In a significant step towards combating malnutrition among tribal children, a pioneering Artificial Intelligence-based machine has been implemented at Todsa Ashram School in Etapalli, Gadchiroli. This innovative technology aims to revolutionize the nutrition levels of students by using AI algorithms to assess the quality of the food provided. The Maharashtra government, in collaboration with an NGO and Udyog Yantra start-up, has initiated a pilot project to address malnutrition issues prevalent in tribal-dominated areas.

Despite claims of providing nutritious food in government-run ashram schools, malnutrition persists among children in tribal regions. To bridge this gap, the state government decided to leverage modern technology to ensure the distribution of quality, nutritious meals to students. The unique AI-based machine, installed in Todsa Ashram School, has been trained using local data to analyze the food quality and quantity specific to the tribal area.

How the AI Machine Works: Every day, students at Todsa Ashram School present their food plates to the AI machine, which, within seconds, captures an image. The machine, using artificial intelligence algorithms, then identifies the student, checks if the food is sufficient, and assesses its overall quality. If the same plate is repeatedly presented, the machine alerts the authorities. The entire process is executed without human intervention, ensuring efficiency and accuracy.

Initiation of the Pilot Project: The campaign, initiated as a pilot project, operates in collaboration with the Integrated Tribal Development Project of the Government of Maharashtra. The AI machine is a result of the collaboration between an NGO and the Udyog Yantra start-up. The objective is to test the effectiveness of the technology in Todsa Ashram School before expanding its implementation to other ashram schools.

Success and Impact: Shubham Gupta, the Assistant Collector of Etapalli and Project Director of the Integrated Tribal Development Project highlighted the positive outcomes of the pilot project. Recognizing a nutritional imbalance among girls at the ashram school, BMI analysis revealed that 61 out of 222 girls suffered from malnourishment. The AI machine, through continuous assessment and improvement, has contributed to enhancing the quality of food and overall nutritional intake. The success of the pilot project has paved the way for the expansion of this innovative solution to other ashram schools.

The Role of Artificial Intelligence: The AI machine's algorithms play a crucial role in evaluating the nutritional aspects of the student’s meals. By utilizing AI, the machine not only identifies malnourished individuals but also facilitates continuous monitoring and improvement in the quality of food. The real-time analysis provided by the machine enables prompt interventions to address malnutrition issues effectively.

Future Implementation: Based on the achievements and positive impact observed in the pilot project, the Maharashtra government plans to extend the installation of AI machines to other ashram schools. This proactive approach aligns with the government's commitment to eradicating malnutrition among tribal children by integrating technological solutions into the education and nutrition system.


The introduction of an AI-based machine at Todsa Ashram School signifies a paradigm shift in addressing malnutrition challenges in tribal education. This innovative approach not only leverages modern technology but also ensures the well-being of students through real-time assessments of food quality. As Maharashtra sets an example with this pilot project, the integration of artificial intelligence in nutritional initiatives could potentially transform the landscape of child health and education in tribal regions across the country