Vedanta Aluminium introduces Ayush Ministry’s ‘Swarna Prasan’ initiative in Odisha’s Kalahandi; to be extended to Rayagada, Koraput

Remaining committed to initiatives that positively impact the lives of the community as well as creating long-term health benefits for children and their families, India’s largest aluminium producer Vedanta Aluminium announced its partnership with the Ministry of Ayush’s “Swarna Prasan” initiative by reaching out to 500 students of Manikeshwari High School and Saraswati Shishu Mandir in Bhawanipatna, the district headquarters town of Kalahandi in Odisha.

Under the guidance of Government of Odisha, the Secretary of the Ministry of Ayush, and other government officials, Vedanta Aluminium is now supporting the programme in the Kalahandi district, while the company further plans to extend support to adjacent Rayagada and Koraput districts.

Speaking at the event, Dr Ayodhyanath Behera, District Assistant Medical Officer, emphasized, “Swarna Prasan is a time-tested Ayurvedic practice and its benefits in boosting immunity and cognitive function in children are well-documented. Vedanta Aluminium’s support in bringing such impactful health interventions to underserved regions is commendable.”

Sunil Gupta, COO – Vedanta Aluminium, said, “Through our collaboration with the Government of Odisha and the Ministry of Ayush, we aim to expand and strengthen existing government schemes for the holistic development of communities. The ‘Swarna Prasan’ programme reflects our dedication to improving child health while respecting community values.”

“At Vedanta Aluminium, we believe that investing in the well-being and development of children is crucial, and we are eager to witness the positive transformations this partnership will bring, shaping future generations and uplifting families across the region,” Gupta added.

Nitin Kumar Tiwari, COO – Bauxite Mines, Vedanta Aluminium, said, “Through our partnership with the Government of Odisha and the Ministry of Ayush, we aim to expand the Swarna Prasan programme to benefit 30,000 children, from infants to 16-year-olds, across Koraput, Kalahandi, and Rayagada within 2024. This initiative reflects our commitment to improving child health and supporting community development in the region.”

‘Swarna Prasan’, an ancient Ayurvedic practice, involves administering gold particles mixed with honey and ghee to children. This combination is believed to enhance memory, boost immunity, and improve overall health, ensuring holistic development during the critical growth phase.