West Bengal may fund schools separately to serve eggs amid Iskcon meal row

West Bengal's education department is exploring a model similar to Odisha's to resolve a controversy over midday meals managed by Iskcon, which follows a vegetarian-only menu. The proposed approach would provide schools with additional funds to procure eggs independently, ensuring children continue to receive them as part of their meals. The move comes after the government faced criticism for allegedly sidelining eggs, considered a dietary staple for many students. Officials are expected to hold discussions soon to finalise the new arrangements. The debate has highlighted tensions between nutritional needs and cultural or religious food preferences in school meal programmes.