Karnataka Govt expands Mid-day meal nutrition: Eggs 6 days a week for school kids

In a significant move to combat child malnutrition and improve the nutritional value of mid-day meals, the Karnataka government has announced that eggs will now be distributed six days a week in government and aided schools across the state. This major policy shift, announced by the Department of School Education on Thursday, marks a big step from the previous schedule of providing eggs only twice a week.

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This initiative, aimed at reaching over 53 lakh students, will be implemented at an annual cost of Rs 1,500 crore. To ensure quality and efficient delivery, the government has partnered with the Azim Premji Foundation, which has been given the contract to oversee and manage the distribution process.

For students who do not consume eggs due to dietary preferences or religious beliefs, the government will provide bananas as a substitute on all six days, ensuring no child is left out of receiving supplementary nutrition.

The education department has laid down strict guidelines regarding the quality of eggs, each must weigh a minimum of 50 grams. Additionally, school heads have been instructed to invite at least 10 parents every week to participate in the midday meal program, with the objective of boosting transparency and trust in the system.

The Commissioner of School Education has issued immediate implementation orders, and the program is set to roll out across the state shortly.