Mandya District Enhances Midday Meal Programme with Staff Training and Dues Clearance
In a significant move to bolster the Akshara Dasoha (midday meal) scheme, Mandya district authorities have conducted an extensive training programme for cooking staff, focusing on critical aspects of food safety and operational preparedness. This initiative underscores the district's commitment to ensuring nutritious and hygienic meals for government school students.
Comprehensive Training on Hygiene and Fire Safety
The training session, held in Mandya, was meticulously designed to address multiple facets of kitchen operations. The health department inaugurated the programme by emphasising the paramount importance of strict personal hygiene and adherence to established health standards during food preparation. This foundational session aimed to instil best practices among the staff to prevent contamination and ensure student well-being.
Following the theoretical instructions, the fire department took charge with a hands-on approach. They conducted a mock drill and practical training exercises to equip the cooking staff with essential skills to handle potential kitchen fires. This proactive measure is intended to enhance emergency preparedness and safeguard both the staff and school premises from fire-related hazards.
Financial Welfare: Dues Cleared and Regular Payments Assured
In a parallel development aimed at supporting the workforce, Zilla Panchayat CEO KR Nandini announced a major financial relief. She confirmed that Rs 84.4 lakh has been released in a single instalment to clear the pending dues of 217 retired cooking staff in Mandya district. These dues had been outstanding since 2022, causing financial strain for the retirees.
Nandini further assured that the monthly honorarium for current staff is now being disbursed regularly on the first of every month, ensuring timely financial support. She highlighted that strict measures are in place to guarantee the supply of high-quality foodgrains under the scheme, reinforcing the district's dedication to nutritional standards.
CEO's Message: Appreciation with Zero Tolerance for Negligence
Addressing the cooking staff, Nandini described them as individuals with a "mother's heart", urging them to serve government school students with the same care and affection they extend to their own children. While appreciating their unwavering dedication, she issued a stern warning: there will be zero tolerance for negligence or any lapses in food quality. Strict disciplinary action will follow any violations, ensuring accountability and maintaining trust in the programme.
Future Initiatives for Staff Welfare
To further support the cooking staff, Nandini announced upcoming welfare measures. Free health check-ups will be arranged for all staff members, promoting their physical well-being. Additionally, efforts are underway to enrol them under the Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan pension scheme, providing long-term financial security.
Nandini reaffirmed the district panchayat's commitment, in coordination with the school education department, to uphold the highest standards of food quality. She emphasised that the safety and welfare of the workforce are top priorities, noting that their invaluable service is recognised and valued beyond the monetary honorarium they receive.
This holistic approach in Mandya—combining rigorous training, financial clearance, and enhanced welfare measures—aims to strengthen the midday meal programme, ensuring it continues to nourish and support students effectively across the district.
