About Anemia Mukt Bharat (AMB) 

• In 2018, the Government of India launched the Anemia Mukt Bharat (AMB) strategy with the goal of reducing anemia among vulnerable groups such as women, children, and adolescents. The strategy follows a life-cycle approach, providing both preventive and curative mechanisms. 
• AMB is based on a life cycle approach, providing preventive and curative mechanisms through a 6X6X6 strategy including six target beneficiaries, six interventions and six institutional mechanisms for all stakeholders to implement the strategy. 

About Anemia 

Definition: A condition where the red blood cells or their oxygen-carrying capacity are insufficient for the body's needs. 

Causes 

• Iron deficiency. 
• Deficiencies in folate, vitamin B12 and vitamin A. 
• Chronic inflammation, parasitic infections, inherited disorders. 

Symptoms 

• Severe anemia leads to fatigue, weakness, dizziness and drowsiness. 
• Pregnant women and children are most vulnerable. 

WHO Criteria for Anemia 

• Women in the reproductive age group are considered anaemic if their hemoglobin levels are below 12 g/dL. 
• Children under 5 years are considered anaemic if their hemoglobin levels are below 11 g/dL. 

Other Government Initiatives for Controlling Anaemia