Keonjhar, July 2: The Keonjhar District administration with the support of District Mineral Foundation (DMF) has introduced Ragi Laddus as morning snacks for pre-school children (between 3 to 6 years) enrolled under ICDS.

As per the initiative, two Ragi Laddus per week will be provided as a morning snack to pre-school children (between 3 to 6 years) enrolled under (Integrated Child Development Services) ICDS in Keonjhar district, over and above the existing menu, from the 2nd of July 2020.

The core objectives of the initiative are to improve the nutritional status of pre-school children and revive the age-old tradition of millet consumption, once prevalent among the tribal communities of Keonjhar. Ragi has over 30 times more Calcium and 4 times more Iron than polished rice. It also has more fibre, minerals and antioxidants.

Ragi Laddus will be prepared and served to children at Anganwadi Centres, in addition to the existing menu on Wednesdays and Saturdays. The entitlement per child is 2 laddus of 20gms per week. As the COVID protocols are currently in place, pre-cooked, Ragi Laddu Mix will be provided via home delivery for pre-school children. Laddus will be prepared at home by mothers and served to children until the Anganwadi Centres are opened post-COVID.