Enhancing nutrition outcomes through aquatic food in Bihar, India

• Jul 26, 2025
• 1 min

The Government of Bihar intended to increase routine consumption of aquatic food among pregnant and lactating women, adolescent girls, and children under five years. The efforts sought to improve nutrition outcomes, especially around women and children, through dietary habits, cultural practices, and changing perceptions that hinder fish consumption. 

MSC has been actively collaborating with women’s self-help groups (SHGs) in Bihar. Therefore, as an extension, the government sought MSC’s technical support to elevate nutritional literacy and build awareness of the benefits of fish consumption among groups involved in fish farming or allied activities. We executed targeted social and behavior change communication (SBCC) initiatives. We led awareness campaigns with women and children in Bihar, which emphasized the safe consumption of fish, particularly for children under five years. This involved a multifaceted approach that included mass media interventions and localized cooking demonstrations to reinforce the importance of incorporating fish into daily diets for improved health outcomes.

Our SBCC efforts enhanced the nutritional status of the target audience. It promoted regular consumption of nutrient-rich aquatic food, addressed deficiencies, and improved overall health outcomes. This ensured long-term health benefits for the community.