International Institute for Population Sciences
Deemed to be University (An Autonomous Organization of Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India)

Background Nutrition during pregnancy is crucial for optimal foetal growth and maternal health. In the slum areas of Kolkata, poor diet diversity, low IFA consumption, and frequent junk food intake increase the risk of malnutrition among pregnant women-manifested through inadequate gestational weight gain, low birth weight, foetal stunting, and other pregnancy complications. Recognizing the necessity of targeted interventions to address this, CINI intervened in three wards of Kolkata from January 2023 to December 2024 to promote maternal nutrition through cost-effective, community-based strategies that maximize resource efficiency. Objective This study used a case-control design to assess targeted interventions' effectiveness in improving maternal nutrition, focusing on early registration, IFA intake, weight monitoring, HCM receipt, and reduced junk food consumption. Methods The study used case-control design in Kolkata, comparing maternal nutrition between intervention and non-intervention areas. CINI supported early pregnancy registration, BMI-based diet plans, and regular follow-ups. Community engagement included father groups, mother-to-mother counselling, religious messaging, cooking demos, and vendor training, promoting nutrition awareness and healthier local food choices using available community resources. Results The study found better maternal nutrition in intervention areas, with higher monthly weight monitoring (92.5% vs 36.9%), appropriate gestational weight gain (26.4% vs 11.1%), and IFA consumption (84.8% vs 44.4%). Higher odds of early registration (OR: 7.96***), weight monitoring (OR: 16.69***), and weight gain (OR: 4.599***) confirm the effectiveness of the intervention. Conclusion The study demonstrates the effectiveness of targeted and tailored interventions in enhancing maternal nutrition. The success of this approach highlights its potential for replication in other urban slum areas across India and similar developing regions.