Question

Which one of the following social welfare schemes have been implemented to tackle undernutrition and health problems of children below 6 years and their mothers?

• A. Applied Nutrition Programme
• B. Integrated Child Development Programme
• C. National Rural Health Mission
• D. Special Nutrition Programme

Hint:

ICDS Programme: Launched 2 Oct 1975. Target group: Children 0--6 years, pregnant & lactating mothers. Delivered via Anganwadi Centres.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Centrally sponsored flagship community nutrition and early childhood development welfare schemes in India.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) Programme, launched on 2nd October 1975, is India's premier flagship national programme specifically designed to:
1. Improve the nutritional and health status of children in the age-group 0--6 years.
2. Lay the foundation for proper psychological, physical, and social development of the child.
3. Reduce the incidence of mortality, morbidity, malnutrition, and school dropout.
4. Provide supplementary nutrition, immunization, and health check-ups to pregnant women and lactating mothers through Anganwadi centres.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Therefore, the scheme implemented is Integrated Child Development Programme (ICDS), matching option (B).