Overview
The Ministry of Education clarified the nutrition and food norms under the PM POSHAN Scheme. The scheme is a joint effort of the Centre, State Governments and Union Territories (UTs). It aims to give a hot, nutritious meal to every child from Bal Vatika (pre‑class 1) up to class VIII in government‑run schools.
Key Developments
- One hot cooked meal will be served on every school working day to all eligible children.
- States/UTs can design menus that suit local conditions while meeting the prescribed nutrition standards.
- A flexi‑component of 5% of the recurring budget is earmarked for School Nutrition Gardens (SNGs) and supplementary nutrition in identified districts.
- Additional nutrition can be provided by States/UTs based on local food habits and cultural preferences.
Important Facts
The nutrition and food norms are split between Primary (classes I‑V) and Upper‑Primary (classes VI‑VIII) levels.
- Primary classes: 450 kcal and 12 g protein per child per day.
- Upper‑Primary classes: 700 kcal and 20 g protein per child per day.
- Food‑grain allocation: 100 g (Primary) and 150 g (Upper‑Primary).
- Pulses: 20 g (Primary) and 30 g (Upper‑Primary).
- Vegetables: 50 g (Primary) and 75 g (Upper‑Primary).
- Oil & fat: 5 g (Primary) and 7.5 g (Upper‑Primary).
- Salt & condiments: provided as per need.
The norms are anchored in the National Food Security Act, 2013 and the scheme’s guidelines.
Exam Relevance
Understanding the scheme helps aspirants answer questions on:
- Implementation of central schemes under the Concurrent List (GS2).