Millets to Replace Chhatua for Anganwadi Kids, Odisha Dy CM Pushes for Region-Specific Food

Bhubaneswar: Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida on Monday raised concerns over the supply of substandard chhatua to Anganwadi centres and hinted at a shift towards region-specific food for children.

Her department is considering replacing chhatua with millets in areas where it is more prevalent, in response to growing criticism over the poor quality of the current food supply.

Parida assured that steps are being taken to eliminate irregularities in chhatua distribution, aiming to ensure more nutritious food for children. The department’s goal is to make Odisha malnutrition-free.

“We recognise regional differences in nutrition, malnutrition, and anaemia. To address this, I have instructed district-level officers to act based on local feedback. In the coming days, we will provide more nutritious and wholesome meals for children,” said Parida.

Additionally, she announced plans to host a conclave focused on improving the quality of chhatua, with decisions to be made by experts in the field.