Education
Education Department to Extend Ragi Malt Scheme to All High School Students in Karnataka
The Karnataka Education Department announced that the ‘Sai Sharanam’ ragi malt nutrition program, previously limited to government and grant‑aided schools, will now be offered to every high‑school student in the state.
The Karnataka Education Department has decided to broaden the reach of the ‘Sai Sharanam’ ragi malt initiative, extending the nutrition supplement to all high‑school students across the state. The move aims to improve the dietary intake of adolescents attending both government and grant‑aided schools.
Under the existing scheme, ragi malt – a protein‑rich, iron‑laden supplement derived from finger millet – was provided to schoolchildren to address nutritional deficiencies. Until now, the program was confined to primary and lower‑grade students in government and aided institutions.
The department stated that the expansion will be implemented in the upcoming academic session, with supply chains coordinated through district education offices. Officials expect the broader coverage to enhance the overall health and academic performance of teenagers, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
Stakeholders, including school administrators and parents, have welcomed the decision, noting that ragi malt’s high nutrient profile can help combat anemia and stunted growth among adolescents. The department will monitor the program’s impact through regular health check‑ups and feedback mechanisms.
Under the existing scheme, ragi malt – a protein‑rich, iron‑laden supplement derived from finger millet – was provided to schoolchildren to address nutritional deficiencies. Until now, the program was confined to primary and lower‑grade students in government and aided institutions.
The department stated that the expansion will be implemented in the upcoming academic session, with supply chains coordinated through district education offices. Officials expect the broader coverage to enhance the overall health and academic performance of teenagers, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
Stakeholders, including school administrators and parents, have welcomed the decision, noting that ragi malt’s high nutrient profile can help combat anemia and stunted growth among adolescents. The department will monitor the program’s impact through regular health check‑ups and feedback mechanisms.