JK Govt mulling outsourcing mid-day meal scheme: Education Min

The Jammu and Kashmir government is considering to outsource the implementation of the midday meal scheme so as to relieve teachers from non-teaching tasks and allow them to focus on teaching activities.

In this regard, the government has studied the models of the states which have already adopted the new system through NGOs.

Initially, the outsourcing of the scheme through NGO would be introduced in two or three districts on pilot basis, Education Minister Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari said at a meeting convened to discuss the modalities for the new system.

"It is an impending need for the benefit of our students. But the go-ahead will precede thorough assessment whether it fits the norms, set standards and budget," said Bukhari, adding that the taste needs of the children would still be the prime condition.

Meanwhile, representatives of two NGOs already running the scheme in some states gave a presentation on the modus-operandi they follow in the execution of scheme.

The minister asked the secretary of Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan (RMSA) and the directors of Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) to thoroughly examine the DPRs and explore other options, if any, to ensure that best service providers are engaged for the implementation of the prestigious scheme, an official spokesman said.