Happier, healthier futures

Written by World Vision India; Edited by Kaija Hutteri and Katie Hackett

Malnutrition is widespread among the children of Dungarpur. Hilly, stony terrain limits the amount of land that can be used for agriculture, which families rely on for food and income.
 
The contributions of Canadian sponsors make it possible for us to help vulnerable families improve the health of their children. To help parents provide better nutrition for growing boys and girls, we introduced a protein-rich grain known as urad to farmers in Dungarpur.
 
A total of 1,025 men and women from six villages planted urad, which grows well in this area. The farmers set up a co-op so they could work together to increase their earnings. By the end of the first season, the co-op had 18 kilograms of surplus grain to sell.
 
Farmers are also learning modern agricultural methods that will help them make the most of their land and increase their harvest. Techniques like seed spacing, composting and drip irrigation are helping more hardworking mothers and fathers meet the needs of their children. Some farmers began growing organic vegetables after learning that organic produce is in high demand.

Early childhood centres are also reaching out to improve the health of children, particularly in their first years of life. Mothers receive baskets of food and nutritional supplements to help their malnourished children gain weight.
 
“Parents are bringing their children to the centres,” says Gangadevi, an early childcare worker. “The centres are colourful, attractive and supplied with the necessary materials.”
 
Mothers are learning how to provide better care for their children and keep them healthy. So far, 27 severely malnourished boys and girls have recovered their health and another 20 have made substantial improvements.
 
With the right skills and knowledge, mothers and fathers in the impoverished community of Dungarpur are being empowered to build a brighter future for the next generation