Odisha Launches ‘Healthy Diet Campaign’ to Curb Obesity Among Rural Women

Concerned over the growing incidence of obesity among women in rural areas, the Odisha government, in collaboration with UNICEF, on Thursday launched a statewide ‘Healthy Diet Campaign’. The initiative will be rolled out across more than 74,000 anganwadi centres.

The campaign was formally unveiled by Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida, who also heads the Women and Child Development (WCD) department.

Speaking at the launch, Parida stressed the urgent need for awareness around food habits in villages. “Obesity among village women is a matter of concern. I have urged all to use homemade food and avoid junk food. Our traditional diets, with items such as mandia (millet), local greens and clean drinking water, provide the nutrition women need,” she said.

The campaign will focus on spreading awareness among rural women about healthy eating practices, with special emphasis on replacing packaged and fried foods with nutritious, locally available alternatives.

Officials said that frontline workers at anganwadi centres will be trained to guide women and families about balanced meals, portion control, and the importance of physical activity. The campaign also aims to revive interest in Odisha’s traditional foods, known for their health benefits.

UNICEF representatives lauded the state’s efforts, noting that poor dietary choices are increasingly affecting rural communities, leading not only to obesity but also to long-term health risks such as diabetes and hypertension.

The ‘Healthy Diet Campaign’ is part of the government’s broader strategy to promote women’s health, child nutrition, and food security across Odisha.