Odisha Govt Hikes Mid-Day Meal Cooks’ and Helpers’ Pay by 50%

In a significant move aimed at recognizing the contributions of cooks and helpers engaged in the mid-day meal (MDM) scheme, the Odisha government on Tuesday announced a 50% hike in their monthly remuneration. The payment has been increased from ₹2,000 to ₹3,000, bringing financial relief to over 1 lakh beneficiaries across the state.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi approved the proposal, appreciating the dedication, skill, and hard work of the cooks and helpers who ensure the success of the MDM scheme.
“The hike in remuneration will benefit more than 1 lakh cooks and cook-cum-helpers across the state,” said a statement from the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO). It also highlighted that the state government will incur an additional expenditure of ₹112.9 crore annually to implement the revised remuneration.
The mid-day meal scheme plays a vital role in providing nutritious meals to schoolchildren across Odisha, and this decision reflects the state government’s commitment to the welfare of those who work tirelessly behind the scenes to make it a success.
This move is expected to boost the morale of the cooks and helpers, ensuring continued dedication to the welfare of schoolchildren in the state.
