Odisha government has launched a new initiative to provide nutrient-rich Mandia (millet) Ladoos to all school students and extend the mid-day meal program to Classes 9 and 10, aiming to enhance both physical and cognitive development among children.
School and Mass Education Minister Nityananda Gond officially launched the initiative at Government Girls’ High School and Swami Vivekananda High School in Umarkote, Nabarangpur district. He personally distributed millet Ladoos to students from Classes 1 to 10 and joined them for a mid-day meal to underscore the significance of proper nutrition.
“Students of Classes 9 and 10 were earlier excluded from the mid-day meal scheme. Realizing this gap, the Odisha CM ensured their inclusion,” said Minister Gond.
Key Features of the Program:
🔹 Millet Ladoos: Nutrient-dense finger millet ladoos will be distributed three times a week to boost student health, especially in rural and tribal areas.
🔹 Mid-Day Meal Expansion: Previously limited to younger students, the program now includes Classes 9 and 10, ensuring all schoolchildren receive nutritious meals.
🔹 Impact & Beneficiaries: Around 10.8 lakh students across the state will benefit from this initiative, positively influencing both health and academic performance.
Minister Gond emphasized the government’s dedication to improving child nutrition and education, hoping the scheme would enhance student concentration, well-being, and learning outcomes.
The initiative also promotes traditional, locally sourced foods like millet, reinforcing Odisha’s commitment to sustainable and healthy school diets.
