There is time still to catch-up the targets as far less coverage of health check-up, poor status of distribution of iron folic acid, and de-worming tablets is concerned because the data available with the Ministry of Education (MoE) has unravelled the some facts which tell the dismal and sordid state of inefficacy of the J&K School Education Department (SED).
The concerned ministry has reportedly expressed concern over the less coverage of health check-ups, distribution of Iron Folic Acid (IFA), and de-worming tablets among the school children in Jammu and Kashmir. It seems that the concerned authorities have taken this vital issue very lightly because there is no valid reason to justify this lacuna on the part of J&K SED.
Reportedly, the data available with the MoE, the J&K SED has covered only 84 percent (8,47,509) students for health check-ups while IFA tablets and de-worming medicines were administered to 2,67,716 (26 percent) and 2,05,726 (20 percent) of the enrolled students, which is abysmal and not satisfactory because as per the concerned ministry guidelines the coverage of 100 percent students for health checkup, IFA tablets, and de-worming tablets should be must.
It is a sad state of affairs that despite knowing the fact that it is the bounded duty of the administration to cater to all the students enrolled in the schools, things have been left on the mercy of God. The issue came to fore at the Project Approval Board (PAB) meeting convened by the Secretary Department of School Education and Literacy (DSEL) MoE to consider the Annual Work Plan and Budget (AWP&B) 2023-24 of PM POSHAN Scheme for J&K.
Taking the lethargy on the part of J&K SED, the concerned central ministry has now suggested that focused group data of adolescent girls and students of districts lagging in the aforesaid aspects should be attained and used for necessary corrective action, as these factors are seminal for bright future of students studying in schools run by J&K Government.
Those helming the affairs must note it down that any complacency in such matters could lead to serious repercussions as students of today will determine the future of the country tomorrow.
The department must rise to the occasion and demonstrate an unwavering commitment to the health and well-being of its students. Only through concerted efforts and a steadfast resolve can we ensure a bright and prosperous future for our young learners – the architects of our nation's destiny.
