The Impact of Mid-Day Meal Scheme on the Nutritional and Educational Status among Rural School Children in Bihar, India

Abstract

In India, in particular in rural regions, the Mid-Day Meal Scheme (MDMS) has been crucial in treating malnutrition and improving access to education for schoolchildren. The Mid-Day Meal Scheme's implementation and efficacy in the Bihar district of Arwal are both investigated in this study. this study highlights how significantly the Mid-Day Meal Scheme has improved the nutritional and academic outcomes of rural schoolchildren in Bihar while also highlighting areas that need more focus for programme improvement. A representative sample of rural schools was used to gather data using a quantitative methodology. By using many sorts of indicators, including attendance, dropout rates, and academic achievement, the study evaluated the nutritional and educational status of children. The result illustrate the benefits of the programme by showing improvements in height, weight, classroom hunger, enrollment, retention, attendance, and a decrease in dropout rates. On the other hand, assessments regarding academic ability and attention span were less favourable. When parents and instructors were asked about their opinions of the classroom hunger and attendance, both groups of people said that things had much improved. On the subject of academic achievement and attention span, differences were identified. The report highlights the need for additional study to fully comprehend the Mid-Day Meal Scheme's long-term effect.