The present study was undertaken to find out the prevalence of anemia in paediatric age group. We also screened for beta thalassemia trait as consanguineous arranged marriages is a common practice in this region. A total of 1108 samples were analysed in department of Pathology KIMS HUBBALLI. Prevalence of anemia, as per WHO recommended cut off value of <11g/dl was 62.38% while screening for beta thalassemia trait by mentzer index was 15.27%.this is significant and the population of Dharwad district appears to be at risk of thalassemia disorder. An extensive screening followed by intervention with nutritional supplements and genetic counselling is needed to improve the health of children and prevent thalassemia homozygous condition.