Strengthening Child Nutrition in Odisha: Annapoorna Trust Team Visits Naktideul, Sambalpur
As part of its continued efforts to improve nutrition among children, Sri Sathya Sai Annapoorna Trust undertook a field visit to Anganwadi Centres and Primary Schools across Naktideul Block in Sambalpur District, Odisha, during August 2026.
The visit was an opportunity for the team to engage directly with children, teachers, Anganwadi workers and caregivers, understand their experiences, and gather valuable feedback on the Morning Nutrition Programme.
The visiting team comprised Sai Bhashkara, Manager – CSR & Operations; Ramesh, Manager – Government Alliances & CSR Operations; and Pratap Pradhan, Executive – Operations.
Positive Response at Anganwadi Centres
At the Anganwadi Centres, the team interacted with children and caregivers and observed the children enjoying the SaiSure Malt Multi Nutrient Health Mix provided through the nutrition programme.
The team received encouraging feedback from teachers and caregivers regarding the acceptance of the fortified health mix among children.
During the interaction, Ms. Rebati Behera, CDPO, ICDS Department, Naktideul Block, shared valuable observations on the nutritional progress of children.
According to her, several children have shown improvement, with some progressing from the Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) category to Moderate Acute Malnutrition (MAM), and subsequently towards normal nutritional status, with the support of SaiSure Malt Multi Nutrient Health Mix along with other nutrition initiatives implemented by the Government of Odisha.
Recognising the importance of continued nutrition support, she expressed her interest in seeing the programme extended to more Anganwadi Centres across Sambalpur District.
Children Enjoying SaiSure Millet Health Mix in Primary Schools
The team also visited Primary Schools where children are receiving the SaiSure Millet (Ragi) Multi Nutrient Health Mix as part of the Morning Nutrition Programme.
The response from the children was highly encouraging. The children have readily accepted the nutritious drink and were seen enjoying it during the school visits.
Teachers at the Primary Schools expressed their appreciation for the fortified health mix and conveyed their gratitude for the Morning Nutrition Programme. Their feedback highlighted the value of providing children with nutritious support at the beginning of the school day.
Nutrition Awareness Alongside Food Support
The field visit was not limited to distribution of the health mix. The team also interacted with teachers and caregivers to explain the importance of fortified nutrition and its role in the healthy growth and development of children.
Such awareness is an important part of the Trust’s broader approach to addressing childhood malnutrition — combining regular nutrition support with awareness and community engagement.
Encouraging Support from the Block Administration
The team also met Mr. Akash Sahoo, BDO, Naktideul, and discussed the implementation and progress of the Morning Nutrition Programme in the block.
He expressed his appreciation for the initiative and encouraged the team to explore opportunities to increase the number of schools and children covered under the programme. He also expressed interest in extending the benefits of the programme to High School students in the coming days.
The encouragement from the Block Administration, along with the positive feedback received from teachers, caregivers and children, provides valuable momentum for strengthening the programme further.
A Step Towards a Healthier Future
The Naktideul visit reaffirmed the importance of collaborative efforts between government departments, schools, communities and organisations committed to child welfare.
The positive acceptance of both SaiSure Malt Multi Nutrient Health Mix at Anganwadi Centres and SaiSure Millet (Ragi) Multi Nutrient Health Mix at Primary Schools demonstrates how simple, consistent nutrition support can contribute to the well-being of growing children.
For Annapoorna Trust, every cup of nutritious health mix represents more than food. It represents an opportunity to support a child’s health, growth, learning and future.
The experiences from Naktideul have strengthened the Trust’s resolve to reach more children and expand the programme wherever the need exists.
Nourishing Children. Nurturing the Nation.
Through the Morning Nutrition Programme, Sri Sathya Sai Annapoorna Trust continues its journey of serving children with love, care and selfless service — working towards a future where every child can begin the school day nourished, healthy and ready to learn.
