New Delhi [India], January 6 (ANI): Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal on Tuesday stressed that combating malnutrition is a shared national responsibility requiring participation from the government, corporates, communities, and individuals. Addressing a CSR Conclave on Nutrition organised by the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), Goyal said eliminating malnutrition is essential for building a Viksit Bharat and securing long-term social and economic growth.
Highlighting the role of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), the Minister noted that while the law mandates companies to spend 2 per cent of their net profits on CSR, this should be viewed as a minimum threshold, not a limitation. He described CSR as a valuable opportunity rather than a burden, allowing businesses to make meaningful contributions to society.
Goyal emphasised that malnutrition is a complex challenge that demands coordinated action. He outlined the programme as a strong example of inter-ministerial coordination, involving the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Department of Animal Husbandry and Fisheries, Ministry of Cooperation, Ministry of Panchayati Raj, and Ministry of Women and Child Development. “When the entire government moves together, programmes become more effective and impactful at the grassroots level,” he said.
The Minister noted NDDB’s role as an umbrella organisation facilitating collaboration between government and industry. He highlighted the Department of Animal Husbandry and Fisheries for ensuring access to nutritious foods such as milk and fish, while underscoring the Ministry of Women and Child Development’s work in addressing the root causes of malnutrition, particularly during pregnancy and early childhood.
Emphasising the importance of saturation, Goyal stated that initiatives must reach every village, household, and section of society. He praised the initiative’s model linking corporates, PSUs, and industry directly to nutrition outcomes, creating shared value for society and the economy.
Goyal also highlighted that addressing malnutrition benefits farmers by increasing income from fisheries and animal husbandry, and contributes to healthier, more productive citizens—the future workforce and consumers of India. He encouraged individuals to contribute personally, such as using milestones or celebrations to feed children in orphanages or patients in hospitals.
Concluding, the Minister reiterated the government’s openness to new ideas and constructive suggestions and expressed confidence that, with collective effort, innovation, and active societal participation, a malnutrition-free India is achievable.
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