AI SummaryWeekly Iron Folic Acid Tablets Free Distribution is a school health scheme in Uttarakhand that prevents iron deficiency anemia among students by giving them free iron and folic acid tablets on a fixed day every week. It is part of the Anemia Mukt Bharat campaign run under the National Health Mission (NHM) by the Department of Medical Health and Family Welfare.
The scheme is now being extended to private schools as well. Under the guidance of the Chief Minister, the state government is distributing iron folic acid tablets weekly to students of classes 1 to 12 in all private educational institutions of Uttarakhand. Earlier the tablets were given only in government and government-aided schools, but now the coverage has been widened to private schools too.
Weekly Iron Folic Acid Tablets Free Distribution - Introduction
Weekly Iron Folic Acid Tablets Free Distribution acts as a vital health scheme under the National Health Mission (NHM). It is run by the Department of Medical Health and Family Welfare, Government of Uttarakhand. The main aim is to improve the health and nutritional status of school-going children by preventing and reducing iron deficiency anemia.
Under this scheme, teachers distribute free iron and folic acid tablets to students every Monday. Each tablet contains 100 mg of elemental iron and 500 microgram of folic acid. Along with weekly tablets, biannual de-worming with Albendazole 400 mg is also carried out to control worm infestation. The distribution is done on a fixed day approach, mostly Monday, for 52 weeks in a year.
Anemia is a common problem among school children in India. Regular intake of iron and folic acid helps maintain healthy iron levels, reduces tiredness, and supports better concentration and school performance. By making these tablets available free in schools, the scheme helps children stay healthy without any cost to their families.
Key Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Weekly Iron Folic Acid Tablets Free Distribution |
| Level | State |
| Scheme for | Individual |
| Beneficiary State | Uttarakhand |
| Category | Health and Wellness |
| Benefit Type | In Kind |
| DBT Scheme | No |
| Nodal Department | Medical Health and Family Welfare Department |
Benefits
Through this scheme, teachers provide free iron and folic acid tablets to every student in government, government-aided, and now private schools in Uttarakhand. These tablets are given out every Monday to make sure children keep healthy iron levels and avoid anemia-related health issues.
Along with the weekly tablets, the scheme also includes regular screening of students for moderate and severe anemia. Children found with anemia are referred to the nearest health facility for proper treatment. Biannual de-worming is also part of the scheme to improve absorption of iron in the body.
Eligibility
Students enrolled in any government, government-aided, or private school in Uttarakhand, studying in classes 1 to 12, are eligible to receive these tablets automatically. There is no separate registration or selection process. As long as a student is enrolled in an eligible school, the benefit is given directly through the school.
Application Process
There is no complex online application process for this scheme. Students receive the tablets directly in school, so no separate form needs to be filled by the family.
STEP 1 - Parents may be asked to give consent for their child to receive the weekly tablets, as some schools collect a simple consent in the school diary or through a small form.
STEP 2 - The school teacher distributes the iron and folic acid tablet to the student every Monday under supervision.
STEP 3 - The student takes the tablet in front of the teacher to make sure the dose is completed properly.
STEP 4 - The school keeps a simple record of the weekly distribution and reports it to the health department as per the scheme rules.
Documents
Students generally do not need to provide any specific documents to get the tablets. However, some schools may ask for a simple consent from parents before giving the tablets to children. Families should check with their school administration about any minor internal record-keeping requirements.
References
Anemia Mukt Bharat: Iron Folic Acid tablets in private schools
Department of Medical Health and Family Welfare, Uttarakhand
FAQ's
Who can benefit from this scheme?
Every student studying in a government, government-aided, or private school in Uttarakhand, in classes 1 to 12, is eligible to receive these tablets.
What does this scheme provide to students?
The scheme provides free iron and folic acid tablets to students on a weekly schedule, along with biannual de-worming.
When do students receive the tablets?
Teachers distribute the tablets every Monday at school on a fixed day approach.
Who handles the distribution process?
School teachers take the responsibility of distributing the weekly tablets to all students under supervision.
Is there any fee to receive these tablets?
No, the government provides these tablets fully free to all eligible students.