By Mr. Ghanshyam Keseharvani, Deputy Director,
Raipur, March 1, 2024: In a bid to tackle malnutrition among school children, the Chhattisgarh government has launched the ‘Nyota Bhojan’ initiative, inspired by the state’s rich tradition of altruism and generosity. Spearheaded by Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai, the program aims to provide nutritious meals to students, with support from the local community.
Under the ‘Nyota Bhojan’ initiative, school children across Chhattisgarh will be served wholesome and appetizing meals in addition to their regular school lunches. This program, categorized into Full Meal, Partial Full Meal, and Additional Supplementary Nutrition, relies on contributions from affluent individuals and organizations within the community. The meals are tailored to regional food habits, ensuring that children receive a balanced diet comprising lentils, vegetables, rice, fruits, milk, sweets, and other nutritious items.
Deputy Chief Minister Shri Arun Sao and Health Minister Shri Shyam Bihari Jaiswal recently participated in a banquet organized for school children in Pendra, reaffirming the government’s commitment to the cause. Sitting alongside the children and serving them food with affection, the officials emphasized the importance of initiatives like ‘Nyota Bhojan’ in strengthening the mental and physical well-being of young learners.
Speaking at the event, Deputy Chief Minister Shri Arun Sao praised the nationwide banquet campaign initiated by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, highlighting its positive impact on children’s development. He underscored the significance of providing nutritious meals to students on special occasions, echoing Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai’s call for community participation in the program.
The ‘Nyota Bhojan’ initiative is not just about nourishing bodies but also nurturing a sense of community spirit and equality among students. With the School Development Committees overseeing its implementation and regular rotation of contributors, the program aims to ensure that every child receives the care and nutrition they deserve.
By combining the age-old tradition of giving with modern-day nutritional needs, Chhattisgarh is setting an example of compassion and solidarity in the fight against malnutrition among its youngest citizens.
