Kamarajar Breakfast Scheme Expansion: Chief Minister Vijay to Launch It in Chennai Tomorrow

The expansion of the Perunthalaivar Kamarajar Breakfast Scheme to students of Classes 6 to 8 in government and government-aided schools is set to begin on September 22. Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay will formally launch the expanded scheme at an event in Tiruvanmiyur, Chennai.

The breakfast scheme, which was initially implemented for younger school students, is now being extended to middle-school students. The expansion is aimed at providing breakfast support to around 15.30 lakh additional students studying in government and government-aided schools across Tamil Nadu.

The launch was originally planned for September 17 but was postponed to September 22. The Social Welfare and Women Empowerment Department has instructed district administrations to complete the necessary preparations for the expanded programme.

According to the government plan, the expansion will cover Classes 6 to 8 in 15,454 government and government-aided schools. An additional ₹217.63 crore has been allocated for the expansion during the current financial year, taking the total allocation for the programme to ₹724 crore.

In Chennai, the expanded breakfast programme will be implemented in 447 government and government-aided schools through the existing system. In other parts of Tamil Nadu, the respective local administrations and implementing agencies will oversee the arrangements for preparing and serving breakfast.

The government has also instructed officials to ensure that the kitchens and food-serving areas are maintained clean and hygienic. Officials have been asked to ensure that students receive hot, nutritious and adequate meals and that the implementation of the scheme is continuously monitored.

The expanded scheme is scheduled to be rolled out across Tamil Nadu on September 22, except in Chengalpattu and Tiruppur districts, where the Model Code of Conduct is in force in connection with the announced Assembly by-elections.