The school mid day meal scheme is a powerful tool for nutrition security and child literacy. In many of the states in India like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Madhya Pradesh, the school mid day scheme has attracted both male and female children to schools for education. In a few states like Gujarat milk is included. In Tamil Nadu one egg /day is served. Pulses are invariably served.
Many socially responsible NGO s have programmes to feed homeless, aged and orphans. Much more has to be done in view of the escalating population. Hidden hunger due to micro-nutrient deficiency is a matter of concern. Promotion of nutrition garden with one tree of drum stick and curry leaf will go a long way in making a household self sufficient in nutrition.
Recently I compiled a book titled "Horticulture Crops for Nutrition Security" published by NIPA New Delhi (www.bookfactoryindia.com) carrying chapters on food and nutrition. Prof. M S Swaminathan Father of Green Revolution in India made the statement"There is a horticultural remedy for every nutritional malady".
Dr. Kuruppacharil V. Peter