Odisha to Launch ‘Poshan Kendras’ to Provide Essential Commodities at Subsidised Rates

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government is set to introduce ‘Poshan Kendras’ across the state, modeled after a similar initiative in Gujarat, to provide essential commodities at subsidised rates to economically weaker sections and middle-class families.

Announcing the plan on Sunday, Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra stated that these centres will offer staples like rice, pulses, flour, and cooking oil at reduced prices. The subsidies will be jointly provided by the Centre and the state government to ensure affordability.

As part of a pilot project, the government will initially establish 35 ‘Poshan Kendras’ before expanding the initiative to all panchayats based on its success. To ensure effective implementation, a team of officials will visit Gujarat to study the operational framework of its model.

The initiative aims to provide relief to families struggling with rising costs of essential goods, reinforcing the government’s commitment to food security and welfare.