Shillong, Oct 2 – Meghalaya Education Minister Lahkmen Rymbui has written to Union Education Minister Pralhad Joshi, asking the centre to intervene on two key issues that are hindering the implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman (PM POSHAN) scheme in the state.
In his letter, Rymbui highlighted the essential role of the cook‑cum‑helpers who prepare and serve meals, maintain food safety, and manage fuel, water and storage needs in school kitchens. He noted that the central government’s share of their honorarium has remained at Rs 1,000 for several years, while the state matches that amount. With rising living costs, the helpers have demanded a wage revision.
The minister urged the Union Ministry of Education to raise the central funding norm so that the remuneration of these workers reaches a “dignified” level, thereby ensuring the smooth operation of the scheme. He also referenced the 2025‑26 budget allocation of Rs 7,381.63 lakh for the construction of 829 kitchen‑cum‑stores in schools that lack them. Due to technical issues, Meghalaya could not use the funds on time and had to surrender the amount.
Rymbui stressed that the need for proper kitchen sheds remains urgent, as meals are currently being cooked in makeshift or unsafe spaces. He said the technical problems have since been resolved and the state is ready to proceed with construction without delay. The minister has requested that the centre re‑approve the Rs 7,381.63 lakh and assured timely utilisation and submission of utilisation certificates.
