Shimla: The state government has approved an amendment in Mukhya Mantri Bal Paushtik Aahaar Yojna to provide supplementary nutritional items (top-up) twice a week along with the Mid-Day Meal to the students from Nursery to Class VIII. The initiative aims to further strengthen the nutritional support provided to school children and promote their health and well-being.
Under the initiative, students will be provided a boiled egg or fresh fruit, preferably banana or apple, twice a week, preferably on Wednesday and Friday, according to the choice of students or their guardians. Earlier, these items were served once a week. The Mid-Day Meal Teacher-in-Charge, with the assistance of Cook-cum-Helpers, will ensure implementation at the school level.
The required budget will be allocated to Block Elementary Education Officers (BEEOs) through the treasury route on the basis of student enrolment. The BEEOs will release funds to schools under their jurisdiction according to the number of students and the prescribed per-child rate on a quarterly basis.
Strict attention will be given to food safety and hygiene. Eggs and fruits must be fresh, clean, safe and of good quality and stored in hygienic conditions. Fruits will be properly cleaned and eggs properly boiled before distribution.
