Nandurbar, a tribal district in Maharashtra, has a serious problem of malnutrition, especially among small children. Poverty, poor healthcare, and strong traditional beliefs often stop families from getting proper medical treatment. Many still depend on traditional healing methods, which can lead to health problems that could have been avoided. The story of 15-month-old Roshni Anil Tadvi from Tembla village shows both the challenges and the positive change that is possible. With support from the community, Roshni’s health improved. This change was made possible through the combined efforts of CYDA and Plan International, who are working together to fight malnutrition in the area. This inspiring journey is documented by Wasim Shaikh, Project Coordinator at CYDA.
The Struggles: A Life at Risk
Roshni, a 15-month-old girl, was critically underweight at just 4 kg. She was also dealing with open wounds and a concerning persistent fever that requires immediate medical attention. Despite her critical condition, her parents refused modern medical care. Her father, a respected Bhumka Baba (traditional healer), relied on home remedies and viewed hospitals with skepticism. Meanwhile, her mother, shaped by patriarchal norms, often felt uncertain about taking action without his approval. Their deep-rooted cultural beliefs and rigid family structure delayed essential treatment, putting Roshni’s life at risk. The resistance to modern healthcare underscores the significant challenges that tribal families face in accessing timely medical care. This situation clearly demonstrates the pressing need for robust, community-driven health awareness and support initiatives.
The Turning Point:
During a routine visit, an Anganwadi worker identified Roshni’s severe condition and alerted the WCD team. Over three days, health workers repeatedly urged her parents to seek urgent care, warning that her life was at risk. Realizing counselling alone would not suffice, the CYDA team intervened, providing crucial support to change the family’s mindset.
On the third day, the CYDA team, senior citizens joined forces to persuade Roshni’s family. Their trusted voices added credibility, breaking the parents’ resistance. With collective pressure and support, her father finally agreed to admit her to the Nutrition Rehabilitation Centre (NRC), ensuring her treatment. The team conducted thorough counselling sessions with the parents. These meetings were crucial in helping Roshni’s parents understand the risks their daughter faced and the steps necessary for her recovery. With continuous support, the family came to realize the critical need for proper nutrition and medical intervention.
Key areas of impact:
1. Immediate Health Impact:
Roshni’s admission to the Nutrition Rehabilitation Centre (NRC) marked a life-saving turning point. Within just 14 days, her health drastically improved—her fever subsided, her wounds healed, and she gained weight, increasing from 4 kg to 5.1 kg. This rapid recovery not only saved her life but demonstrated the effectiveness of timely medical intervention in addressing severe malnutrition.
2. Family Transformation:
The CYDA’s counselling and persistent support led to a significant shift in the family’s understanding of healthcare. Roshni’s parents, particularly her father, who had once been deeply rooted in traditional healing practices, recognized the importance of modern medical care.
“I was afraid of hospitals, but now I see how it saved my daughter’s life. I will ensure she gets proper food and care,” reflects a fundamental change in mindset of Roshni’s father. This transformation empowers the family to prioritize health and nutrition in the future, potentially preventing similar cases in the community.
3. Strengthening Community Awareness:
The involvement of local leaders, including senior citizens, was crucial in overcoming the family’s initial resistance. Their active participation not only persuaded Roshni’s parents but also set an example for others in the village. This community-backed intervention raised awareness about the dangers of malnutrition and the importance of seeking timely medical care. It also highlighted how influential community leaders can play a pivotal role in driving change in deeply rooted cultural beliefs.
4. Long-Term Impact on Healthcare Practices:
The success of the intervention has far-reaching implications for the entire community. By addressing the resistance to modern healthcare and reinforcing the importance of nutrition and proper medical care, the CYDA’s intervention contributes to a long-term shift in healthcare practices. As more families see the tangible results of seeking timely medical help, there is potential for a wider cultural shift towards prioritizing health and wellness, reducing the risk of malnutrition and other preventable health conditions in the future.
5. Empowerment of CYDA and Local Institutions:
This intervention also serves as a model for other youth-led initiatives in the region. The success of the CYDA team in navigating cultural barriers, providing continuous support, and working collaboratively with local institutions underscores the power of youth involvement in community-driven health interventions. It also demonstrates the effectiveness of leveraging local resources, such as the Anganwadi, WCD, and respected community leaders, in overcoming challenges and improving public health outcomes.
6. Catalyzing Change in Malnutrition Awareness:
Roshni’s case has brought the issue of malnutrition in Nandurbar into focus, making it clear that with the right guidance, resources, and community involvement, these challenges can be tackled. The impact of this intervention goes beyond just one child—it sparks a movement to address malnutrition at the grassroots level, providing hope that other families can also break the cycle of poverty, cultural resistance, and poor health practices.
