The PM-POSHAN scheme has generated employment for 70 individuals in Bihar’s Kaimur district, with many expressing their gratitude to Prime Minister Modi for the positive impact of the initiative.
PM-POSHAN (Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman) is a centrally sponsored scheme by the Government of India aimed at providing nutritious mid-day meals to school children. It was previously known as the Mid-Day Meal Scheme, and it was renamed in 2021 to reflect a broader focus on child nutrition.
Several beneficiaries spoke to IANS about their roles and daily operations, thanking the Prime Minister for the livelihood support.
An official said all 70 people employed under the scheme prepare food, take care of the cleanliness, and transport food to various schools at Patna Mod, Bailodi Panchayat in Mohania block of the district. Food is prepared hygienically, and a semi-automatic machine has been installed.
Thanking PM Modi for the job, Nisha Devi said eight women have been employed. “We clean the floors, do the dishes, and clean the rice,” she said.
Sameer Ansari, who is preparing for a competitive exam and working at the centre, also thanked PM Modi for his employment. Ansari said that if anyone wants to appear for competitions, he/she can do that with this job because it is part-time work.
Kitchen in-charge Akhlaq Ahmed noted that several students working at the centre while preparing for competitive exams have successfully secured government jobs through their dedication. Sharing details about the meals served, he said, “Our menu changes daily. On Mondays, we serve rice, mixed dal, and green vegetables, while Tuesdays feature jeera rice and soybean curry.” He also thanked PM Modi for addressing hunger and unemployment through the scheme.
“Many students in government schools come from financially weak backgrounds and can’t afford nutritious meals. This initiative has made a huge difference,” he said.
Under the PM-POSHAN scheme, nutritious meals are provided to 11.20 crore students from Class 1 to Class 8 across 10.36 lakh government and government-aided schools on all school days. The scheme aims to improve nutritional levels among children and encourage greater school attendance and participation.
Recently, the Ministry of Education increased the ‘Material Cost’ by 9.5 percent, with the revised rates set to take effect in all states and union territories from May 1.
