Nepal school meal program faces funding challenges

In Nepal, community schools are struggling to provide nutritious meals through government-sponsored programs despite increased funding. The government has allocated Rs 9.537 billion for the 2026/27 fiscal year to support approximately 2.8 million children from early childhood development to Grade 5.

However, school administrators report that the daily allowance of Rs 20 per student is insufficient due to rising food prices, staff shortages, and inadequate facilities. At Durbar High School in Kathmandu, officials noted that while the federal allowance increased from Rs 15 to Rs 20, the cost of maintaining a balanced menu remains a challenge. Some schools have been forced to substitute nutritious meals with dry or instant snacks like beaten rice and noodles to cope with the budget constraints.