KATHMANDU: The government will increase the Child Nutrition Allowance to Rs. 1,000 per month beginning in the upcoming fiscal year, aiming to improve children’s nutritional status and reduce malnutrition.

According to the Ministry of Women, Children, Gender and Sexual Minorities, and Social Security, the current monthly allowance of Rs. 532, provided to all children in 25 districts with low Human Development Index (HDI) rankings as well as Dalit children nationwide, will be raised to Rs. 1,000.

The ministry said the increase is expected to improve child nutrition, reduce malnutrition, protect children’s rights, and strengthen the country’s child-focused social security system.

According to the ministry, maternal and child health and nutrition programs are currently being implemented through the Ministry of Health and Population.