact. Meanwhile, Dr. Lubna, a World Health Organization (WHO) Nutrition Officer, reported that four out of ten planned Nutrition Stabilization Centers (NSCs) are now operational. She also confirmed that training on severe acute malnutrition (SAM) is scheduled to take place after Ramzan.
UNICEF’s Jahanuddin discussed efforts to strengthen the Lady Health Worker (LHW) programme through specialized training aimed at enhancing maternal and child nutrition.
The Health Department commended BISP’s efforts and highlighted key action points, including data sharing, improved coordination, and policy adjustments such as revising birth registration fees for beneficiaries.
Dr. Qureshi concluded the session by reaffirming BISP’s commitment to addressing nutrition challenges in AJK. Stakeholders expressed optimism about the programme’s future impact in reducing malnutrition and improving overall health outcomes in the region.
