Launch of SaiSure Millet (Ragi) Multi Nutrient Health Mix in Pune, Maharashtra
On 19th December 2023, the Morning Nutrition program was launched in the Pune district in Maharashtra. This launch was preceded by two other launches in the same month in the Kolhapur and Sindhudurg districts on 13th & 18th Dec in the state of Maharashtra.
About 2,000 government school-going children will receive Fortified Ragi drink with Jaggery. Ragi, also known as Finger Millet, is packed with essential nutrients like iron, calcium, proteins, and vitamins. It is known to help in the development of healthy bones and teeth in children due to its high calcium content. Also, the high fibre content helps in efficient digestion, and the iron content is essential for healthy blood. Rich in antioxidants, it prevents infections, and being abundant in proteins, it makes the children feel relaxed and restores their energy levels. Hence, it is known as an immune-boosting superfood and a powerhouse of nutrition.
Current reach in Maharashtra with regards to Morning Nutrition Intervention by Annapoorna Trust in Government schools is:
| District | No of students | No of schools |
| Kolhapur | 2000 | 21 |
| Sindhudurg | 1200 | 20 |
| Pune | 2000 | 2 |
| Akola | 450 | 7 |
| Solapur | 546 | 3 |
| Total | 6196 | 53 |
The launch event was attended by MDM State-in-charge – Mr. Sambaji Pawar and local Sarpanch – Ms. Rohini Kardile of Karegoan and Education Officer in Pune – Mr. Prashanth Jadhav. At the gathering, Mr. Sambaji Pawar was appreciative of Mr. Santosh Allath – National Manager of Annapoorna Trust, for following through for over a year to get the Morning Nutrition program launched in the Pune district. He requested the HMs and the teachers at all schools to take a keen interest in serving all the children equally with an attitude of genuine care. He requested Annapoorna Trust for the expansion of the Morning Nutrition program to nearby villages as well. He closed his remarks by showing his sincere gratitude to Annapoorna Trust.
Mr. Prashanth Jadhav – Education Officer in Pune spoke to the people at the gathering about how a month prior, few Annapoorna Trust officials had come and briefed about the project. He expressed his thanks to the Trust for having taken an interest in serving the needy children.
A wholesome diet is the key to a child’s healthy growth and development. By consuming nutritious food, we are laying the foundation for a fit lifestyle.
