Midday meal scheme and its impact on students in government schools

The Midday Meal Scheme, one of the world’s largest school nutrition programs, plays a pivotal role in addressing hunger and improving educational outcomes in India. This study examines its impact on government school students by analyzing nutritional support, enrollment, attendance, academic performance, and social inclusion. Findings reveal that the scheme significantly enhances student attendance, boosts classroom participation, and provides essential nutrition to children from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Furthermore, it fosters social equality by bringing together children from diverse communities. However, challenges such as poor infrastructure, irregular food quality, inadequate monitoring, and limited dietary diversity persist. Addressing these gaps through better implementation, community participation, and policy support is essential for ensuring the program’s long-term sustainability and effectiveness in promoting both education and health outcomes.