CM Stalin Expands Nutritious Noon Meal Scheme to Aided Private Schools in Tamil Nadu

Chennai, Aug 2025 –Hon’ble Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Thiru. M.K. Stalin today expanded his flagship Chief Minister’s Nutritious Noon Meal Scheme to aided private schools across urban areas of the state, ensuring that even more school-going children benefit from the program.

Originally introduced in government schools across Tamil Nadu, the scheme has now been extended to include aided institutions in towns and cities, bringing cheer to parents and teachers alike. The move has been widely welcomed, especially by working women and mothers who previously faced difficulties in ensuring their children had proper meals during school hours.

Voices of Gratitude from Parents

Several mothers shared heartfelt accounts of how the scheme has eased their burden:

• Mrs. Catherine, a working mother from Chennai, said her child often left home without eating breakfast, forcing her to send snacks and worry about her daughter’s health. Now, with the noon meal scheme extended to aided schools, she feels reassured:
  “When my daughter eats a warm, nutritious meal with her classmates, it not only fills her stomach but also brings her happiness and confidence. She now participates in studies and extracurricular activities with energy.”
• Mrs. Julie, another mother, recalled how her child refused to eat before going to school. This created tension in the family every morning. Now, her daughter happily eats meals like rice, sambar, idli, and pongal served at school.
  “It is a huge relief. My daughter comes home excited to share what she ate at school. For this, I sincerely thank the Hon’ble Chief Minister and the Government of Tamil Nadu,” she said.
• Another parent, Mrs. Thejo, explained how her son used to be fussy about food, eating just a bite and refusing more. Mornings were stressful for the family. Now, with the noon meal scheme, he eats at school with his peers and returns home satisfied.
  “This scheme has not only improved our child’s health but also given us peace of mind. We wholeheartedly thank our Chief Minister for this initiative,” she added.

Community Impact

Parents emphasized that the scheme is not just about food, but about health, equality, and educational participation. Children from all backgrounds now share meals together, promoting social harmony while also improving attendance and focus in classrooms.

Across Tamil Nadu, every parent who sends their child to school is expressing gratitude to Chief Minister Stalin for extending the scheme to aided institutions, calling it a true act of social welfare.

Issued by:
Director, Department of Information and Public Relations, Chennai-9