Rayagada: The Odisha government's decision to increase free rice distribution from 5 kg to 10 kg per beneficiary under the Annapurna Yojana is expected to strengthen food security for thousands of families in Rayagada district. However, health experts have warned that while the scheme may address hunger, it does little to tackle the growing nutritional crisis in the tribal-dominated district.

According to reports, a large section of Rayagada's population now depends heavily on free rice. While the rice ensures that families do not go hungry, it fails to provide essential nutrients such as protein, iron, calcium and vitamins required for a healthy diet. As a result, concerns are growing over increasing malnutrition and related health problems among tribal communities.

Observers estimate that more than 50 per cent of residents survive primarily on rice with salt and chillies. The absence of nutritious food items in their daily meals has contributed to declining health standards, particularly among women and children.

A report by a voluntary organisation had earlier indicated that more than half of the district's women and children suffer from anaemia. The problem may worsen further following the government's recent decision to discontinue the mixing of fortified rice with free rice supplied through the public distribution system. Fortified rice was believed to provide additional iron, folic acid and B-complex vitamins, helping address nutritional deficiencies.

The district administration has stated that 8,00,525 beneficiaries belonging to 2,56,998 families will receive benefits under the Annapurna Yojana. Nearly 82.7 per cent of Rayagada's population is covered under the National Food Security Act and receives food security benefits.

Despite this extensive coverage, concerns remain that food security alone cannot guarantee nutritional security. With limited employment opportunities, many tribal families reportedly sell the vegetables and leafy greens they cultivate to earn income, leaving little for household consumption. Consequently, they are unable to access adequate quantities of nutritious food.

Nutrition experts fear that unless balanced diets and nutrient-rich foods are promoted alongside food security programmes, Rayagada could face a growing burden of malnutrition, anaemia and other health-related challenges in the coming years.