Question : EXTENSION OF MDMS

(a) the number of upper primary level students in the Government schools who were given Mid Day Meal daily during the last three years and the current year, Statewise;

(b) the amount earmarked and expenditure incurred on it;

(c) whether the Government has any plan to expand the Mid Day Meal Scheme to secondary level;

(d) if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor;

(e) whether Planning Commission has approved the proposal; and

(f) if so, the details thereof and the time by which Mid Day Meal Scheme in secondary level is likely to be introduced?

MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT (Dr. D. PURANDESWARI)

(a): Detail of upper primary level students covered under Mid Day Meal (MDM) Scheme in Government schools during the last three years and the current year State-wise is given at Annexure-I.

(b): The funds allocated and expenditure incurred to cover children studying in classes I-VIII during the last three years and the current year is given in Annexure-II.

(c) to (f): The Working Group on Elementary Education & Literacy for the 12th Five Year Plan (2012-17) has recommended inclusion of MDM Scheme to children studying in class IX and X. The total fund requirement for the same during the 12th Five Year Plan is estimated to be Rs. 21,523crore. The Twelfth Five Year Plan is yet to be finalized.