Women’s Health and Nutritional Security through a Community Health Perspective - A Case Study of Poshan Vatika- Harit se Poshan Project (Plan India)

Abstract

In India, women's health, nutritional security, and reproductive well-being have emerged as critical areas of concern and attention. Recognizing their significance, a range of stakeholders—including the government, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), civil society, and international bodies such as the United Nations—have implemented various initiatives, policy programs, and legislative measures to address these challenges. This paper examines these issues through the lens of the Poshan Vatika – Harit Se Poshan project, which explores the intersections of health, nutrition, and empowerment from gender and community perspectives. As part of this initiative, an NGO conducted an experimental study involving the establishment of kitchen gardens in rural areas, with the objective of evaluating their impact on women's lives. Drawing on the findings of this study, the paper advocates for a collaborative community health perspective to effectively address women's health and nutritional needs while fostering empowerment at the grassroots level. By fostering the cultivation of diverse crops, the kitchen garden approach has not only improved nutritional intake but also supported family-wide benefits. Furthermore, the initiative contributed to sustainability by promoting environmental health through the establishment of approximately 5,000 kitchen gardens, enhancing biomass production, and encouraging the use of organic fertilizers. This holistic approach highlights the potential of community-based interventions in advancing both health and environmental outcomes, while reinforcing the broader goals of gender equality and social empowerment.