CHENNAI: The third phase of campaign on prevention of iodine deficiency disorders in the State was launched recently in the city.

The programme was attended by women self help groups and non-government organisations from ten districts including Chennai. Federation of Consumer Organisations (FEDCOT) has so far conducted awareness campaigns in 24 districts.

The organisation took up 150 villages and 15 municipalities in each district and created a village as a model involving NGOs and volunteers. Following awareness campaigns in selected areas, the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) and the Salt Department found there was an increase of 40 percent in the sale of iodised salt.

The Tamil Nadu and Pondicherry wing of the organisation aims to reach out to 60 Corporation wards using SHGs in 15 days and reach around 4.5 lakh people of the city.

Representatives from Erode, Namakkal, Kancheepuram, Vellore, Perambalur, Karur, Cuddalore and Virudhunagar also participated in the meeting.

Though salt production is adequate in India, much of the salt sold in the market is not iodised. Currently, though more people opt for iodised salt, only 55 percent consumers get the required iodine, as many companies do not spray enough iodine. Ordinary salt is cheaper than iodised salt and hence is more preferred in rural areas where awareness is low.

Some FEDCOT members suggest campaigning for iodised salt on the lines of pulse polio.

The salt could be provided free to the poor, they suggest. Consumption of iodised salt prevents disorders such as goitre, abortions, stillbirths and congenital defects such as cretinism, autism, dyslexia and loss of hearing and speech.

Senior members of FEDCOT, officials of Salt Department and P. Duraisingam, chairman, Consumer Coordination Council, New Delhi, spoke.

The campaign will take its message to merchants, traders and street hawkers to sell iodised salt.

Cases will be filed against erring traders under the Prevention of Food Adulteration Act and Consumer Protection Act of 1986.

Village elders, presidents and ward members of panchayats will be roped in.

Street corner meetings, video shows, street plays and processions will be held in rural areas. Panchayat leaders and municipal council members will be urged to pass resolutions not to allow sale of non-iodised salt for edible purposes.

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