Reaffirming the state government’s unwavering commitment to building a healthy and prosperous future, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi declared that the state is dedicated to establishing a fully “Well-Nourished Odisha” (Su-Poshita Odisha).
Attending the state-level ‘Angan Ka Utsav’ and the 9th Rashtriya Poshan Maas celebrations at the Barmunda Anganwadi Centre in Bhubaneswar on Tuesday, the Chief Minister spent meaningful time with young children, personally served them freshly cooked warm meals, and distributed school kits.
Involving Families in Child Nutrition
Addressing the gathering, CM Majhi emphasised that maternal and child nutrition cannot be achieved in isolation. The government is expanding its focus to involve entire families—encouraging fathers alongside mothers to play an active role in their child’s early development.
“The first 1,000 days of a child’s life are the most critical,” CM Majhi noted. “Building a well-nourished Odisha requires the active participation of mothers, fathers, and family members alike. Through widespread awareness and successful program execution, we will transform Odisha into a healthy and developed state.”
He revealed that over 46 lakh activities were successfully conducted across the state during Poshan Maas, and was proud to note that Odisha ranked first in the entire country for Aadhaar verification under the nutrition monitoring system.
Praise for Frontline Healthcare Warriors
Giving credit where it is due, the Chief Minister warmly commended Anganwadi workers, helpers, ANMs, and ASHA workers for their selfless service at the grassroots level.
He pointed out that Odisha was once ranked second-highest in the country for infant and maternal mortality rates. Thanks to the untiring dedication of frontline workers in boosting institutional deliveries, child immunisation, and primary care, the state has now reached a satisfactory and improving benchmark.
40% Budget Dedicated to Women’s Welfare
Highlighting that holistic development is impossible without empowering half of the population, CM Majhi outlined major state welfare initiatives including the Subhadra Yojana, Lakhpati Didi, Mukhya Mantri Kanya Vivah Yojana, and Mukhya Mantri Kanya Sumangala Yojana. He shared that at least 40% of the state’s total budget is directly dedicated to women-centric welfare and empowerment programs.
Key welfare highlights shared during the event include:
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Free Post-Graduate (M.A.) Education: Higher education in all government and government-aided institutions is now completely tuition-free for students.
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Rs 1 Lakh Financial Assistance: Girl children who complete their graduation will receive Rs 1 lakh financial aid.
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Cashless Healthcare: Free, cashless treatment at premier empanelled private hospitals nationwide under the Ayushman Bharat – Gopabandhu Jana Arogya Yojana.
Hands-On Engagement
During his visit, the Chief Minister inspected the facility, evaluated the quality of the “Tiranga Thali” nutritious food offerings, and honoured fathers who participated in healthy food preparation showcases. Anganwadi and ASHA workers were also felicitated for their exemplary service.
The event was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida, Ekamra-Bhubaneswar MLA Babu Singh, Department of Women and Child Development Commissioner-cum-Secretary Dr Mrinalini Darswal, Department Director Monisha Banerjee, alongside local community members, health workers, children, and parents.
