RANI was a clustered randomized controlled trial that tested the ability of a norm-based behavior change intervention to reduce anemia. Based on a design that was implemented for the first time, the project supported the National and State Governments’ anemia reduction endeavors among Women of Reproductive Age (WRA, 15-49 years). In partnership with George Washington University, RANI promoted changes in social norms, knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of WRA and pregnant women in Odisha to increase initial intake and adherence to iron and folic acid (IFA) consumption and reduce anemia.
We collaborated with the Odisha Livelihood Mission, capitalizing on the strength of the Self-Help Groups (SHGs) they promoted in Angul.
Key Takeaways
- 17,000+ women across 130 treatment villages participated in the RANI intervention.
- 16,800+ WRAs were tested under the programme and were made aware of their hemoglobin levels.
- Proportion of anemic women in the RANI project decreased by 12.5% in the treatment arm at the endline.
- Self-reported iron folic acid consumption increased by 88% in the treatment villages as a result of the intervention.
- Hemoglobin levels (g/dL) in the RANI project showed an improvement of 0.34 g/dL at the end of the intervention.
