Bhubaneswar: To improve the nutrition of school children across Odisha, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi declared an increase of ₹1 in the daily midday meal value under the Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman Yojana (PM Poshan). This decision, benefiting over 43 lakh students in more than 50,000 government and government-aided schools in the state, will enhance both nutrition and school attendance.
Effective immediately, the revised meal cost will be ₹6.90 for primary school students and ₹9.82 for upper primary students, reflecting an adjustment in line with current market prices. The Chief Minister made the announcement during the Children’s Day celebration, Suravi, held at Capital High School in Bhubaneswar.
Speaking at the event, CM Majhi emphasized the vital role of nutritious meals in supporting children’s education and development. “We are committed to eradicating malnutrition and encouraging greater school enrollment. This step is part of our ongoing efforts to provide better opportunities for children,” he said.
The Chief Minister also unveiled several other key initiatives aimed at improving education in the state:
- Godabarish Mishra Adarsh Prathamika Vidyalaya: A new initiative to build 6,794 ultra-modern primary schools across Odisha, one in each panchayat. Inspired by the Satyabadi Vana Vidyalaya model, these schools will emphasize language and arithmetic, equipped with modern classrooms, digital libraries, and play areas for holistic child development.
- Heritage Schools Scheme: A significant initiative to restore and revitalize 51 schools that are over 100 years old, preserving the rich cultural and historical heritage of Odisha’s education system.
- Free Hostel Facilities for Odisha Adarsh Vidyalaya Students: The state will now cover the full cost of boarding for students in Odisha Adarsh Vidyalayas, providing free accommodation and meals. This initiative, which will cost the government approximately ₹187.15 crore annually, aims to ease the financial burden on families.
During his address, CM Majhi encouraged students to dream big and develop their talents, highlighting the state’s commitment to their education and social development. He also praised the release of several important documents, including the PM Poshan Guidelines, the coffee table book Vidyavant Vidyarthi, Vikshit Odisha, and the official logos for the Heritage Schools and Godabarish Mishra Adarsh Prathamika Vidyalaya initiatives.
The Children’s Day celebration witnessed the participation of over 2,000 students and teachers from 30 districts across the state. Prizes were awarded to differently-abled students excelling in various competitions, underscoring the government’s inclusive approach to education.
Nityananda Gond, the Minister of Schools and Mass Education, also attended the event and praised the Chief Minister’s efforts to improve school education in Odisha. He urged children to take full advantage of the new initiatives, contributing to their personal growth and building a brighter future.
Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj and Ekamra MLA Babu Singh highlighted the pivotal role of children in shaping a prosperous Odisha by 2036, recognizing their immense potential.
The event was concluded with a welcome address by Shalini Pandit, Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the School and Mass Education Department, and a vote of thanks by Ananya Das, State Project Director of the Odisha School Education Programme Authority.