Kolkata9 minutes agoAuthor: Tirthankar Das
In a major welfare initiative, the West Bengal government has announced a significant increase in food allocations for patients in government hospitals and students under the PM POSHAN scheme, aiming to improve nutrition and the quality of meals.
File photo.
Hospital diet allowance nearly doubled statewide
From August 1, 2026, the daily diet allowance for patients undergoing treatment at government health facilities will be increased from ₹56.64 to ₹110, nearly doubling the existing allocation. The government said the revised amount will help provide patients with better-quality, balanced meals during their treatment.
Higher nutrition for admitted patients ensured
The state has also enhanced the daily cooking cost for pre-primary and primary school students under the PM POSHAN scheme. The allocation has been raised from ₹6.78 to ₹10 per student per day, with the state government bearing the additional ₹3.22.
PM POSHAN cooking cost increased significantly
The government said the decision was taken to ensure better nutrition for patients and schoolchildren amid rising prices of essential commodities. Officials noted that food rates had not been revised since 2017, making it increasingly difficult to maintain meal quality.
State bears additional meal expenditure fully
Describing the move as a people-centric welfare measure, the government said improving healthcare, nutrition and the well-being of children and economically weaker sections remains one of its key priorities.
Government prioritises nutrition amid rising prices
Officials said nutritious meals would aid the recovery of hospital patients while also supporting the physical and cognitive development of children studying in government schools. The revised rates will come into effect across the state from August 1, 2026.
