CCEA approves to continue 'Nutrition Programme for Adolescent Girls' for 2008-09

New Delhi, Aug 8 : The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs today gave its approval for continuating the 'Nutrition Programme for Adolescent Girls' (NPAG) in the year 2008-09 in 51 Districts on a Pilot Project basis as per existing guidelines by carrying out small changes in the guidelines.

The CCEA has also approved the releasing of funds as Central Assistance on 100 per cent grant basis to States and Union Territories out of the allocated amount of Rs.162.77 crore for this fiscal year.

Under NPAG, all under-nourished adolescent girls, falling in the age group of 11 to 19 years, as identified by body weight would be covered, irrespective of financial status of the family to which they belong.

Free food-grains of 6 kg per beneficiary per month, at below poverty lines (BPL) rates, would be provided to the beneficiaries.

For identification of the beneficiaries, two cut off weights -- 30 kg for those below 15 years of age and 35 kg for over 15 years of age would be used.

Besides free food-grains, the identified girls are also to be provided, if required, services like Nutrition and Health Education for them and their families, and Regular Health check-up and referral services.

With the implementation of this project, the nutritional status of the adolescent girls in the selected districts is expected to improve.

The pilot project was launched by the Planning Commission in 2002.

ANI