Title: Iran Expands Targeted Support for Vulnerable Pregnant and Nursing Mothers
In a significant move to bolster family health and social welfare, Iran has announced the rollout of an enhanced support scheme for vulnerable pregnant and nursing mothers. The program, which focuses on providing financial aid and essential services, is currently being implemented in four provinces: Tehran, Alborz, Golestan, and Isfahan.
A Multi-Faceted Support Initiative
Maryam Khakrangin, the head of the Office for Family and Women’s Affairs at the State Welfare Organization, detailed the program’s objectives. The initiative specifically targets mothers in challenging circumstances, including those whose husbands are disabled, struggling with addiction, or completing mandatory military service.
Beyond a monthly financial grant, the comprehensive package includes crucial nutritional, medical, and pharmaceutical support. The core goals are to safeguard maternal health, ensure reproductive hygiene, guarantee food security, and cover treatment costs, thereby reducing pregnancy-related complications and maternal mortality rates.
Strategic Implementation and International Cooperation
Khakrangin emphasized that while support programs for mothers have been active across all 31 provinces for years, this new phase features a strengthened focus on healthcare. This enhancement is being carried out in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), ensuring access to international expertise and resources.
A key component of the program’s effectiveness is the specialized training provided to social workers. These professionals are tasked with guiding beneficiaries to ensure the financial aid is used appropriately for medical care, essential drugs, vitamins, and nutritional needs during lactation.
Anchored in National Policy
This initiative is firmly rooted in national legislation, specifically Article 24 of the Law for the Protection of the Family and Youthful Population. This law mandates the Ministry of Cooperatives, Labour, and Social Welfare to identify mothers in need and provide them with free nutritional baskets, forming the legal backbone of the government’s supportive measures.
Future Prospects for Enhanced Aid
Looking ahead, Khakrangin revealed that a proposal to increase the value of the financial grant is under consideration. Its implementation, however, is contingent upon the allocation of sufficient funds. Such an increase would significantly improve the financial coverage and overall welfare of the beneficiary mothers, further elevating their quality of life.
By integrating direct financial aid with essential health services, this program represents a critical investment in the well-being of families. It stands as a pivotal part of the government’s broader strategy to provide social safety nets, improve public health outcomes, and support the nation’s demographic policies.