Improving Household Dietary Diversity of rural and tribal people though promotion of Nutrition Gardens in Koraput district of Odisha

Location: Boipariguda Block of Koraput district, Odisha

Project period: July 2021 to December 2024.

Funder: Department of Agriculture & Farmers Empowerment, Govt. of Odisha under RKVY scheme. 

Project Overview: 

The project titled “Improving Household Dietary Diversity of Rural and Tribal People through Promotion of Nutrition Gardens” is being implemented in Boipariguda Block of Koraput district, Odisha, under the RKVY-RAFTAAR scheme. It is led by the Directorate of Horticulture, Government of Odisha, and implemented by the M. S. Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF). The project aims to promote the cultivation and consumption of nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables by establishing Nutrition Gardens in 2,000 households over a period of four years (2020-21 to 2023-24). This initiative addresses the issue of micronutrient malnutrition by ensuring year-round availability and access to fresh, diverse, and locally grown produce.

The project not only focuses on garden establishment but also emphasizes nutrition awareness and education at the household, community, and institutional levels. Special attention is given to vulnerable groups, such as women of reproductive age and young children, as they are most affected by poor dietary diversity. Households with limited resources and space are supported through vertical and space-saving gardening techniques, enabling them to grow essential crops even in small areas. Additionally, schools and Anganwadi Centres are encouraged to establish institutional Nutrition Gardens to promote healthy eating habits among children.

Expected outcomes include improved knowledge and practices on nutrition-sensitive horticulture, increased consumption of vegetables and fruits, and better health and nutrition status in the community. Surplus produce, if any, can also provide supplementary income for participating families. By integrating nutrition with horticulture, the project aims to create a sustainable model that enhances food security, dietary diversity, and community well-being in the tribal regions of Koraput.