In a significant move to strengthen nutrition in schools, the government has announced a hike in mid-day meal rates for students across the country. Effective from May 1, 2025, Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs) and Self-Help Groups (SHGs) implementing the scheme will now receive ₹9.33 per child per meal for pre-primary and primary students, and ₹12 per child for those in upper primary classes.
The revised rates are aimed at improving the quality of meals served under the flagship PM POSHAN scheme (formerly Mid-Day Meal Scheme), which covers crores of children in government and government-aided schools.
Officials said the hike will help PTAs and SHGs manage rising food and operational costs while ensuring children receive adequate nutrition during school hours. The move has been welcomed by school administrators and civil society groups, who have long demanded an upward revision to keep pace with inflation and improve meal quality.