The Congress government in Karnataka has mandated the distribution of boiled eggs or bananas to school children in an effort to provide adequate nutrition. The circular states that this would be given as a supplement to midday meals, and would be provided once a week for children studying from Class 1 to 8, from August 20 onwards. The aim behind this move is to eradicate malnutrition and anaemia among students.
While the cost of procurement is Rs 8 per egg/banana/chikki (a sweet dish made of peanuts and jaggery), the question of whether or not eggs should be distributed in school premises has sparked a heated debate. Critics of the move believe that providing eggs in schools leads to discrimination among students, while supporters argue that protein supplements are essential for overall health.
In 2007, the distribution of eggs to school children was scrapped by the BJP-JD(S) coalition government under pressure from religious groups. The previous BJP government had implemented the scheme. The current move to reintroduce eggs in school meals has sparked criticism within society, including from those who claim it’s a positive move towards better nutrition for students.
The circular has been signed and released by Shubh Kalyan, Director of PM Poshan, Ministry of Women and Child Development, Karnataka, directing all aided and unaided school staff across the state to comply with the order.
