Lack of iron mills at the local level

Nepal Health News, Kathmandu – There has been a disruption in the supply of iron tablets that are distributed under the Ministry of Health. It has been reported that, over the past two months, some federal, provincial, and local levels of government have experienced a shortage of these medicines.

According to Dr. Vivek Kumar Lal, Director of the Family Welfare Division, some local levels have complained about not receiving iron tablets. "Although distribution is ongoing in most areas, we have received information about shortages in some regions," he said.

In the past, the government used to procure iron tablets with a two-year shelf life from the central level and distribute them to local levels. However, the recent disruptions in distribution suggest a need for additional budget. The ministry has already begun discussions on alternative solutions.

It has also been reported that some municipalities have purchased iron tablets using their own resources. According to Leelabikram Thapa, Head of the Nutrition Section, distribution has been affected in part due to the expiry of some stock. He stated that the procurement process for the upcoming year has already started, and arrangements will be made to allow local governments to purchase tablets independently based on their needs.

The government has been providing free iron tablets to pregnant women, new mothers, and adolescent girls, which help maintain balanced hemoglobin levels in the body. According to doctors, women generally require 13 grams of hemoglobin per deciliter under normal conditions, making this program extremely important for public health.