The Mid-Day Meal programme, which has been consistently implemented in Mizoram's Primary and Middle Schools, is currently facing funding challenges due to difficulties in fund disbursement.
As a result, schools have informed us that they will be unable to continue providing meals from October 18, 2024, which is unfortunate.
The primary challenge lies in the non-disbursement of material costs since January this year and the non-payment of Cook-cum-Helper salaries for four months.
Recently, the new government increased the wages of Cook-cum-Helper from Rs. 1500 to Rs. 3000, and payments for April and May have been made.
The main reason for this delay is the implementation of the new Public Financial Management System (PFMS), which requires coordination between multiple accounts and departments.
Additionally, PFMS being a new system requires familiarization with State PFMS officials, and Central Assistance can only be obtained after compliance.
Furthermore, 75% of allocated funds must be utilized before requesting additional installments.
Despite these challenges, the Mizoram government has sanctioned Rs. 484.29 lakhs as State Share in advance to support the program.
The Department is working diligently to resolve the issue and restore the Mid-Day Meal program soon.
We request teachers, staff, and the public to bear with the situation.
We assure that the issue will be resolved soon.
The Mizoram government prioritizes the Mid-Day Meal program and is working to resolve the funding issues.
We appreciate the cooperation and understanding of all stakeholders during this difficult time.
(This is the translation & transcription from the original one issued in Mizo language)
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