In a press statement issued on March 17, the Right to Food Campaign said reports from several states, including Punjab, indicate that schools and cooking agencies are facing increasing difficulty in securing LPG cylinders.
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V RAJU
Concerns are mounting over disruptions in LPG supply affecting the preparation of meals under the Mid-Day Meal (PM POSHAN) scheme, with the Right to Food Campaign warning that the situation could impact nutrition for millions of schoolchildren across India.
In a press statement issued on March 17, the Right to Food Campaign said reports from several states, including Punjab, indicate that schools and cooking agencies are facing increasing difficulty in securing LPG cylinders. According to the campaign, some institutions are considering alternative fuels such as firewood or modifying menus due to irregular gas supply.
Describing the Mid-Day Meal scheme as one of India’s most significant nutrition programmes, the campaign said it provides daily cooked meals to children, particularly from economically vulnerable backgrounds. It cautioned that any disruption not only affects nutrition but could also impact school attendance, learning outcomes and overall well-being.
Referring to Maharashtra, the campaign noted that authorities have directed LPG distributors to ensure uninterrupted supply to school kitchens, calling it a welcome step. However, it emphasised the need for a coordinated national response.
The Right to Food Campaign urged the Union and state governments to prioritise LPG allocation for nutrition schemes, create emergency buffer stocks, monitor supply closely and prevent diversion of cylinders. Ensuring uninterrupted cooking arrangements, it said, is essential to safeguarding children’s right to food and education.
Published on March 17, 2026
