Sometimes the ability of the government to find resources for a good plan is limited by its intention. Tamil Nadu government launches free breakfast scheme for school children An example of a policy initiative with far-reaching consequences for school education and public health. As Chief Minister MK Stalin himself said at the launch of the scheme, Free breakfast provision is not freeBut it is the most important duty of the government to ensure that no child goes hungry. Mr. Stalin based his words and actions on the progressive Dravidian model, which promises inclusive development for all sections of the population. A key element is the welfare of the children, which states Tamil Nadu’s initial emphasis on feeding children in schools, The importance of daily breakfast as the most important meal of the day is widely accepted. Several studies around the world indicate that eating breakfast regularly has positive consequences for students, affecting their ability to concentrate, learn and retain information positively. School performance improves, as does behavior and cognition, but a regular breakfast also takes care of dietary quality, micronutrient adequacy, anemia and height and weight issues in children, and even That the BMI score for the future is also considered. The government has set a target of providing 293 calories and an average of 9.85 grams of protein per day to school children. The mid-day meal already served to students in schools comes to an average of 553 calories and 18 grams of protein, giving each student consuming the school-supplied meal about 846 calories and about 28 grams of protein in a day. The mid-day meal guidelines of the center have prescribed 450-700 calories per child per day and 12-20 grams of protein per day.
While the proposed menu for the Tamil Nadu government’s breakfast scheme will take care of the hunger, calorie, energy and micronutrient requirements of children, with a diet rich in local preparations and vegetables, it will also have adequate attention to taste and quality parameters. , The government, rich with its experience in dealing with the mid-day meal scheme over several decades, should avoid lapses and commission errors – including theft, poor quality of food, delays in sanctioning funds and caste-related disruptions – that previously led to its There was an obstacle in the way. Other state governments will also do well inspired by Tamil Nadu, which has allowed its intent to conquer its finances while finding funds to fund this vital aspect of nation building – the growth and development of children. ensure.