Vedanta’s Nand Ghar to distribute ‘Shishu Sanjeevani’ nutrition supplement to 1 lakh children across seven states

THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

BHUBANESWAR, OCTOBER 13, 2025

In a major step towards promoting holistic child nutrition, Vedanta’s flagship social impact initiative, Nand Ghar, in collaboration with the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) Foundation for Nutrition, has announced the distribution of 1,00,000 units of Shishu Sanjeevani — a fortified nutrition supplement for children aged 3 to 6 years — across seven states during POSHAN Maah 2025.

With a robust network of over 9,400 modernised anganwadis in 15 states, Nand Ghar continues to transform the lives of women and children through interventions in nutrition, education, healthcare, and women’s empowerment. This year’s initiative holds added significance as it coincides with 50 years of the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS), India’s pioneering child welfare programme — reinforcing a shared mission to ensure every child receives a healthy and equitable start in life.

Celebrated annually under Mission Poshan 2.0, POSHAN Maah is the Government of India’s flagship campaign to improve nutritional outcomes among children, pregnant women, and lactating mothers. The 2025 theme, “Poshan se Pragati” (Progress through Nutrition), underscores the vital role of nutrition in building a stronger, healthier India. Aligning with this vision, Nand Ghar has strengthened its outreach across Rajasthan, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Daman & Diu, and Uttar Pradesh, ensuring every child under its care receives wholesome, nutrient-rich food.

Shishu Sanjeevani, developed by NDDB, is a nutrient-dense, ready-to-eat halwa formulated for children aged 3 to 6 years. Each 40g serving offers around 200 kcal of energy and fulfils nearly one-sixth of a child’s daily nutritional requirement. Made with **Bengal gram, ghee, milk solids, soy, groundnut, and sesame, and fortified with essential vitamins and minerals as per ICMR–NIN guidelines, it is designed to support healthy growth and cognitive development.

Priya Agarwal Hebbar, Chairperson, Hindustan Zinc Limited and Non-Executive Director, Vedanta Limited, said, “At Vedanta, we believe true nation-building begins with the well-being of our children. Through Nand Ghar, we are committed to ensuring every child has access to proper nutrition and early childhood care. Our partnership with NDDB for *Shishu Sanjeevani* reflects our belief in collaboration as a catalyst for impact. A well-nourished child today will build a stronger, more confident, and truly Viksit Bharat tomorrow.”

Shashi Arora, CEO, Nand Ghar, added, “The 50th year of ICDS marks a milestone in India’s journey of nurturing its youngest citizens. Through Shishu Sanjeevani and technology-driven nutrition monitoring, we reaffirm our commitment to building a well-nourished generation that will drive India’s progress towards Viksit Bharat 2047.”

Dr. Meenesh Shah, Chairman & Managing Director, NDDB, said, “NDDB is leveraging its expertise in nutrition and food science to strengthen India’s fight against malnutrition. Shishu Sanjeevani is a scientifically designed, energy-rich supplement tailored for growing children. Our partnership with Nand Ghar will help deliver vital nourishment to the last mile, paving the way for a healthier, more resilient India.”

At the heart of Nand Ghar’s nutrition mission lies a three-pronged approach — direct nutrition support through fortified foods, community empowerment via awareness and counselling, and the use of technology and partnerships for sustainable, scalable solutions. Reaching over 3.6 lakh children daily across the country, Nand Ghar blends traditional nutrition wisdom with modern interventions — addressing both immediate dietary needs and long-term health resilience. This initiative embodies India’s collective vision for a Viksit Bharat — where every child has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to a healthier, prosperous nation.