As many as 114 and over 80 Cluster Resource Centre Coordinators (CRCCs) of Koraput and Bolangir districts respectively have been replaced by the School and Mass Education department on charges of irregularities in MDM scheme. Similarly, the Data Entry Operators under the scheme at block levels in both districts have also been disengaged.
In a letter marked to the District Education Officers (DEOs), the State Nodal Officer of PM POSHAN directed them to change/replace the CRCCs of their districts and disengage the Data Entry Operators of MDM scheme at block level.
“The new list of CRCCs may be finalised immediately and sent for approval of the SPD, OSEPA. Similarly, the Outsourcing Agencies who have engaged your Data Entry Operator (MDM) are to be asked to replace them at once,” the letter stated.
Informing about the action, School and Mass Education Minister Samir Ranjan Dash said, “Direction has been issued for appointment of new CRCCs. This apart, the Data Entry Operators working in blocks have also been disengaged.”
“Since the matter is coming under the Supplies department, a letter will be written to the department’s Principal Secretary who will order a probe and take action against those who will be found guilty in the investigation,” Dash said.
OTV had telecast news on how hundreds of kilograms of rice meant for MDM scheme worth lakhs of rupees were embezzled at various schools in Koraput and Bolangir districts, serving a necessary wake up call to the School and Mass Education department.