Jammu: More than 1.14 lakh children in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir are suffering from malnutrition, according to a senior government officer. The information was disclosed during a briefing led by Sanjeev Verma, the social welfare department commissioner secretary.

The briefing was part of a meeting convened by IIOJK Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo to assess the impact and reach of beneficiary-oriented schemes in the region. Verma highlighted that 9.14 lakh individuals are currently benefiting from a supplementary nutrition scheme. Additionally, Aadhaar verification for 99 percent of these beneficiaries has been completed, reducing the risk of pilferage or malpractice.

During the meeting, it was noted that specialized interventions have resulted in 22.76 lakh home visits, covering 96 percent of the targeted population. The aim is to ensure these schemes effectively reach those in need.

The meeting also revealed that 1,14,416 Kashmiri children are affected by malnutrition. This includes 24,261 children suffering from severe acute malnutrition, 69,177 from moderate acute malnutrition, and 20,978 anaemia cases.

The figures underscore the significant challenges faced by the region in addressing child malnutrition, and the ongoing efforts to improve the situation through targeted welfare schemes.