An estimated 34 crore children will be covered under ministry of health’s National Deworming Programme on Friday, aimed at reducing worm infestation that hampers the growth of schoolgoers.

The children will be in the age group of 1-19 years in government and government-aided schools, anganwadis, and private schools across the country, the ministry said. 

Infections due to Soil Transmitted Helminths (STH) or worms cause morbidity by adversely affecting nutritional status; impairing cognitive processes and causing complications that may require surgical intervention.

It also affects a child’s school performance and is a leading cause of absenteeism. The situation of undernutrition and anemia, which is linked to STH, ranges from 40% to 70% in different population groups across the country.

“We have suggested to states that they should get in touch with private school associations to implement the programme in their schools,” said Vandana Gurnani, joint secretary, health ministry.