Now, mid-day meal for Inter students

Minister for Education, IT, and Electronics Nara Lokesh launched the Dokka Seethamma Midday Meal Scheme for intermediate students at the Government Junior College in Payakapuram, Vijayawada. He emphasised the government’s commitment to restoring the former glory of government educational institutions.
Minister Lokesh highlighted the declining student enrolment in government schools and colleges, attributing it to a lack of trust in the system.
“Government school and college teachers provide better education than private institutions, yet the student count keeps decreasing due to parents’ distrust,” he said.
He stressed the need for comprehensive reforms, stating, “Before strengthening intermediate colleges, we must reform government schools. That is why we are introducing the Andhra Model of School Education.
Restoring the past glory of government schools is my responsibility, with parents, students, and teachers as brand ambassadors.”
The Minister expressed his desire to see government school students’ success highlighted alongside private institutions during board exam results. He encouraged students to focus on education, emphasising that a degree is essential for better career prospects.
Sharing his personal experience, Lokesh mentioned that he was an average student until Class 10 but succeeded with perseverance and mentorship. He urged students to stay committed to their education and aim for higher achievements.
The Minister also announced major reforms in the intermediate curriculum, including stronger internal assessments and the introduction of EAMCET and NEET preparation materials from next year. College hours have been extended by 90 minutes to improve pass rates, with students grouped based on their learning levels and additional caretakers appointed for extra study hours. Question banks have been provided, and pilot projects are being conducted in collaboration with IIT Madras.
He further mentioned the allocation of Rs 944 crore for Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan Student Kits, benefiting students from Classes 1 to 12. The Dokka Seethamma Midday Meal Scheme, with an annual investment of Rs 86 crore, will cover 475 government intermediate colleges, ensuring nutritious meals aligned with regional food preferences.
Minister Lokesh also spoke about efforts to combat drug addiction through the ‘Drugs Vaddhu Bro’ (No to Drugs) awareness campaign, aimed at educating students on the dangers of substance abuse