CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: Under the guidance of Executive Director Ajay Singh, AIIMS Bhopal’s SMART Unit celebrated the month of September as ‘Poshan Maah’ (Nutrition Month), organizing various programs aimed at raising awareness about the importance of nutrition and encouraging people to adopt a healthy diet.

As part of this initiative, a special seed distribution program was conducted, where seeds of easily cultivable and nutrient-rich vegetables were distributed to families. Commenting on the initiative, AIIMS Bhopal’s Executive Director Ajay Singh said, “Nutrition plays a vital role in overall health and well-being. Through initiatives like ‘Poshan Maah’ and the seed distribution program, we are raising community awareness about the importance of nutrition and empowering them to take concrete steps towards better health.

By cultivating kitchen gardens, families can not only have access to fresh and nutrient-dense vegetables but also gain control over their dietary habits, contributing to a healthy and well-nourished society.”

During the event, seeds of nutritious vegetables such as drumstick, carrots, pumpkin, ridge gourd, spinach, and amaranth were distributed. The goal of this distribution by the SMART Unit was to encourage families to create kitchen gardens at home, enabling them to grow fresh and nutritious vegetables for their households.

SMART Unit Nodal Officer Bhavana Dhingra provided detailed information on plant care and the importance of nutrition. She highlighted, “A kitchen garden is not only a source of fresh and clean food but also plays a crucial role in improving family health. Vegetables grown in kitchen gardens are rich in essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which help prevent malnutrition.”

Along with distributing seeds to the families present, guidance was given on the correct methods of vegetable cultivation, plant care, irrigation, and composting. Families were also informed about how regular consumption of these vegetables could benefit their health.

To ensure ongoing support, a permanent seed corner has been established in the SMART Unit, allowing discharged patients’ families to continue benefiting from this facility. After discharge, families are encouraged to set up kitchen gardens at home, contributing to healthy diets and overcoming nutritional deficiencies in their lives.