Which one of the following Union Ministers administers the “Nutritional Programme for Adolescent Girls”?
## **Core Concept**
The "Nutritional Programme for Adolescent Girls" (NP-AG) is a scheme aimed at improving the nutritional status of adolescent girls in India. This program is administered under the aegis of the Ministry of Women and Child Development, Government of India. The focus is on providing nutritional support to adolescent girls to improve their health and well-being.
## **Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The Ministry of Women and Child Development is responsible for the administration of various programs aimed at the welfare of women and children, including adolescent girls. The Nutritional Programme for Adolescent Girls is one such initiative that falls under this ministry. This program provides supplementary nutrition to adolescent girls to address issues like malnutrition, anemia, and to promote healthy growth and development.
## **Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
- **Option A:** This option is incorrect because, although several ministries work together on various health and nutrition programs, the specific administration of the NP-AG is not primarily under this ministry.
- **Option B:** This is incorrect as it does not directly relate to the administration of nutritional programs specifically for adolescent girls.
- **Option C:** While health and family welfare ministries often collaborate on health initiatives, the NP-AG is specifically administered by the Ministry of Women and Child Development.
## **Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key point to remember is that the Ministry of Women and Child Development plays a crucial role in implementing programs for the health and nutrition of women and children, including adolescent girls. The Nutritional Programme for Adolescent Girls is a significant initiative under this ministry, highlighting the importance of targeted nutritional interventions for this vulnerable group.
## **Correct Answer Line**
**Correct Answer: D. Ministry of Women and Child Development.**