Overview Mandya district has been recognized for its outstanding performance in the implementation of the Poshan Abhiyaan , securing the first rank in the State of Karnataka . This flagship program of the Central Government focuses on providing crucial nutritional support to pregnant women and children, addressing the critical issue of malnutrition. Key Developments Achievement: Mandya district secured first rank in Karnataka under Poshan Abhiyaan . Announcement: The announcement was made during the DISHA meeting held on October 6, 2025 . Chairperson: The DISHA meeting was chaired by Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy . Anganwadi Centres: Mandya has 2,558 Anganwadi centres . Midday Meals: Midday meals are supplied to 1,838 schools under the Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman scheme. Poshan Abhiyaan Details The Poshan Abhiyaan (National Nutrition Mission) is a flagship program of the Government of India aimed at improving the nutritional status of children, adolescent girls, pregnant women, and lactating mothers. It leverages technology, convergence, and community participation to achieve its goals. Objectives of Poshan Abhiyaan Reduce stunting in children (0-6 years). Reduce under-nutrition (underweight prevalence) in children (0-6 years). Reduce anemia among young children, women, and adolescent girls. Reduce low birth weight. Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman (PM POSHAN) Scheme The Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman (PM POSHAN) scheme, previously known as the National Programme for Mid-Day Meal in Schools, aims to enhance the nutritional status of school-age children. It provides a hot cooked meal to children in government and government-aided schools. Objectives of PM POSHAN Improve the nutritional status of children in elementary classes. Encourage poor children to attend school regularly. Support educational outcomes by improving concentration and reducing classroom hunger. UPSC Relevance This news is relevant to the UPSC syllabus under GS Paper II: Government Policies and Interventions and GS Paper II: Issues Relating to Development and Management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources . It highlights the government's efforts to address malnutrition and improve the nutritional status of vulnerable populations. Potential UPSC Questions Discuss the key features and objectives of the Poshan Abhiyaan . Evaluate the role of Anganwadi centres in the implementation of nutrition programs. Analyze the impact of the Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman scheme on school enrollment and nutritional outcomes. Important Facts Mandya 's achievement demonstrates the potential for effective implementation of national nutrition programs at the district level. The success of Poshan Abhiyaan relies on convergence between various government departments and community participation. The PM POSHAN scheme plays a crucial role in ensuring food security and improving the nutritional status of school children.