Ehsaas Nashonuma Program: A Step Towards a Healthier Pakistan

Introduction

The Ehsaas Nashonuma Program is a government-led health and nutrition initiative aimed at addressing malnutrition and stunted growth among children in Pakistan. This program, launched under the broader Ehsaas framework, focuses on improving maternal and child health by providing nutritional support, financial assistance, and awareness programs to pregnant women and young children.

Pakistan has one of the highest rates of child malnutrition and stunting, with nearly 40% of children under five suffering from stunted growth due to inadequate nutrition. The Ehsaas Nashonuma Program aims to tackle this issue by offering cash incentives, free health check-ups, and food supplements to underprivileged families. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of the program, including eligibility criteria, benefits, registration process, and impact.

Objectives of the Ehsaas Nashonuma Program

The primary objectives of the Ehsaas Nashonuma Program include:

• Reducing child stunting and malnutrition in Pakistan.
• Improving maternal health by ensuring proper nutrition during pregnancy.
• Providing cash stipends to encourage mothers to attend health check-ups.
• Raising awareness about the importance of nutrition for both mothers and children.
• Ensuring regular medical check-ups for pregnant women and newborns.

Eligibility Criteria for Ehsaas Nashonuma Program

To qualify for the Ehsaas Nashonuma Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Pregnant and Lactating Women (PLW)

• Women from low-income families.
• Must be pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Should be registered with NADRA (National Database & Registration Authority).

2. Children Under Two Years of Age

• Must belong to a low-income family.
• Should be enrolled in the program before turning two years old.

3. Geographic Targeting

• The program is currently operational in selected districts where malnutrition rates are high.
• Families must reside in an eligible district to register.

Benefits of the Ehsaas Nashonuma Program

The Ehsaas Nashonuma Program provides multiple benefits to enrolled families, ensuring both financial support and health assistance.

1. Cash Stipends

• Rs. 2,000 per quarter for pregnant and lactating mothers.
• Rs. 1,500 per quarter for male children under two years.
• Rs. 2,000 per quarter for female children under two years.

2. Medical Check-Ups and Health Services

• Free antenatal check-ups for pregnant women.
• Vaccination services for mothers and children.
• Nutritional supplements for both mothers and children.

3. Awareness Campaigns and Training

• Educational sessions on maternal and child nutrition.
• Information on breastfeeding and complementary feeding.
• Training on hygiene, sanitation, and childcare practices.

4. Food and Nutritional Support

• Provision of nutrient-rich food items to ensure healthy growth.
• Supplements to prevent iron and vitamin deficiencies.

How to Register for the Ehsaas Nashonuma Program

The registration process for the Ehsaas Nashonuma Program is simple and can be completed in a few steps:

1. Visit the Nearest Ehsaas Nashonuma Center

• Locate the nearest Ehsaas Nashonuma Center in your district.
• These centers are usually set up in government hospitals and health facilities.

2. Bring Required Documents

• Original CNIC of the mother.
• B-Form of the child (if already born).
• Proof of residence (utility bill or domicile certificate).

3. Medical Examination and Registration

• A health check-up will be conducted for the pregnant woman or child.
• The health officer will assess the nutritional status and eligibility.
• Once approved, registration is completed, and the mother receives a registration card.

4. Receiving Stipend and Health Benefits

• After successful registration, mothers start receiving cash stipends every quarter.
• They must visit the health center regularly for medical check-ups and guidance.

Common Challenges and Solutions

While the Ehsaas Nashonuma Program has been highly beneficial, some challenges still exist. Here are some common problems and their solutions:

1. Lack of Awareness

Solution: The government has launched awareness campaigns through TV, radio, and social media to educate people about the program.

2. Difficulty in Accessing Centers

Solution: Mobile health units are being introduced in remote areas to ensure accessibility.

3. Delays in Receiving Payments

Solution: Beneficiaries are advised to regularly update their CNIC details with NADRA to avoid verification issues.

4. Cultural Barriers and Misconceptions

Solution: Community-based awareness programs are conducted to educate families about the importance of maternal and child health.

Impact of the Ehsaas Nashonuma Program

The Ehsaas Nashonuma Program has made a significant impact on improving maternal and child health in Pakistan. Some key achievements include:

• Reduction in child stunting and malnutrition in enrolled districts.
• Increased awareness about maternal health and nutrition.
• More women seeking antenatal and postnatal care.
• Better vaccination coverage for newborns.
• Financial support for low-income families to buy nutritious food.

Future Expansion and Government Initiatives

The Government of Pakistan aims to expand the Ehsaas Nashonuma Program to more districts in the coming years. Some of the planned improvements include:

• Increasing the number of Nashonuma Centers across all provinces.
• Digital tracking of beneficiary health records to improve service delivery.
• Partnerships with private sector organizations to enhance program reach.
• More awareness campaigns in rural areas to educate families on health and nutrition.

Conclusion

The Ehsaas Nashonuma Program is a vital initiative that addresses malnutrition, stunting, and poor maternal health in Pakistan. By providing financial assistance, medical care, and nutritional support, the program is helping thousands of families ensure a healthier future for their children.

If you or someone you know qualifies for the Ehsaas Nashonuma Program, encourage them to visit the nearest Ehsaas Center and register. With proper nutrition and healthcare, we can reduce child malnutrition and improve maternal health across Pakistan.

For more information, visit the official Ehsaas Program website or contact the Ehsaas Nashonuma Helpline for assistance.