Daijiworld Media Network - Hyderabad
Hyderabad, Jun 15: The Telangana government on Monday rolled out a breakfast programme for students studying in government schools as educational institutions across the state reopened after the summer vacation.
The initiative will initially cover 1,269 government schools, benefiting around 1.44 lakh students from school and intermediate (Classes 11 and 12) levels.
The state government has also expanded the Mid-Day Meal Scheme to include students enrolled in government junior colleges pursuing higher secondary education.
Under the newly introduced breakfast programme, students will receive milk three days a week, while ragi malt will be served on the remaining three days to improve their nutritional intake.
The scheme, announced in the State Budget for 2026-27, is aimed at enhancing students' overall health, boosting attendance and punctuality, and reducing dropout rates and absenteeism.
Transport and Backward Classes Welfare Minister Ponnam Prabhakar formally launched the programme at Raj Bhavan Government High School, where he also distributed textbooks and notebooks to students.
Schools across Telangana witnessed renewed activity on Monday as students returned for the new academic session. Many children, dressed in new uniforms and carrying school bags, arrived at their schools with enthusiasm after the long summer break.
To manage increased vehicular movement around educational institutions, traffic police in Hyderabad, Cyberabad and Malkajgiri commissionerates implemented special traffic regulation measures.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy extended his greetings and best wishes to students on the occasion of schools reopening.
In a message, the Chief Minister described schools as institutions that shape both individual personalities and the future of the nation.
"A school is not merely a place where lessons are taught. It is a temple that builds character and lays the foundation for our country's future. Every book opens a new world of opportunities, and every lesson creates a path toward success. Education is the light that illuminates our future, and I firmly believe that the nation's future is built inside classrooms," he said.
He added that the government has undertaken several reforms to strengthen the education sector and ensure high standards of learning.
"Apart from providing nutritious breakfast and midday meals, we have introduced several other initiatives. Begin each day with enthusiasm, learn under the guidance of your teachers, work hard and cultivate good values. Continue striving to transform your dreams into reality," he told students.
The Chief Minister further emphasised that today's students would become tomorrow's nation-builders.
"Discover your talents and become a source of pride for your family, society, state and the nation. Education is the greatest wealth because it can never be taken away. Progress and success are achieved through education. I hope this academic year brings knowledge, happiness and success to every student," he added.