Free hot cooked meal in government schools (Class 1-8). Now PM POSHAN. Served daily. Targets nutrition + attendance. Largest school meal program in world.
Who is eligible?+
All students in classes 1-8 in government, government-aided, special training centers. Now extended to pre-primary (Balvatika). 12+ crore children benefit.
PM POSHAN benefits?+
Hot cooked meal (450 cal primary, 700 cal upper primary). Includes rice, dal, vegetables, fruits, eggs (some states). Tilthi Bhojan (festival meals) special menu.
Strict quality controls. Local cooks (Self Help Groups). Regular FSSAI inspection. Centralized kitchens (Akshaya Patra) cook for thousands. Issues reported to school, then DC.
Private schools meal scheme?+
PM POSHAN limited to government + aided schools. Private schools have own arrangements. Some states have CSR programs. Government school students get free meals.
Tithi Bhojan?+
Special meals on festivals/local events. Communities sponsor extra dishes. Strengthens community participation. Started in Gujarat, now across India.
How to complain about meals?+
Talk to teacher first. Then School Principal. Then District Collector. PM POSHAN portal: pmposhan.education.gov.in. Helpline numbers state-wise.