Bhubaneswar, June 19: A National Policy Formulation Programme under the Indradhanu enriched food initiative was held in Keonjhar district with the aim of eliminating malnutrition among Scheduled Tribe children. The programme focuses on enhancing nutritional security through tuber-based food solutions tailored to tribal needs.
The event was jointly organized by the Central Tuber Crops Research Institute (CTCRI), Regional Centre Bhubaneswar, along with, NIGER Bhubaneswar, Kendujhar Forest Department, and the District Mineral Foundation (DMF) Keonjhar.
Sanjay Kumar Talukdar, Chief General Manager of NABARD, graced the event as the Chief Guest and praised the initiative for its targeted approach toward improving child health in tribal regions.
Dr. D.G. Baiju, Director of CTCRI Thiruvananthapuram, highlighted that the programme is a strategic step to tackle malnutrition in tribal-dominated blocks like Banspal, Telkoi, and Harichandanpur. He added that special focus will be placed on communities inhabited by the Juang tribe, and plans are underway to establish a Techno-Incubation Centre (TIC) in Keonjhar to facilitate this mission.
Dr. P. Shivakumar, Chief Scientist at CTCRI, spoke about the nutritional and economic benefits of cultivating and consuming tuber crops, emphasizing their role in the sustenance of tribal populations.
Saumendra Narayan Panigrahi, Deputy Director of the Horticulture Department, and Govind Chandra Meher, Assistant Director, stressed the importance of promoting Indradhanu-enriched foods to improve the nutritional status of tribal children.
The programme witnessed active participation from self-help group members, local farmers, Anganwadi workers, and representatives from various voluntary organizations across the district.
On the occasion, the CTCRI Chief Director urged all stakeholders—including farmers, field workers, and government officials—to contribute meaningfully to the success of the initiative aimed at eradicating child malnutrition.
Dr M Nedunchezhiyan, Odisha Head of CTCRI, assured full technical support and collaboration for effective on-ground implementation.
The event was successfully coordinated by Dr. Sushant Kumar Jata, a scientist from CTCRI.
