Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has raised a serious alarm regarding the state of child nutrition among schoolgoers in Madhya Pradesh. Speaking in Bhopal, the minister highlighted a stark reality where a significant portion of the state's vast student population is deprived of basic nutritious foods.
Shocking Statistics on Nutritional Deprivation
During his address at the launch of a workshop focused on the New Education Policy (NEP), Pradhan presented concerning figures. He pointed out that Madhya Pradesh has 1.5 crore (15 million) students. From this enormous number, he estimated that at least 50 lakh (5 million) children might not have tasted an apple by the time they reach class five.
The minister elaborated that for many children, essential dietary items like milk and dry fruits remain a distant dream. "They must have seen it in the market but not eaten it," Pradhan said, emphasizing the gap between seeing and consuming. He specifically mentioned 'Anjeer' (figs), noting that some students don't get to eat it until class 10. "Many of them don't get a cup of milk when they need it. Who will provide them these nutritional things?" he questioned, putting the onus on society and its leaders.
A Call to Action for Public Representatives
Pradhan then directed a pointed request towards local leaders and public representatives. He cited an example of a local Hindu leader who frequently organizes 'Bhandaras' or community feasts. "I would request him that there are many who can organise bhandara," Pradhan stated. He suggested a more impactful alternative: providing nutritional food like kaju (cashew), anjeer, or besan ke ladoo to children in his constituency once a week.
The Union Minister connected this nutritional support to a larger vision of nation-building. He expressed hope that when children receive proper nourishment, their potential can be unlocked. "When they get such nutritional food, one of them may develop into an Abdul Kalam," Pradhan said, invoking the memory of the beloved former President and scientist, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, who rose from humble beginnings.
From Bouquets to Balanced Diets: A Practical Plea
Later, during a visit to the Kamla Nehru Sandipani school in TT Nagar, Bhopal, Pradhan reiterated his message to the media. He disclosed that he has been requesting public representatives to change a common practice. Instead of presenting bouquets to visiting guests, he urged them to give fruits to children from deprived sections of society.
This simple shift, from ceremonial flowers to edible nutrition, symbolizes a broader change the minister is advocating. It focuses on directing resources and gestures towards the long-term health and cognitive development of children, which is foundational to the goals of the New Education Policy.
The minister's comments have sparked a crucial conversation about the intersection of education, health, and social responsibility. They underscore that learning outcomes are deeply tied to physical well-being, and addressing nutritional gaps is not just a welfare issue but a critical investment in the country's human capital.
