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Time of India

Egg consumption drops in Ballari schools during Shravana month

Ballari: In govt schools in the Ballari district, there was a 20% reduction in the free distribution of eggs during the sacred month of Shravana, as many students opted for bananas instead. The practice of avoiding non-vegetarian food items such as eggs, fish, and meat during Shravana is increasingly evident in educational institutions. Kasturi, the district officer of the Midday Meals Scheme, stated, "This trend shows growth each year. In aided schools and anganwadi centres, a considerable number of children and women express a preference for vegetarian food over eggs during this month." "We adjust the menu according to their preferences. However, in certain areas, parents are opposing the distribution of eggs during the Shravana month. We are not pressuring anyone. Instead, we are providing bananas as a substitute for eggs," she explains. The Ballari district comprises 228 govt and one aided primary school, 402 govt and 41 aided higher primary schools, and 90 govt and 34 aided high schools across five taluks. Among these, 1.5 lakh children from classes 1 to 10 receive midday meals. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Indonesia: New Container Houses (Prices May Surprise You) Container House | Search ads Search Now Undo As per the department's estimates, 20% of children have transitioned from eggs to bananas. Ramakrishna Nayak M, deputy director of the women and child development department, stated, "There are 1.3 lakh beneficiaries, including pregnant women, new mothers, and children aged 0 to 6, under the jurisdiction of 1,358 anganwadi centres. Here as well, since some stopped consumption of eggs, we are supplying them with nutritious vegetarian options, including green gram." As there is no enforcement of dietary changes, no complaints are reported. Stay updated with the latest local news from your city on Times of India (TOI). Check upcoming bank holidays , public holidays , and current gold rates and silver prices in your area.