CM Vijay's new welfare push: School breakfast scheme extended to Class VIII

CHENNAI: In a significant move to boost student nutrition and retention, the Tamil Nadu government has announced the expansion of its flagship free breakfast scheme in state-run schools. The program, which currently benefits primary school students, will now cover children up to Class VIII.

Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay stated that the expanded initiative will be officially launched on September 17, a date chosen to coincide with the birth anniversary of the social reformer Periyar.
The breakfast scheme was originally introduced by the previous M.K. Stalin-led administration, initially targeting students from Classes I to V. Following the transition of power, former Chief Minister Stalin had publicly appealed to the incoming government to sustain the welfare programs established during his tenure.

Responding to the call, Chief Minister Vijay reassured that established public welfare measures would not only continue but be strengthened, positioning the expansion of the school meal program as a key step forward for the state's education and health sectors.