Evaluation of Mid-Day Meal (MDM) scheme in Western and North-East regions of Gujarat

Abstract

Hunger and nutritional status adversely impacts learning process of children. It contributes to increased dropout rates. Its collective impact is reflected in human development index. To address these issues Government of Gujarat (GoG) had introduced MDM scheme aimed to achieve an increase an enrollment rate and reduce burden of poverty on poor parents and caste discrimination in the society. GoG started MDM scheme in 1984. This study has been commissioned to assess the situation and take corrective measures for improvements. The objectives of this study are to assess effectiveness of MDM scheme in the context of impact indicators that include student enrollment, dropout and attendance. The study covers critical components of MDM that include regularity, quantity, quality, cooking infrastructure adequacy, hygiene, rural v/s urban and also stakeholder participation. The study has factored in favorable and unfavorable elements affecting the above components. The methodology includes review of relevant and available documents for secondary data, field visits to collect primary data from a wide range of stakeholders at various levels. The stakeholders include relevant government officials, school principal, teachers, parents, sanchalaks and head cooks and members of Mother Teacher Association (MTA). The sample-size was 42 centers spread over 11 talukas of 5 disticts. Structured questionnaires and FGDs were used to capture required information. The data collected was analyzed and triangulated for interpretation. A short summary of findings is given below, for details, please refer to relevant chapters.