As I reflect on the work we do at PRASAD Chikitsa, I am reminded every day that a child’s potential depends greatly on the care, nutrition, and support they receive as they grow. I believe that every child deserves the opportunity to thrive — and that with the right interventions, we can break the cycle of malnutrition for good.
This commitment is at the heart of our holistic approach to supporting children’s health, nutrition, and well-being in the rural Tansa Valley.
Our Mother and Child Nutrition Program
In the Tansa Valley, nearly 71% of children face some level of malnutrition, and many pregnant and nursing women struggle with severe protein and calorie deficits. Families living at a subsistence level often simply cannot afford the nutritious foods needed to support healthy growth.
For more than 35 years, we at PRASAD Chikitsa have been working to change this reality. Through our Mother and Child Nutrition Program, children up to age six, along with pregnant and nursing women, receive:
- Daily milk and protein-rich snacks, six days a week
- Regular medical check-ups
- Ongoing support and health education for mothers and caregivers
This consistent, locally delivered support has been life-changing for thousands of families.
Why This Work Matters
What motivates me most is knowing that malnutrition affects far more than a child’s height or weight. It impacts:
- Their ability to learn
- Their immune system
- Their confidence and emotional development
- Their future earning potential
- And ultimately, the well-being of the next generation
The first six years of life are critical. When children receive adequate protein and nutrients during this period — paired with consistent health monitoring — their lifelong potential expands dramatically.
Yet, in remote communities like the Tansa Valley, poverty, limited transportation, and lack of awareness often prevent families from accessing healthcare. I take great pride in how our programs help overcome these barriers.
Sunita’s Story
Our Impact — and Why Our Approach Works
I’m proud to share some of the outcomes that reflect the effectiveness of our approach:
- We provide 50,800 nutritious servings each year to children and mothers
- We support 500 beneficiaries in 20 villages
- To date, we have delivered more than 1.4 million nutritious servings
- Children’s growth is monitored using World Health Organization standards
- Within just two years, malnutrition rates among participating children have significantly declined
These results are possible because our model is consistent, community-centered, and rooted in long-term engagement. Depending on severity, children may require 1–2 years or more of ongoing support — and we are committed to being there for them every step of the way.
Looking Ahead to 2026
As we look toward 2026, our goal is to continue reaching even more children across high-risk villages in the Tansa Valley.
If you would like to support this vital work or explore partnership opportunities, we would be happy to connect. Together, we can make a meaningful and lasting difference in the lives of children.
Contact us at prasad@prasad.org and visit www.prasad.org to learn more.
