Thus, the lower prevalence of malnutrition in the B-group children can be explained on the basis of higher caloric and protein intake due to increased income and other associated benefits of IRDP in the B group. The spin-off benefits of IRDP included increased awareness and better utilization of primary health care services by the B households, and contributed to better immunization status among the B children. Infections, such as coughs, colds, diarrhoea, fever, and eye infections, were common among all the children, but the prevalence of infections was significantly higher among the NB children. Figures in parentheses indicate range. See table 2 for number of subjects in each age group c.
Principal values are numbers of children.
Figures in parentheses indicate percentages. Computed for children above six months of age. Principal values are numbers of children. Figures in parentheses indicate percentages. In conclusion, the IRDP Milk Cattle Scheme raised the income level of the selected beneficiaries significantly and achieved the objective of raising the resources and income level of the vulnerable sections of the population by providing them with productive assets and access to credit.