A health post in Narharinath Rural Municipality–1 has been declared the first nutrition-friendly health institution in Kalikot, marking a milestone in local efforts to improve maternal and child health.
Kotbada Health Post received the recognition after meeting all the required standards set under the Nutrition-Friendly Health Institution Implementation Guidelines, 2022. Officials confirmed that the facility fulfilled key indicators related to service delivery, monitoring, and community outreach.
The certification focuses on improving nutrition during the critical “first 1,000 days”, covering pregnancy and early childhood. Under these standards, pregnant and new mothers are expected to receive regular health check-ups and nutrition counselling at the facility.
The criteria also include ensuring that infants are exclusively breastfed for the first six months, followed by the introduction of nutritious complementary food. Children’s nutritional status must remain within healthy ranges, supported by consistent monitoring and care.
Beyond healthcare services, the guidelines emphasise broader community conditions. These include maintaining a clean environment, ensuring access to safe drinking water, and achieving open defecation-free status in the area. Promoting the use of locally produced food and encouraging multi-sector efforts to reduce malnutrition are also key components.
Health officials say the recognition reflects coordinated work between the health post, local authorities, and the community. The initiative is expected to serve as a model for other health institutions in the district.
Kalikot, a remote district in Karnali Province, has long faced challenges related to nutrition and access to health services. Local authorities hope this step will encourage similar efforts in other wards and gradually improve overall health outcomes in the region.