In a significant move to improve the quality of mid-day meals provided to schoolchildren, the government has announced an increase in the ‘material cost’ under the Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman (PM POSHAN) Scheme. This enhancement aims to improve the nutritional value of meals and ensure that more children benefit from the scheme, which is designed to address hunger and malnutrition in schools.
Overview of the PM POSHAN Scheme
The PM POSHAN Scheme is a government initiative that provides free meals to students in government and government-aided schools. It plays a crucial role in promoting the health and education of children by ensuring they receive nutritious meals during school hours.
Impact of the Enhancement
The increase in the material cost will allow for the procurement of better-quality ingredients, enabling the preparation of more nutritious meals. This change is expected to have a significant impact, especially in rural and underserved areas, where access to nutritious food is often limited. The government’s commitment to improving the nutritional standards of the scheme is reflected in this enhancement.
Positive Outcomes for Students
This move is expected to positively affect millions of children across the country, particularly those in rural areas. By improving the nutritional quality of mid-day meals, the government aims to combat malnutrition and support the overall well-being of students. This, in turn, will help children focus better on their studies and contribute to their overall development.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What is the main purpose of the enhancement in the material cost under the PM POSHAN Scheme?
- A) To increase the number of schools participating in the scheme
- B) To improve the nutritional value of mid-day meals
- C) To reduce the number of meals provided
- D) To extend the scheme to private schools
- Which areas are expected to benefit the most from the increase in material cost under the PM POSHAN Scheme?
- A) Urban areas
- B) Rural and underserved areas
- C) Private schools
- D) International schools
- What is the primary goal of the PM POSHAN Scheme?
- A) To provide free meals to students in private schools
- B) To address hunger and malnutrition in schools
- C) To increase school attendance rates
- D) To provide employment opportunities for school staff
- How will the enhancement in material cost benefit the mid-day meals provided under the scheme?
- A) By reducing the number of meals served
- B) By allowing the procurement of better quality ingredients
- C) By increasing the cost of meals for students
- D) By limiting the availability of meals
- What is the expected outcome of improving the nutritional quality of mid-day meals for students?
- A) Students will have more free time
- B) Students will focus better on their studies and overall development
- C) Students will stop attending school
- D) Students will receive less food