Date:22/02/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/02/22/stories/2006022213880100.htm

Front Page

Egg distribution in schools suspended

Staff Reporter

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The distribution of eggs as part of the noon-meal scheme in the State's schools has been temporarily suspended, a press note here today said.

The Director of Public Instruction (DPI) has taken this decision in view of the general anxiety relating to the spread of bird flu. Fruits equivalent to the cost of an egg will now be distributed with the noon-meal, the press note added.

The noon-meal scheme has been extended to the mentally challenged students studying in recognised schools in the State. The headmasters of schools where this scheme is yet to be implemented should immediately contact the Assistant Education Officer concerned and take steps to implement the scheme, the press note said.

The Government has set up a call centre to receive complaints about the noon-meal scheme in schools. Complaints can be registered between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. by dialling the calling centre number 155300. The DPI will personally inquire about the complaints. The name of the school concerned and the education sub-district concerned should also be mentioned along with the complaint.