Rotating menu in schools

#Rotating menu in Schools.

Implementing the new mid-day meal scheme in schools as proposed by the minister involves several practical challenges that are often overlooked. 

One of the most pressing issues is the delay in government funding, which puts schools in a helpless position. With insufficient or irregular financial support, school authorities are forced to arrange meals on credit, which is neither sustainable nor dignified. 

In schools teachers  should be focused on academic responsibilities. But

In many cases, teachers are compelled to approach local grocery merchants and plead for supplies on loan. This not only demoralizes the teachers but also tarnishes the image of the education system. Such a practice of “begging” for rations is an administrative failure that exposes the gap between policy-making and ground-level execution.

The proposed introduction of a varied menu and expert-level cooking adds another layer of difficulty. Most schools, especially in rural and semi-urban areas, lack proper kitchen infrastructure, trained cooks, or storage facilities. Expecting these institutions to serve diversified and nutritionally balanced meals without upgrading their facilities or increasing staff support is impractical. Hiring professional cooks within the current funding constraints is nearly impossible.

 Ensuring the timely procurement of fresh ingredients for a rotating menu is a logistical nightmare, especially when vendors are already reluctant to supply due to pending dues. In such a scenario, the well-intended scheme runs the risk of collapsing under its own weight unless urgent reforms and adequate, timely funding are ensured.

-K A Salaman