RANCHI, July 6 -- A joint venture between the state government and a private institution to promote institutional delivery, address malnutrition by strengthening mother and childcare has started bearing fruits in a remote area in tribal-dominated Latehar district of Jharkhand, with anganwadi centres doubling up as a play schools for toddlers besides becoming the first point of healthcare for pregnant women. The initiative is part of Project Aanchal, which aims to strengthen mother and childcare in five villages of Chakal panchayat under Chandwa block in Latehar, people aware of the development said. Mukhiya (village head) of Chakla panchayat, Ranjita Ekka said the launch of the project had transformed the basic healthcare system in her panchayat. "The project began about a year and a half ago, and since then, no cases of malnutrition have been reported in any of the villages within the panchayat. Such a system should be implemented across all blocks and panchayats in the state; if that happens, the state will soon be free from the scourge of malnutrition," she added. The development holds significance as malnutrition is a major menace in the state. According to the National Family Health Survey report, there are 34,698 children suffering from Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) in Jharkhand. Out of the state's 24 districts, 17 are facing a critical situation regarding malnutrition, particularly severe acute malnutrition; in Latehar alone, the number of such children stands at 1,080. Furthermore, data from NFHS-5 (2019-21) indicates that approximately 39.6 percent of children under the age of five are stunted-meaning their height is low for their age. Meanwhile, 22 percent are wasted, meaning their weight is low in proportion to their height. About 9.1 per cent of children under five are severely underweight. Additionally, 67.5 percent of children aged between 6 and 59 months suffer from anemia. Project Aanchal is an integrated maternal & child health initiative covering the first 1000 days by Aluminium major Hindalco. Being implemented at Chakla coal mine, it is a flagship community health initiative aimed at improving maternal and child health outcomes in five project villages-Chakla, Ambatand, Padwa Haraiya, Nawatoli and Nagar-in the first phase. The first 1,000 days refers to a child's life from the time they are conceived until they have reached two years of age (270 days of pregnancy, 180 days from birth till six months, 550 days from 7 -24 months). This is a time when their brain, body and immune system grows and develops significantly. The project focuses on ensuring 100% antenatal care, institutional deliveries, and child immunization through regular health check-ups, nutritional support, and awareness sessions. Currently, around 367 women are being covered in five villages. Kailash Pandey, business head , mining & minerals business Hindalco, said community development is integral to their growth journey. "We are committed to improving the quality of life in and around our mining operations, with a strong focus on women's health, hygiene, and sanitation. Through meaningful and sustainable initiatives, we strive to empower communities and foster inclusive development for a better future," he said. As part of the project, the renovation of Anganwadi Centres has been undertaken in two villages Nagar and Ambatand to create safe, child-friendly, and functional learning spaces for early childhood care and development. The initiative includes infrastructure upgrades such as repair of buildings, improved sanitation facilities, painting, provision of furniture, and learning materials. This effort aims to enhance the quality of pre-school education and overall child development. The improved environment has increased children's attendance and strengthened the Anganwadi Centres as focal points for community-based childcare services. Talking about the change, Sohbatia Devi, Sevika at Nagar anganwadi centre, said the project has built the confidence of women and their family members. "Earlier, we had 8-10 admissions and attendance was poor. Now the numbers have increased to 28. Now more women come here. Earier they would even shy away from telling that they are pregnant. Now they are coming forward and getting themselves registered on their own once they get pregnant," she added. Vinita Toppo, a beneficiary at the Ambatand Anganwadi Centre, said the initiative had helped, especially by bringing healthcare to her doorstep. "It has been very beneficial. Earlier we were forced to go to Chandwa, which is 10 km away. Commuting was a major problem because this area is remote. Now the scenario has changed. Regular health camps are being organised at the Anganwadi centre. We are able to get the basic tests done, besides receiving timely vaccinations," she added....