Chennai: The Chennai Corporation's decision to outsource its morning breakfast scheme to private parties has sparked widespread opposition.

In response to the concerns, Mayor Priya has stated that the Corporation will reconsider the decision to transfer the program to the private sector.

Launched in 2023 by the Tamil Nadu government, the morning breakfast scheme aims to promote the education of underprivileged students in government schools, address malnutrition, and reduce dropout rates. The initiative benefits government school students from classes 1 to 5, with 49,147 students across 356 schools in Chennai Corporation currently receiving breakfast.

The meals, prepared in 35 integrated kitchens and distributed by women's self-help groups, include locally sourced ingredients such as rice, semolina, lentils, and vegetables. Studies have shown that the program has helped reduce anemia rates among students.

The Chennai Corporation had approved a plan in December 2024 to outsource the program for one year, with a budget of Rs. 13.73 crore. A tender was issued to divide the scheme into three blocks, with contractors required to comply with hygiene standards, maintain kitchens, and manage food distribution via a mobile app.

However, political figures such as PMK leader Anbumani Ramadoss and AMMK General Secretary Dhinakaran have expressed concerns that outsourcing may delay food delivery and compromise the quality of meals, negatively impacting students' health and education.

In response, Mayor Priya assured that the Corporation would continue to monitor the program closely, even under private management. She emphasized that contractors would be held accountable for any lapses in food quality or timely delivery.

Women's self-help groups, responsible for the program's current operation, have raised concerns about potential job losses and fear that private companies may cut costs by sourcing lower-quality ingredients. They have requested that existing workers be offered employment opportunities in other government programs, such as Amma Canteen.

As the Corporation reviews its decision, the future of the morning breakfast scheme remains uncertain.