Kerala plans to extend its mid-day meal program to include students in Classes 9 through 12. State General Education Minister N Samsudheen announced the proposal on Wednesday. The state government formally submitted this plan to the Central Government last month in Delhi. If approved, the PM POSHAN scheme will cover these older students in government and government-aided schools.
PM POSHAN Expansion Proposal
Currently, the PM POSHAN scheme provides free lunches to students from Classes 1 to 8. The expanded program would benefit students up to the Plus Two level. This initiative aims to ensure continued nutritional support for a larger student population.
Onam Festival Support
Minister Samsudheen made the announcement during a special festival program at Pattom Government Girls Higher Secondary School. He emphasized that access to food is a fundamental right. The government is committed to protecting this right for all citizens.
Holiday Rice Distribution
Food and Civil Supplies Minister Anoop Jacob also attended the event. He detailed plans to distribute free rice to students for the Onam festival. Approximately 23.5 lakh students in government and aided schools will receive four kilograms of rice each. This distribution involves the General Education Department and Supplyco, with about 905 metric tonnes of rice allocated.
Affordable Food Prices
The state government is taking steps to keep food prices stable during the Onam festival. The Civil Supplies, Consumer Affairs, and Agriculture departments are working together. They aim to prevent price hikes in the open market.
Onam Kits for Families
The government is nearing completion of 'Onam kits' distribution. These kits are for families in the Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) group. The kits contain essential items for the festival.
Contents of Onam Kits
- Tea
- Pulses
- Payasam ingredients
- Coconut oil
- Cashew nuts
- Salt
- Spices
- Reusable cloth bag
This comprehensive effort demonstrates Kerala's commitment to student and family welfare, especially during its key festival. The focus remains on ensuring food accessibility for all.
