Context:
- The Education Ministry has announced a 9.5% increase in the material cost for cooking hot meals under the PM-POSHAN (formerly Mid-Day Meal) Scheme, effective May 1, 2025.
- The hike aligns with the inflation index and results in an additional financial burden of ₹954 crore for FY 2025-26.
Revised Daily Meal Costs per Student
- Bal Vatikas and Primary Schools: ₹6.78 (up from ₹6.19)
- Upper Primary Schools: ₹10.17 (up from ₹9.29)
- These are minimum mandatory rates; States and Union Territories are free to contribute additional funds for enhanced nutrition.
Nutritional Allocation Per Student
- Bal Vatikas & Primary: 20 gm pulses, 50 gm vegetables, 5 gm oil
- Upper Primary: 30 gm pulses, 75 gm vegetables, 7.5 gm oil
Coverage and Objectives
- The scheme benefits 11.2 crore students across 10.36 lakh government and aided schools, including Bal Vatikas and Classes 1–8.
- Aims to:
- Improve nutritional status of children
- Encourage school attendance
- Support educational outcomes through health and nutrition
Government Support and Full Cost Breakdown
- The Centre provides ~26 lakh tonnes of foodgrains via the Food Corporation of India (FCI).
- The central government bears:
- 100% cost of foodgrains
- 100% transportation cost from FCI depots to schools
- Annual foodgrain subsidy: ₹9,000 crore
- Total cost per meal (including all components):
- ₹12.13 for Bal Vatikas and primary classes
- ₹17.62 for upper primary classes
