In an attempt to provide nutritious food to students in the state-run schools, the state government has announced an increase in the amount for mid-day meals served to children in primary schools. The revised rates will be applicable with effect from April 1, 2023.
According to the Mid-Day Meal Authority, the cost of cooked meals served to children in primary schools has been increased to Rs 5.45 per student per day from the earlier Rs 4.97.
Similarly, for upper primary schools, the cost has been increased to Rs 8.17 per student per day from Rs 7.45 per student.
Thus, the revised rates are 48 paise more per student per day for primary students and 72 paise more per student per day for juniors.
All the district magistrates have been informed about the revised rates by the authority.
“On the face of it, the increase looks marginal but when it is looked at in totality, it is enough to add some nutritious grain to the meal,†a senior official of the Basic Shiksha Parishad said here on Tuesday.
However, there is uncertainty in some districts regarding the date of implementation of the new rates as they have raised concerns about the order issued by the Basic Shiksha Adhikari and are seeking clarification on the same.
Director of School Education Vijay Kiran Anand said that a meeting with the government would be held soon regarding the revised rates, and a decision would be taken.
It is noteworthy that the department is also planning to include more grains to the mid-day meal scheme, and a decision on this is expected to be taken soon.
“This move by the Uttar Pradesh government is expected to benefit millions of children who depend on mid-day meals as a primary source of nutrition. The revised rates are aimed at ensuring that quality meals are provided to children and that they receive adequate nutrition to help them grow and learn,†Anand said.
