Odisha CM stresses monitoring system to improve food distribution to prevent malnutrition

Bhubaneswar, Aug 16 (UNI) Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi today called for a robust monitoring and evaluation system to ensure the effective implementation of the Take-Home-Ration (THR) Scheme, aimed at preventing malnutrition in the state.

Reviewing various programs of the Women and Child Development Department at Lok Seva Bhawan, Majhi stressed the need for major improvements in the entire process—from preparation of food to packaging and distribution.

To combat malnutrition, the state is implementing several initiatives, including the Supplementary Nutrition Programme (SNP), the Adolescent Nutrition Scheme, and the Chief Minister’s Sampurna Pushti Yojana.

Under the Take-Home-Ration Scheme, chhatua (a fortified food mix) is produced and distributed by 546 self-help groups across Odisha. Currently, 43,92,700 beneficiaries are receiving chhatua and other nutritional supplements under different schemes.

Highlighting that the health of women and children is crucial for the state’s development, the Chief Minister said these schemes must not be neglected under any circumstances.

Majhi further directed officials to ensure the construction of Anganwadi centres in areas where they lack permanent buildings, with land acquisition if necessary.

He also directed to expand the coverage of the Chief Minister’s Sampurna Pushti Yojana,complete 100 percent construction of Anganwadi centres in Ombadsi and DMF districts, with necessary funds to be allocated from the respective resources