The Mid Day Meal Scheme was launched in India on August 15, 1995 under the name of “National program of Nutritional support to primary education”. Government of India renamed the scheme as Pradhan Mantri Roshan Shakti Nirman in 2021. Each alternation in the name of scheme has been accompanied by modification in its scope and implementation.
The objective of the scheme is to Improve nutrition and increase school attendance. Because of the scheme, the parents are encouraged to sending their children to school due to the meals provided in schools. The program aims to enhance nutritional well-being of the school going children’s.
Mid Day Meal Scheme
| Name of the Scheme | Mid Day Meal Scheme |
| Date of Launch | 1995 |
| Implemented by | Government of India |
| Ministry name | Ministry of Education |
| Target area | Class 1 to 8th Standard |
| Objective | Improve nutrition and increase school attendance |
| Coverage area | All Over India |
| Benefits of the scheme | Provide free food during school. |
| Official page | https://pmposhan-ams.education.gov.in |
What is Mid Day Meal Scheme ?
The Mid Day Meal Scheme is a government initiative introduced by the Ministry of education, Government of India with the primary objectives of providing free lunch to children studying at the primary school and upper primary level. In 2021, it was revised and renamed PM-POSHAN.
Nutritious cooked meals are provided to children aged 6 to 14 years. Every child studying in government school, local body school, special service centre and govt-aided school can avail the scheme.
Eligibility Criteria – Mid Day Meal Scheme
- The Mid-Day Meal scheme is meant for children aged 6-14 years. The exact age limit may differ based on the state rules.
- Only students of government recognised schools are eligible for this scheme.
- Regular school attendance is required to receive mid-day meals.
- The scheme mainly supports children from low income families. Preferences will be given to the candidates belonging to BPL Category.
Advantages of Mid Day Meal Scheme
- Higher School Enrolment and improve attendance.
- Promotes equality among children.
- Ensuring the provision of safe and nutritionally balanced meals.
- Empowering women and increase employability.
- Improved learning ability.
Read More – Scheme for Adolescent Girls 2026 | Objectives, benefits & How to apply
Required documents
Every children have the following documents to avail the benefits of the scheme :
- Children should have government issued ID card.
- Aadhar Card.
- BPL Certificates
- Bank account details of the school
- Birth certificate of the candidates.
- School Admission proof.
- Caste certificate
- Attendance registrar.
- School recognition certificate.
Objective of the Mid Day Meal Scheme
The Mid day meal scheme in schools was introduced with the following objectives :
- To reduce gap between boys and girls in education and nutrition.
- To increase school attendance, enrolment and continued school of children in primary education.
- To remove hunger among children in classroom.
- To provide nutritious meal.
- To improve the nutritional status of children.
OFFICIAL PAGE – GET DETAILS
How to apply for Mid Day Meal Scheme ?
- Guardians or parents must visit the school and fill out the registration form to enrol their child under the scheme.
- The higher authority of schools verify the child’s eligibility and may request documents if required.
- After verification, the school will inform parents about the enrolment and the start of meal services.
- Children must attend regular school to continue receiving meals.
- On, school days eligible children receive the mid day meal within the school premises.