An awareness session conducted by Anganwadi workers in Damoh district, Madhya Pradesh, aimed to educate pregnant women on various aspects of safety and precautionary measures related to motherhood. The session emphasized the importance of healthy nutrition, regular health check-ups during pregnancy, and informed attendees about available government assistance under the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY). This session took place at the Tendukheda government hospital under the PMMVY, a scheme by the Ministry of Women and Child Development supporting pregnant and lactating mothers from disadvantaged backgrounds.
The PMMVY scheme’s primary goal is to promote financial support, better nutrition, and timely health check-ups for pregnant women. Regular check-ups are scheduled on the 9th and 25th of each month to monitor the health and well-being of the expecting mothers. During the counseling session, pregnant women were advised to consume a variety of nutritious foods, including fruits, vegetables, legumes, and coarse grains to support the growth of their babies. Anganwadi workers, acting as a vital link between the government scheme and beneficiaries, highlighted how pregnant women were benefiting from the program.
Anganwadi worker Mishi Kumari Sahu mentioned that pregnant women are called for check-ups twice a month and are guided on nutrition and the importance of consuming nutritious foods for their baby’s development. These workers visit wards and villages to promote healthy habits among expecting mothers. Sunita Jain, another Anganwadi worker, shared that their work extends to supporting pregnant women, lactating mothers, newborns, and children up to six years, including providing vaccinations, nutrition advice, and encouraging mothers to utilize Anganwadi centers. Yamuna Gaur, another Anganwadi worker, highlighted the challenges faced, such as women hesitating to admit pregnancy due to shame, and the efforts made to educate and involve family members in the process.
Under the PMMVY scheme, maternity benefits are provided for the first two living children, with additional support for the second child if it is a girl. For the first child, a maternity benefit of Rs 5,000 is given in two installments, along with a cash incentive. The second child, if a girl, is entitled to a benefit of Rs 6,000.
