The Evolution of the Mid-Day Meal Scheme to PM Poshan: A Comprehensive Guide
The Mid-Day Meal Scheme was a transformative initiative in India, aimed at enhancing the nutrition and enrollment rates of children in government schools. Over the years, it has undergone significant changes, eventually evolving into the Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman Yojana (PM Poshan Abhiyaan).
Understanding the Mid-Day Meal Scheme
The Mid-Day Meal Scheme was first introduced in 1995 but didn’t gain nationwide implementation until 2001. This timeline was driven by an order from the Supreme Court of India. The primary objective of the scheme was to boost school enrollment, especially among undernourished children, and improve their nutritional status. Initially, the scheme covered primary and upper primary school children in both government and government-aided schools.
PM Poshan Abhiyaan: A New Chapter in Nutrition
The Cabinet reshaped the Mid-Day Meal Scheme into PM Poshan Abhiyaan on September 29, 2021. This reshaped initiative seeks to cover 24 lakh additional children from the age group 5-6 years, known as Balvatikas, through Balvatika centers. PM Poshan focuses on delivering not just nutritious meals but also monitoring the nutritional health of the children, including Body Mass Index (BMI), weight, and hemoglobin levels.
Key Innovations in PM Poshan Abhiyaan
PM Poshan represents a major leap forward in the fight against malnutrition. Some of the key innovations include:
Nutritional Monitoring and Expert Support
A trained nutritional expert will be appointed in every school to monitor and address the nutritional levels of students. This will ensure that urgent dietary needs are met promptly, such as providing nutritional items for children with high levels of anemia.
Enhanced Campus Gardens
Nutrition gardens will be established in school campuses to provide children with fresh, locally sourced produce, addressing micronutrient deficiencies. This initiative underscores the importance of locally available ingredients in promoting healthy eating habits.
Promoting Ethnic Cuisine and Local Produce
To encourage healthy eating habits, cooking competitions will be organized at all levels, fostering a spirit of innovation and inclusiveness in the schools. These competitions will celebrate ethnic cuisine and local ingredients, making meals more appealing and enriching the culinary diversity.
Community Collaboration
The scheme involves Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) and Women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in implementation to ensure that the nutritional support reaches every child effectively. FPOs can provide fresh produce, while SHGs can offer locally relevant culinary skills and knowledge.
Increased Transparency and Accountability
Social audits will become mandatory for every school to ensure the proper implementation of the PM Poshan scheme. University and college students will monitor the scheme via field visits, providing an additional layer of scrutiny and support.
NGOs in School Nutrition Programs: A Case Study with Akshaya Patra Foundation
While PM Poshan Abhiyaan is a national initiative, many NGOs have played a crucial role in boosting school nutrition programs. One such exemplary organization is the Akshaya Patra Foundation, which serves over 1.8 million children daily with locally palatable meals. As the world’s largest NGO-run school lunch program, Akshaya Patra serves freshly cooked, nutritious mid-day meals in 63 locations across 19039 schools in 14 states and 2 union territories.
Accreditation and Impact
Akshaya Patra is registered as a not-for-profit organization under the Indian Trusts Act 1882 (Reg. No. 154) and Section 12A of the Income Tax Act 1961. The Foundation is committed to transparency, accountability, and sustainable practices, ensuring that every meal reaches the children in need.
How to Contribute
If you are looking to make a difference in the lives of children through school nutrition programs, consider supporting Akshaya Patra or initiating your own charity. Every contribution, large or small, can make a significant impact. Donate online to help bring these nutritious meals to children every day and create a lasting difference in their lives.