The Business Bytes
New Delhi, September 27, 2024 (TBB Bureau): In a significant step towards promoting holistic nutrition for children, Project Nand Ghar, under the Anil Agarwal Foundation, has launched a program to distribute millet protein shakes across Nand Ghars in states where Vedanta operates. Throughout September, over 50,000 millet shakes will be distributed to approximately 6,000 children across multiple districts in Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand.
This initiative underscores the importance of millets in the daily diet of children and the wider community. By introducing such nutrition-focused programs, Nand Ghar is aligning with the government’s vision of a healthier and more nourished India.
Priya Agarwal Hebbar, Chairperson of Hindustan Zinc Ltd. and Non-Executive Director at Vedanta, commented, “Following the success of the multi-millet nutri bar we launched last year to combat malnutrition in children, we are excited to celebrate Poshan Maah with the introduction of a nutritious millet shake at our Nand Ghars. Child nutrition is a priority at Nand Ghar, especially through our ‘Khaana Khaaya Kya’ movement, which aims to create a world where every child is healthy and well-nourished. The new millet shake is another step in this direction, reinforcing our commitment to ensuring that no child goes to bed hungry.”
The millet protein shake, known for its high nutritional value, is being manufactured by Millet Bowl, a startup. Patented and FSSAI certified, the product is rich in 23 essential vitamins and minerals, low in calories, and features plant-based protein. It includes Ragi, Bajra, Foxtail, and Kodu millets and is prepared as a dairy-free, easy-to-consume liquid shake. Ingredients such as purified water, jaggery, multi-millet flour, plant protein isolates, cocoa powder, coconut milk powder, and vegan stabilizers contribute to its nutritional profile. With a shelf life of six months, the product ensures long-lasting nutritional support, and Nand Ghar children will enjoy it in chocolate flavor.
Shashi Arora, CEO of Nand Ghar, said, “At Nand Ghar, we are dedicated to nurturing India’s future by addressing the critical issue of childhood malnutrition. By distributing millet shakes across our centers during Poshan Maah, we are providing children with a nutrient-rich, traditional superfood. This initiative stems from the #KhaanaKhaayaKya movement, which has been a massive success and aims to enhance child nutrition. By leveraging contributions and a dual-channel approach, we seek to maximize our reach and foster collaborative efforts to improve child nutrition sustainably.”
The program is being implemented in collaboration with Vedanta business units such as ESL Steel Ltd, BALCO, and Vedanta Aluminium, which will distribute millet shakes in their operational districts—Lanjigarh and Jharsuguda in Odisha; Korba in Chhattisgarh; and Bokaro in Jharkhand.
Sunil Gupta, COO of Vedanta Aluminium, shared, “We are immensely proud to be part of this transformative initiative by Nand Ghar. Ensuring the well-being and nutrition of children is a cause close to our hearts, and distributing millet shakes is a testament to our commitment to fostering a healthier future for the next generation.”
This intervention underscores the Foundation’s unwavering dedication to community welfare and child nutrition, ensuring that children attending Nand Ghar receive the nourishment they need. In addition to the millet shake, Nand Ghar facilitates nutritious meals and take-home rations for children, as well as pregnant and lactating women, to promote their holistic growth and development.
