‘Nutrition Man’ Basanta Kumar Kar gets 'Pravasi Odia Samman'

Basanta Kumar Kar, fondly known as “Nutrition Man”, has been honoured with the coveted “Pravasi Odia Samman” - the highest award of the ‘Pravasi Odia Vikash Samiti'. It is awarded in recognition of the outstanding contribution of highest order in the social development sector (nutrition).

The awardee was selected through a rigorous process by an eminent jury headed by Arijit Pasayat, former Supreme Court judge. Kar was recognised as a great leader for his exemplary contribution in the nutrition sector. Minister of State for External Affairs and Culture Meenakshi Lekhi conferred the award.

“It’s with profound humility, and a lot of optimism, I accept this honour and thank PRAVASI ODIA VIKASH SAMITI and eminent jury members and jury Chair. This award is a true recognition to the nutrition sector and nutrition warriors at the grassroots who are fighting this monster together. Malnutrition is a silent pandemic and it is emergent to remove all its avatars to build a fair and prosperous society. A Nourished Odisha is bound to realise its Vision - 2036” said Kar, who hails from a small village in Kendrapara district (Odisha) and has seen poverty and malnutrition from a close quarter.

An acclaimed global leader, Kar has won numerous accolades through his work on good nutrition and sustainable development. His passion for improving the lives of others, specifically women and children, is highly commendable. He is known for advancing the rights of women and children and organising collaboration; even across national borders.

"Basanta is the most deserving leader for this coveted 'Pravasi Odia Samman'. He has been championing the cause of nutrition for a better world," says Surya Narayan Mishra, President, PRAVASI ODIA VIKASH SAMITI.