Prime Minister Pushpakamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ has successfully implemented the ‘Diva Khaja Program’ for school children in Nepal. The program has resulted in direct benefits to millions of school children across the country, as highlighted by the Prime Minister. He mentioned that the government has consistently increased the budget for the program four times in the last five years.
Addressing the ‘United Nations Food System – 2023 Stocking Moment’ held in Rome, Italy, the Prime Minister emphasized the positive impact of the school meal program on students’ health and overall academic improvement. He presented the fact that around 3.3 million school children have directly benefited from this program every day.
The Prime Minister praised the program for its holistic approach, integrating agriculture, education, food security, nutrition, health, and sanitation. He highlighted that 6% of the current fiscal year’s budget has been allocated to the Diva Khaja program, emphasizing the importance of providing nutritious meals to students.
Furthermore, he mentioned the government’s efforts to transform the food system in Nepal, as per the plan developed after the 2021 Food System Summit. This transformation aims not only to ensure food security but also to achieve broader developmental goals.
The Prime Minister emphasized the responsibility of local governments in implementing and monitoring the program. He reiterated that the Diva Khaja Program plays a crucial role in enhancing students’ progress and bringing positive changes in their health and educational activities.
Despite facing challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic and global supply chain disruptions, the Prime Minister expressed the need to continue supporting and expanding the Diva Khaja Program for the development of underdeveloped and least developed countries like Nepal.
In conclusion, the Prime Minister highlighted the significance of the Diva Khaja Program in fostering students’ health and overall development. He stressed the need for continuous commitment and support to achieve Nepal’s goal of becoming a prosperous and developed nation by 2026, with an improved food system and enhanced educational opportunities for children.
Discussion about this post