West Bengal's New Government Removes Eggs from School Mid-Day Meal Menu

The BJP government in West Bengal has made headlines by removing eggs from the mid-day meal menu in schools, a decision that has reignited political debates and discussions about cultural practices. This move follows the end of Mamata Banerjee's TMC government and has led to a series of incidents involving TMC leaders. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has assured that there will be no ban on fish and eggs, while the state's budget announcement includes changes in meal provisions. The cultural implications of this decision are significant, as local dietary habits are deeply rooted in Bengal's traditions. Read on to explore the full story behind this controversial decision.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 26, 2026, 17:53 IST

Eggs Excluded from Mid-Day Meals in West Bengal Schools

The newly formed BJP government in West Bengal has decided to eliminate eggs from the mid-day meal menu in schools in Kolkata. This decision comes in the wake of discussions surrounding eggs that have intensified since the end of Mamata Banerjee's TMC government, which lasted for 15 years. Incidents of TMC leaders being pelted with eggs have occurred across the state, and the ongoing power struggle within the party has become entangled with narratives surrounding eggs and 'non-vegetarian' food. During the recent election campaign, dietary habits emerged as a significant political issue, with then Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee warning voters that if the BJP came to power, they would impose bans on fish, meat, and eggs, citing similar restrictions in BJP-ruled states.

Cultural Significance of Non-Vegetarian Food

Understanding the deep cultural significance of non-vegetarian food in Bengal, Union Home Minister Amit Shah dismissed claims of restrictions as mere rumors, assuring that there would be no ban on the consumption of fish and eggs. Senior BJP leader Anurag Thakur even shared a video of himself eating fish, while other leaders emphasized that this issue is not about Hindu-Muslim divides but rather about respecting local culture.

Budget Announcement and Changes in Meal Plans

Presenting the state's first budget after the BJP's victory, Finance Minister Swapan Dasgupta announced on June 22 that the government would increase the expenditure for mid-day meals in primary schools from ₹6.78 to ₹10 per student. The Hindu spiritual organization ISKCON will provide cooked meals to schools in the Kolkata Municipal Corporation area through its Annamitra Foundation. Under the current scheme, eggs, which were served once a week, will not be included in ISKCON's vegetarian meals. Radha Raman Das, Vice-President of ISKCON Kolkata, stated that instead, students will receive paneer, rajma, soy products, lentils, and dairy items. He also mentioned that despite a circulating online menu, no final menu has been approved and urged people to refrain from sharing misinformation.