Guwahati, August 12: The Assam government is expanding its school nutrition program, focusing on dietary diversity and children’s health. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Tuesday that approximately 28.97 lakh children will be included under the PM Nutrition Scheme during the 2026-27 period.
According to Chief Minister Sarma, the initiative aims to ensure that children do not have to choose between education and proper nutrition. Additionally, the nutritional support provided to students in government and government-aided schools across the state is being strengthened.
As part of a better nutrition strategy, the state government has introduced several additional measures, including the establishment of ‘Nutrition Gardens’ in schools, providing health drinks made from ragi, and incorporating extra eggs into the weekly meals.
Recent data indicates that 43,670 schools across the state have established Nutrition Gardens. These gardens aim to promote the availability and consumption of locally grown nutritious food while raising awareness among students about healthy diets and sustainable eating habits.
The state has also expanded the distribution of health drinks made from ragi, benefiting approximately 11.75 lakh children. Ragi, known for its nutritional value and rich mineral content, is being integrated into the school nutrition program to diversify children’s diets.
Another key component of this expanded program is providing eligible children with two additional eggs each week. Currently, around 4.75 lakh children are receiving these extra eggs.
Chief Minister Sarma emphasized that these measures aim to enhance the existing PM Nutrition Program and meet nutritional needs through locally available protein-rich food options. The Assam government has consistently stressed the importance of linking school education with children’s health and nutrition, particularly for those from economically disadvantaged families.
Officials noted that strengthening nutritional support could improve school attendance, concentration, and overall learning outcomes, while also helping to address malnutrition among children. This expanded approach emphasizes community involvement through school-based Nutrition Gardens, allowing students and local communities to engage more closely with food production and healthy eating habits.
With the inclusion of 28.97 lakh children under the PM Nutrition Scheme in 2026-27, the state is working to strengthen the program by integrating regular school meals with targeted nutritional measures.
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