The rising price of eggs in West Bengal has sparked concern among Anganwadi workers, who warn that the nutritional quality of mid-day meals in government schools may soon be affected.

With the government allocating only ₹6.50 per egg, workers say it has become increasingly difficult to serve eggs in meals as the retail price has climbed to ₹8. The growing gap between the sanctioned amount and market price is putting pressure on Anganwadi centres across the state.

Seeking an urgent revision of rates, members of the Independent Anganwadi Workers and Helpers Association on Thursday submitted a deputation to officials at the ICDS office in Mal Bazar, Jalpaiguri district. They demanded that egg prices under the mid-day meal scheme be revised to match the prevailing market rate and also sought a higher allocation for maternal nutrition programmes.

Speaking to reporters, association representative Nabanita Majumder said, “When the market price of each egg is ₹8 but the allocation is only ₹6.50, how are we supposed to procure eggs for mid-day meals? If prices continue rising, we won’t be able to provide eggs at all.” She added that parents had begun complaining about irregular supply, while workers and helpers were struggling to maintain the mandated menu.

Responding to the deputation, ICDS Mal Bazar Block Officer Sayak Das acknowledged the issue. “The price of eggs has increased in the market. A demand has been placed today for a revision in allocation, and the matter has been reported to higher authorities,” he said.

As egg prices remain volatile, Anganwadi workers fear that without a timely upward revision in government funding, eggs — a key source of nutrition for children — may soon disappear from school plates.