Odisha Govt Increases Mid-Day Meal Allowance in Schools Amid Rising Costs

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has announced an increase in the allowance for mid-day meals provided to schoolchildren, raising it by Re 1 per meal. School and Public Education Minister Nityanand Gond confirmed that the decision was prompted by rising costs and the need to improve meal quality.

This increase will bring the total allowance to Rs 6.90 per meal for primary students and Rs 9.82 per meal for upper primary students.

Minister Gond explained that the rising prices of essential commodities have made it difficult for schools to provide nutritious meals at the existing rates. “We received several complaints about the declining quality of mid-day meals. This increase is necessary to ensure that children receive the nutrition they need,” he stated.