Nutrient-rich meals for govt schoolkids with local ingredients

Ranchi: In a bid to ensure students remain warm and healthy during winters, the district mid-day meal department is rolling out initiatives aimed at providing govt school students with nutrient-rich meals. The updated menu will feature ingredients like maduwa (millet), ragi, and moringa. Rasoiyas (cook-cum-helpers) are undergoing training to enhance their skills in preparing nutritious meals with an emphasis on hygiene, safety, and nutritional value.

The programme, conducted under the Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman Yojana, is aimed at using local ingredients. A budget of Rs 77.15 lakh has been allocated for ragi halwa and laddu under the Flexi Fund of the Central scheme for the financial year 2024-25.

District superintendent of education Badal Raj said, "Rasoiyas are learning to diversify meal menus and manage waste effectively, including separate disposal for dry and wet waste. By fostering skills and knowledge in food preparation and nutrition, the education department is dedicated to promoting student health and well-being throughout the winter season and beyond."

Hands-on training sessions cover critical food safety practices, such as proper hand-washing techniques, safe storage methods for grains and spices, and the correct use of kitchen equipment, including LPG gas and fire extinguishers. Practical sessions involve cooking mid-day meals using locally sourced ingredients like moringa and ragi. The training focuses on seasonal vegetable availability and their nutritional benefits, ensuring that menus are adapted appropriately throughout the year.

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