Need to expedite revision for enhancement of cost norms for supplementary nutrition under the Saksham Anganwadi and Mission Poshan 2.0 Scheme.-laid

Need to expedite revision for enhancement of cost norms for supplementary nutrition under the Saksham Anganwadi and Mission Poshan 2.0 Scheme.-laid SHRI MANISH TEWARI (CHANDIGARH): I wish to raise the matter of urgent public importance regarding the long-pending enhancement of cost norms for supplementary nutrition under the Saksham Anganwadi & Mission Poshan 2.0 scheme. The Hon?ble Finance Minister, in the Budget Speech for 2025-26, had announced an increase in the cost norms for providing nutritional support to vulnerable beneficiaries under this flagship programme. However, despite the passage of considerable time, the revised norms have not yet been finalized or notified. This inordinate delay is adversely affecting the delivery of essential nutrition to children in the age group of six months to six years, pregnant women, lactating mothers, and adolescent girls, who depend heavily on this scheme for their health and development. I seek reasons for the delay and details on the status of revised norms, the financial implications, and the definite timeline for implementation. Given India?s continuing challenges of malnutrition and anaemia, enhanced allocations and timely disbursement are critical. I therefore urge the Government to take an immediate decision and inform this August House about the date from which the enhanced cost norms for supplementary nutrition will come into effect without any further postponement.