MUMBAI, April 6 -- The Maharashtra government has decided to introduce a "double-check" system to curb malnutrition by conducting joint screenings of children aged 0 to 6 years at anganwadi centres every six months, in collaboration with the state public health department. The move marks the first time the health department will be formally roped in for large-scale growth monitoring alongside the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS). The joint exercise will supplement the existing monthly check-ups carried out by anganwadi workers. The initiative, termed growth monitoring, will be conducted using Growth Monitoring Devices (GMDs) through scientifically standardised methods, with data recorded on the Nutrition Tracker app. Children identified with severe acute malnutrition (SAM) will receive necessary treatment, including referrals to health facilities or nutrition rehabilitation centres. "Approval has been granted to conduct joint screening once every six months, in collaboration with the state public health department for growth monitoring and health check-ups of children aged 0 to 6 years at anganwadi centres under the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) scheme," states a government order issued by the women and child development department on March 12. Officials said the screenings will help identify vulnerable anganwadi centres and regions requiring targeted intervention. An action plan will be prepared for such areas and implemented in coordination with the ICDS commissionerate. "The screening will determine Severely Acute Malnourished (SAM) children and appropriate interventions should be carried out. Those requiring treatment will be provided with referral services, and counselling on health and nutrition will also be provided," the order stated. An official said each screening team will comprise a medical officer, a supervisor, and a health worker, either male or female. At village level, anganwadi workers, ASHA workers, and anganwadi helpers will assist the team and will be trained to improve the precision of screenings....