Introduction
In a significant move to enhance the nutritional intake and educational outcomes of students, the Odisha government has announced the extension of the mid-day meal scheme to include Class 9 and 10 students. This decision, announced by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi during the centenary celebrations of Ranihat High School in Cuttack, aims to support the nutritional needs of students and reduce dropout rates at the secondary level.
The Importance of Mid-Day Meals
The mid-day meal scheme has been a cornerstone of India's efforts to improve the nutritional status of school children and encourage school attendance. Initially launched in July 1995, the scheme provided cooked meals to primary school students in government and government-aided schools. Over the years, the scheme has been expanded to include upper primary students, and now, with this latest extension, it will benefit students in Class 9 and 10 as well.
Addressing Nutritional Needs
The extension of the mid-day meal scheme to Class 9 and 10 students is expected to benefit around 8 lakh students across the state. The meals provided under this scheme are designed to meet the nutritional requirements of growing adolescents, ensuring they receive adequate vitamins, minerals, and proteins. The inclusion of 200 ml of milk enriched with Vitamin A and D in the mid-day meal is a significant step towards improving the overall nutritional intake of students.
Reducing Dropout Rates
One of the primary objectives of the mid-day meal scheme is to reduce dropout rates by providing students with a nutritious meal during school hours. By extending the scheme to Class 9 and 10 students, the Odisha government aims to address the issue of school dropouts at the secondary level. The provision of mid-day meals acts as an incentive for students to continue their education, thereby improving retention rates and academic performance.
Supporting Student Welfare
In addition to the mid-day meal scheme, the Odisha government has introduced the 'Sahid Madho Singh Hata Kharcha Yojana' to provide pocket expenditure to students. This initiative aims to further reduce financial constraints and support students in continuing their education. The state government is committed to strengthening the school education system and ensuring that students have access to the necessary resources for their academic success.
Conclusion
The extension of the mid-day meal scheme to Class 9 and 10 students is a commendable step by the Odisha government to improve the nutritional intake and educational outcomes of students. By addressing the nutritional needs and reducing dropout rates, this initiative will have a positive impact on the overall well-being and academic performance of students. As the state government continues to prioritize student welfare, the future of education in Odisha looks promising.
