We are exploring vegetarian alternatives to eggs and ensuring adequate protein intake in midday meals at schools,” stated Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis at an event in Thane on Sunday evening. The statement has reignited the debate over serving eggs to children as part of the scheme. Fadnavis was talking on Sunday at Dharmadesh 2024, a two-day national conclave organised in Uttan by the Akhil Bhartiya Sant Samiti (ABSS), a body of Hindu religious leaders.

Addressing those present at the event Fadnavis said (in Hindi), “We have been constantly getting feedback from religious groups and spiritual leaders that we should not add eggs or other such things in midday meals. I have already spoken to our people about this, especially the chief minister and school education minister and have requested them to find an alternative. Protein intake in midday meals is important but even in vegetarian food, we have many options. We will look at how eggs can be replaced with vegetarian protein-rich food. We have taken this matter very seriously, as has our chief minister. Therefore, we will definitely make the necessary changes.”