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9 July 2026

Calcutta HC directive on ISKCON midday meals

The topic involves the implementation of the PM POSHAN scheme, specifically addressing the intersection of food security, the role of SHGs in public service delivery, and the governance challenges of centralized versus decentralized kitchen models.

1 min read Day 2 of 2 2 questions 1 prelims

Notes

  • The Calcutta High Court is hearing a PIL challenging the potential engagement of ISKCON for the preparation and supply of midday meals in Kolkata Municipal Corporation schools.
  • The petitioner argues that the move could lead to the exclusion of eggs from the diet of students and the loss of livelihood for thousands of women self-help group (SHG) members currently employed under the PM POSHAN scheme.
  • The PM POSHAN scheme aims to provide nutritious food to prevent school dropouts and support the employment of local SHG members.
  • The State government submitted that no official order has been issued regarding the engagement of ISKCON, terming the petition premature.
  • The State government noted that the PM POSHAN scheme allows for centralised kitchens in urban areas with space constraints, potentially through public-private partnerships.
  • The High Court has directed the State government to file an affidavit clarifying its position on the matter.

Part of a longer story

This is day 2 of 2 in Controversy over ISKCON's involvement in school midday meals in West Bengal, which has been running since 25 June 2026. Reading it whole is usually worth more than reading today alone — the exam asks how something developed.

Questions

  1. Discuss the challenges of balancing nutritional standards with the socio-economic objective of local employment in the implementation of the PM POSHAN scheme in urban areas. 150 words
    Attempt this — 150 words in 8 min
    0 / 150 words 8:00
  2. The integration of public-private partnerships in social welfare schemes like midday meals necessitates a careful balance between operational efficiency and the protection of local livelihoods. Critically analyze this in the context of the PM POSHAN scheme. 250 words
    Attempt this — 250 words in 11 min
    0 / 250 words 11:00

Prelims

  1. Which of the following is a primary objective of the PM POSHAN scheme?

Syllabus

Topics

Sources

250words.in · https://250words.in/daily/2026-07-09/calcutta-hc-directive-on-iskcon-midday-meals