PANAJI
"Akshay Patra is a programme conducted by ISKCON which runs in nearly 11 states across the country. The food prepared by it is hygienic and considered to be one of the best. It is ISO 22000:2005 certified. We are in talks, but we haven't taken any decision. We will see that the interest of the self-help groups is protected," informed Parrikar.
"Mere mention of Akshay Patra has led to the improvement in the quality of the meals. Even though we had taken any decision, everyone was worried," he said.
He was responding to a question raised by St Andre MLA Francis Silveira whether the Government is planning to give the contract of supplying mid-day meals to Akshay Patra.
"As per my information, the government is planning to give the contract of supplying the meals to Akshay Patra instead of SHGs. People have made investments," he said. He also requested the government to hike the rate being given per mid-day meal.
Stating that the quality and hygiene should be maintained by the 105 self-help groups, Parrikar said, "We are trying to introduce surprise checks where cooking is done so that there should not be any problems. We want to ensure that their food quality improves."
"We have received report that many children in urban areas do not consume the meals. So, we are trying to find out where the problem is. We will also carry out a study on the food preferences of children and only then we will take a decision," he said.
Stating that the sustenance of SHGs is not the primary objective of the scheme, Parrikar said, "SHG is not the primary objective of the scheme, but it is children in schools who should get proper nutrition. Sustenance of the 105 SHGs is the secondary target."
Leader of Opposition Chandrakant Kavalekar also informed the House that many SHGs are not ready to engage in supply of meals stating that it is financially not feasible.
Responding, Parrikar said, "Many of the SHGs have sub-let the contract to provide meals. This clearly shows that they earn profit by sub-letting the contract. And even in some places the quantity supplied is less."
"If finance is the only issue, I will definitely look into it. Goa is one of the states which is providing the highest rates," he informed.
Curchorm MLA Nilesh Cabral however opined that if the government gives the contract to Akshay Patra, children across the State would be given uniform meals. "SHGs can be accommodated in this supply of MDM. Will the government consider giving the contract to Akshay Patra may be next year?" he asked.
Parrikar said, "I have not said that it would not be considered. I've said there is no plan currently. We are in talks with them. We have to provide quality meals to students and at the same time protect the interest of SHGs. Considering both, we will take the decision. We have neither accepted nor rejected the proposal."
