Rayagada: ‘Child in Need Institute’ (CINI), a prominent Indian NGO with a legacy of over five decades, has been steadfast in its mission to uplift the health, nutrition, education, and protection of marginalized women, children, and adolescents. With operations spanning across the states of Odisha, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Assam, Tripura and Madhya Pradesh, ‘CINI’ has partnered with governments, development agencies, and international organisations, touching the lives of more than 10 million individuals. CINI’s presence in Odisha extends to all 30 districts, including this one, where it has been actively engaged in the ‘Doorstep Care for Improving Maternal & Child Health and Nutrition, Adolescent Nutrition, and Awareness on Non-Communicable Diseases for ST-SC Population with a special focus on PVTGs’ project since 2021. The project is supported by IndusInd Bank Ltd.
This initiative aims to elevate the health and nutritional status of the targeted population through active participation, multi-sectoral convergence, enhanced accountability, and preventive measures. To realise the project’s objectives, ‘CINI’ has collaborated closely with the administrative officials of this district and Bissamcuttack block, fostering multi-sectoral convergence, improving service delivery, and building the capacity of frontline workers.
Amidst the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, ‘CINI’ collaborated with the district and block administrations to ensure the health and well-being of the population through ‘Covid Sahayata Kendras’ in Bissamcuttack and adjacent blocks (Muniguda and Kalyansinghpur).
Before implementing interventions related to non-communicable diseases (NCDs), ‘CINI’ conducted a comprehensive study to gauge the prevalence of NCDs among tribal populations with a special focus on the particularly vulnerable tribal groups (PVTGs). The findings of the study were disseminated at the state level to inform preventive strategies. Leveraging digital platforms, ‘CINI’ raised awareness about NCDs and offered counselling services. The study report was published in the international journal ‘IRJMS’. The processes initiated under this project have led to significant improvements at both systemic and community levels, enhancing last-mile health and nutrition services. CINI’s holistic approach underscores its dedication to sustainable nutritional strategies and the well-being of marginalized tribal communities in this district and beyond, the release said.
