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In collaboration with the Azim Premji Foundation (APF), the state government extended the program in September to provide eggs six days a week for over 40 lakh students. Under this partnership, the government funds 100 eggs annually per student, while APF covers an additional 200. However, recent inspections reveal lapses in implementing the scheme in various schools, with reports of eggs being replaced with peanut bars of insufficient weight or not distributed at all.
The APF surveyed 357 schools and found that 66 had not distributed eggs as planned, despite 64% of students in those schools preferring them. In several cases, students were given only chikki, even when they opted for eggs, and bananas — meant as a priority for non-egg-eaters — were not supplied. APF noted that the mandated weight for chikki was often disregarded, with many schools distributing bars below the specified 35-40 grams. The APF submitted these findings to the education department, highlighting a significant shortfall in delivery.
School Education Department Commissioner Dr. K.V. Trilok Chandra acknowledged the discrepancies and announced measures to ensure proper implementation. Plans are underway to introduce an app to monitor egg distribution, with requirements for schools to upload daily updates and photos. Surprise inspections will be conducted to ensure compliance.
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