Bhubaneswar, Oct 13: State-level ‘World Egg Day' has been observed by Fisheries and Animal Resources Development Department at Convention Centre, Lokaseva Bhawan, Bhubaneswar today.
It is celebrated on the second Friday of October every year. World Egg Day is celebrated to make people aware of the nutritional value and benefits of eggs and to increase egg production worldwide. This year 'World Egg Day' has been celebrated in the state with the theme 'Eggs for a Healthy Future' as laid by International Egg Commission.
Ranendra Pratap Swain, Minister, Agriculture & FE, Fisheries and Animal Resources Development attended the state level function as the chief guest and said that the State Government has implemented several programs to increase egg production along with the development of poultry farming in the state. Incentives are being provided to the entrepreneurs of the state in order to set up layer poultry farms through Mukhyamantri Krushi Udyog Yojana. To increase production of eggs, subsidy is being provided to farmers for setting up layer farms of one thousand birds capacity. The state government is providing cent per cent assistance for backyard poultry and duck rearing. Farmers and entrepreneurs of our state should take advantage of this.
Swain further said that egg is a complete food. It has many beneficial properties. Eggs are rich in a variety of nutrients including lutein, xanthine, choline, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, amino acids, vitamin B-12 and folic acid. The nutrients in eggs help children grow. The rich amount of lutein and xanthine found in eggs keeps the eyes healthy and improves eyesight. Choline is a key nutrient for cell and brain growth. One egg contains around 100 micrograms of choline. Omega-3 fatty acids also contribute to early brain development. The 9 amino acids found in eggs help promote healthy hair and nail growth. Vitamin B-12 and folic acid prevent neurological problems.
Eggs are an excellent food for preventing malnutrition and obesity. Egg is the only food that is rich in vitamin D. Eggs should be consumed regularly for good health. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research, a healthy person should consume an average of 180 eggs per year i.e. one egg every two days or half egg per day.
