Cargill and HarvestPlus Solutions join hands in Maharashtra
Pune: In a recent collaboration, Cargill and HarvestPlus have joined hands on a project to address micronutrient deficiencies and promote nutrition literacy across Maharashtra. The project, led by HarvestPlus and HarvestPlus Solutions, aims to empower rural communities by improving access to nutritious food and raise awareness about healthy eating through ‘Nutri Pathshala’.
Nutri Pathshala is a home-grown nutritious school meal initiative by HarvestPlus Solutions that connects small farmers growing biofortified crops with school feeding programmes across India. By providing small farmers with high-quality iron-enriched pearl millet and zinc-enriched wheat seeds as well as training in sustainable agricultural practices, the initiative ensures naturally nutritious biofortified food for children in Pune, Nashik and Nandurbar districts of Maharashtra. At the same time, it strengthens local agricultural economies and promotes sustainable food systems that benefit both farmers and future generations.
Speaking about the partnership, Simon George, President, Cargill India, said, “We are looking forward to working closely with HarvestPlus and HarvestPlus Solutions to help solve the critical issue of micronutrient deficiencies in India. This partnership reflects Cargill’s deep commitment to helping communities improve their nutritional levels by making biofortified crops rich in vital vitamins and minerals more accessible. By combining our agricultural expertise and global reach, we hope to make a real difference in the lives of millions, providing sustainable solutions to reduce micronutrient deficiencies and promote food security.” Ravinder Grover, Global Business Manager, HarvestPlus Solutions, said, “This partnership with Cargill is an important step towards making nutritious food accessible to all. By connecting small farmers to school feeding programs, we are creating a sustainable food system that nourishes both communities and future generations.” A key partner in this mission is Chef Sanjeev Kapoor, who as a champion of Nutri Pathshala is helping change people’s perceptions about healthy eating, ensuring that nutrition literacy becomes a part of everyday life.
