Role of the Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) in the implementation of the Mid-Day Meal scheme in Ahmedabad

Abstract

This study examines the role of Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) in the implementation of the Mid-Day Meal Scheme (MDMS) in Ahmedabad city. Much of the available literature focuses on the schemes' nutritional and educational results little focus has been placed on NGOs as significant stakeholders in the operationalisation of state policy on the ground. The research examined the organisational procedures, logistical roles, and accountability practices of NGOs through field visits to the food preparation and distribution center of an NGO as well as to government schools, to talk to the beneficiaries of the scheme. Through this this 2-month-long study which involved extensive amount of literature research, and numerous field trips to NGOs like Akshay Patra and few government schools we have attempted to understand how NGOs are operating as intermediaries in the centrally sponsored Mid-Day Meal scheme, how are they making effective use of state resources in delivering safe and nutritious meals and we have tried to get hold on the responses of beneficiaries , meaning children enrolled in government school about their view, understanding and experience of the Mid-Day Meal scheme.