Over 9,700 Community Meals Organized, Benefiting 1.83 Lakh Children Under Vision of CM Vishnu Deo Sai
Published on: March 22, 2026
By: BTNI
Location: Raipur, India
A unique community-driven initiative, the ‘Nyota Bhoj’ programme being implemented at Anganwadi centres across Chhattisgarh, is emerging as a powerful model for improving child nutrition, education, and public participation. Launched in line with the vision of Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, the programme has witnessed widespread public engagement from various sections of society.
According to official data, between January and February 2026, a total of 9,763 ‘Nyota Bhoj’ events were organized statewide, benefiting as many as 1,83,927 children. The figures underline the growing success and acceptance of the initiative as a grassroots-level intervention in tackling malnutrition and enhancing community involvement.
District-wise data reveals that Bilaspur recorded the highest number of events, with 884 programmes benefiting 18,703 children. This was followed by Korba, where 720 events reached 13,944 children, and Raigarh, which hosted 690 events benefiting 9,835 children. In Kanker, 636 events served 7,915 children.
Similarly, Dhamtari organized 606 events benefiting 11,228 children, while Mahasamund recorded 415 events for 7,302 children. In Janjgir-Champa, 439 programmes were conducted, reaching 10,518 children.
Under the initiative, citizens, public representatives, donors, and parents actively participate by sharing meals with children at Anganwadi centres on special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, and family celebrations. This not only ensures access to additional nutritious food for children but also fosters a sense of responsibility and emotional connection within the community.
Officials from the Women and Child Development Department noted that most children attending Anganwadi centres belong to rural and economically weaker sections. In such a scenario, programmes like ‘Nyota Bhoj’ play a crucial role in supporting their physical and cognitive development.
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Beyond addressing malnutrition, the initiative has also increased the attractiveness of Anganwadi centres among children and their parents, thereby strengthening early childhood education and care systems.
The state government has appealed to citizens to actively participate in the programme by celebrating their personal milestones with Anganwadi children, further reinforcing this inclusive and socially impactful movement.
