LPG supply for Mid-Day Meal Scheme
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, February 28 2012:
Department of School Education and Literacy, Ministry of Human Resource Development has asked the State Government to submit a proposal for issuing LPG to 2966 Primary and Upper Primary Schools of Manipur for cooking mid-day meal.
According to information received from Education (S) Department, the HRD Ministry conveyed its desire to replace firewood with LPG for cooking mid-day meals as using firewood is not eco-friendly besides being a major factor for deforestation.
The Government of India's Mid-Day Meal scheme is being implemented in 2966 Primary and Upper Primary schools of the State under supervision of Manipur University.
As is the case, Manipur University in its reports sent to HRD Ministry about implementation of Mid-day Meal Scheme mentioned that food was cooked with firewood.
Taking serious note of the same report, HRD Ministry reportedly asked the State authorities why LPG was not used for cooking mid-day meals.
It further asked Manipur University to send a proposal for replacing firewood with LPG.
Taking a cue from the Ministry's indication, State authorities are preparing a proposal so that mid-day meals can be cooked by using LPG in all the 2966 Primary and Upper Primary Schools from 2012-13 onwards.
If LPG should be provided for cooking mid-day meals, the same commodity would be provided at subsidised rates in accordance with an understanding between HRD Ministry and Indian Oil Corporation.
However, in spite of the HRD Ministry's offer for LPG, it remains a big question if the same arrangement can be practicable throughout the year in Manipur.
When economic blockades have become chronic in the State, the price of one LPG re-fill shoots up to Rs 2000 in the black at times of protracted blockades.
It is possible that sometimes students would have to forego their meals if LPG is not available due to economic blockade.
Once the mode of cooking is switched to LPG, the Ministry will stop funds for purchasing firewood, added the source.