PM POSHAN Scheme: Oil reduction in mid-day meals by 10% to combat obesity

The PM POSHAN scheme is a centrally funded program aimed at providing nutritious meals to students enrolled in Bal-Vatika and Classes 1 to 8 in government and government-aided schools across India.

In response to the growing concern of childhood obesity, the Ministry of Education has issued a directive to state governments, union territories, and school authorities across India to reduce the use of oil in school meals by 10% under the Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman (PM POSHAN) scheme. The move comes as part of efforts to promote healthier eating habits among schoolchildren, a topic that was recently highlighted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his Pariksha Pe Charcha 2025 and Mann Ki Baat broadcasts.

Reducing Oil Consumption: A Step Towards Healthier Meals

The advisory from the Ministry of Education emphasizes the need to reduce oil usage in mid-day meals in a bid to curb obesity in children. "Childhood obesity is an increasing concern in today’s world," the ministry stated, stressing the importance of educating students on the negative health impacts of excessive oil consumption. The government believes the PM POSHAN scheme presents a unique opportunity to shape healthier eating habits among children by encouraging meals that are fresh, nutritious, and prepared with minimal oil.

Focus on Physical Activity and Nutrition Education

In addition to reducing oil in meals, the Ministry has called for the promotion of regular exercise and yoga among students to help maintain a healthy lifestyle and manage body weight. Teachers are encouraged to be trained to identify early signs of obesity in students and guide parents on portion control and increasing physical activity. The ministry also advocates for students to be encouraged to prepare low-oil recipes at home, with the added benefit of sharing their efforts on social media to inspire others.

PM POSHAN Scheme: A Centrally Funded Initiative

The PM POSHAN scheme is a centrally funded program aimed at providing nutritious meals to students enrolled in Bal-Vatika and Classes 1 to 8 in government and government-aided schools across India. By introducing these new measures to reduce oil in mid-day meals, the ministry hopes to contribute to tackling rising obesity rates and instill healthy eating habits at an early age.

Key Directives Issued to School Authorities

In the effort to fight childhood obesity, the Ministry of Education has issued the following directives:

1. Reduce oil consumption in school cafeterias and hostel cooking.
2. Train cook-cum-helpers under the PM POSHAN initiative to adopt healthier cooking techniques.
3. Spread awareness among students, parents, and teachers about healthy cooking methods through competitions, discussions, and workshops.
4. Promote daily exercise and yoga practices in schools to encourage physical activity.
5. Organize special classes on the importance of minimizing oil usage in meals.
6. Invite nutrition experts from home science colleges and health institutions to discuss low-oil diets and share healthy recipes.
7. Host competitions and quizzes on healthy eating habits, with rewards for students who promote healthier lifestyles.

Odisha Government’s Effort to Improve Nutrition

As part of ongoing efforts to enhance nutrition in school meals, the Odisha government recently announced a new initiative to include 200 ml of fortified milk in the mid-day meals for schoolchildren. This is expected to improve the nutritional content of the meals, providing essential vitamins and minerals.

Holistic Approach to Combating Childhood Obesity

The initiative to reduce oil usage in school meals is part of a larger, holistic approach to combat childhood obesity. The Ministry of Education aims to not only improve nutrition but also foster awareness and physical activity in students. By encouraging healthier eating habits and making nutritious meals accessible, the government hopes to reduce the rising rates of obesity and improve the overall health of schoolchildren across the country.

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