Bihar Government to Provide Free Eggs at ₹6 Each in Schools for January and February, as Part of Mid-Day Meal Scheme

Bihar Education Department Introduces Changes in Mid-Day Meal Plan
Patna: The Bihar government has announced changes to its Mid-Day Meal scheme in government schools, which will benefit thousands of children, particularly those from low-income families. The state’s education department has set new rates for eggs and seasonal fruits, effective for the months of January and February.

Under the new plan, students in government schools will receive eggs and seasonal fruits at a rate of ₹6 per item. This initiative aims to ensure that children get nutritious meals during the cold months. The new rates will apply only for January and February; thereafter, the old rate of ₹5 will resume.

A Vital Scheme for Low-Income Families

For many families in Bihar, especially those dependent on daily wages, the Mid-Day Meal scheme is a lifeline. Children whose parents work as laborers often find it difficult to bring lunch to school. The scheme provides much-needed nutrition and support to such children.

Director’s Instruction on New Rates

Vinayak Mishra, Director of the Mid-Day Meal Scheme, sent a letter to all District Program Officers on Tuesday, instructing them to purchase eggs and seasonal fruits at the newly fixed price for January and February. The letter states that the maximum allowable rate for eggs and seasonal fruits during this period is ₹6.

In districts where eggs and fruits are available at lower prices, they will be procured at those rates. The government has allocated additional funds to cover any extra costs in specific cases, ensuring that the full benefit reaches the children.

Assurance for the Future

The director assured that, aside from these two months, the procurement of eggs and seasonal fruits will return to the previous rate of ₹5 for the remaining months of the year.