Poshan Sudha Yojana is a Gujarat government scheme that provides daily hot cooked meals, iron and calcium tablets, and health education to pregnant and lactating women living in tribal districts. The scheme began as a pilot in 2017-18 and now covers all 14 tribal districts of the state.
The Women and Child Development Department, Government of Gujarat runs the scheme. It was first tried in 10 blocks of five tribal districts having a large tribal population, and after seeing good results, the government expanded it to all 14 tribal districts from the financial year 2022-23.
Poshan Sudha Yojana - Introduction
Poshan Sudha Yojana focuses on cutting down nutritional deficiencies among mothers in tribal areas by giving essential health support through their pregnancy and lactation period. Around 1.36 lakh eligible women are expected to be covered every month under the scheme.
The pilot covered blocks in Dahod, Valsad, Mahisagar, Chhotaudepur and Narmada districts. After the expansion, the scheme now reaches 106 blocks and about 13,894 Anganwadi centers across the state. A mobile application has also been developed to monitor and review the scheme.
Key Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Poshan Sudha Yojana |
| State | Gujarat |
| Nodal Department | Women and Child Development Department |
| Beneficiaries | Tribal pregnant and lactating women |
| Benefit Type | In-kind (Nutrition and Supplements) |
| Coverage | 14 tribal districts, 106 blocks, 13,894 Anganwadi centers |
| Official Website | myposhan-wcd.gujarat.gov.in |
Benefits
Eligible women receive the following support through the Anganwadi network:
- One full nutritious hot cooked meal every day, with a weekly menu planned by the department.
- Regular supply of iron and calcium tablets to prevent nutritional deficiencies during pregnancy and lactation.
- Access to health and nutrition education sessions that focus on maternal and childcare best practices.
Eligibility
To get the support, applicants must meet these criteria:
- The woman must be a resident of a designated tribal district in Gujarat.
- The applicant must be currently pregnant or a lactating mother.
- The beneficiary must be registered with their local Anganwadi center.
Application Process
The enrollment is processed through the Anganwadi network, so there is no separate online form. Here is how it works:
STEP 1 - Visit your local Anganwadi center and register your pregnancy or lactating status with the Anganwadi worker.
STEP 2 - Submit the required identification and medical proof to the Anganwadi worker for verification.
STEP 3 - Once registered, you can access the daily meals, supplements and health support provided at the center.
Documents
Please make sure you carry the following documents for registration:
- Aadhaar Card or other government-issued identity proof.
- Proof of local residence.
- Medical document or certificate confirming pregnancy or lactation status.
- Any additional documentation asked by the Anganwadi worker.
References
FAQ's
What is the Poshan Sudha Yojana?
It is a government scheme that provides nutritional support, iron and calcium supplements, and health awareness to pregnant and lactating mothers living in tribal regions of Gujarat.
Who can apply for this scheme?
Any pregnant or lactating woman residing in a notified tribal district of Gujarat who is registered at an Anganwadi center is eligible.
Are there any cash benefits given under this scheme?
No, this scheme does not provide direct cash. Benefits are given in the form of daily hot cooked meals and health supplements.
Where should I go to register?
Registration must be completed at your local Anganwadi center.
Is the scheme cost-free?
Yes, all services and nutrition provided under the scheme are free for eligible women.
How does this scheme help?
It contributes to better maternal health, improves child birth weight, and helps reduce maternal and infant mortality rates through better nutrition.