There have been recent reports of malnutrition in tribal areas in Odisha and Maharashtra. In Maharashtra, the problem has been reported in Palghar District and also in residential schools for tribal children in the State. In Odisha, the problem has been reported in Jajpur and Malkangiri Districts.
Public health is a State subject and Government of India provides funds and technical support to States to address the health needs. Taking cognizance of media reports, Ministry of Tribal Affairs has advised the Tribal Development Departments of Governments of Maharashtra and Odisha to address the problem of malnutrition promptly.
All the States have also been advised for use of traditional food, and minor millets in the food basket, through intervention in schools and also for supplementing food with iron and folic acid. Funds are also provided to States, as Special Central Assistants to Tribal Sub-Plan (SCA to TSP) and grants under Article (275(1)) of the Constitution of India, for addressing health needs of Tribals.
This Ministry had revised Guidelines for Special Central Assistance to Tribal Sub-Plan (SCA to TSP) and Grants under Article (275(1) of the Constitution of India in June 2016, to provide for 10-15% of allocation under health sector.
This information was given by Union Minister of State for Tribal Affairs Shri Jaswantsinh Bhabhor in a written reply in Rajya Sabha today.
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