Role of Public Leaders and Institutions in The Evolution of Mid-Day Meal Policy

This paper seeks to understand the role of public leaders from diverse fields in developing the Mid-Day Meal (MDM) scheme in India. Over the years, the MDM scheme has become a benchmark for public policies, evolving from traditional and religious charity practices of serving food to people experiencing poverty into a focused implementation of an education policy with a multiplier effect on nutrition care, education, and sustainable development. This study employs a comprehensive review of existing literature, including government reports and publications, newspaper articles, journals, magazines, and editorials, to evaluate the various leadership and institutional roles in the development of the MDM scheme. The analysis concludes that the success of the MDM scheme is driven by passionate initiatives taken by public leaders and institutions, including religious organizations, NGOs, Panchayats/Municipalities, Parliament, the Supreme Court, and elected leaders at various levels, from Prime Ministers and Chief Ministers to local government officials and bureaucrats. The study emphasizes that the effectiveness of any public policy is directly proportional to the involvement and initiatives of public leaders from diverse backgrounds. The findings highlight the critical role of strategic vision, commitment, and collaboration in driving large-scale social initiatives, ultimately contributing to the betterment of millions of children across India.