In a groundbreaking move, the Odisha government has set the stage for revolutionizing child health monitoring by integrating artificial intelligence into child anthropometric data collection.
A five-day Training-cum-Workshop titled “AI for Growth Monitoring: Development of an AI Tool for Child Anthropometry” was inaugurated at the ICMR Auditorium Hall, with Principal Secretary of the Women & Child Development Department, Smt. Shubha Sarma, leading the event.
This initiative, supported by prominent organizations such as Wadhwani AI, ICMR-RMRC Bhubaneswar, and Poshan Abhiyaan, aims to simplify and enhance the accuracy of anthropometric assessments performed by Anganwadi Workers (AWWs). The AI tool automates vital measurements including weight, height, head circumference, and chest circumference using basic smartphones, paving the way for early detection of malnutrition in children.
Odisha, renowned for its progressive child health programs, proudly leads this pilot study, with states like Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Telangana, and Uttar Pradesh set to follow. The collaborative effort promises to empower field investigators and ensure precise data collection through advanced technology.
This initiative reflects Odisha’s commitment to advancing healthcare solutions through technology, and its pilot program is poised to set a benchmark for other states.