'Shaktiman' project launched to fight malnutrition in MP

Bhopal, Sep 28 (UNI) Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan today said all possible efforts would be made to ensure that no child remains malnourished in the state.

Mr Chouhan, while launching Project 'Shaktiman' in Kesala block in Hoshangabad district today, said the project aimed at preventing malnourishment in predominantly tribal areas.

He said effective measures had been taken to bring about a positive change in the mindset of society to end discrimination against the girl child.

Stressing on the need for participation of women in decision-making, he said the government had initiated a number of schemes and programmes to bring women on a better footing, an official release said here today.

He dwelt at length on the initiatives taken towards women empowerment.

Minister for Women and Child Development Kusum Mehdele reiterated the state government's commitment to welfare of women and children.

State representative of UNICEF Dr Hamid Al Bashir said the project was a great initiative by the state government to remove malnourishment. He assured every possible cooperation from UNICEF for welfare of children.

Noted TV star Mukesh Khanna, who played 'Shaktiman' in a serial by the same name, said children had great potential in them and the need is to help them fully realise it.

He felt that children should be given proper opportunities and facilities for self-actualisation.

The Chief Minister gave away certificates to 10 girls under Ladali Laxami Yojana on the occasion.

He presented awards to parents of five children who freed them from malnourishment after their identification as malnourished. He also presented cheques of Rs 50,000 each to two beneficiaries under the Vivekanand Group Insurance Scheme.

He also honoured an Anganwadi worker for donating her land for construction of Anganwadi centre building, the release added.

UNI