In a concerning revelation, it has come to light that 125 government-run primary and junior schools in Dehradun district are still preparing mid-day meals in the open, risking food safety and nutritional quality for students. During a review of the PM POSHAN scheme, District Magistrate Savin Bansal took immediate action by sanctioning ₹1 crore from the untied fund for the construction of kitchens in these schools.
Chairing the scheme’s implementation and monitoring committee meeting on Wednesday, DM Bansal emphasized that no negligence would be tolerated in constructing kitchens. He directed that the work be completed at the earliest to ensure hygienic and nutritious food preparation.
The review meeting also addressed key issues such as the quality of mid-day meals, supplementary nutrition, and overall child development. The DM further instructed that repairs for 695 dilapidated school kitchens be included in the district plan.
Highlighting health concerns, Bansal mandated that only iron utensils be used for cooking. All aluminium utensils must be removed immediately, as cooking in aluminium reduces essential nutrients like iron and calcium in meals. Iron cookware, he said, would help improve the nutritional intake of children, especially their iron levels. Schools have been asked to use their grants to purchase iron utensils, and additional funds will be provided under Project Utkarsh if required.
