Bihar school deaths: Why the government makes a meal out of the mid-day meal scheme

There is neglect all over because children in government schools are mostly from lower-class families: government officials often do not send their children to government schools and the educated middle class has long abandoned them. If the programme is running to the extent it does, it is because of the teachers who, despite odds, strive to feed children regularly.

The scheme needs to change. This doesn't mean that hot mid-day meal is abandoned and factory-made food is supplied. That will be worse as the programme will be captured by vested interests, as has been done in some states for the Integrated Child Development Services. Read More