How Small Fish Powder Is Fighting Child Malnutrition in Assam

Guwahati: Child malnutrition remains a critical public health issue in India, with high rates of stunting and wasting affecting children across the country. In Assam, over 35 percent of children under five are stunted, while nearly 70 percent suffer from anaemia. To tackle this, researchers are piloting a nutrition intervention that incorporates nutrient-dense, locally sourced small fish into public feeding programs.

The initiative, known as Matsya Paripusti, or Fish Nutrition, was implemented in the Boko Block of Kamrup district. During the 2023 to 2024 period, the project provided fish powder to 55 Anganwadi centers and 43 schools. This powder is made from small, indigenous fish species that are rich in essential micronutrients like calcium, iron, and zinc. By mixing the powder into traditional meals such as khichdi and dal, providers were able to increase the nutritional value of school lunches without altering familiar flavors.

A community-led organization, the Samaria Producer Company Limited, managed the production process. By sourcing fish from local farmers and processing them into powder, the group created a sustainable supply chain that supports both rural livelihoods and regional nutrition goals. The initiative required extensive coordination between seven government departments, including the Department of Fisheries and the Education Department.

Assessment data indicated positive growth trends among the children who consumed the fortified meals. Participants reported that children enjoyed the fortified food, noting that it was well-received by students and parents alike. As Khalida, the CEO of the producer company, observed, “The children ate it happily.”

Building on lessons from a previous pilot in Odisha, this project demonstrates that complex health challenges require multisectoral collaboration. Experts suggest that scaling this model could provide an affordable, culturally acceptable, and sustainable solution to improve child health across India while strengthening local economies.