‘Pay us the wages we were promised’: 1.12L MDM cooks continue their protest for second day in Bhubaneswar

Midday meal cooks continued their protest at Lower PMG in Bhubaneswar for the second consecutive day on Monday, renewing their demand for a seven-point package that addresses long-standing issues related to pay and service conditions.

The protesting workers said that although they have been an essential part of the State’s mid-day meal (MDM) scheme for nearly three decades, an initiative crucial for improving both nutrition and school attendance, they continue to be overlooked and underpaid.

Their foremost demand is a substantial increase in their monthly remuneration—from the existing Rs 3,000 to Rs 13,860. The cooks also requested that the government issue formal appointment letters and identity cards to all cooks and helpers, which they believe will legitimise their employment and strengthen job security.

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Irregular payment of wages remains another major concern. The workers urged the authorities to ensure that their salaries are disbursed on time every month. A memorandum detailing these demands has already been submitted to the Chief Minister, seeking immediate action.

Earlier this year, on January 21, 2025, the Chief Minister’s Office announced a revision of the monthly honorarium for MDM cooks-cum-helpers (Pachakas/Pachikas) under the Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman Yojana, raising their pay to Rs 3,000. The decision benefited around 1.12 lakh cooks across the State and added an annual financial burden of more than Rs 112 crore to the government.

These workers play an essential role in the PM Poshan programme, preparing and serving nutritious meals to around 42.45 lakh children enrolled in 50,618 primary and upper primary schools across Odisha. Their daily efforts ensure that students from Class 1 to Class 8 receive reliable mid-day meals, supporting both health and regular school attendance.