India, with its rich cultural heritage and diverse population, has long recognised the importance of education as a catalyst for social and economic progress. Thanks to government initiatives like the school feeding programme, school enrolments, retention and learning outcomes have significantly improved across schools in the country (Source: State Survey of School Meal Programs: India 2020 by Global Child Nutrition Foundation).
Consequently, the growth in India’s literacy rate has also accelerated since the Mid-Day Meal Scheme (now called the PM POSHAN Abhiyaan) was started in 2001. Today, it stands at 74.04%, with Kerala being the most literate state (92.2%), followed by union territory Lakshadweep (91.85%) and Mizoram (91.33%).
When India won independence in 1947, four out of five of its citizens could not read. Today, three out of five Indians can read and write. While the male literacy rate in India stands at 84.7%, the female literacy rate has also grown over the years. As per the World Bank India report, about 9% of girls were literate when India gained independence, which has jumped to 77% today.
The steady improvement in the literacy rate over the years is a positive sign in our collective pursuit of 100% literacy. It is important that we identify the contributing factors and enhance them as per the need.
Role of school feeding programmes in improving literacy rates
Many impoverished families struggle to meet their basic food needs. Thus, some NGOs run dedicated programmes or help execute existing government initiatives like the PM POSHAN Abhiyaan to ensure proper nutrition for children from low-income families and guarantee its multifaceted impact on literacy.
A regular supply of free school meals incentivises parents to send their children to schools consistently. It relieves them from the burden and motivates them to prioritise their children’s education over compelling them to support the family. Consequently, more children attend school regularly, leading to improved literacy rates.
Furthermore, mid-day meals address nutritional deficiencies in children and directly impact their ability to focus and engage in the learning process. Well-nourished children are more likely to be receptive to lessons and active in co-curricular activities. As a result, better learning outcomes translate to higher literacy rates.
School meals foster a conducive environment for learning. During the lunch break, children interact with one another, promoting social skills, teamwork and a sense of belonging. It generates an inclusive space where students from diverse backgrounds thrive academically as well as personally.
NGOs also leverage school meals as an avenue for education on nutrition, hygiene and healthy habits. Through interactive sessions and awareness drives, they educate students about the importance of balanced diets, personal hygiene and sanitation practices. The knowledge strikes a ripple of positive change, as children become mediators, advocating for healthier lifestyles within their families and communities.
In conclusion
The fast growth in literacy rates in India in the decades after independence, even in the face of a remarkable rise in its population, indicates a positive trend. School feeding programmes have played a vital role in pushing up the numbers by bringing children to school, helping them focus, enhancing their cognitive abilities and improving their overall health.
NGOs are constantly at work through well-rounded research and collaboration with stakeholders to effectively implement these programmes and help transform the country’s educational landscape in pursuit of a brighter future. As responsible citizens, we can help speed up progress by supporting them through a humble contribution right from where we reside.
Consider supporting PM POSHAN Abhiyaan for a future with equal access to nutrition, education and other necessities for all. By donating or volunteering with registered NGOs, you can become a part of the solution and bring lasting impact on millions of lives.
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