Controversy Over Revised Mid-Day Meal Menu in Gujarat Schools

The Congress has criticized Gujarat's new mid-day meal menu, arguing that it cuts out evening snacks for students, potentially raising malnutrition rates. The state government defends the change, asserting that there is no reduction in the overall quantity or calories served to students under the Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman (PM-POSHAN) Scheme.

The Congress has raised concerns over Gujarat's BJP government's new mid-day meal menu, claiming it eliminates evening snacks for students in government and granted schools. According to the opposition, this change could increase malnutrition among children.

State officials defend the revised menu, which includes dishes like vegetable pulav and cooked pulses for a single afternoon meal. They insist there is no reduction in the quantity or calories provided under the Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman (PM-POSHAN) Scheme.

The Gujarat Education Department's recent notification mandates the revised meal plan starting September. Critics argue that while the menu offers nutritious food, the removal of snacks at 4 pm will affect students' nutrition levels negatively. Government representatives maintain that the combined meal at 2 pm now serves the same quantity as before.

(With inputs from agencies.)