PANAJI
Following directions from the Centre, the Goa Directorate of Education (DoE) has directed all schools and self-help groups (SHGs) serving mid-day meal to students, to cut cooking oil usage by 10 per cent in school meals.
The department has also directed SHGs and Schools to submit monthly report on reduction of cooking oil in the usage.
Schools are told to encourage school canteens to offer healthier, low-oil meal options and promote nutritious alternatives.
The decision was taken based on the advisory issued by the department of school education and literacy (DoSEL), ministry of education urges education departments under the Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman (PM POSHAN) scheme. The move aims to promote healthier eating habits among students amid growing concerns over childhood obesity.
Students are currently served dishes such as mixed vegetable idlis and mix vegetable pulao, chole chapati, vegetarian kurma and potato bhaji.
"It is mandated that schools reduce the usage of cooking oil by 10% in the preparation of school meals. This initiative aims to enhance the nutritional value of meals and promote healthier eating habits among students. It is expected that all schools and Mid-Day Meal suppliers under the PM Poshan Scheme will comply," Director Education Shailesh Zingade said in the circular.
To raise awareness, schools are asked to conduct a special class on the importance of minimizing oil usage in meals, invite nutrition experts from Home Science colleges and health institutions to deliver informative sessions on low-oil diets' and share healthy recipes.
Schools are asked to reinforce the significance of regular "exercise and yoga" to maintain a healthy lifestyle and burn excess calories.
"Teachers may be trained to identify obesity in students and guide parents on portion control and increasing physical activity of the student," Zingade said
Students may be encouraged to prepare low-oil recipes at home under supervision, share pictures on social media and promote healthier eating habits.
Schools have to appoint student Health Ambassadors to educate peers and advocate for better food choices.
"Advocate for minimal consumption of processed foods and snacks, which often contain hidden oils and unhealthy fats. Instead, emphasize a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains for balanced nutrition," Zingade said.
PM POSHAN (formerly known as mid-day meal scheme) is a flagship rights-based, Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS) with centre and state sharing the cost of cooking and related expenses in a 60:40 ratio.
