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About Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman (PM POSHAN)
The Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman scheme, often referred to as PM POSHAN, is a revolutionary initiative by the Government of India. Previously known as the Mid-Day Meal Scheme, this program has been revamped to provide better nutrition and health support to school-going children across the country.
Launched with the vision of ensuring no child goes hungry, PM POSHAN aims to enhance education through proper nourishment, encouraging children to focus better in school while staying healthy. Let’s dive deeper into this impactful scheme, its benefits, and how it’s changing the landscape of school education.
What is PM POSHAN All About?
PM POSHAN is a centrally sponsored scheme that provides free, hot cooked meals to students studying in government and government-aided schools. The program focuses on children from Classes I to VIII and is designed to:
- Improve nutritional health and well-being.
- Increase school enrollment and attendance.
- Reduce malnutrition and hunger among young learners.
By feeding children nutritious meals, the program creates a solid foundation for their growth, learning, and development.
Why is PM POSHAN Important?
Think of it this way: a child with an empty stomach cannot focus in class. The PM POSHAN scheme solves this challenge by:
- Offering children balanced meals during school hours.
- Providing essential calories and nutrients to aid physical and mental development.
- Encouraging families to send children to school regularly.
More than just a meal, this initiative is a stepping stone to breaking the cycle of poverty and illiteracy.
Nutritional Breakdown: What’s on the Plate?
PM POSHAN ensures that meals are not only tasty but also nutritionally balanced. Here’s a look at the daily food allocation per child:
Primary Students (Classes I-V):
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 12 grams
- Food Grains: 100 grams
- Pulses: 20 grams
- Vegetables: 50 grams
- Oil & Fats: 5 grams
Upper Primary Students (Classes VI-VIII):
- Calories: 700 kcal
- Protein: 20 grams
- Food Grains: 150 grams
- Pulses: 30 grams
- Vegetables: 75 grams
- Oil & Fats: 7.5 grams
The meals are carefully planned to ensure children get enough energy and nutrients for their daily activities. Recent updates have also introduced fortified rice and millets into the meals to combat micronutrient deficiencies.
How PM POSHAN is Implemented
The PM POSHAN scheme operates through a decentralized system where state governments, local authorities, and school administrations play key roles. Here’s how it works:
- Central Government Funding: The government allocates funds for meal preparation, transportation, and monitoring.
- Local Preparation: Meals are cooked either on school premises or delivered from central kitchens.
- Quality Checks: Regular inspections ensure food is safe, nutritious, and of good quality.
To maintain transparency and efficiency, the government has introduced an Automated Monitoring System (AMS). Schools report daily meal data, ensuring accountability at all levels.
Impact of PM POSHAN
The impact of PM POSHAN speaks volumes:
- Better Attendance: Children come to school regularly, knowing they’ll get a proper meal.
- Improved Health: Cases of malnutrition and stunted growth have declined significantly.
- Enhanced Learning: Well-fed students show better focus and participation in class.
- Social Equality: The program promotes unity, as children from diverse backgrounds share meals together.
The scheme also empowers women and local communities by involving them in meal preparation, creating employment opportunities in villages and towns.
PM POSHAN in Assam: A Local Perspective
In Assam, the PM POSHAN scheme has been implemented successfully across thousands of government schools. As of 2024, the program has reached over 35 lakh students in the state, ensuring they receive nutritious meals every day.
The Assam government actively monitors the program’s implementation through regular checks and reports, making sure no child is left behind.
Future Developments: What’s New in PM POSHAN?
The government continues to enhance PM POSHAN by:
- Introducing fortified foods like iron-rich rice.
- Adding millets to meals for better nutrition.
- Using technology to improve meal tracking and reduce leakages.
In 2024, the scheme is expected to expand further, covering even more schools and students across India.
Conclusion
The Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman (PM POSHAN) scheme is more than just a meal program—it’s a lifeline for millions of children. By tackling hunger and malnutrition, the initiative paves the way for a brighter, healthier future for India’s young generation.
PM POSHAN is not just feeding children; it’s nourishing dreams, promoting education, and creating opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is PM POSHAN?
PM POSHAN is a centrally sponsored scheme providing free, nutritious meals to students in government and government-aided schools.
Who benefits from the PM POSHAN scheme?
The scheme benefits students from Classes I to VIII studying in government and government-aided schools.
What kind of food is served under PM POSHAN?
Children receive balanced meals that include rice, pulses, vegetables, and fats, meeting specific calorie and protein requirements.
How is the quality of food ensured?
Schools undergo regular inspections, and food safety protocols are strictly followed to ensure quality and hygiene.
Is fortified rice included in PM POSHAN meals?
Yes, fortified rice, rich in essential nutrients like iron and vitamins, has been introduced to address malnutrition.
How does PM POSHAN improve attendance?
Providing free meals encourages parents to send their children to school regularly.
Who prepares the meals?
Meals are prepared by school staff, self-help groups, or centralized kitchens, depending on the region.
What changes were made to the Mid-Day Meal Scheme?
The scheme was revamped as PM POSHAN with improved nutritional standards and a focus on fortified foods.
How is Assam implementing PM POSHAN?
Assam has successfully implemented the scheme, benefiting over 35 lakh students and ensuring quality meals in schools.
What is the role of technology in PM POSHAN?
The government uses monitoring systems and digital platforms to track meal distribution and ensure transparency.
Stay updated with APSC ORG official website for further details and notifications.
