• It is observed annually on 21st October to raise awareness about the importance of iodine in human health. 
• The day serves as a reminder of the consequences associated with iodine deficiency, such as goiter and other health disorders. 
• It encourages countries to implement measures for the prevention and management of iodine deficiency 

Iodine

• It is a chemical element with the symbol I and atomic number 53. 
• It is a member of the halogen group and is typically found in nature as a diatomic molecule (I₂) or in various compounds. 
• It appears as a shiny, purple-black solid at room temperature and can sublime to form violet vapors. 
• Essential Nutrient: It is crucial for the synthesis of thyroid hormones (thyroxine and triiodothyronine), which regulate metabolism, growth and development in humans and animals. 
• Deficiency Consequences: Insufficient iodine intake can lead to health issues, such as goiter (enlargement of the thyroid gland), hypothyroidism and developmental delays in children. 
• Found in foods and iodized salt, iodine exists in several forms, including sodium and potassium salts, inorganic iodine (I2), iodate and iodide.   
• Iodide, the most common form, is quickly absorbed in the stomach and used by the thyroid for hormone production. 
• Government Initiatives 
  • Recognizing the serious health implications of iodine deficiency, the Government initiated national efforts to combat the problem through the National Goitre Control Programme (NGCP) in 1962.   
  • In 1992, the program was broadened and renamed the National Iodine Deficiency Disorders Control Programme (NIDDCP). 
  • The new program aimed to address a wider spectrum of iodine deficiency disorders (IDD). 
  • Primary goals   
    • Reducing the prevalence of IDD to below 5% nationwide. 
    • Achieving 100% consumption of adequately iodized salt (with 15 ppm of iodine) at the household level.