Will the Rising Cost of Eggs Impact Mid-Day Meals in Bengal Schools?
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Synopsis
The rising cost of eggs in West Bengal could disrupt mid-day meals in government schools. Anganwadi workers are advocating for higher government allocations to meet these challenges. As the price of eggs continues to rise, parents and caregivers are growing increasingly concerned about the nutritional quality of meals provided to children.
Key Takeaways
- Mid-day meals in West Bengal schools may lack eggs due to price hikes.
- The government allocation for eggs is insufficient at six and a half rupees.
- Retail prices have increased to Rs 8 per egg.
- Anganwadi workers are advocating for higher allocations.
- Parents are expressing concerns over the absence of eggs in meals.
Kolkata, Dec 4 (NationPress) Mid-day meals in government schools of West Bengal might face shortages of eggs due to escalating prices, according to Anganwadi workers.
The government's allocation for each egg is merely six and a half rupees, while the retail price has surged to Rs 8, making it increasingly challenging to include eggs in the meals provided at Anganwadi centres.
This situation has prompted Anganwadi workers and helpers to advocate for an increase in the government allocation for eggs.
Members of the Independent Anganwadi Workers and Helpers Association have approached officials at the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) office in Mal Bazar, Jalpaiguri district, requesting that the price of eggs be adjusted to reflect the current market value.
They have also called for an enhancement in allocations aimed at the nutritional development of mothers.
Nabanita Majumder, representing the organization, stated on Thursday, "Given that the market price of an egg is Rs 8, the government's allocation of six and a half rupees is insufficient. If egg prices continue to rise, how will we procure eggs for Mid-Day Meals? I have brought this to the attention of the officials."
Majumder emphasized that if the allocation remains unchanged, it will be difficult to include eggs in the mid-day meals.
"Parents are voicing their concerns regarding the absence of eggs at Anganwadi centres. Anganwadi workers and helpers are encountering significant challenges," Majumder added.
Regarding the deputation, ICDS Mal Bazar Block Officer Sayak Das informed reporters, "The market price of eggs has risen. The issue has been reported to higher authorities. A request for increased allocations has been made, and it will be escalated again."
Point of View
It's evident that the ongoing rise in egg prices poses a significant challenge to the nutritional value of mid-day meals in West Bengal's schools. This situation underscores the need for timely government intervention to ensure that children receive adequate nutrition. The voices of Anganwadi workers and concerned parents must be prioritized, highlighting an urgent need for policies that adapt to market changes and support our children's health.
NationPress
04/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current price of eggs in the market?
The current retail price of eggs has reached Rs 8.
What is the government's allocation for eggs?
The government allocates only six and a half rupees for each egg.
Why are Anganwadi workers concerned?
Anganwadi workers are concerned about the rising prices making it difficult to provide eggs in mid-day meals.
What have Anganwadi workers requested?
They have requested an increase in government allocation for eggs and nutritional support for mothers.
Who is addressing this issue?
Nabanita Majumder and members of the Independent Anganwadi Workers and Helpers Association are raising this issue.
