How is the Mid-Day Meal Scheme Helping Poor Families?
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Synopsis
Discover how Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma is transforming education for underprivileged families through the Mid-Day Meal Scheme. With the introduction of free uniforms and school admissions, the initiative is reshaping the educational landscape in Assam, ensuring that children receive the nourishment they need to thrive.
Key Takeaways
- Mid-Day Meal Scheme significantly aids poor families.
- Free uniforms and admissions foster educational growth.
- Centralized kitchens are expanding across Assam.
- Nutrition is crucial for student success.
- Future plans include breakfast provisions for students.
Guwahati, Sep 4 (NationPress) Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma emphasized on Thursday that the Mid-Day meal scheme has significantly supported underprivileged families, while the state government has also launched initiatives for free uniforms and complimentary admissions. These efforts collectively contribute to fostering a robust educational atmosphere in Assam.
The Chief Minister noted that model schools in tea garden regions are receiving substantial attention from both parents and the community. Consequently, school enrollment rates in these areas have shown a consistent upward trend each year.
The Chief Minister laid the foundation stone and performed Bhumi Pujan for a centralized community kitchen at Durrung Tea Estate, located in Singrijan of Rongapara, Sonitpur district.
This facility, set to cover an area of 1,718 sq. meters, will feature staff quarters, a training center, a multipurpose hall, and utility and security blocks.
Sarma recounted his visit to the ISKCON temple in Bengaluru back in 2009 during his tenure as Education Minister, where he was profoundly impressed by the temple’s kitchen and food distribution system.
Motivated by this experience, he established the first centralized kitchen in the Jalukbari constituency in collaboration with the Akshaya Patra Foundation. For over a decade, this kitchen in Amingaon has been serving mid-day meals to 45,000 students and providing food for hospital attendants and patients.
Furthermore, CM Sarma highlighted that a centralized kitchen has already been implemented in Jorhat, catering to 20,000 students, while another kitchen is set to finish in Majuli by year’s end. Construction of additional kitchens has recently begun in Nalbari, Dibrugarh, and Lakhimpur.
The new kitchen at Rongapara will serve schools across the Tezpur, Rongapara, and Barchala constituencies, providing nearly 25,000 children with nutritious meals.
The Chief Minister announced that the state government will allocate Rs 25 crore for this project, while the Hare Krishna Movement will construct a temple on the premises.
Funding for the mid-day meal initiative will be shared, with 60 percent covered by the state government and 40 percent by the Akshaya Patra Foundation. According to him, students in tea garden regions will be among the primary beneficiaries.
Additionally, Sarma mentioned that the government is contemplating the introduction of breakfast provisions for students in tea garden areas, as many parents leave early for work. He emphasized that a proper breakfast would significantly aid children in studying in a more conducive environment.
Point of View
The Mid-Day Meal Scheme represents a crucial step towards social equity in education. The Assam government's proactive approach, particularly in tea garden areas, highlights the importance of addressing basic needs to enhance educational outcomes. As we monitor these developments, it's clear that such initiatives can serve as a model for other regions facing similar challenges.
NationPress
04/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Mid-Day Meal Scheme?
The Mid-Day Meal Scheme is a government initiative aimed at providing nutritious meals to school children, especially in underprivileged areas, to enhance their education and health.
How does the scheme benefit poor families?
It alleviates the financial burden on families by ensuring that their children receive at least one nutritious meal a day, promoting better health and educational performance.
What additional support does the Assam government provide?
In addition to meals, the Assam government provides free uniforms and admissions, further supporting families in need.
How many children benefit from the scheme in Assam?
Currently, around 25,000 children across several constituencies are expected to benefit from the new centralized kitchen initiative.
Is there a plan to provide breakfast as well?
Yes, the government is considering implementing breakfast for students in tea garden areas to ensure they start their day with the necessary nutrition.
