Nutrition competition highlights affordable, healthy food for mothers

More than 100 participants took part in a nutrition competition organised by the Rotary Club of Erode to promote awareness of healthy and affordable diets for women at different stages of motherhood.
Titled ‘Thaimaiyin Suvai’, the competition was held at Rotary CD Hall on October 31 in four categories: fertility nutrition, pregnancy nutrition, postpartum nutrition and breastfeeding nutrition.
The event was organised by Veena Anand of the Haalu Association, in association with the Rotary Club of Erode and the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) Department. Erode ICDS Officer Shanthi and her team selected the winners. First prizes of ₹7,000 and second prizes of ₹3,000 were awarded in each of the four categories.
More than 100 participants presented a variety of low-cost, nutritious food preparations and explained their nutritional benefits. All participants were given consolation prizes in recognition of their efforts.
Handlooms, Textiles and Khadi Minister M. Vijayabalaji, who was the chief guest, appreciated the initiative and said such competitions would help create awareness among pregnant and breastfeeding women about the importance of balanced diets for their health and the well-being of their babies.
He suggested that the competition be organised on a larger scale and assured that arrangements would be made to conduct a mega event soon. He also appreciated the Rotary Club, Veena Anand and ICDS officials for organising the initiative, describing it as a useful effort for the benefit of future generations and society.
Erode West MLA K.K. Ananth Mohan was the guest of honour. Rotary Club president B. Jayaprakash, secretary S.N. Thangaraju treasurer M. Chandrasekar Rotary Trust president Senguttuvan participated.