The Government of India has launched the 9th Rashtriya Poshan Maah 2026, a nationwide nutrition campaign aimed at improving dietary habits, maternal health and early childhood development.

The month-long campaign began on September 9, 2026, and will continue until October 8. This year's theme is “Hamari Anganwadi, Hamari Jimmedari”, placing Anganwadi Centres at the centre of community participation in nutrition and child development.

What Is the Government Focusing On?

This year's Poshan Maah campaign will focus on several important areas, including:

• Dietary diversity and adequate protein intake

• Fresh, hot-cooked meals at Anganwadi Centres

• Better nutrition for children, pregnant women and lactating mothers

• Early stimulation and childhood development

• Greater involvement of communities in managing Anganwadi Centres

The government has also highlighted the importance of making nutrition a community-driven movement rather than limiting it to government programmes.

Anganwadi Centres to Get a Bigger Role

A major focus this year is strengthening Anganwadi Centres as community institutions.

The government has called for greater community ownership and accountability through Anganwadi Management Committees. New guidelines also provide for hot-cooked meals and Supplementary Nutrition Programme menu boards, allowing communities to have greater visibility into nutrition services being provided at Anganwadi Centres.

Why Is This Important for Families?

Anganwadi Centres provide