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Education & Learning

Mid Day Meals Scheme

The Mid Day Meals Scheme is a government initiative that provides free meals to school children to improve their nutritional status and encourage school attendance.

Authority

State

Region

Arunachal Pradesh

Status

Verified 2026

Updated

March 2026

What you get

- Improved nutritional status of children, leading to better physical and cognitive development. | - Increased school attendance and retention rates among children. | - Reduction in malnutrition-related health issues among school children. | - Enhances the concentration and learning abilities of children. | - Promotes social equality by ensuring equal access to nutritious meals for children from all socio-economic backgrounds. | - Alleviates the financial burden on families by providing free meals to their children. | - Creates employment opportunities for local communities through the implementation of the scheme.

Who can apply

Students in Government and Government-aided schools: The scheme primarily targets students studying in government and government-aided schools across India. Children enrolled in classes from the primary level up to the secondary level are eligible to benefit from the scheme.; Age criteria: The scheme typically covers children between the ages of 6 and 14 years. However, specific age requirements may vary slightly from state to state or depending on the educational policies of different regions.; Socio-economic criteria: The Mid Day Meals Scheme aims to benefit children from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Typically, children belonging to families with below-poverty-line (BPL) status or those from marginalized communities are given priority for enrollment in the scheme.; School attendance: One of the key eligibility criteria for availing the benefits of the scheme is regular school attendance. Students are expected to attend school regularly to receive the mid-day meals.; Enrolled in recognized schools: Children must be enrolled in schools recognized by the appropriate education authorities to be eligible for the scheme. The scheme is primarily implemented in schools that adhere to the government's educational standards and guidelines.

Required Paperwork

  • Aadhaar Card
  • PAN Card
  • Income Certificate
  • Residence Proof (Domicile)

Common Questions

Who is eligible to receive meals under the Mid Day Meals Scheme?

Children enrolled in government and government-aided primary and upper primary schools are generally eligible for the scheme.

Are the meals provided free of cost?

Yes, the meals provided under the scheme are free of cost for eligible school children.

What is the purpose of the Mid Day Meals Scheme?

The scheme aims to improve the nutritional status of children and promote school attendance by providing free and nutritious meals.

What type of meals are provided?

The meals provided are hot cooked meals that aim to be nutritionally balanced and meet the dietary requirements of children.

How is the quality and hygiene of the meals ensured?

The scheme follows strict quality and hygiene standards. The meals are prepared in hygienic conditions and regular inspections are conducted to maintain the quality of food.

Can parents contribute to the scheme?

Parents can contribute by actively encouraging their children to attend school regularly and by supporting the school authorities in the implementation of the scheme.

Is the Mid Day Meals Scheme available in all states of India?

Yes, the scheme is implemented across all states and union territories of India.

Are there any special dietary considerations for children with specific needs?

Efforts are made to accommodate the dietary needs of children with specific requirements, such as vegetarian or medical dietary restrictions, within the framework of the scheme.