70,000 mothers to benefit under Mission 1.000 Days every year
Shillong, Sept 12: Setting another milestone in the government’s Mission 1000 Days, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Friday launched the Maternal and Child Care Kit initiative, which will cover around 70,000 pregnant mothers in a year.
All mothers, who deliver at public health institutions in Meghalaya, will get the kit containing a bag for the mother, clothing for the newborn, blanket, baby-care products.
Each kit will also contain a letter from the Chief Minister, highlighting the importance of early childhood development and encouraging parents to provide appropriate care, nutrition, stimulation and nurturing during the child’s formative years.
“Investment in children during their earliest years is investment in future of Meghalaya,” the Chief Minister said while launching the initiative at a programme at Rongara in South Garo Hills district.
He said Mission 1000 Days adopts a life-cycle approach — from conception to three years — which is critical for physical, cognitive, emotional and social development.
“The period from conception to three years is critical. Initiative ensures mothers and children receive care, support and awareness needed during this crucial phase,” he said.
Sangma said the kit is not just a package of items, but a message.
“It is intended as a means of reinforcing that every mother deserves care and every child deserves best possible start in life. Mission seeks to strengthen awareness and support for mothers and families while placing early childhood development at centre of efforts to build healthier and more capable generation,” he said.
