Shillong, Oct 1: Education Minister Lahkmen Rymbui has sought the intervention of Union Education Minister Pralhad Joshi on two issues concerning implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman (PM POSHAN) scheme, known as the Midday Meal scheme in Meghalaya.
In a letter to Joshi, Rymbui said the cook-cum-helpers are the backbone of the programme, not only cooking and serving meals but who also maintain food safety as well as – in many cases – taking care of fuel, water and storage.
However, the share of their honorarium borne by the central government has remained stuck at Rs 1,000 for several years. On top of the central share, the state also contributes Rs 1,000.
With the cost of living having risen substantially cook-cum-helpers have been agitating for revision, Rymbui said.
He requested the ministry to consider upward revision of the central norm for honorarium to bring remuneration closer to a “dignified” level and ensure smooth running of the scheme.
On the second issue, he said under PAB 2025-26, the ministry had approved Rs 7,381.63 lakh for construction of 829 kitchen-cum-stores in schools that do not have them. Due to technical issues, Meghalaya could not utilise the funds within the stipulated time and the amount was surrendered.
Rymbui said the need for kitchen sheds remains urgent as without proper kitchen-cum-store, meals are being cooked in makeshift or unsafe spaces. The minister said technical issues have since been addressed and Meghalaya is now fully prepared to take up construction without delay.
He requested the Centre to re-approve the Rs 7,381.63 lakh for construction and assured timely utilisation and submission of utilisation certificates.
