The government of West Bengal has officially decided to reintroduce eggs into its free school meal program following a wave of criticism from parents, educators, and health experts. The controversy began when the state government attempted to phase out eggs in favor of strictly vegetarian meals provided by a religious charity. Opponents argued that the decision, which many linked to the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) broader agenda of promoting vegetarianism, threatened the nutritional health of children from underprivileged backgrounds who rely on school lunches as a primary source of affordable protein.

Starting August 1, the state will implement a dual approach to satisfy both dietary requirements and nutritional needs. While the charity will continue to provide vegetarian options, the government will now coordinate with local women’s self-help groups to distribute boiled eggs separately to students. Officials noted that the policy reversal was a direct response to parents' requests, acknowledging that for many low-income families, these school meals are essential for tackling malnutrition and maintaining consistent school attendance.