Context: Centre to pay more for PM-POSHAN scheme in schools

Source: The Hindu

In light of the inflation rate, the cost of materials for preparing hot meals in schools under the PM-POSHAN program has increased by 9.5%, adding Rs. 954 crore to the exchequer’s expenses in the fiscal year 2025–2026.

Beginning on May 1, the cost of materials for students in Bal Vatikas and primary schools will increase from Rs. 6.19 to Rs. 6.78, while in upper primary schools, it will increase from Rs. 9.29 to Rs. 10.17.

Though some States/UTs have been contributing more than their minimum mandatory share from their own resources to provide meals with augmented nutrition under the PM-POSHAN Scheme, these material cost rates are the minimum required rates; states/UTs are free to contribute more than their prescribed share.

On all school days, 11.2 crore pupils in Bal Vatikas and Class 1–8 students in 10.36 lakh government and aided schools receive a single hot meal under the centrally sponsored program. The program’s objectives are to improve students’ school involvement and offer nutritional support.

Through the Food Corporation of India, the Center also supplies over 26 lakh tonnes of food grains. It covers the entire cost of food grains, including a yearly subsidy of almost Rs. 9,000 crore, as well as the entire cost of transportation from the FCI depot to the schools.

Model Question:

Discuss the significance of the PM POSHAN scheme in achieving the objectives of the National Education Policy and nutritional security. Also examine the challenges in its implementation and suggest measures to improve its efficacy.

Model Answer:

The PM POSHAN Scheme (launched in 2021), an upgraded version of the Mid-Day Meal (MDM) Scheme, aims to provide nutritious meals to school children studying in Classes I to VIII in government and government-aided schools. It is a centrally sponsored scheme under the Ministry of Education.

Significance of PM POSHAN:

1. Nutritional Security: Tackles child malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies. Supports goals of POSHAN Abhiyaan and National Nutrition Strategy.
2. Educational Outcomes: Increases school enrolment, attendance, and retention, especially among girls and disadvantaged sections. Enhances learning outcomes by reducing hunger in classrooms.
3. NEP 2020 Alignment: Promotes holistic development and equitable access to education. Encourages early childhood care (e.g., hot meals in pre-primary sections in aspirational districts).
4. Social Equity and Inclusion: Acts as a tool for socialization among castes, promoting equality. Provides employment to women (especially from SC/ST communities) as cooks and helpers.

Challenges in Implementation:

1. Irregularities in fund flow and delays in meal preparation.
2. Poor infrastructure (kitchens, storage, hygiene).
3. Reports of caste-based discrimination in serving food.
4. Quality concerns: low calorific value or food contamination in some states.
5. Monitoring issues and lack of community participation.

Way Forward:

1. Decentralized procurement and local sourcing to ensure freshness and reduce costs.
2. Leverage technology (e.g., mobile-based monitoring) to track attendance and meal quality.
3. Ensure nutritional diversification (e.g., inclusion of millets, eggs).
4. Strengthen community and Panchayat participation.
5. Regular capacity-building for staff and local audits.

PM POSHAN is a crucial link between nutrition and education. With targeted reforms and robust implementation, it can become a model for inclusive and holistic child development, directly aiding India’s journey toward achieving SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 4 (Quality Education).