6,399 severely stunted children identified in Karnal; health screening camp unveiled
A total of 6,399 children under the age of six have been identified as severely stunted in Karnal district, raising concerns about chronic malnutrition among young children. The identification was made by the Women and Child Development Department through the mandatory Poshan Tracker App, where children’s height and weight data are uploaded.
The department conducted a survey covering 96,742 children in the 0-6 age group. Among them, 6,399 were found to be severely stunted, while another 11,970 were moderately stunted.
To tackle the crisis, a district-level health screening campaign has been launched with the support of the Health Department. In the first phase, health check-ups and follow-ups are being conducted for 3,481 children aged between 0 and 2 years. So far, 488 children have undergone medical screening.
The data from these health camps are being compiled on a special link created by Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Yash Jaluka. This database is accessible to the ADC, the Civil Surgeon, and the District Programme Officer (DPO) of the Women and Child Development Department.
“In the first phase, we conducted health check-ups and follow-ups for 3,481 children. The remaining children will be covered in the next phase,” said ADC Jaluka. He said, “This is not just a health issue but a development issue.”
Stunting, Jaluka explained, is a condition resulting from prolonged malnutrition, which can impair a child’s physical growth and cognitive development. Intensive health screening is being carried out at Primary Health Centres (PHCs) and Community Health Centres (CHCs) throughout the district.
“Early identification is crucial. With timely medical care and a nutritious diet, many of these children can recover. Medical teams are assessing the severity of each case, screening for nutritional deficiencies, and initiating treatment plans,” he added.
Children found to be severely stunted after examination will be referred to Nutritional Rehabilitation Centres (NRCs) for comprehensive care.
Health experts caution that the coming six months are critical. If left untreated, these children may suffer from irreversible developmental delays affecting their ability to learn, grow, and thrive in the long term. Doctors are also evaluating household conditions and environmental factors to design targeted interventions.
District Programme Officer Seema Prashad said double ration distribution has already begun at Anganwadi centres for severely stunted children. To ensure continuity of care, ASHA and Anganwadi workers are making regular home visits for monitoring.
“Anganwadi and ASHA workers will follow up during home visits to check whether mothers and children are consuming the proper diet and practising breastfeeding. They will also educate families about proper nutrition,” said DPO Prashad.
Counselling sessions are also being conducted to guide parents on exclusive breastfeeding, complementary feeding, and hygiene practices essential for child health.
Haryana Tribune