Bhubaneswar, June 2 -- In a major step towards combating malnutrition among children, the Odisha government has announced an increase in financial assistance for the breakfast of underweight children across the state. The move is aimed at strengthening nutritional support and improving the health outcomes of vulnerable children.

Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida announced that the breakfast expenditure for underweight children has been increased from Rs 8 to Rs 12 per day. In addition, children will continue to receive Rs 6 under the Mukhyamantri Sampoorna Pushti Yojana, taking the total daily nutritional support to Rs 18 per child.

The announcement was made as part of the state government's ongoing efforts to address malnutrition an...