PM POSHAN
Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman (Mid-Day Meal Scheme)
PM POSHAN Shakti Nirman (renamed from Mid-Day Meal Scheme in 2021) is the world's largest school feeding programme. Free, nutritious cooked meals are provided on every school day to all students in Classes 1–8 in government and government-aided schools. Nutritional norms: 450 calories/12g protein for primary (Classes 1–5) and 700 calories/20g protein for upper primary (Classes 6–8). The scheme has dramatically improved school enrolment, attendance, and retention — particularly for girls and SC/ST children. Fortified rice is now mandated. PM POSHAN 2021 expansion covers Bal Vatika (pre-primary class) and mandates local food procurement supporting farmers.
Key Objectives
- Address classroom hunger and improve attention and learning.
- Improve school enrolment and attendance — especially for girls and vulnerable groups.
- Reduce child malnutrition through regular, nutritious daily meals.
- Support local economies through procurement from local farmers and SHGs.
Benefits
Eligibility
- All students of Classes 1–8 in government schools
- Students in government-aided schools
- Madrasa students supported by state governments
- Bal Vatika (pre-primary) children in government schools
How to Apply
Automatic — all enrolled students in eligible classes receive mid-day meal
No separate application needed
Enrol child in any government or government-aided school
Frequently Asked Questions
Does PM POSHAN cover private schools?
No — PM POSHAN covers only government schools, government-aided schools, and certain Madrasa/Maqtab institutions. Private unaided schools are not covered.
What is the nutritional standard for PM POSHAN meals?
Classes 1–5 (Primary): minimum 450 calories and 12 grams protein per meal. Classes 6–8 (Upper Primary): minimum 700 calories and 20 grams protein per meal. Meals must be freshly cooked. Fortified rice is now mandatory where rice is the staple.
How does PM POSHAN affect school attendance?
Research consistently shows mid-day meal programmes increase school attendance by 10–30% — particularly among girls and children from poor families who come to school hungry. NFHS-5 data confirms significantly higher school attendance in states with robust mid-day meal programmes.