Odisha’s Nutrient‑Enriched Rice Cafeteria Gains Positive Acknowledgment of Health Minister
19 January 2026, Odisha: Minister of Health & Family Welfare, IT, and Assembly Affairs, Dr. Mukesh Mahaling, visited the Rice Varietal Cafeteria in Odisha, expressing strong appreciation for the initiative promoting healthier rice varieties enriched with zinc, protein, and low Glycemic Index (GI). This initiative is a part of a state-funded project, “Promotion, Scaling and Market Positioning of Speciality Rice in Odisha”.
The rice varietal cafeteria serves as a platform for farmers and stakeholders to observe, assess, and select rice varieties that best suit their needs. Different varieties are planted side by side, allowing on-the-spot comparative evaluation of adaptability, yield potential, and stress tolerance in a controlled environment.
The cafeteria was established by the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) with support from the Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Empowerment (DAF&E), Government of Odisha, and Puintala Farmers Producer Company (FPC) Ltd. The FPC has played a crucial role in creating the cafeteria to raise awareness, share knowledge, and facilitate the dissemination of promising specialty rice varieties.
The trialed varieties aim to improve both consumer health and farmers’ incomes. Dr. Mahaling highlighted that “proper nutrition lies at the root of building a healthy society,” noting the importance of micronutrient-enriched rice in combating malnutrition and improving overall well-being in Odisha.
The Minister commended IRRI and the state government’s proactive efforts in making healthier rice options accessible to both farmers and consumers. High-zinc rice varieties provide essential micronutrients such as zinc, which is critical for immune function, child growth, and overall health. Low-GI rice varieties are particularly beneficial for regulating blood sugar levels, supporting people at risk of diabetes and other non-communicable diseases.
Dr. Mahaling also recognized the efforts of farmers and Puintala FPC in processing varieties like BRRI Dhan 69, Telangana Sona, and Zinco Rice MS into table rice and poha. He further extended his appreciation to officials, scientists, and field staff for their commitment to advancing scientific agriculture and improving farmer welfare.
The Minister was accompanied by Principal RITE-cum-ADO Patnagarh, Sri Sudhakar Nanda; DPD ATMA, Smt. Sunanda Sahoo; and ADA, BAO Smt. Sasmita Jena.
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