Odisha Launches ‘Healthy Diet Campaign’ to Champion Traditional Foods and Combat Obesity
Bhubaneswar, September 11, — In a vibrant ceremony at Lemon Tree Premier, Bhubaneswar, Odisha’s Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida unveiled the “Healthy Diet Campaign,” a state-wide initiative aimed at promoting traditional, nutritious foods and curbing obesity among rural women and children.
The campaign, launched in collaboration with UNICEF and the Department of Women & Child Development, highlights the health benefits of indigenous Odia dishes such as mandia (millets), pakhala (fermented rice), and pitha (rice cakes).
Parida emphasised that “a healthy body begins with a healthy mind,” urging citizens to embrace home-cooked meals and reject junk food.
Senior officials, including Principal Secretary Shubha Sharma, Director Monisha Banerjee, and Additional Secretary Swayamprabha Mohant, lent their support.
Odia film stars Sabyasachi Mishra, Archita Sahu, and Anu Choudhury also joined the event, sharing personal wellness tips and lifestyle changes.
UNICEF’s senior officer Saurabh Bhattacharya stressed the importance of family meals, reducing oily food intake for children, and limiting screen time. A poster promoting social behaviour change was unveiled and will be distributed through Anganwadi centres to spread awareness across villages.
The campaign aligns with Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi’s broader vision to reform dietary habits and improve public health outcomes across Odisha.
