From Tradition to Nutrition: Nand Ghar sparks a superfood revival with millet shakes

Since 2018, September has been observed as Poshan Maah (Nutrition Month) in India. The entire month is dedicated to nutrition sensitisation activities and taking action against malnutrition, especially among children and women. Aligning with this mission, this year for Poshan Maah 2024, Project Nand Ghar, an initiative of the Anil Agarwal Foundation (AAF), the social impact arm of the Vedanta Group, kicked off a unique initiative to promote holistic nutrition for children. Throughout September, Nand Ghar distributed over 50,000 protein-packed millet shakes to approximately 6,000 children in centres in various districts across Odisha, Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand. In Jharsuguda, Odisha, alone, over 17,500 units of millet protein shakes were handed over to the District Social Welfare Department.

Millets, often called as "nutri-cereals," have been a staple in the Indian diet for centuries. Rich in protein, fibre, antioxidants and micronutrients, millets are versatile superfoods that have sustained generations, providing essential nutrients while being gentle on the planet. Apart from offering high nutritional value, they are also environmentally sustainable, requiring minimal water and input to cultivate. Recognising their potential, the Government of India advocated for 2023 to be declared as the ‘International Year of Millets’ by the United Nations. As the world moves towards sustainable and nutritious food sources, millets are finally being recognized as essential in addressing health and environmental challenges. Nand Ghar’s latest initiative is specifically aimed at reintroducing this traditional superfood into the everyday diets of children and communities at large.

The new protein-dense millet shake is a milestone in child nutrition. This pioneering product is manufactured by Millet Bowl, a startup supported by Vedanta Spark, a unique global corporate innovation, accelerator, and ventures program by Vedanta Limited. The program aims to empower startups to create large-scale impact by leveraging sustainable and transformative technologies. Patented and FSSAI certified, the millet shake contains 23 essential vitamins and minerals and is crafted from a blend of ragi, bajra, foxtail and kodu millets. It is also dairy-free and enriched with plant-based proteins, making it both nutritious and accessible to children with dietary restrictions. With a six-month shelf life, the millet shakes are also a convenient and sustainable way to support children’s health.

AAF has been working towards advancing the vision of a healthy and nourished India, in alignment with the government’s efforts through Nand Ghar’s nutrition-centric programs for several years now. In 2023, AAF introduced the multi-millet nutri bar to combat child malnutrition—the initiative was hugely successful. Earlier this year, Nand Ghar launched the #KhaanaKhaayaKya movement, which focuses on addressing childhood malnutrition through nutritional supplements and educational campaigns. The millet shake distribution initiative is a continuation of this movement and a part of Nand Ghar’s broader mission to enhance child and community welfare.

Apart from distributing millet shakes, Nand Ghar facilitates nutritious meals and take-home rations for children, as well as for pregnant and lactating women, ensuring their holistic growth and development. With over 6,500 centers across 14 states, Nand Ghar is transforming the lives of more than 2.6 lakh children and 1.9 lakh women in the country. The distribution of millet shakes during Poshan Maah is a testament to Nand Ghar’s steadfast commitment to offering up a healthier future for India’s children. And by blending tradition with innovation, Nand Ghar is not just feeding young minds but also sowing the seeds for a well-nourished, thriving nation.