A high level policy level discussion took place between Government of Odisha and CFNS on July 15, 2017 on addressing malnutrition and micronutrient deficiency in Odisha which was also joined by the Joint Secretary, Women & Child Development, Government of India. The meeting was chaired by the Chief Secretary, Government of Odisha. Other dignitaries present in the meeting include Development Commissioner-cum-Additional Chief Secretary, Planning & Convergence Department, Secretary, H&FW, Agriculture and Farmer’s Empowerment, WCD, Food Supplies and Consumer Affairs, Director – Social Welfare, Mission Director- NRHM, Director – Health, Deputy Secretary – WCD and Mission Shakti. Governing Board Chair Mr A R Nanda, Board Member, Dr R C Panda and Chief Executive Officer, Mr Basanta Kumar Kar represented in the meeting on behalf of the Coalition.

Discussion highlights: –

Strategic Partnership MoU between The Coalition for Food and Nutrition Security and the Government of Odisha

Coalition will work with the Planning and Convergence Department Government of Odisha on SDG and WHA targets and accountability

Coalition will play the role of an aggregator of knowledge

State government is keen to work with the Coalition on nutrition focused agriculture and interested to collaborate on millet, climate smart agriculture etc.

Coalition as public interest and public purpose oriented organisation was positioned as a trusted partner of choice by the Joint Secretary, W&CD in the meeting, association of which will add value to the efforts of the state government.