Strengthening Production End Salt Iodization: Computerized Management Information System in Salt Department, India

Abstract

Objectives: This paper presents the implementation of computerized Management Information System (MIS) in Salt Department, the nodal agency in India for regulation and control of manufacturer, supply and distribution of iodized salt, to strengthen production end salt iodization. Methods: The MIS was launched in March 2012 with the joint action of Salt Department and the non-governmental development agencies GAIN, MI, UNICEF, and ICCIDD through the platform of National Coalition for Sustained Optimal Iodine Intake. Web based MIS was installed in all offices of the Salt Department with its data centre located in salt Department Headquarter in Jaipur. The Salt MIS has modules on distribution and supply of salt, salt quality management, salt testing laboratories, and other functionalities of Salt Department. In the second phase, trainings of personnel from Salt Department were conducted for mainstreaming the use of MIS. Results: 81% of the 203 identified personnel were trained in MIS. All 104 factory offices and 30 out of 91% of 33 laboratories started using MIS for monthly reports. Real time information is available on production figures, quality of iodized salt and movement of iodized salt. Linking information to decision making process facilitated regulatory actions in salt producing pockets. Conclusions: Successful implementation of MIS in the Salt Department through the coordinated efforts of partner agencies resulted in improved functioning of Salt Department. Effective monitoring of iodized salt production, movement and distribution resulted in strengthening of production end salt iodization and improved access to quality iodized salt to consumers.