PM POSHAN Scheme – Updates for 2024

The PM POSHAN Scheme supports millions of students and provides hot cooked meals daily to 11.7 crore children, which includes students in Balvatika and grades I to VIII. The scheme operates in 10.24 lakh government and aided schools and its primary aim is to enhance nutrition and boost school attendance.

Inflation Tracking by the Labour Bureau

The Labour Bureau monitors the PM POSHAN basket costs, and uses inflation data from the Consumer Price Index for Rural Labourers (CPI-RL). Monthly price data is collected from 600 villages across 20 states. This data informs necessary adjustments to the scheme’s funding.

Material Cost Increase

The Ministry of Education has announced a 13.7% increase in material costs, takes effect on December 1, 2024. For primary and Bal Vatika classes, costs will rise from Rs 5.45 to Rs 6.19. For upper primary classes, costs will increase from Rs 8.17 to Rs 9.29. The previous year’s costs remained unchanged.

The increase is based on inflation data from 2022-23 and 2023-24. The central government will allocate an additional Rs 425.62 crore for the 2024-25 financial year. This funding ensures the scheme remains viable and effective across all states and union territories.

State Contributions

New rates apply nationwide but are the minimum required. States and union territories can opt to contribute more. Some regions already provide additional resources to enhance meal nutrition. This flexibility allows for improved local support.

Food Grains and Subsidies

The government supplies approximately 26 lakh metric tonnes of food grains annually. The Food Corporation of India manages this supply. The government also covers the full cost of food grains. This includes a subsidy of about Rs 9000 crore per year. Transportation costs from FCI depots to schools are fully funded as well.

When all costs are considered, the meal cost is Rs 11.54 for Bal Vatika and primary classes. For upper primary classes, it is Rs 16.74. These costs reflect the comprehensive funding structure supporting the PM POSHAN Scheme.

GKToday Facts for Exams:

1. PM POSHAN Scheme The PM POSHAN Scheme serves 11.7 crore students daily. It operates in 10.24 lakh schools. Its goal is to enhance nutrition and school attendance.
2. Consumer Price Index for Rural Labourers (CPI-RL) CPI-RL tracks inflation for rural workers. It collects monthly price data from 600 villages. This data informs funding adjustments for educational schemes.
3. Food Corporation of India (FCI) FCI manages food grain distribution in India. It ensures food security through procurement and storage. The government subsidises FCI operations each year.

Month: Current Affairs - December, 2024

Category: Government Schemes Current Affairs