Bhubaneswar, April 9: Odisha has taken a groundbreaking step to combat child malnutrition by introducing Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based technology in Anganwadi centers. This initiative will enable the measurement of children’s growth metrics, including weight and height, allowing for early identification of malnutrition. By focusing on the physical development of children, the state aims to significantly reduce malnutrition rates and improve overall health outcomes.
Shubha Sharma, the Principal Secretary of the Women and Child Development Department, highlighted that Odisha is the first state in India to adopt this innovative approach. She launched a five-day training workshop, where field researchers will be taught how to use AI tools to accurately measure and track children’s growth. The training is being conducted by experts from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), the National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), RMRC Bhubaneswar, and Wadhwani AI.
Following the training, researchers will implement pilot projects in six districts—Baleswar, Cuttack, Ganjam, Yajpur, Kendujhar, and Mayurbhanj—where they will collect and analyze data over the next three to four months. The workshop, which took place at the ICMR Auditorium in Bhubaneswar, saw participation from key officials such as Dr. Sanghamitra Pati, Director of RMRC Bhubaneswar, Dr. Sneha Nikam, Program Head of the National Program, Dr. Shubhendu Kumar Acharya, a scientist at RMRC Bhubaneswar, and experts from Wadhwani AI.
This initiative is a part of Odisha’s larger strategy to fight malnutrition by incorporating advanced technology. By using AI, the state aims to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of monitoring children’s health, which will help reduce malnutrition and foster healthier growth for children across Odisha.
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