![]() Since the inception of the nutrition program in 2016, CHAI has always underlined the importance of access to safe drinking water to improve the nutritional status of communities in MP. In Madhya Pradesh (MP), which is currently plagued by the double burden of anemia and malnutrition, it is also an important enabler in achieving the state’s nutritional goal. ![]() Integrating agenda, approach, and actionĪt a time when temperatures are rising and wells/handpumps are drying up, the need for diversity of water sources, especially for drinking purposes, is extremely critical. Medha sounds the gong for the mid-day meal as the water delivery vehicle makes its way across the village, delivering safe drinking water to households and other institutions in one of India’s most water-stressed districts. ![]() This water has been processed at the new water treatment plant (CWTP) set up under the guidance of the District Administration and Public Health Engineering Department, Dhar. Medha pays a little over INR 300 (~US$4) to the water couriers who unload a couple of dozen cans (US$0.18 for 20 liters each) of safe drinking water in the school shed. It makes her happy that children receive not only wholesome supplementary meals via the mid-day meal program but also safe drinking water, which has a huge role to play in reducing malnutrition. This week, she oversees receiving, counting, logging, and storing the water cans that are earmarked for the students at her school. Medha* awaits the water delivery vehicle that arrives every day at the public elementary school in Nalchha, Dhar, where she teaches Geography. ![]() But how and what’s next? A small village in the water-scarce tribal district Dhar holds all the answers. One community-led solution, brought to life by like-minded stakeholders, is showing great promise in arresting malnutrition rates, by providing access to safe drinking water in Madhya Pradesh. ![]()
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