Special Assistants to the Chief Minister of Punjab, Salma Butt and Zeeshan Malik, inaugurated the second phase of the School Nutrition Program at Government Girls Primary School, Nishter Colony.
Salma Butt said that the Punjab Food Authority (PFA) has reached another milestone by expanding this modern nutrition program despite having limited resources. She explained that nutritious meals containing 480 to 500 calories are being provided to children. These meals are prepared according to a diet plan made by qualified nutrition experts, keeping in mind the age and growth requirements of school-going children.
She said the main goal of the program is to fight malnutrition, improve children’s mental and physical development, and promote healthy eating habits. She also praised DG PFA Muhammad Asim Javaid for his dedication and hard work in improving children’s health.
Zeeshan Malik said that the success of the pilot phase has made it possible to gradually expand this program across Punjab. He added that healthy food helps children learn better and emphasized that the media has an important role in spreading awareness about nutrition among communities.
Asim Javaid shared that 40 percent of children are affected by stunting, 28 percent suffer from wasting, and 30 percent have height below age standards. He also said that 25 percent of children are zinc-deficient, while 30 percent have iron deficiency. Expressing concern over these figures, he called for urgent measures to address malnutrition.
He mentioned that in the first phase, children were given fortified bread, milk, and nuts in lunchboxes to improve immunity and overall health. He added that vitamins and minerals are essential for a strong immune system and said that the PFA is committed to protecting every child in Punjab from nutritional deficiencies.
He further said that parents, teachers, and students are being given proper training and awareness sessions about balanced and safe diets. He also noted that the Girls Nutrition Programme is running successfully to ensure the good health of young girls. Asim Javaid urged parents and teachers to support PFA’s mission and encourage children to eat healthy and nutritious food.
