The Union Minister for Animal Husbandry and Dairying has recently inaugurated the ‘A-HELP’ (Accredited Agent for Health and Extension of Livestock Production) programme. This initiative is a part of multiple ventures such as Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav initiative, Pashudhan Jagrati Abhiyaan, and Rashtriya Gokul Mission. These initiatives share a common goal of propelling the growth of livestock in a sustainable and beneficial manner.
The Aims of the A-HELP Programme
The A-HELP programme is primarily based on advancing livestock health. It emphasizes the important aspects of disease management and animal infertility, critical areas that largely affect livestock production. Additionally, it also involves trained women agents who contribute towards disease control, artificial insemination, tagging of animals, and livestock insurance.
Impacts on Rural Communities
By empowering women and boosting livestock, the A-HELP programme supports the socio-economic development of rural communities. This helps in improving living conditions and financial stability, thereby enriching the overall wellbeing of these societies.
NIPCCD’s Training Programme on Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi
The National Institute of Public Cooperation and Child Development (NIPCCD) recently conducted a two-day Training Programme titled “Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi” in Madhya Pradesh. The programme aimed at promoting early stimulation among children aged 3 to 6 years and enhancing the abilities of Anganwadi workers.
Role of Anganwadi Workers
Anganwadi workers are crucial in delivering high-quality, play-based Early Childhood Care and Education at the grassroot level. The training provided them with an understanding of domains like physical and motor development, cognitive abilities, socio-emotional-ethical aspects, cultural/artistic developments, and the development of Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN).
Nutrition Reinforcement
The programme also reinforced the understanding of nutrition among Anganwadi workers, which included knowledge of innovations in Poshan, Poshan Tracker, feeding practices, micronutrient deficiencies and more.
A Closer Look at Muscle Cramps
Muscle cramps, or muscle spasms, are involuntary contractions that can occur in any muscle. Most commonly, they are experienced in leg muscles, particularly the calf. Various factors can cause muscle cramps, including metabolic imbalances, extreme cold, reduced blood flow, and mineral deficiencies.
Managing Muscle Cramps
Massage addresses muscle cramps using a method known as “reciprocal inhibition,” which effectively stretches cramped muscles. Enhancing blood circulation through this process helps in eliminating accumulated metabolites causing nerve irritation.
Navroz: A Celebrated Parsi Tradition
The Indian Parsi community celebrates Navroz on 16th August, marking the onset of the Persian New Year. The celebration of Navroz, also known as Nowruz or Parsi New Year, is associated with the arrival of spring and the rejuvenation of nature.
Unique Observance of Navroz in India
In India, Navroz is observed according to two calendars, resulting in a unique tradition. The festival is celebrated twice annually: first according to the Iranian calendar, and secondly, in accordance with the Shahenshahi calendar, followed in Pakistan as well. This complexity leads to Navroz being celebrated around 200 days later in India, specifically during August.