The West Bengal government today said that it is taking steps to improve the quality of Mid-Day Meal (MDM) provided to the school students.
Replying to a debate in support of the budgetary grant for his department, state's School Education minister Partha Chatterjee said the government cannot afford to provide poison in the name of MDM to the students.
He told in the Assembly today that the government was taking steps to check the quality of rice used by engaging officials of the food and supplies department.
Once the food was cooked, it would be tasted and checked by the cook and a teacher after which it will be offered to the students, he said, adding the chefs will also be trained in cooking and hygiene.
Chatterjee said his department was setting up 969 dining halls at a cost of Rs 29 crore for students across the state.
The utensils in which the food was served and cooked will also be changed for which a proposal has been sent to the Finance ministry for approval of funds.
