Are Village Health, Sanitation, and Nutrition Committees Functional? Evidence from Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh

BACKGROUND: The Village Health, Sanitation, and Nutrition Committee (VHSNC) is a participatory effort aimed to strengthen the village-level agencies and to provide better health and sanitation services. However, there is a lack of evidence on the functionality of VHSNCs. OBJECTIVES: The present study aimed to explore the functionality of VHSNCs in the selected localities. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study was conducted in five districts of Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh states. Using a multistage sampling method, a total of 508 VHSNCs were studied. The VHSNCs were considered as the unit of study. From each VHSNC, some key functionaries and its members were interviewed using a semi-structured interview schedule to understand the nature and effectiveness of its functioning. The researchers closely observed the meetings of VHSNCs and their records. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistical methods along with the impressions from the field notes. RESULTS: The result of the study indicates that the functionality of the majority of the VHSNCs is not promising. Inadequate participation and improper implementation of key tasks are evident. CONCLUSION: The functionality of the VHSNC can be improved through the active involvement of Panchayati Raj Institutions and local communities.