State government plans to extend mid-day meals to PUC students ?
Bengaluru: The Karnataka government is reportedly planning to extend the mid-day meal scheme beyond high school to include students of Pre-University Colleges (PUC) across the state. Sources in the Education Department have revealed that discussions are underway to provide free mid-day meals to both first-year and second-year PUC students studying in government and aided colleges.
At present, the mid-day meal program — which aims to improve nutrition and encourage school attendance — covers students from Class 1 to Class 10 in government and aided schools. If approved, this expansion would mark a significant step in ensuring that students from economically weaker backgrounds pursuing higher secondary education also benefit from free meals.
The proposal, which has been under consideration for some time, is likely to be finalized soon. According to sources, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is expected to make a formal announcement regarding the initiative on November 14, Children’s Day.
Education experts have welcomed the move, noting that many PUC students, especially in rural areas, come from families that struggle to afford daily meals. “Providing mid-day meals at this level will not only address nutritional needs but also reduce dropout rates after SSLC,” said a senior department official.
The scheme is expected to be implemented in a phased manner, beginning with government colleges in rural and economically backward districts before being expanded statewide.
If rolled out, Karnataka would become one of the few states in the country to extend its mid-day meal program to pre-university education, reflecting the government’s focus on welfare-driven education reform.
