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Strengthening Nutritional Support in Odisha

Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi emphasized the necessity for a comprehensive monitoring and evaluation framework to enhance the effectiveness of the Take-Home-Ration (THR) initiative, which is designed to combat malnutrition in the state.

During a review meeting of the Women and Child Development (W&CD) department at Lok Seva Bhawan, Majhi highlighted the importance of significant enhancements throughout the entire process, from food preparation to packaging and distribution.

To address malnutrition, the state is rolling out various programs, including the Supplementary Nutrition Programme (SNP), the Adolescent Nutrition Scheme, and the Chief Minister’s Sampurna Pushti Yojana. The THR scheme involves the production and distribution of chhatua (a fortified food mix) by 546 self-help groups across Odisha.

Currently, approximately 4,392,700 beneficiaries are receiving chhatua and other nutritional supplements through these initiatives, according to a W&CD department official.

Majhi underscored the critical role of women and children's health in the state's overall development, asserting that these programs must be prioritized.

"To ensure the THR scheme's successful implementation in Odisha, a strong monitoring and evaluation system is essential," Majhi stated. He also instructed officials to prioritize the establishment of Anganwadi centers in areas lacking permanent facilities, including land acquisition if necessary.

Additionally, he called for an expansion of the Chief Minister’s Sampurna Pushti Yojana and the completion of Anganwadi centers in DMF districts, with appropriate funding allocated from relevant resources.