Training of Master Cooks for Mid Day Meal Scheme

The Ministries of Human Resources Development (MHRD) and Tourism are working together on imparting training of master cooks engaged under Mid Day Meal Scheme (MDMS).

This was stated by the MoS, HRD, Dr. Shashi Tharoor in the Rajya Sabha.

He said the preparation of a hygienic and wholesome meal depends on the knowledge and skills of the cook-cum-helper.

Accordingly, on the request of the MHRD, the Ministry of Tourism has agreed to provide training to selected cook-cum-helpers as master trainers through Hotel Management Institutes and the Food Craft Institutes (FCIs).

A ten day full time course will be organized that covers the following aspects:-

1. Knowledge dissemination regarding the caloric and nutritive values of the Mid-Day Meal.
2. The methods of cooking for retaining the nutritive value of cooking ingredients.
3. Awareness regarding the issues of malnutrition and also the benchmarking of nutrition levels. The importance of regular washing of hands.
4. General health and hygienic practices and concerns.
5. Communication skills.

The process of training has started and a group of 30 cooks will be given training in each Institute.

The State Governments and UT Administrations have been requested to nominate 30 cook cum helpers from their State for each Institute.