Deputy Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer, LAHDC Kargil, Rakesh Kumar, chaired a review meeting on July 23 with the Chief Education Officer (CEO), officials of the School Education Department, ICDS and PM Poshan (Mid-Day Meal) authorities to assess the implementation of the PM Poshan Scheme and review measures to improve the nutritional status of school children across the district.

During the meeting, the Deputy Commissioner emphasised the need to address iron deficiency among school children by ensuring the inclusion of iron-rich and nutritious food items in the PM Poshan menu. He directed the concerned departments to strengthen nutritional interventions and provide balanced, wholesome meals to support the healthy growth and well-being of students.

The Deputy Commissioner also recommended the use of induction-based cooking systems, wherever feasible, to improve the efficiency and quality of meal preparation. Officials informed the meeting that around 12,000 students are currently benefiting from the PM Poshan Scheme in the district.

Highlighting the importance of locally available nutritious food, Rakesh Kumar suggested including roasted chana and other iron-rich food items in students' meals to help address nutritional deficiencies.

The meeting also reviewed the progress of kitchen gardens in government schools. Stressing the importance of fresh and nutritious produce, the Deputy Commissioner directed that at least 100 government schools should establish and maintain kitchen gardens. He further proposed organising a Kitchen Garden Competition among schools to encourage participation and promote healthy eating habits among students.

The meeting concluded with directions to the concerned departments to ensure the effective implementation and regular monitoring of nutrition-related initiatives under the PM Poshan Scheme to improve the overall health and well-being of school children.