TV
In a significant move aimed at ensuring food security and nutritional support to the middle-income and economically vulnerable sections, the Odisha government has announced the opening of Jan Poshan Kendras in every panchayat across the state.
These centres will function as community nutrition hubs and will provide essential food items such as rice, wheat flour (atta), sugar, salt, and pulses at subsidised rates, comparable to the existing public distribution system, informed Food Supplies Minister Krushna Patra.
Objectives of Jan Poshan Kendras
The objective is to make essential food items affordable and accessible to a wider population segment that is often left out of regular welfare schemes.
As part of a pilot project, the Odisha government plans to open five Jan Poshan Kendras initially, which will help assess operational challenges and gauge public response. Once evaluated, the model will be reportedly expanded to all panchayats, said Patra.
What makes this initiative unique is its intent to include the middle-income population—a group that does not fall under traditional poverty-linked subsidies but still faces financial strain due to rising food prices. To ensure transparency and targeted benefits, the government is in the process of finalising eligibility criteria, and relevant guidelines are being prepared by the concerned department, informed the Minister.
Current Stats of Beneficiaries Covered Under NFSA
Currently, over 3.26 crore beneficiaries are covered under the National Food Security Act (NFSA) in Odisha. With the proposed expansion through Jan Poshan Kendras, an additional 50 lakh beneficiaries—particularly from the middle class—are expected to be brought under the ambit of food security.
This initiative, once fully implemented, is expected to play a pivotal role in enhancing nutritional outcomes, reducing food insecurity, and bridging the gap between government support and actual public need.
