Governments of Telangana and Karnataka are contemplating the inclusion of fish curry in their respective Midday Meal Schemes (MMS), sparking discussions about the nutritional and economic advantages of this potential addition.
The Karnataka government has recently expanded the distribution of eggs to twice a week in the MMS. Meanwhile, the Telangana government is deliberating a proposal put forth by the Telangana State Fishermen Cooperative Federation. Experts have emphasized the potential benefits of introducing fish as a protein source for schoolchildren, aligning their diets with locally available food resources.
According to Development Educationist Dr. VP Niranjanaradhya, the inclusion of protein in children’s diets is essential as per the Food Security Act. An absence of protein can lead to an imbalance in their nutrition, primarily comprising carbohydrates and fats. Dr. Niranjanaradhya believes that children should have the option to choose their food and should be sensitized from an early age about dietary choices. In coastal regions like Mangaluru and Udupi, fish is a staple part of daily meals, and its inclusion can be cost-effective while benefiting local fishermen.
Dr. Sylvia Karpagam, a public health doctor and researcher, echoes this sentiment, emphasizing that promoting local fish consumption can boost the local economy and support sustainability. Introducing fish in school meals, particularly in coastal areas and regions where dry fish is a dietary staple, could yield positive outcomes. However, Dr. Karpagam notes that Karnataka faced challenges when attempting to incorporate eggs into midday meals, and there was hesitation with similar initiatives like the Indira Canteens due to criticism.
Rishikesh Kashyap, Managing Director of the National Federation of Fishers Cooperatives, highlighted that the Telangana proposal includes various plans to promote the state’s fishing industry, such as introducing fish curry in midday meals. Similar proposals are under consideration in states like Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. Although the Karnataka government has not taken this step yet, a potential collaboration with local fishermen could facilitate the implementation of such a program, supporting the growth of the fishing industry in the state.
Source: Indian Express
