JAGATI-Food, Nutrition & Health Initiatives (J-FNHI)

JAGATI Food, Nutrition & Health Initiatives (J-FNHI) is envisioned as an integrated, community-led approach to improving food and nutrition security, health and well-being among rural, tribal and marginalized communities. Recognizing the close relationship between agriculture, food, nutrition, health, sanitation and environmental conditions, J-FNHI promotes locally appropriate and sustainable solutions for healthier communities. The initiative focuses on nutrition-sensitive agriculture, kitchen gardens, maternal and child nutrition, healthy food practices, WASH and environmental health, while strengthening community awareness and local institutions. By combining locally available foods, community knowledge and preventive health practices, J-FNHI aims to develop Healthy, Nutrition-Secure and Resilient Communities (HNSRC) where families, particularly women and children, can access diverse, nutritious food and improved health opportunities.

Key Components:

Traditional Food & Nutrition Knowledge

Traditional Food & Nutrition Knowledge Initiative promotes the recognition and use of locally available traditional foods, indigenous crops and community knowledge related to nutrition and healthy diets. The initiative seeks to document, revive and promote nutritious local food practices while encouraging their integration into household diets. By connecting traditional food knowledge with contemporary nutrition awareness, JAGATI aims to strengthen culturally appropriate, diverse and sustainable food systems.

Nutrition-Sensitive Agriculture & Kitchen Garden

Nutrition-Sensitive Agriculture & Kitchen Garden Initiative promotes household and community-level production of diverse, nutritious and locally appropriate foods. The initiative supports kitchen gardens, nutrition gardens and climate-resilient food production, encouraging households to grow vegetables, fruits, pulses and other nutritious crops. By linking agriculture with dietary diversity and nutrition awareness, JAGATI aims to improve household food security and promote regular access to fresh and nutritious foods.

Maternal & Child Nutrition

Maternal & Child Nutrition Initiative focuses on improving awareness and practices related to maternal, infant and young child nutrition. The initiative promotes healthy diets, appropriate feeding practices, dietary diversity and community awareness among mothers, caregivers and families. By working with community institutions and local service systems, JAGATI aims to strengthen family and community support for the healthy growth, development and well-being of women and children.

Community-Based Nutrition

Community-Based Nutrition Initiative encourages households to incorporate nutritious crops, traditional foods, fruits, vegetables and other locally appropriate foods into their daily diets. Through community awareness, food demonstrations and learning activities, JAGATI aims to strengthen healthy food practices and improve nutrition awareness among children, women and families. The initiative also encourages the involvement of women’s groups, community institutions, caregivers and local stakeholders in developing practical and locally relevant nutrition solutions. Through awareness, capacity building, participatory learning and community action, JAGATI aims to establish sustainable nutrition models that are owned and supported by communities.

WASH & Environmental Health

WASH & Environmental Health Initiative promotes safe water, sanitation, hygiene and healthy living environments at the household and community levels. The initiative supports awareness and community action on safe drinking water, personal hygiene, sanitation and environmentally responsible practices. By strengthening the connection between WASH, nutrition and health, JAGATI seeks to reduce environmental health risks and promote healthier, safer and more resilient communities.

Together, these initiatives position J-FNHI as a comprehensive platform for strengthening food and nutrition security, maternal and child well-being, healthy food practices, WASH and community health, with a special focus on rural, tribal and marginalized communities.