Nutritional Recovery and Developmental Improvement of Kritika Singh: A Success Story

 

Breaking the Cycle of Malnutrition: A Story of Hope from Rural Odisha

Kritika, daughter of Deepa Singh and Sudarmohan Singh, was registered at Jayabila Anganwadi Centre under Shyamakhunta Block even before her birth. During pregnancy, her mother Deepa experienced domestic violence and was compelled to seek shelter at her parental home in Malihata village under Morada Block for safety and support. This sudden relocation disrupted the continuity of care, resulting in missed antenatal services, routine health check-ups, and essential immunization during pregnancy.

On 15 April 2024, Deepa gave birth to a baby girl, Kritika, with a low birth weight of 1.6 kg. Due to the lack of proper maternal healthcare during pregnancy, the child had a weak start to life. After birth, Kritika remained underweight and physically weak, and her developmental milestones were delayed.

After relocating, and upon Deepa’s request, Kritika was enrolled at the local Anganwadi Centre in Malihata under ICDS services to access Take Home Ration (THR) and other entitlements. At the time of enrolment, 17-month-old Kritika was identified as severely underweight. Growth monitoring records maintained at the crèche centre indicate regular and consistent tracking of her weight.

·         26 August 2025 (17 months): 5.60 kg

• 15 September 2025 (18 months): 6.20 kg
• 20 October 2025 (19 months): 6.95 kg
• 29 November 2025 (20 months): 7.00 kg
• 30 December 2025 (21 months): 7.40 kg
• 30 January 2026 (22 months): 7.65 kg
• 12 February 2026 (23 months): 8.95 kg

  

The records of 17 – 23 months demonstrate overall improvement in nutritional status after regular attendance and supplementary nutrition support through the crèche and ICDS services. Despite minor fluctuations, the trend reflects gradual weight gain compared to her earlier condition.

In addition to physical growth, notable behavioral and developmental improvements have been observed. Earlier, the child was often irritable and dependent solely on her mother, with minimal interaction with others. Regular participation in crèche activities has provided social exposure and structured care. She now interacts with other children, plays actively, and eats more independently. Care providers have observed clear improvements in her alertness, emotional stability, and social engagement.

The case reveals the effectiveness of community-based childcare and nutrition interventions in addressing vulnerabilities arising from social distress and limited access to early healthcare. It is noted that Kritika has not yet completed her immunization schedule. With proper coordination with the local health department, she will be covered under the full immunization programme and continue to receive regular growth monitoring.

This case highlights the importance of integrated ICDS and community crèche services in supporting high-risk children. Continued institutional follow-up and strong interdepartmental coordination will help the child achieve normal growth and developmental milestones.