Combining a mid-day meal, health service package and peer support in Karnataka State, India

By:
Uma Mahadevan, Vani Sethi, Khyati Tiwari, Arjan de Wagt
Date:
2025

The article documents the implementation and scale-up of the Mathrupoorna scheme in Karnataka, India, which integrates a daily mid-day meal for pregnant and lactating women with health services and nutrition counselling at Anganwadi centers. The initiative improved uptake of iron-folic acid tablets, deworming, counselling, and meal participation. Lessons include the need for community engagement, customized menus, interdepartmental convergence, and addressing sociocultural barriers. The scheme offers a scalable model for integrated maternal nutrition service delivery.