The Kerala High Court has demanded comprehensive details from the state government regarding the implementation of the Mid-Day Meal Scheme in schools. This directive came in response to concerns raised about the financial and operational burdens placed on school headmasters due to delays in funding and inadequate support from the government.
Key Issues Addressed:
- Financial Burden on Schools:
- The High Court noted that headmasters of government-run schools have been bearing the financial burden of providing mid-day meals due to delayed funds from both the Union and state governments. This situation led an organization of teachers to file a plea seeking the court’s intervention.
- Funding Challenges:
- The court highlighted that the funds provided, which are currently ₹8 per child for meals excluding rice, are insufficient to cover the costs of cooking and other necessary items like milk and eggs. The state government has acknowledged these financial constraints and has promised to distribute ₹81 crore to address the arrears.
- Proposal for Better Nutrition:
- The Kerala government is considering a proposal to include seasonal fruits like mangoes, guavas, and gooseberries in the mid-day meal menu to enhance the nutritional value provided to students. This initiative aims to ensure that students receive more comprehensive nourishment.
- Court’s Directive:
- Justice TR Ravi of the Kerala High Court has directed the state government to provide a detailed explanation and action plan on how it intends to address these issues and ensure the effective implementation of the scheme without overburdening the school staff.
Future Hearings:
The case is scheduled for further hearings, where the state government is expected to submit detailed reports and plans to improve the scheme’s implementation. The court’s intervention highlights the importance of maintaining a robust support system for school meal programs to ensure that all children receive their entitled nutrition without placing undue stress on school administrators.