Students in primary and upper primary schools across Uttar Pradesh will soon receive halwa and upma as supplementary nutritious food alongside their regular mid-day meals. The initiative is expected to benefit approximately 1.8 lakh students across the state.
Under the government directive, the two food items will be served to students during school breaks to improve their nutritional intake and provide additional nourishment beyond the regular mid-day meal.
Weekly Schedule for Halwa and Upma
According to the prescribed schedule, halwa will be served during the first and third weeks of every month. Upma will be provided during the second, fourth and fifth weeks.
The meals will be prepared using semolina (suji) and other nutritional ingredients. At least 30 grams of semolina will be used per student for preparing both dishes.
The initiative aims to ensure that schoolchildren receive additional nutritious food regularly during school hours.
Ingredients to Be Used in Halwa
As per the guidelines, halwa will be prepared using the following ingredients for each student:
- Semolina: 30 grams
- Oil: 5 grams
- Sugar: 22 grams
- Grated coconut: 5 grams
The government will also provide the fuel required to prepare the food in schools.
Upma to Include Vegetables and Peanuts
Upma will be prepared using semolina, seasonal vegetables and peanuts to provide students with a variety of ingredients.
The prescribed quantity of ingredients per student includes:
- Semolina: 30 grams
- Oil: 2 grams
- Seasonal vegetables: 20 grams
- Peanuts: 6 grams
Necessary spices, salt and cooking fuel will also be provided for preparation.
Focus on Children’s Nutrition
The initiative is intended to supplement the nutritional intake of students studying in primary and upper primary schools. By introducing halwa and upma into the school food schedule, the government aims to provide children with additional food during breaks.
The programme is expected to benefit around 1.8 lakh students in Uttar Pradesh. Its implementation will add variety to the existing school meal arrangements while focusing on children’s nutritional needs.