Bhubaneswar, Aug 21: The Odisha government has decided to increase the allowance for mid-day meals in schools, adding Re 1 more per meal for each student. School and Public Education Minister Nityanand Gond announced that this decision was made in response to rising costs.

Minister Gond stated that the increase will enhance the quality of food provided to children. Currently, the government spends Rs 5.90 per meal for each primary school student, which will now rise by Re 1. For upper primary students, the allowance is Rs 8.82 per meal.

The minister explained that due to inflation, the prices of essential items have risen, making it difficult to provide nutritious meals at the current rates. “The rising prices have made it challenging for schools to ensure nutritious food for students. We have received complaints about the declining quality of mid-day meals. To address this, the government has decided to increase the meal allowance,” Gond added.

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