The major focus area of PAALAN 1000 is ________

Correct option is C

The correct answer is (c) Cognitive development of children under 2 years

Explanation:

• The PAALAN 1000 initiative, launched by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare in collaboration with the Bernard van Leer Foundation, focuses on the cognitive development of children during the first 1,000 days of life, which spans from conception to the child's second birthday.
• This period is critical for brain development, and the program aims to provide caregivers with the knowledge and tools to support their child's growth during these formative years. ​

Information Booster:

Key Components of PAALAN 1000:

• Parenting App: Offers practical advice and daily tips for caregivers to enhance children's cognitive development.
• National Campaign: Includes TV and radio commercials, posters, and social media outreach to raise awareness about the importance of early childhood development.

Six Core Principles: Based on the Boston Basics, these principles are designed to guide caregivers in fostering a nurturing environment for children.

1. Maximize Love: Infants and toddlers thrive when their world feels loving, safe, and predictable.
2. Talk and Engage: Babies start learning languages from birth by listening to the sounds when family members and caregivers talk to them.
3. Explore Through Movement and Play: Movement and play help children build strength and coordination, as well as develop their brains.
4. Read and Discuss Stories: Reading and talking to children about stories builds their language skills and sparks their imagination.
5. Mother’s Engagement with the Child while Breastfeeding: Breastfeeding provides not only nutrition but also emotional bonding.
6. Manage Stress and Stay Calm: Children can sense emotions and will respond to them through reactions.

Implementation Strategy:

• The program is integrated with the Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK), emphasizing responsive care and focusing interventions on the first 1,000 days.
• It combines early years coaching for parents, families, and other caregivers with services designed to meet families' basic needs. ​