The Indian Government’s Mid-Day Meal Scheme (now called the PM POSHAN Abhiyaan) is a transformative initiative that combines the power of education and nutrition to make a lasting impact on the lives of millions of children in India. Recognising the critical link between adequate nutrition and effective learning, the scheme aims to provide wholesome and nutritious meals to schoolchildren, thereby addressing the dual challenges of hunger and education. With a mission to ensure that no child is deprived of education due to hunger, The Akshaya Patra Foundation, an NGO in India, ensures effective implementation of the government scheme, emerging as a beacon of hope, nourishing minds and nurturing futures through the transformative power of mid-day meals.
The power of a mid-day meal
Improved attendance: Mid-day meals (MDM) ensure improved attendance and participation. Hunger often deters children from attending school regularly, hindering their educational progress. By offering meals at school, MDM incentivises students to attend classes regularly and ensures they have the energy to focus on their studies. When children are well-fed, they are more likely to engage actively in the learning process, leading to improved academic performance.
According to the Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) 2018, the scheme increased overall enrolment by 5% and reduced dropouts by 20%. Furthermore, ASER data from 2019 indicates that 95% of enrolled children in government schools availed of the mid-day meal, contributing to improved attendance rates.
Enhanced well-being: By providing balanced meals, Akshaya Patra helps combat malnutrition and enhance the overall health of children. Healthy children are more resilient, have a lower risk of illness and are better equipped to participate actively in their education. By nourishing young minds, food for education programmes empower children to reach their full potential and cultivate a lifelong love for learning.
Reducing financial burden: By serving mid-day meals (MDM), Akshaya Patra alleviates the financial burden on families to provide meals for their children; this incentivises families to send their children to school every day. The improved health and educational outcomes of children lay the foundation for sustainable development, empowering communities and paving the way for a more inclusive society. By enabling them through meals for education, the NGO unlocks doors to endless opportunities.
Overcoming gender barriers: In many parts of India, girls face cultural and socio-economic barriers to accessing education. By providing nutritious meals at school, the PM POSHAN Scheme helps break down these barriers and encourages parents to send their daughters to school. The provision of meals not only incentivises regular attendance but also assures parents that their daughters will receive proper nourishment, addressing concerns about their well-being.
A study by the World Food Programme (WFP) found that every $1 invested in school meals can yield a return of $3-$10 in economic returns through increased productivity and reduced healthcare costs.
Providing mid-day meals has revolutionised the intersection of education and nutrition in India. Through their unwavering commitment, expansive reach and nutritious meal offerings, Akshaya Patra along with the support from its donors and the government, has transformed the lives of millions of children. By ensuring that children receive regular meals at school, the scheme not only addresses hunger but also paves the way for improved attendance, enhanced educational outcomes and the holistic development of young minds.
By:
Arya Nair
Mohit Sharma
Harshal Singh
