Nagpur: The Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) has introduced a new scheme to provide breakfast and lunch to primary school students for just ₹8. This initiative, limited to students in NMC-run schools, aims to address hunger and improve nutrition. The municipal body has issued a tender for the project, but concerns are mounting about the scheme’s true impact—what kind of meals can be provided for such a low cost, and who will actually benefit from this initiative?
Can Nutritious Meals Really Be Provided for ₹8?
While the plan may sound promising, many are questioning what kind of quality and nutrition can realistically be delivered for just ₹8 per meal. Given the rising costs of food and transportation, some worry that the meals might lack essential nutrients, potentially compromising the health of students rather than improving it. Will students receive healthy, filling meals, or will the food fall short of expectations?
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Wed 25 Dec. 2024
Officials Pocket Contractor Payments to Win Tenders
Allegations have also surfaced that contractors vying for the tender have to pay bribes to NMC officials. Reports indicate that contractors are forced to give 5% of the project amount to officials just to secure the tender. After winning the bid, contractors often face further demands from officials to process their bills, adding to the overall cost of the project. This raises questions about whether contractors, under financial strain, will cut corners, potentially reducing meal quality to make up for the additional expenses.
Who Really Benefits—Students or Officials?
Though the scheme is intended to support students, past experiences with similar programs have exposed administrative corruption. It is feared that the ₹8 meal initiative may be no different, with officials and contractors benefiting at the expense of student welfare. Contractors could end up providing substandard food to students, knowing that complaints are often ignored, and profits can be shared with officials.
NMC’s Education Department Publishes Tender
The NMC Education Department has recently advertised the tender for this scheme, inviting contractors to submit bids through the e-tender process. Detailed information on the tender can be found at [mahatenders.gov.in](http://mahatenders.gov.in), and interested parties must submit their applications online, along with the necessary documents. As this process unfolds, the public remains skeptical—will this scheme truly serve the students, or will it be another opportunity for exploitation?
