The launching of the first 1000 days programme was held at the conference hall of Dr. Motsuo Memorial District Hospital on 8th June 2023 with Deputy Commissioner, Wokha Ajit Kumar Ranjan, IAS as the special guest.

DC Wokha said the main idea of launching this event was to take the message across to the communities and villages about the importance of the first 1000 days which is a wonderful period of opportunity in shaping a child’s future. He appealed to all the department officials (H&FW) to come out and work in coordination with the civil societies organization in spreading the message at the grassroots level about the key objectives of the programme in order to achieve the target.

Dr. Thungchanpeni Patton, DPO (RCH/UIP), while dwelling on the importance of the First 1000 Days, said the foundation for optimum, health growth, cognitive, and neurodevelopment of a child happens during the 1000 days. She also added as parents nurture, protect and help our children grow to their full potential and not merely survive. She also spoke on the critical interventions and the various government schemes available during the first 1000 days.

During the programme, resources persons Dr. Benchumi Obs & Gynae, Dr. Obed Sumi, Samuel DPM, NSRLM-RD, Echungbeni Tsanglao, and Dr. Thungchanpeni Patton highlighted the topic like the importance of Antenatal Care and Hospital Delivery, PMVVY schemes, and nutritional support during the first 1000 days, Breastfeeding-the Complete Nutrient and Early Childhood Development, Importance of Vaccination in Children, SBCC through SHG institutions and convergence at Village Health Sanitation and Nutrition days.

The programme was chaired by Dr. Aseno Rhetso DPO (NCD), Dr. Zuben Kikon delivered the welcome address while the vote of thanks was proposed by Mhonbeni Ezung, DPM.

(DPRO & IA, Wokha)