Chandigarh mid-day meal: Centre flags 25% cost-utilisation mismatch, seeks study

An audit conducted by the Centre has highlighted a 25% cost‑utilisation mismatch in the mid‑day meal programme in Chandigarh, prompting a request for a detailed study. The findings reveal that 88% of the ₹10.79 crore earmarked for material procurement was actually spent, while only 63% of the grain allotment of ₹41.45 lakh was used. This discrepancy indicates that a quarter of the intended resources were not deployed, raising concerns about the programme’s efficiency. The Centre’s directive to undertake a study aims to uncover the reasons behind the shortfall and to recommend corrective measures.

The mid‑day meal scheme, introduced to enhance nutrition and school attendance, depends on consistent supply of food grains, pulses, oil and other ingredients. When material costs are not fully utilised, it may signal gaps in procurement, storage or distribution. Moreover, the lower grain utilisation suggests that the quantity of staple food reaching schools may be insufficient to meet the nutritional standards prescribed for students.

The Union Territory administration has been advised to use adequate quantities of food grains and other ingredients to ensure that the meals fulfil the prescribed nutritional requirements. This instruction comes amid ongoing efforts to strengthen the implementation of the scheme across the region.

Historically, the mid‑day meal programme has faced challenges related to timely procurement, quality control and monitoring. The current audit adds to a series of reviews that have examined fund flow and utilisation, highlighting the need for transparent processes. By addressing the identified mismatch, the authorities hope to improve service delivery and maintain public confidence in the programme.

The call for a study also reflects a broader trend of governmental scrutiny over welfare initiatives. Detailed analysis will likely examine procurement contracts, storage facilities and distribution mechanisms to pinpoint where the 25% gap originates. Recommendations may include stricter monitoring of grain utilisation, periodic audits of material spending and incentives for schools to optimise resource use.

For residents of Chandigarh, the outcome of this audit could affect the quality of meals served in government schools. Ensuring that the intended nutritional standards are met is crucial for child health and educational outcomes. The administration’s response will be watched closely by parents, educators and civil society groups.

In summary, the audit’s revelation of a 25% cost‑utilisation mismatch, with 88% of material cost spent against only 63% of grain allocation, has led the Centre to commission a study. The Union Territory has been urged to guarantee adequate food quantities to meet nutritional norms, underscoring the importance of efficient resource use in sustaining the mid‑day meal programme.

Source: Hindustan Times