Bhubaneswar: The state-level observance of the 8th National Nutrition Month 2025 was held today at Lok Seva Bhawan, highlighting the importance of balanced nutrition, healthy habits, and lifestyle changes for a healthier and more self-reliant society. The event was organized by the Women and Child Development (W&CD) Department.
Speaking on the occasion, Shubha Sharma, Principal Secretary of the W&CD Department and chief guest of the event, emphasized that a balanced diet and good lifestyle choices not only ensure a healthy body but also inspire future generations. She noted that proper nutrition for women and children forms the foundation of a strong and developed nation.
Under the leadership of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, this year’s Nutrition Month aimed to turn community awareness into a mass movement. Field officers and Anganwadi workers were encouraged to promote nutrition awareness across the state. The month-long campaign focused on key themes such as reducing sugar and oil consumption to combat obesity, early childhood care, infant and child feeding practices, male participation in nutrition initiatives, digitization and coordinated efforts, and promotion of local produce to foster grassroots empowerment.
A total of 54,81,952 thematic awareness activities were conducted across Odisha—from Anganwadi centers to ICDS projects, districts, and the state level.
Under the guidance of Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida, the department implemented several digitization initiatives, including the issuance of APAAR IDs for securing children’s education data and ABHA IDs for protecting their medical information.
W&CD Department Director Monisha Banerjee stressed the importance of lifestyle changes through daily exercise, yoga, and nutritious diets, while Additional Secretary of the School and Mass Education Department Madhumita Rath highlighted nutrition efforts through the PM Poshan scheme, which now covers students from pre-school to Class 10.
