Odisha govt to extend mid-day meals up to Class 10: CM

In a move aimed at boosting education and nutrition, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced an extension of the mid-day meal (MDM) scheme to students in Classes 9 and 10, on Tuesday.

This announcement was made during a recent event in Cuttack. Until now, the scheme only catered to students up to Class 8.

Also Read: With no funds, MDM scheme running on credit in Odisha schools!

Worth mentioning, the government increased the material costs for midday meals in primary and upper primary schools under the PM Poshan scheme, on November 30 last year.

As per a notification from the Department of School & Mass Education to District Collectors, the material cost for midday meals for primary students reading in Class I to V was increased from Rs 5.90 to Rs 7.64. Similarly, the same for upper primary students studying in Class VI to VIII was hiked from Rs 8.82 to Rs 10.94.

Must Read: Odisha increases material costs for midday meals

Notably, this policy extension is part of Odisha's broader initiative to enhance educational infrastructure and ensure student well-being. By expanding the provision of meals, the government seeks to improve school attendance and fulfil the nutritional needs of older students.

The decision reflects a steadfast commitment to ensuring that no student is deprived of a nutritious meal during school hours due to financial constraints.