Report of the 5th Joint Review Mission on Mid Day Meal Scheme.(24th June - 3rd July, 2013) Andhra Pradesh.

Abstract

Nutrition is directly linked to human resource development, productivity and ultimately to the nation’s growth. Malnutrition on the other hand is a complex phenomenon. It is both the cause and effect of poverty and ill health: and follows a cyclical, inter-generational pattern. It is inextricably linked with illiteracy, especially female illiteracy, lack of safe drinking water, sanitation, ignorance, lack of awareness and ill health. It creates its own cycle within the large cycle of poverty. Malnutrition adversely affects Universalization of Elementary Education (UEE). Even if a malnourished child does attend school, he/she finds it difficult to concentrate on and participate in the learning activities in school. Unable to cope, the child would very often drop out of school.