The Balochistan government has launched a School Meal Program for primary school students in Quetta on a pilot basis as part of its broader strategy to improve nutrition, health, and educational outcomes across the province.
According to official documents, the project carries a total cost of Rs1.579 billion, with Rs315.9 million allocated for the current fiscal year. The initiative is designed to support school-going children by improving nutrition and encouraging attendance in primary schools.
The school meal scheme is one of several nutrition-focused projects currently being implemented by the provincial government. Authorities have identified maternal and child health, school nutrition, sanitation, and public health infrastructure as key development priorities.
Alongside the meal program, the government is implementing a Comprehensive Maternal and Child Health Program worth Rs2 billion. An allocation of Rs228.8 million has been earmarked for the project during the current year.
A separate Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) initiative is also underway in schools across the province. The project has a total estimated cost of Rs2 billion, with Rs200 million allocated in the current budget.
In addition, a Maternal, Newborn and Child Health facility has been established at Eastern Bypass in Quetta under a project valued at Rs400 million. Of this amount, Rs200 million has been allocated for ongoing implementation.
Officials said these initiatives form part of a comprehensive effort to improve health and nutrition indicators throughout Balochistan, particularly in underserved communities where access to healthcare and nutritional support remains limited.
The provincial government aims to strengthen public health outcomes through targeted interventions focused on mothers, children, school nutrition programs, sanitation infrastructure, and preventive healthcare measures.
Also read: Punjab Extends Free School Meal Scheme to 10 Additional Districts
