95 Quintals of Wheat Dumped into River in Bhadrak

95 Quintals of Wheat Dumped into River in Bhadrak

CNB WORLD TIMES

A large quantity of wheat meant for preparing nutritional food for children was allegedly dumped into the Mantei River in Odisha's Bhadrak district, raising serious questions about the implementation and monitoring of child nutrition programmes.

According to reports, around 95 quintals of wheat stored for the preparation of "Chhatua" were declared unfit for consumption after remaining unused for several months. The district administration later disposed of the damaged wheat by dumping it into the river near the sluice gate in Chandbali block.

The wheat was originally supplied for the preparation of Chhatua, a nutritious food mixture made from wheat, pulses and groundnuts, which is distributed to children through Anganwadi centres. The programme was launched to address malnutrition among rural children.

Sources said that Trinath Self Help Group (SHG), which was responsible for supplying Chhatua to more than 200 Anganwadi centres under Chandbali CDPO-II, had received nearly 200 quintals of wheat for the purpose. However, the wheat allegedly remained stored in the godown for over eight months without being processed.

Later, the SHG's agreement was reportedly cancelled. When officials inspected the stock, a portion of the wheat was found to be damaged. Usable wheat was reportedly transferred to another agency, while the remaining damaged stock was disposed of following a decision by the district administration.

Eyewitnesses claimed that nearly 200 bags of wheat were transported by tractors and dumped into the river in the presence of local officials, including the CDPO and Additional Tehsildar.

The incident has triggered public concern over the management of food grains intended for child welfare schemes. Questions are being raised about how such a large quantity of wheat remained unused for such a long period and whether proper monitoring and stock verification mechanisms were in place.

Local residents and activists have demanded a high-level inquiry into the matter. They have called for accountability from the officials and agencies responsible for the storage and supervision of the wheat stock. Concerns have also been expressed over the impact of such lapses on children who depend on nutritional support through Anganwadi centres.

The incident has highlighted the need for greater transparency, regular monitoring and strict action against negligence in welfare programmes aimed at improving child nutrition.