As part of Rashtriya Poshan Maah 2025 and National Nutrition Month 2025, the Department of Clinical Nutrition at Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham conducted a field visit to the tribal regions of Wayanad with the aim of promoting nutrition awareness, assessing dietary practices, and addressing health and hygiene concerns among children.

Faculty members and postgraduate students carried out comprehensive nutritional assessments, including measurements of height, weight, mid–upper arm circumference, and waist–hip ratio, along with clinical observations. The evaluations highlighted cases of malnutrition, with visible signs such as pot belly and skin allergies, pointing to both nutritional deficiencies and environmental challenges. 

Beyond assessments, the team actively engaged with parents and Anganwadi workers to understand dietary habits, food distribution practices, and challenges in menu planning and child participation. Awareness sessions were conducted to emphasize the importance of dietary diversity, locally available nutrient-rich foods, and healthy lifestyle practices. Discussions also addressed concerns such as irregular attendance and dropout rates at Anganwadi centers, which affect the effectiveness of these essential services.

The visit reinforced the need for sustained community-level interventions, active family participation, and continuous monitoring to strengthen child nutrition and overall health outcomes. Moving forward, the Department of Clinical Nutrition remains committed to supporting Anganwadi centers and tribal communities in building stronger foundations for child growth, well-being, and long-term health.