The 2024-2025 budget brings positive direction for education and nutrition in India. The National Means cum Merit Scholarship Scheme has received a significant boost, with ₹377 crore allocated for 2024-25. Together, these initiatives will help talented students from economically weaker sections continue their education beyond schooling, reducing dropouts and nurturing potential.
The PM POSHAN (formerly Mid-Day Meal) scheme has been allocated ₹12,467.39 crore for 2024-25. This represents a significant 24.67% increase from the revised estimate of ₹10,000 crore in 2023-24. This substantial investment in our children’s nutrition is heartening.
These strategic allocations, coupled with the five-year extension of the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY), form a comprehensive approach that directly addresses multiple Sustainable Development Goals. By combating hunger and promoting education, we’re making significant strides towards SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 4 (Quality Education), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities). This budget takes us another step closer to achieving the Zero Hunger SDG and ensuring quality education for all.’
